Tricia Levenseller is an American author who has become a beloved voice in young adult fantasy romance, known for creating fierce, clever heroines; swashbuckling adventures with romantic tension; and fantasy worlds where women claim power on their own terms. With a talent for witty banter, enemies-to-lovers dynamics, and stories that balance adventure with emotional development, Levenseller has built a devoted fanbase seeking romance-forward fantasy featuring protagonists who scheme, fight, and flirt their way to happy endings.
Daughter of the Pirate King Duology
Levenseller's career launched with Daughter of the Pirate King (2017), a swashbuckling YA fantasy following Alosa, daughter of the infamous Pirate King, who allows herself to be captured by enemy pirates to steal a map her father needs. But her captivity aboard the Night Farer becomes complicated when she's drawn to Riden, the ship's first mate who's clever enough to see through her deceptions. The novel combines pirate adventure with romance, featuring a heroine who's cunning and capable, comfortable wielding both weapons and wits.
Daughter of the Siren Queen (2018) continues Alosa's story as she searches for the legendary siren island whilst navigating her relationship with Riden and confronting truths about her own heritage. The duology showcases Levenseller's talent for banter-heavy romance, action sequences, and heroines who refuse to be rescued because they're perfectly capable of saving themselves.
The Stathos Sisters Series
The Shadows Between Us (2020) became Levenseller's breakout hit with its irresistible premise: Alessandra is tired of being overlooked, so she plans to marry the Shadow King, kill him, and take his kingdom for herself. But seducing the king proves more complicated - and more appealing - than murder. The book delivers dark romance, morally grey characters, a heroine embracing ambition without apology, and banter that crackles. The book's success stems from its unapologetic female ambition, steamy tension, and the twist that sometimes the villain you plan to murder becomes the person you'd rather keep.
The Darkness Within Us (2024) continues in the same world, following a new couple whilst building on the political intrigue and romantic dynamics established in the first book. The sequel expands Levenseller's shadow-touched world whilst delivering the witty banter, ambitious protagonists, and romance-forward storytelling fans expect.
Other Works
Warrior of the Wild (2019) shifts to Norse-inspired fantasy following Rasmira, a warrior cast out by her village who must complete an impossible quest to reclaim her honor. The novel explores themes of strength redefined, finding worth beyond others' validation, and romance developing through shared trials.
Blade of Secrets (2021) and Master of Iron (2022) form a duology following Ziva, a blacksmith with magical abilities who can forge weapons of incredible power. When her latest creation is stolen by a warlord, she must retrieve it before it's used for conquest. The books blend adventure, romance, and exploration of how power - magical and political - corrupts or elevates.
Levenseller's writing is characterized by pirate and swashbuckling adventures, fierce, capable heroines, enemies-to-lovers and banter-heavy romance, YA fantasy with romantic focus, morally grey characters, feminist themes and female ambition, witty dialogue, action sequences, shadow magic (The Shadows series), and fantasy world-building serving romance.
Common themes include female ambition celebrated not punished, strength in multiple forms, choosing your own path, romance between equals, cunning as valuable as combat skills, found family, reclaiming agency, and rejecting societal expectations.
Levenseller's prose prioritizes accessibility and pace, creating easy reading that nevertheless delivers adventure and emotional satisfaction. The banter between romantic leads sparkles, the action moves quickly, and the romance develops through verbal sparring as much as dramatic moments.
What distinguishes Levenseller is her commitment to heroines who embrace ambition, cunning, and power without apology. Her protagonists scheme, manipulate when necessary, and pursue what they want - whether that's kingdoms, revenge, or the attractive pirate/king who's supposed to be their enemy.
