New York Times Bestselling Author Sarah McCoy Sparks Global Connections With Her Multicultural Stories and Genre-Defying Novels

PHOTO: Bestselling author Sarah McCoy invites readers into rich, unforgettable worlds with her genre-defying fiction and multicultural storytelling.

Exploring the Power of Storytelling Across Borders and Genres

Sarah McCoy blends multicultural influences and genre-bending creativity to craft bestselling novels that connect readers worldwide. Her passion for history, storytelling, and fostering meaningful relationships with readers drives her remarkable work.

Sarah McCoy is a literary force to be reckoned with, captivating readers worldwide with her genre-defying novels that beautifully balance depth, emotion, and keen historical accuracy. As a New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author, her works—including Marilla of Green Gables, Mustique Island, The Mapmaker’s Children, and the award-nominated The Baker’s Daughter—have cemented her place in the literary world as a modern-day storyteller with a wide-reaching impact.

Yet, McCoy is more than a historical novelist—she is a true citizen of the world. With a multicultural heritage spanning Puerto Rico, Ireland, Sweden, and Choctaw Native American roots, as well as a childhood spent in Germany and across the United States as the daughter of a military officer and a Puerto Rican teacher, McCoy’s narratives are infused with global perspectives that resonate deeply with her readers. “Global community is the essence of humanity,” says McCoy, reflecting on how her rich background and life experiences influence her storytelling.

“A good book is a good book no matter what category it’s placed in.” – Sarah McCoy

Her ability to weave together traditions, histories, and genres sets her apart as a writer. McCoy’s novels often span beyond the confines of traditional historical fiction, blending elements of romance, mystery, sci-fi, and even magical realism to create an experience that surprises readers with every turn of the page. “A good book is a good book no matter what category it’s placed in,” she shares, celebrating the freedom of storytelling without boundaries.

In a recent conversation, McCoy offered BookPage Magazine an intimate look at the inspiration behind her writing, the books that shaped her, and her enduring love of connecting with readers. From reflections on her favorite novels to what she’s penning next, we invite you to step into the world of Sarah McCoy and explore the mind of an author whose stories truly connect us all.

On Finding Inspiration in Books Past and Present
When asked about the last “great” book she read, McCoy doesn’t hesitate. She highlights Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid, admiring the author’s ability to craft bold, multi-dimensional women who take charge of their destinies. These are the kinds of women McCoy herself enjoys both writing and reading—the heroines who bravely navigate life’s complexities.

“Each of my books is a surprise and a new adventure.” – Sarah McCoy

As a historical novelist, it’s no surprise that McCoy holds a special place in her heart for historical works. One book she will never forget is Mary M. Luke’s The Nine Days Queen: A Portrait of Lady Jane Grey. “It made me weep into the pages,” recalls McCoy, crediting the novel as the spark that ignited her passion for historical fiction.

And when it comes to comfort reads, McCoy returns again and again to the Anne Shirley series by Lucy Maud Montgomery. “It’s a balm for my soul,” she shares, describing the unique joy of revisiting characters who feel like “dear, old friends.”

On Crossing Genres and Exploring New Ideas
Although McCoy is best known for her historical novels, she’s a passionate advocate for reading (and writing) across genres. “Genres are commercially made parameters for marketing,” she explains. For her, the joy lies in blending these genres into her own work, challenging not only herself as a writer but also her readers’ perceptions of what a book can be. Whether it’s fantasy, mystery, or even a touch of romance, McCoy believes writing should surprise as much as it delights.

Her upcoming book, slated for release in 2025 with HarperCollins, is a great example of this philosophy. While details are under wraps, McCoy teases that it will be “loosely based on real-life events related to a celebrity mystery.” Fans can expect yet another thrilling and boundary-pushing journey.

On Her Multicultural Influences
For McCoy, her writing is intrinsically tied to her identity as a member of a global community. Raised in a household with Puerto Rican and Irish-Swedish traditions, and having spent significant time stationed overseas alongside her military family and husband, McCoy draws deeply from the cultures and histories she has experienced firsthand.

“Other countries and cultures absolutely influence my writing,” she emphasizes. Whether it’s the vibrant warmth of her mother’s Puerto Rican heritage or the reflective stillness of her time in Germany and the American Southwest, McCoy’s diverse background seeps into every word she writes.

On Connecting With Readers
More than anything, McCoy values the relationships she builds with her readers. “Connecting with readers! You, readers, are the reason I write,” she stresses, explaining how personal reviews and book club discussions inspire her to persevere even through the most challenging parts of her writing process.

In fact, McCoy frequently visits book clubs via Zoom to discuss her novels and connect directly with fans. “It’s one of my favorite parts of modern publishing,” she shares, calling the virtual meetings an unexpected silver lining to the global pandemic.

For McCoy, storytelling is all about creating those intimate bonds between herself and her readers. Her stories may cross centuries and continents, but the connections she crafts are achingly personal.

Sarah McCoy embodies everything we love about great writers—her creativity knows no bounds, her perspectives are delightfully fresh, and her passion for readers is unwavering. Whether you’re a fan of sprawling historical epics or heartwarming tales of humanity, McCoy’s novels are ones to cherish. And with her next story just on the horizon, the best from this remarkable talent is undoubtedly still to come.