Katie is an author of magical gut-punchers.
Born stateside but raised in Shanghai, she then studied computer science and fine arts at the University of Pennsylvania, and is now based in NYC. Her adult fantasy debut, Madder Lake, is forthcoming from Harper Voyager in 2027. When not writing, she enjoys painting, skiing, feeding her sourdough starter, and her two demonic cats.
She is represented by Jim McCarthy at DB&G.
Madder Lake (2027)
Set at the world's foremost university for studying the magical art of transportive painting, where two students from wildly different backgrounds battle to win a painting competition that could determine their fates as artists. Madder Lake is a debut adult fantasy novel about who has access to art and education, the true meaning of home, and the possibility of falling for your rival.
My stories center 3 things:
A point or question specific to the modern zeitgeist.
They’re usually socio-political and uncomfy. But they’re usually also hopeful.
⛓ Self-worth in an objectifying system
🏠 Embracing hybridity as an immigrant or member of diaspora
🩸 Feminine/POC rage
A world mostly like our own.
I write both primary and secondary worlds, but even in the latter, it’ll be >60% like our own.
💠 Magic crystals as a metaphor for fossil fuels
👩💻 Modern technology in cities
🖼 Immersive “VR-like” paintings
Wonder and joy.
My favorite stories swaddle darkness with joy, so I strive for this as well. And fun. Why read fantasy otherwise?!
👯♀️ F/F platonic friendship
🌲 Giant magic trees
🍳 Studio Ghibli-esque eating/cooking scenes with found family