Deadly Ever After

“A captivating blend of suspense, romance, and fantasy that will keep readers turning the pages. Johnson’s writing effortlessly draws readers into a unique and immersive setting that feels magical on every level. This fairytale, where the princesses save themselves, is a must read.” —Kalynn Bayron, New York Times bestselling author of Cinderella Is Dead“Johnson’s debut novel features strong worldbuilding and character development and will remain with readers long after they’ve finished reading… A queer romance with a winning combination of humor and magical adventure.” —Kirkus Reviews“[A] complex and insightful romantasy debut … Amala and Kha’dasia’s percolating chemistry—portrayed via the duo’s distinctly rendered alternating first-person perspectives—is magnetic, and the novel’s traditional fantasy setting teems with timeless feeling dreamlike elements.” —Publishers Weekly“Johnson’s debut novel strikes a perfect balance between character growth and a propulsive plot…. Kha’dasia and Amala each have a unique voice, and readers will enjoy seeing them fall for one another even as they fear they aren’t each other’s true love. Those readers looking for a fast-paced, magical adventure will want to join this journey.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books“Told in the princesses’ alternating perspectives, this novel by first-time author Johnson twines the blossoming romantic relationship between the princesses with their personal growth to create a fairy tale unlike others. An excellent addition to teen romantasy collections.” —Booklist

Brittany Johnson is a contributor in the YA anthology We Mostly Come Out at Night (Running Press Teen/Hachette, 2024). She has also published articles with The Mighty, Autostraddle, and Medium on the intersections of race, mental health, gender, and sexuality. Deadly Ever After is her debut novel, and it’s a love letter to soft Black girls who rarely get to see themselves in media.