Saara El-Arifi’s storytelling is a tapestry woven from rich cultural influences, drawing on her Ghanaian and Sudanese heritage and her unique experiences growing up between continents. A natural-born storyteller, Saara’s love for narrative began the moment she told her first lie—a spark that would ignite her journey into the world of epic fantasy. Her debut novel, The Final Strife, published in 2022, introduces readers to a world steeped in the mythology of West Africa and the Arabian world, exploring themes of power, identity, and revolution through a society divided by blood color.
A globetrotter at heart, Saara’s life has been anything but conventional. From her childhood in Abu Dhabi to later settling in the English Peak District, her upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and traditions. This multifaceted background enriches her work, infusing her narratives with authenticity and depth. Saara’s writing is a blend of ancient myths and contemporary storytelling, and her novels often explore the intersection of history, fantasy, and the human spirit.
In addition to her literary successes, Saara’s academic background in Theatre Studies and African Studies from renowned institutions like the University of Kent and SOAS University of London have shaped her approach to writing, allowing her to blend the art of performance with the intricacies of world-building. Her ability to create immersive, visually rich environments is a hallmark of her storytelling.
The Final Strife marked the beginning of a trilogy that captivated readers and critics alike, garnering praise for its complex characters and intricate world. It was even named one of Amazon’s best books of 2022. Saara’s follow-up novel, Faebound, released in 2024, debuted at number one on the Sunday Times bestseller list and was longlisted for the TikTok Awards UK & Ireland 2024. With this success, Saara cemented her place as one of the leading voices in contemporary fantasy.
But her ambition doesn’t end there. Saara is set to explore the rich histories of Cleopatra and the Queen of Sheba in her upcoming historical novels, a testament to her versatility as a writer. As the Chair of the British Fantasy Society, she continues to support and nurture the literary community, sharing her passion for storytelling with others.
Now living in London, Saara El-Arifi continues to break boundaries, crafting tales that reflect the complexity of the human experience while offering readers an escape into worlds of magic, power, and revolution. Whether through the lens of high fantasy or historical fiction, her work is a testament to the power of myth and the enduring strength of storytelling.
