About Me

Personal Bio

A.K. Stephens

Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I now live outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with my long-term partner and our two cats, Neelix and Lupin. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, though language and literature have always been some of my passions—not to mention the only thing that saved my SAT scores in high school. By day, I’m a platform and data analyst; by night, I’m a giant geek who writes. Who am I kidding? I’m always a giant geek.

I focus on speculative fiction that weaves history, the supernatural, and social commentary into my storytelling, often overlapping with historical fiction, gothic themes, romance, and action. My work explores the intersections of identity, power, and survival, often through the lens of vampires, witches, and other beings who refuse to fit neatly into society’s expectations. I love crafting immersive, character-driven narratives that linger long after the final page.

My story-telling journey started with elaborate stories for my Barbies—which many of my friends deemed “too complicated” or “weird.” That eventually evolved into drawing comics before I finally found my true home in novel writing. My early tales were often alternate Star Trek plots, historical fantasies starring my dolls, or a very 9-year-old-girl-from-Wisconsin attempt of creating my own Sailor Moon—as a “manga,” naturally.

When I’m not writing, I enjoy video games, gardening, bird-watching, collecting (and reading) tarot cards, sewing, wig-making, judging craftsmanship competitions at conventions, and curating an ever-growing collection of books I fully intend to read someday. I enjoy watching a variety of anime (I admit, I’m also isekai-trash), I’m always down for a good sci-fi, and I find alternate histories fascinating. My hobbies bounce all over the place and are sometimes chaotic—but that may just be the ADHD and anxiety talking.

I’m currently seeking representation for A Witch of Castle, a historical fiction-meets-paranormal-romance novel about accepting yourself and finding your people. It’s the first installment of my Blood and Magic series, where all my imaginary friends live. I hope to share them with readers around the world, and maybe—just maybe—they’ll finally give me some peace and quiet.

(Just kidding. I love all of them and don’t want them to leave. But I do want them to bother others besides me sometimes.)

My Amazing Team

For now, it’s just me and my cats, plus a few friends who help me out. But eventually, I’ll add my agent, publisher, and all those folks once I finally get that accepted query!

Writes so my imaginary friends can bother other people.

Enjoys begging for treats and knowing exactly when it’s time to eat.

Amazing at curling onto your lap and passing out right when you have to pee.

The perkiest goth you’ll ever meet—obsessed with black and staring into your soul.

Another head my imaginary friends live in sometimes. In addition to beta reading and editing help, A.J. is also my historical garment advisor.

The incredible artist who has brought many of my characters to life for me. Well worth the money! (And friendship, of course!)