In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with J.L. Sullivan, award-winning author of From Brick & Darkness, to explore the gritty, magical world of urban young adult fiction. Drawing inspiration from abandoned buildings, back alleys, and the hidden stories buried in concrete landscapes, J.L. shares how he blends the real with the fantastical to reimagine ancient myths for a new generation.
We talk about his writing journey—from newspaper stories in high school to discovering contemporary fiction infused with subtle magic in college—and how those experiences shaped his dark, atmospheric debut. With the sequel From Ash & Darkness on the horizon, J.L. gives a sneak peek into what’s next for his hauntingly real characters and mythological twists.
If you love YA that walks the line between reality and wonder, this conversation is not to be missed.
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ABOUT J.L. SULLIVAN:
J. L. Sullivan writes young adult novels inspired by gritty urban environments and the fantastical tales that percolate within abandoned buildings and desolate alleys. He began his writing journey in high school with a local newspaper before venturing into creating writing in college where he found himself lost in contemporary stories with magic summering just underneath the surface. His debut novel, From Brick & Darkness, is a dark reimagining of an ancient myth that won multiple awards following its spring 2022 release, with its sequel, From Ash & Darkness, out in 2025. He currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, two daughters, and a dog named Princess Penelope Picklesworth.
WHERE TO FIND HIM AND HIS BOOKS:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok
B&N | Amazon
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