About Ruth
As the child of Vietnamese immigrant parents, I found my place to belong in fictional worlds. Now, I forge my own fantastical safe havens where survivors of hard things can heal, dream, and fight for a better future.
Gothic fairy tales are my happy place, partly because I get to fulfill my childhood dream of being an interior designer—in my imagination. (Where else would I be able to fill mysterious mansions with sentient wallpaper and emotionally volatile houseplants?) I spend my days crafting hopeful endings for my imaginary friends, reading Homer without footnotes, and trying to teach my dogs to talk. They’ll figure it out eventually. I believe in them.
Come find me on social media! I’d love to meet you.
FAQs
What are your favorite books?
Like any bibliophile, I can’t possibly list them all, but I’d pick these up anytime:
- The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe
- The Count of Monte Cristo
- Hamlet
- Crime & Punishment
- Starling House (Alix E. Harrow)
- Six Crimson Cranes (Elizabeth Lim)
- Whereabouts (Jhumpa Lahiri)
- Circe (Madeline Miller)
- Six of Crows (Leigh Bardugo)
- Holes (Louis Sachar)
How did you first start writing?
I was an avid reader as a child and always wanted to write my own novels, so I experimented with a number of different genres and styles of writing growing up. But I didn’t pursue publication as a serious career until my twenties. I received fantastic training from my mentors at the Author Conservatory and from various authors and other publishing professionals who helped me to hone my skills. So the world doesn’t have to suffer through the plot-hole-ridden fantasy quests or info-dumpy historical adventures I wrote way back when…
What kind of books do you write?
Most of my books are gothic fairytales! Whether that’s a fresh retelling of existing folklore or something totally new, readers can expect a moody, atmospheric storyline that focuses on marginalized characters finding hope, healing, and renewal. I also occasionally dabble in short fiction in other genres, like pirate fantasy, cozy fantasy, or literary post-apocalyptic.
What age range are your books for?
My books are adult fantasy, i.e. written primarily for 18+ audiences. This means that they may reference some tougher topics.
However, a number of my stories would still be appropriate for younger readers! Any of my books with heavier elements that aren’t obvious from the blurb will have a content advisory posted so you’ll be able to make an informed decision.
I’d love to stay in touch with you!
To receive news about book releases, curate reading recommendations, and more, sign up for my monthly email newsletter below.
By submitting your information, you`re giving me permission to email you. You may unsubscribe at any time, and I promise not to spam you. Ever.