Meet Yvonne

Yvonne McArthur fiction & fantasy writer

Hi, I’m Yvonne McArthur, a fiction and fantasy writer, book-lover, developmental editor, and explorer of imaginary worlds.

I’m guilty of a few writer clichés (tea-gulper here), but I also ride a motorcycle (code name Mo) with my goggle-wearing canine sidekick, hike volcanoes for fun, and hold triple citizenship. Growing up between cultures sparked my love for telling stories that make us kinder, more courageous, more connected humans.

My goal is to create a space for story-lovers who don’t shy away from struggle and and are ferociously hopeful.

Stories can so much for us while still being entertaining and fun: full of hooky plots, emotional stakes, and propulsive drama. (I’m also a sucker for sentient objects, unique magic systems, and the occasional cyborg.)

Whether you are on the hunt for your next favorite read, need a quick escape, or are seeking connection, I hope you feel right at home. I’m glad you’re here!

My Writing Journey

Ever since I was a kid with dorky bangs and a propensity to read books, I dreamed of writing a novel. When I was 23, I decided to give it my first honest go. At the end of 30 days, I had written a 50,000-word manuscript a la Nanowrimo (National Novel Writing Month). 

The story had no plot, no antagonist, random cows, ferret smugglers, and a toga-wearing ghost who’d faked his own death. The main character landed himself in prison for accidentally trafficking in Godiva chocolate.

Let’s just say this: the only place to go from there was up.

Learning how to structure a novel, how to write good dialogue, how and when to reveal which elements of the story, and how to write in a way that communicates clearly has been a delicious and continual challenge over the past 15 years. I’ve come a loooong way! So much so, that I now help other writers refine their books as a developmental editor.

Visit the For Writers page for more insight into my writing process, what I’ve learned over the years, and my favorite writing resources (coming soon).

Where I’m at now: I’m currently seeking representation for my completed YA fantasy novel. In a city where stone guards stand sentinel and inanimate objects spring to life, a scrappy teen combats the teleporting assassin who’s using him as bait.

Featured in: Everyday Creators, Ye Olde Dragon's Storytelling Podcast, Twenty Hills Publishing, GoHavok.com

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