'Every world has its rules'

 

“So many people think that if you're writing fantasy, it means you can just make everything up as you go. Want to add a dragon? Add a dragon! Want some magic? Throw it in. But the thing is, regardless of whether you're dealing with realism or fantasy, every world has rules. Make sure to establish a natural order.” – V. E. Schwab

 

 Born in California in July of 1987, Schwab is best known for her Shades of Magic series, her longtime bestseller Vicious, and 2025’s Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil, which topped both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists.  And, Victorious is this year’s offering in her popular Villains’ series. 

 

The daughter of a British mom and “Beverly Hills” dad, she is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis where she studied everything from Physics to Film to Art History and English and started her writing career.  While still in college, she sold her debut novel, The Near Witch, to Disney.  But it was 2011’s Vicious that established her as a leading popular writer.

 

The prolific Schwab’s three dozen books and many short stories have received critical acclaim and been translated into more than a dozen languages.  Many also have been optioned for TV and Film.  She said she loves writing across genres and for all ages.   

 

“I think a lot of writers are tempted to add complexity by over-complicating things,” she said.  “But always remember that most natural rules/laws are, at their core, simple. Start simple, and build from there, or you risk getting yourself and your readers tangled.”