.png)
Jessica Barberi
Meet Jessica Barberi
The Heart Behind the World
My journey into writing actually began with my son's struggle with reading. He wasn't convinced that the hard work of learning to read was worth the effort, and I wanted to show him not just the amazing worlds that books could open up, but also that doing difficult things - whether it's learning to read or writing a book - can lead to incredible rewards. I had a story in mind that I thought would inspire him, and so I decided to write it!
​
Fantasy has always been my escape and inspiration. I grew up losing myself in imaginary lands and epic adventures, and now I get to craft those experiences for others. When I started writing the 'Fires of an Empire' saga, I wanted to create something that would resonate with readers through characters who face their own difficult challenges and grow stronger through perseverance - much like my son learning to read, or me writing a book.
​
The world I've built isn't just about magic and dragons (though I love both!). It's about finding strength in impossible situations, about growing beyond what you thought possible, and about the light that can emerge even in the darkest times. These themes naturally evolved as I wrote, partly influenced by watching my son tackle his own challenges and partly by the world I see him growing up in.
​
Living near the Great Lakes has deeply influenced the world of Perinthia, with its unique geography reflecting the dramatic landscapes and natural wonders I see around me. When I'm not writing or immersed in my day job in IT, you'll likely find me exploring these inspiring locations with my family, finding new details to weave into my world-building.
​
I've now completed all four novels in the series, and I'm thrilled to say this is just the beginning. In addition to this epic's tale, I have several stand-alone stories in development that will expand different corners of this world, exploring new characters and adventures while deepening the rich tapestry of Perinthia. What started as a way to inspire my son has grown into an ever-expanding universe, and I'm excited to share this journey with readers as the world continues to grow in unexpected and exciting ways.
EXPERTISE
I craft immersive fantasy worlds where complex characters grapple with fundamental human truths: identity, belonging, power, and redemption. My stories unfold in richly detailed settings, weaving layered narratives that explore faith and what it means to be human across generations and eras. My work embraces a slow-burn approach, prioritizing deep character development over fleeting action. While epic battles and dragons color the canvas, the true story unfolds in the hearts and minds of characters navigating their inner struggles. With compelling, character-driven plots, I create stories that challenge readers to reflect while keeping them eagerly turning pages, lost in a world that lingers long after the final word.
WORLD-BUILDING
I craft immersive fantasy worlds that feel as tangible as the ground beneath your feet. Perinthia and Dragmere are not mere backdrops but living, breathing places you could step into—gritty and violent, yet laced with serene beauty and distinct cultures. My approach to world-building prioritizes realism, weaving lean, meaningful politics and lore that drive the plot forward without overwhelming the reader. Laws and systems are intuitive, never distracting from the story or the characters’ humanity. Every detail, from the clash of empires to the quiet majesty of a dragon’s flight, serves to pull you deeper into a world that’s vivid, believable, and utterly unforgettable.
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
In my stories, character is king. I craft real, flawed, and deeply human characters who drive the narrative through their journeys of growth, struggle, and redemption. Far from perfect heroes, they grapple with doubts, desires, and moral complexities, making choices that shape their world and propel the story forward. Every triumph and failure pulses with their humanity, forming the beating heart of my work. My character-driven approach ensures that readers connect with these vivid souls, rooting for them through every challenge in a way that lingers long after the final page.
PLOT WEAVING
My stories are tapestries of slow-burn, character-driven plots, intricately woven to captivate and challenge. Each thread, whether a quiet moment of doubt or a clash swords — serves the characters’ journeys, driving the narrative with purpose and depth. I craft lean, meaningful conflicts that intertwine politics, lore, and personal stakes, ensuring every twist feels earned and resonant. The result is a compelling arc that unfolds deliberately, drawing readers deeper into the hearts of flawed heroes and the vivid world they shape, page by page.
THEME EXPLORATION
My stories delve into the timeless themes that define the human experience: faith, redemption, restoration, love, the struggle between good and evil, and resistance to tyranny. These themes are not mere embellishments but the soul of my work, woven seamlessly into the journeys of flawed characters navigating vibrant, realistic worlds. Each narrative invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs and choices, exploring profound questions with nuance and heart. Through layered storytelling, I craft tales that resonate deeply, illuminating the enduring power of hope and humanity in the face of darkness.