AceShowbiz - Achieving a New York Times bestseller with a debut novel is a dream for most authors, yet for actress-turned-author Kiera Azar, it became a stunning reality. Her debut novel, Thorn Season, a captivating romantasy, immediately soared to #1 on the prestigious New York Times bestseller list, marking an an extraordinary literary debut. The success of Thorn Season has kept Kiera Azar busy, navigating a whirlwind of celebratory events and interviews, sharing insights into her journey from screen to bestselling author.

Thorn Season introduces readers to the perilous world of Alissa Paine, a young Wielder born into a family of Hunters sworn to eradicate magic. Her deadly secret forces her to conceal her powers; a flicker of Wielder magic means certain death. Upon her eighteenth birthday, Alissa is thrust into the dangerous royal court for her coming-out season. Here, stakes escalate as her control over burgeoning powers falters when secrecy is most crucial. Its compelling blend of romance, fantasy, and high-stakes intrigue has resonated deeply with readers.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant’s Alisha Grauso, Kiera Azar delved into her novel's success, its unique creative timeline, and hints about the sequel. The discussion naturally turned to her experiences on the set of Shadow and Bone, a show widely assumed to have inspired her fantasy writing.

Addressing the perceived influence of Shadow and Bone, Kiera Azar clarified her creative timeline. “I actually started writing Thorn Season about a year before auditioning for Shadow and Bone,” she revealed, adding that the manuscript was “pretty much done” by the time she began filming. While her time on the fantastical set didn't directly shape the plot or characters of Thorn Season, her immersion in the rich, expansive world of the Grishaverse undoubtedly fueled her passion for the genre. Being part of such a large-scale fantasy production likely reinforced her commitment to imaginative world-building.

Kiera Azar expressed profound gratitude for Thorn Season's reception. “When I started writing Thorn Season, it was completely only for myself because I wanted to write it,” she explained. “I really hadn’t intended for it to exist in anyone’s imagination but my own.” Connecting with a global audience has been “beyond my wildest dreams.” This genuine connection, seeing her story resonate, makes the success truly special, with Kiera Azar crediting the passionate launch team.

With Thorn Season continuing its bestseller reign, anticipation for the sequel is high. Building on a critically acclaimed debut and clear passion, Kiera Azar is poised to continue her captivating narrative. Fans eagerly await details, hoping it expands the intricate world and high-stakes drama that cemented Kiera Azar’s status as a formidable new voice in romantasy.