Jo Riccioni

Riccioni situates female empowerment and social commentary at the heart of her writing, employing fantasy and historical narratives to address issues of class and gender. Her dedication to storytelling is evident in her series, "The Branded Season", where she weaves high fantasy with themes of social inequality and women's roles, inspired by a desire to see these issues foregrounded in epic fantasy. Her academic background in Medieval Literature, with a focus on Icelandic sagas and legends, enriches her fantasy worlds, grounding them in deep historical context while challenging contemporary societal norms.\n\nHer debut book, "The Italians at Cleat’s Corner Store", reflects Riccioni’s commitment to exploring immigrant family experiences, drawing from her own familial history to craft a narrative that won the International Rubery Award for Fiction. Meanwhile, her short stories, anthologized in "Best Australian Stories", showcase her ability to blend engaging narratives with critical social themes. Riccioni's works, including her short fiction broadcast on international radio, resonate with readers who seek literature that combines immersive storytelling with insightful cultural critique.\n\nFor readers interested in the intersection of fantasy and social issues, Riccioni’s writing offers a compelling exploration of female empowerment and class struggles. Her books invite audiences to engage with complex characters and richly detailed settings, encouraging reflection on the roles of women in both fantastical and real-world contexts. This bio of the author highlights her unique approach to narrative, which has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, positioning her as a significant voice in contemporary fiction.