Meet the Author: Catherine Asaro
Catherine Asaro, an accomplished American author noted for her captivating science fiction and fantasy novels, has carved a unique niche in the literary world. She’s most recognized for her illustrious Saga of the Skolian Empire series and has also explored wild fantasy elements with the stunning Lost Continent series.
Impressively, Catherine’s literary expertise isn’t her only accomplishment. Garnering a Ph.D. in Chemical Physics and an M.A. in Physics from Harvard University, she further established her academic prowess by securing a B.S. in chemistry, with the highest honors, from UCLA.
Beyond writing, Catherine is an ardent educator, passionately teaching subjects such as math, physics, and chemistry.
Interestingly, Catherine is also the progeny of Frank Asaro, a key figure in the popular asteroid theory attributed to the dinosaurs’ extinction. Her connection to intriguing scientific minds doesn’t end with her father, as her husband, John Kendall Cannizzo, is a renowned NASA astrophysicist. The couple is blessed with an adult daughter.
Understanding Catherine Asaro’s Unique Writing Style
In Catherine Asaro’s resplendent literary landscape, one finds not only a compelling narrative but an exploration of complex scientific concepts, meticulously woven into the plot. Her exceptional ability to blend hard science with romance and adventure, all while crafting intricate character relationships, sets her books in order apart.
A celebrated winner of the coveted Nebula Award twice, once for best novel and another for best novella, her powerful narratives and avant-garde storytelling technique have been recognized and appreciated extensively.
Catherine Asaro’s Books in Order
Let us embark on a literary journey exploring Catherine Asaro’s distinguished books in order of their original publication date (and in chronological order when necessary).
Publication Order of Skolian Empire Books
| Primary Inversion | (1995) |    |
| Catch the Lightning | (1996) | |
| The Last Hawk | (1997) | |
| The Radiant Seas | (1998) | |
| Ascendant Sun | (2000) | |
| The Quantum Rose | (2000) | |
| Spherical Harmonic | (2001) | |
| Sextopia | (2001) | |
| The Moon’s Shadow | (2003) | |
| Skyfall | (2003) | |
| Schism | (2004) | |
| The Final Key | (2005) | |
| The Ruby Dice | (2008) | |
| Diamond Star | (2009) | |
| Carnelians | (2011) | |