Authors ·Nov 05, 2023

Ananya Devarajan: A Rising Star in the Literary Universe

by Teri Coan

An open book with text on the right side and a picture of the Indian American young adult author Ananya Devarajan on the left.

At Once Upon a Book Club, we take immense delight in shining a spotlight on new and exciting authors, and Ananya Devarajan is undoubtedly a rising star in the literary universe. She stands at the threshold of a remarkable literary career, and we are thrilled to introduce her to our readers.

Ananya is a remarkable young author who is just embarking on what promises to be an extraordinary journey in the world of literature. She's currently in her fourth and final year at the University of California, Irvine, pursuing a major in Neurobiology and Behavior, along with a minor in English. But what sets her apart is not just her academic pursuits; it's the fact that she has already authored a book while preparing to attend medical school at the Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Middletown, New York. Yes, you read that correctly – she's not only excelling in her studies but also making her mark in the world of literature. Now, that's truly impressive!

A Tale of Resilience and Determination

Ananya's story is an inspiring tale of resilience and determination. She is a second-generation Indian American young adult, and her journey mirrors the themes of perseverance and pursuing one's dreams that are often found in her own writing.

Ananya's debut novel, Kismat Connection, was featured in our July YA book subscription box and has garnered significant attention. Her ability to balance the demands of academia, a blossoming medical career, and a burgeoning writing career is nothing short of remarkable.

The Birth of a Passion for Storytelling

From a young age, Ananya harbored a dream of becoming a HarperCollins author, and she has indeed made her dream come true. However, her path to becoming a published author was filled with its own unique twists and turns.

Ananya's passion for storytelling found its initial outlet on Wattpad, where she began capturing the attention of a growing audience as a Featured Author. Her talent and dedication were undeniable, and her journey took a significant leap when she secured first place in TeenPit 2019—an incredible achievement for any aspiring writer.

A colorful book cover for "Kismet Connection" by Ananya Devarajan, featuring two characters gazing at each other under a starry sky.

Ananya Devarajan - Kismat Connection

A Flavorful Blend of Young Adult Romance

Now, let's dive into Ananya's distinctive writing style. Imagine young adult romance novels infused with the vibrant world of Desi teenagers, lighthearted drama, swoon-worthy banter, and a touch of delightful speculative fiction. If this description piques your curiosity, then Ananya's debut novel, Kismat Connection, is sure to capture your heart and imagination.

In Ananya's hands, characters spring to life, inviting readers to laugh, cry, and cheer them on as they navigate the complexities of youth and love. It comes as no surprise that renowned publishing houses like HarperCollins and Inkyard Press were quick to recognize the exceptional quality of her writing.

A Journey from Thrillers to Romance

Ananya's path to becoming a romance novelist wasn't a linear one. Her initial foray into writing on Wattpad was in the realm of YA thriller, which, while not her final destination, provided valuable lessons in long-form storytelling and served as the foundation for her future success.

Interestingly, when literary agents provided feedback on her thriller, one of them expressed interest in the romantic subplot of her story. Ananya, always eager to seize opportunities, took this as a sign and ventured into writing her first romance novel during her freshman year at UCI. This pivotal decision showcased her determination and adaptability.

A Journey of Learning and Growth

With each step of her journey, Ananya's writing skills evolved. She embarked on a path of self-teaching, drawing inspiration from other accomplished writers, and incorporating her newfound knowledge into her work. The result is a body of work that reflects not only her passion but also her commitment to honing her craft.

Even amidst the whirlwind of success, Ananya remains grounded and ever-eager to learn and grow. She recognizes that, as she matures as an individual, her writing also matures. Each round of editing offers her an opportunity to infuse her stories with a more nuanced perspective, making her narratives all the more captivating.

Balancing Writing and Medical School

One cannot help but be amazed at how Ananya expertly juggles her budding writing career with her aspiration to become a doctor. Her dedication and exceptional time management skills are truly commendable.

Following the publication of her debut novel, Ananya embarked on a book tour—a dream come true for any author. And the excitement doesn't stop there; her second book is set to grace the shelves in 2024! It seems there's no stopping this talented and driven writer.

A Bright Future Beckons

As Ananya's journey into medical school commences next year, her passion for storytelling will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly. Whether she's tending to patients' needs or weaving captivating tales, she is sure to excel in both fields.

For those who are fans of heartwarming romance with a sprinkle of Desi magic, Kismat Connection is a must-read. And if you want to keep up with Ananya's adventures, be sure to follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ananyad12.

Conclusion

Ananya Devarajan's journey from an aspiring author to a published novelist is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for storytelling. Her willingness to learn from setbacks, embrace guidance, and trust in her abilities has led her to the cusp of success. As the release of Kismat Connection approaches, we eagerly anticipate the unfolding of her literary journey, filled with Desi teenagers, romance, and delightful twists.

As a second-generation Indian American, Ananya's voice promises to bring a fresh perspective to the realm of young adult romance novels. Let us celebrate this young author and her debut novel as she steps into the spotlight, poised to make her mark on the literary world. We wish Ananya Devarajan boundless success and happiness on her writing journey! Why not subscribe and never miss out on new and exciting young adult authors again?

FAQS

Who is Ananya Devarajan?

Ananya Devarajan is a second-generation Indian American young adult author currently pursuing her final year at the University of California, Irvine. She is majoring in Neurobiology and Behavior and minoring in English. Following graduation, she will be attending medical school at the Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Middletown, New York.