Brigid Kemmerer is a celebrated author known for her emotionally charged storytelling, gripping characters, and compelling young adult novels. With books that blend fantasy, romance, and realistic fiction, she has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Her writing often explores themes such as loyalty, identity, courage, and personal growth, making her works both relatable and thought-provoking. Whether diving into her magical realms or contemporary dramas, fans of young adult fiction find a powerful connection to her stories and the challenges her characters face. The books by Brigid Kemmerer span across genres and series, each offering a unique reading experience.
Popular Series by Brigid Kemmerer
Cursebreaker Series
The Cursebreaker series is arguably Brigid Kemmerer’s most well-known work. It is a fantasy trilogy inspired by the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast, but with a darker and more action-packed twist. Set in a war-torn magical kingdom, this series weaves romance, political intrigue, and themes of self-worth and sacrifice.
- A Curse So Dark and Lonely (2019): The first book introduces Harper, a girl from Washington, D.C., who is pulled into the magical kingdom of Emberfall. There, she meets Prince Rhen, cursed to repeat the same season over and over until he finds love. Harper’s strength and resilience reshape the fate of a kingdom teetering on collapse.
- A Heart So Fierce and Broken (2020): This sequel shifts focus to Grey, Rhen’s former guard commander, who holds secrets that could destroy Emberfall or save it. With new characters and a shifting political landscape, this installment deepens the conflict and explores new alliances.
- A Vow So Bold and Deadly (2021): The final book brings all major players together for a climactic showdown between kingdoms. Tensions rise, loyalties are tested, and the characters must confront both internal and external battles to determine the future of their world.
Defy the Night Series
This newer fantasy series takes place in a divided kingdom gripped by disease and ruled with an iron fist. It blends action, forbidden romance, and rebellion as two young protagonists fight to change their corrupt world.
- Defy the Night (2021): The story follows Tessa, an apothecary stealing medicine to help the poor, and Prince Corrick, the brutal king’s justice. When their paths cross, they are forced to question everything they thought they knew about justice, loyalty, and love.
- Defend the Dawn (2022): The sequel expands the world beyond the palace walls and explores the broader implications of disease, governance, and rebellion. Tessa and Corrick travel beyond the kingdom in search of a cure and a new political path.
- Destroy the Day (2024): Continuing the high-stakes narrative, this latest installment intensifies the power struggles and explores deeper emotional challenges faced by the characters in their quest to bring about lasting change.
Contemporary Fiction by Brigid Kemmerer
Aside from her fantasy novels, Brigid Kemmerer has written deeply emotional contemporary young adult books. These stories often explore family relationships, grief, love, and mental health, connecting with readers on a very personal level.
Letters to the Lost (2017)
This emotionally resonant novel follows Juliet and Declan, two teens coping with personal loss and trauma. Juliet leaves letters at her mother’s grave, and Declan, doing community service, finds and responds to them. What begins as anonymous letters evolves into a powerful bond as both struggle to move forward from grief and guilt.
More Than We Can Tell (2018)
A companion novel toLetters to the Lost, this book centers on Rev Fletcher, Declan’s best friend. Rev is dealing with the trauma of his abusive childhood and the sudden reappearance of his estranged father. Emma, a game developer facing online harassment, finds solace in her growing friendship with Rev. Together, they face their fears and rediscover trust.
Call It What You Want (2019)
This standalone novel examines morality, redemption, and second chances. Rob’s father was caught embezzling money and left the family in disgrace. Maegan cheated on the SAT and is now viewed as a fraud. The two outsiders find common ground and form an unexpected friendship that challenges their views on justice, loyalty, and doing what’s right.
Thicker Than Water (2015)
A gripping blend of mystery and drama, this early work by Kemmerer tells the story of Thomas Bellweather, a teen accused of his mother’s murder. As he uncovers the truth with the help of Charlotte Rooker, secrets unravel and danger escalates. The book combines elements of suspense and emotional depth.
Recurring Themes in Kemmerer’s Books
Brigid Kemmerer’s stories consistently tackle serious themes through the lens of young adult fiction. These recurring elements give her novels emotional weight and real-world relevance:
- Resilience and inner strength: Her protagonists often face overwhelming odds and must dig deep to survive and grow.
- Found family and friendship: Kemmerer highlights the importance of chosen bonds and emotional support systems.
- Mental health and trauma: Many characters struggle with grief, abuse, or anxiety, offering a realistic portrayal of emotional healing.
- Moral ambiguity: Her stories challenge black-and-white notions of right and wrong, especially in matters of power, loyalty, and justice.
Why Readers Love Brigid Kemmerer’s Writing
Brigid Kemmerer has built a dedicated fan base by combining action, romance, and authentic emotional journeys. Her characters are flawed, relatable, and always evolving. She doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, yet her books maintain a hopeful tone that inspires readers. Her ability to balance intense drama with heartfelt moments makes each book a rewarding read.
Writing Style and Appeal
Kemmerer’s writing style is accessible, emotionally rich, and fast-paced. Her narratives are well-suited to both younger teens and older readers who appreciate character-driven storytelling with a blend of suspense and romance. Whether you’re drawn to contemporary realism or epic fantasy, her books offer something for every kind of reader.
Brigid Kemmerer’s body of work reflects a versatile and emotionally powerful approach to young adult fiction. From her bestsellingCursebreakerandDefy the Nightfantasy series to heartfelt contemporary novels likeLetters to the Lost, she captures the voices of young people navigating complex worlds both real and imagined. With rich themes, dynamic characters, and compelling plots, books by Brigid Kemmerer continue to leave a lasting impact on readers across the globe.