Lisa Maxwell is a bestselling young adult fantasy author, currently residing near Washington D.C. She has a PhD in English and teaches at a local community college. Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, Maxwell has held a variety of jobs including editor, scholar, teacher, and bookseller. However, it was not until she moved to a new state and found herself looking after two children that she began writing in 2010. This endeavor started as a way to maintain her sanity, and eventually led to the publication of her debut novel, "Sweet Unrest," in 2014.
Maxwell is known for her magical fantasy and young adult novels that often include romantic elements. Her diverse range of literary influences is evident in her eclectic bookshelves, which house everything from Harry Potter to Toni Morrison, Hemingway, and Nora Roberts. As a young reader, she was drawn to beautifully written literature, even if they had depressing endings. As an adult, she has found herself increasingly attracted to stories with happily ever after endings.
In addition to "The Last Magician" and "Sweet Unrest," Maxwell is the author of several other series and standalone titles, including "Unhooked" and "Gathering Deep." Her work has been translated into eleven languages and sold in twelve territories. When she's not teaching or writing, Maxwell can often be found catching a live band or going on adventures with her husband and two boys in their Dodge Challenger, affectionately named Viola.