“Fantasy novels give this illusion that the stakes are as high as they feel when you're a teenager. But I think for teenagers they actually are that high. I think you really are dealing in a world of tremendous cruelty and intensity, and YA gives truth to that.”

Leigh Bardugo is an American author of young adult and adult fantasy. She is best known for her Grishaverse series, which includes *Shadow and Bone* and *Six of Crows*, blending intricate world-building with morally complex characters. Her work explores themes of power, identity, and rebellion.