Saara El-Arifi is a highly acclaimed fantasy author, known for her vivid storytelling and unique world-building. Born in the Middle East, El-Arifi spent her early years in Abu Dhabi before her family relocated to the Peak District hills in England. This move exposed her to a white society for the first time, shaping her perspective and inspiring her to tell stories that reflect her experiences.
El-Arifi's debut novel, The Final Strife, is a testament to her ability to weave together different cultural influences. Inspired by Ghanaian folklore and Arabian myths, the book is the first in the Ending Fire Trilogy, which has become a Sunday Times bestseller. El-Arifi's storytelling skills were evident from a young age, as she honed her craft from the moment she told her first lie. Over the years, she has perfected her tall tales into epic narratives that captivate readers.
In addition to her writing career, El-Arifi has lived in many countries, held various jobs, and owned numerous cats. After a decade of working in marketing and communications, she returned to academia to complete a master's degree in African studies. This background has informed her writing and given her a deep understanding of the cultures and mythologies that inspire her work.
Currently residing in London, UK, El-Arifi continues to write full-time, procrastinating in the best way possible - by creating immersive worlds and intricate narratives that transport readers to new and exciting places. Her ability to draw on her own experiences and cultural heritage has made her a standout voice in the fantasy genre, and her work continues to captivate audiences around the world.