Hi, I’m Kirsten — writer, artist, lifelong creative, and mom to two wild little humans. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, I grew up surrounded by art, music, and creative chaos. There was always a project in progress: an art class at the kitchen table, instruments in every room, and something new to make. I’ve tried my hand at it all — from playing music and pyrography to portrait art — but writing has always been my anchor. The thing I return to, no matter what.

Now, I’m raising a family of my own in that same spirit. My two kids (ages 3 and 6) keep me on my toes — fluent in American Sign Language and just as obsessed with Disney as their parents. Our home is loud, cozy, and a little chaotic, but it’s full of love and creativity. At the center is my husband — my real-life hero: a strong, ginger-hearted man who isn’t morally gray but morally bold, always standing up for the little guy and inspiring every character I write.

Cursed Carp is where all my passions collide:

• Dark romantasy with a little spice and a lot of heart

• Custom portraits and pyrography (because art is still part of my soul)

• Bookish merch for cozy days, chaotic nights, and readers who feel it all

My debut fantasy series is on the horizon — packed with powerful heroines, morally gray love interests, and the tropes we all secretly (or not so secretly) live for. When I’m not writing (or spiraling over fictional characters), you’ll find me sketching, burning designs into wood, or curating moody, witchy merch for readers like you.

If you’re into fantasy, fandoms, rainy days, iced coffee, and chaotic good energy — welcome. You belong here.

A Few Fun Facts:

• 📍 Portland born-and-raised (yes, I love rain)

• 🎶 Raised on art and music — still can’t go a day without both

• 🐾 Always at least one cat around (because of course)

• ☕ Favorite fuel: iced coffee, no matter the season

• 🎧 Emotional support playlist: Sleep Token (on loop) and Evanescence

• ✨ Fluent in ASL and raising my own Disney-obsessed crew

• ❤️ Married to my real-life hero — a ginger with a heart of gold and a cause to fight for