Rachel Aaron

Rachel Aaron, born around 1982, is an American writer who creates stories in both the fantasy and science fiction genres. She has published under her own name and also uses the pen name Rachel Bach for some of her science fiction work. Her fantasy writing often features characters like the "legendary and lovable con man" central to the Eli Monpress series, beginning with "The Spirit Thief" in 2010. This series was described as a "romp of lighthearted fantasy" despite a slow start.

Under the name Rachel Bach, Aaron penned the Paradox Trilogy, starting with "Fortune's Pawn" in 2013. This space opera series explores complex ethical questions amidst action-packed narratives, drawing comparisons to "A Game of Thrones" for its intricate alliances and betrayals. While "Fortune's Pawn" was met with positive reception for its entertainment value, some reviews noted its reliance on familiar tropes. The series concluded with "Heaven's Queen" in 2014, which was recognized as a satisfying conclusion. Aaron also authored the non-fiction work "2K to 10K: Writing Faster, Writing Better, and Writing More of What You Love."

Rachel Aaron's fantasy contributions include the Eli Monpress series, which centers on a charismatic rogue. The first installment, "The Spirit Thief" (2010), was characterized as a "romp of lighthearted fantasy" by Publishers Weekly, though it was noted to begin at a slower pace. Another significant fantasy series is "Heartstrikers," starting with "Nice Dragons Finish Last" (2014). This series, which earned Aaron a Best Fantasy Audie Award in 2016 for its audiobook narration, features dragons and has been noted for its engaging plotlines. She also has the "DFZ" series, including "Minimum Wage Magic" (2020) and "Part-Time Gods" (2020), and the "DFZ Changeling" series starting in 2023.

Under her pseudonym Rachel Bach, Aaron ventured into science fiction with the Paradox Trilogy. The inaugural novel, "Fortune's Pawn" (2013), is a space opera that received praise from Kirkus Reviews for being "lots of fun," though Publishers Weekly found its elements to be somewhat cliché. The series, which includes "Honor's Knight" (2014) and the concluding "Heaven's Queen" (2014), delves into ethical dilemmas and features significant space battles and political intrigue, drawing parallels to "A Game of Thrones." Other science fiction works include the "Tear Down Heaven" series, with titles like "Hell for Hire" (2024), and the "Crystal Calamity" series, featuring "The Last Stand of Mary Good Crow" (2022).

Beyond her fictional endeavors, Rachel Aaron has also shared her expertise on the writing process. Her non-fiction book, "2K to 10K: Writing Faster, Writing Better, and Writing More of What You Love" (2017), offers guidance to aspiring authors. This work likely draws from her own experiences and insights into developing a productive and fulfilling writing career, covering aspects of efficiency and creative output. It serves as a practical resource for writers seeking to improve their craft and increase their productivity.

“lots of fun”

“stock set pieces”

“great space battles, awesome shootouts and enough betrayals and alliances to rival 'A Game of Thrones,'”

“stunning conclusion”

“satisfying conclusion”