Lena Valena

Lena Valena is a YA author who writes stories filled with first love, complicated relationships, secrets, and characters who rarely make the easy choice.

Originally from the Prague and now based in New York, she has published twelve novels in Europe. One of her books was adapted into a feature film that premiered in theaters and later on Netflix.

Her stories are often inspired by the places she knows and loves, from the streets of Prague to summers in Italy and life in New York City.

The Lies We Carry, the first book in The Sea of Salty Memories series, brings those worlds together in a YA romantic mystery about hidden identities, family secrets, and a first love that refuses to stay in the past.

She writes for readers who love big feelings, messy first loves, European settings, and stories where everyone has something to hide.