Katherine Arden Burdine, better known by her pen name Katherine Arden, is an acclaimed American novelist, celebrated for her captivating Winternight trilogy of fantasy novels. Set in medieval Russia, these novels have not only enthralled readers with their vivid storytelling and richly drawn characters but have also earned nominations for prestigious awards, including the Hugo and Locus Awards. Beyond the realms of fantasy, Arden has crafted the Small Spaces series, a collection of horror novels aimed at middle grade children. The series' debut, Small Spaces, was honored with the Vermont Golden Dome Book Award in 2020, further cementing Arden's versatility and skill as a writer.

Born in Texas, Arden pursued studies in French and Russian at Middlebury College, embracing a global perspective that would eventually enrich her narrative landscapes. Her life has been as diverse and adventurous as her novels, with time spent living abroad in France and Moscow, among other locales. Arden has also experienced life in Hawaii, where she penned much of The Bear and the Nightingale. She currently resides in Vermont, continuing to inspire and captivate with her literary creations.