Donna Maree Hanson

Donna Maree Hanson is a Canberra-based writer of fantasy, science fiction, horror, and under the pseudonym (Dani Kristoff) paranormal romance.

Her dark fantasy series (which some reviewers have called grim dark), Dragon Wine, is published by Momentum Books (Pan Macmillan digital imprint). Book 1: Shatterwing and Book 2: Skywatcher are out now in digital and print on demand.

In April 2015, she was awarded the A. Bertram Chandler Award for Outstanding Achievement in Australian Science Fiction for her work in running science fiction conventions, publishing and broader SF community contribution.

Donna also writes young adult science fiction, with Rayessa and the Space Pirates and Rae and Essas Space Adventures out with Escape Publishing. Look out for Opi Battles the Space Pirates coming soon.

In 2016, Donna commenced her PhD candidature researching Feminism in Popular Romance. Also her first Indie published book, Argenterra, was publishing in late April 2016. Argenterra is the first in an epic fantasy series (the Silverlands) suitable for adult and young adult readers. The final two books are due out in early 2017.

Donna grew up in New South Wales mostly, but was living in Bondi when she gave up school at aged 15 without any qualifications. She did a stint as a hairdressing apprentice and then worked for a stockbroker. After running off to New Zealand for a man, she started studying again, gaining her year 10 school certificate and later University Entrance.

Once back in Australia as a single mum with three kids to support, Donna eventually started studying again, finishing a degree in Economics at the Uni of Sydney, majoring in accounting. She worked in the Australian Public Service as an auditor, leaving that job in 2016. While working she did a certificate in professional writing (editing) and a Masters in Creative Writing at the University of Canberra. Looking back over her life, she is proud to be undertaking a PhD in Creative Writing.