Tigest Girma

Girma reframes East African folklore and mythology to explore narratives that intertwine dark fantasy with Black stories. Driven by a desire to fill the literary gap she observed during her upbringing, she crafts tales rich in Ethiopian cultural elements, specifically targeting young adult audiences. Her storytelling is deeply rooted in the experiences of transitioning from Ethiopia to Australia, which informs her vibrant depiction of diverse characters and imaginative settings. By incorporating Ethiopian history and language into her work, Girma challenges conventional vampire lore through the innovative premise of "Immortal Dark", where the origins of vampires are reimagined within an African context.\n\nHer method involves a discovery writing approach, where initial drafts are spontaneously crafted scenes that are later refined into detailed narratives. This technique allows her to vividly portray the mythological frameworks and complex world-building seen in her debut book. Girma's writing style is particularly beneficial for readers navigating the complexities of adolescence, as her stories provide both escape and insight during significant life transitions. Her success with "Immortal Dark"—a dark-academia vampire romance that achieved #1 New York Times bestseller status—demonstrates her ability to connect with a broad audience, cementing her role as an influential author who brings underrepresented stories to the forefront.