Picture an American storyteller who conjured a world of vampires, half-elves, and enchanted hounds—meet Barb Hendee! Best known for co-authoring the Noble Dead saga with her husband, J.C. Hendee, Barb has captivated fantasy fans with her thrilling tales of dark magic and complex heroes. From her cozy home near Portland, Oregon, she weaves stories that blend high fantasy with heart-pounding adventure, making her a beloved name in the genre.
Barb’s journey from college English instructor to full-time fantasy author is as enchanting as her novels. With a knack for vivid world-building and emotionally rich characters, she’s built a loyal readership eager to explore her magical realms. Let’s dive into the life, works, and lasting impact of this fantasy fiction maestro!
The Making of Barb Hendee
Barb Hendee’s path to literary stardom began with a diverse career, from teaching preschool to earning a master’s degree in Composition Theory. Between 1993 and 2006, she taught college English in states like Washington, Idaho, and Colorado, all while nurturing her passion for writing. Her early short fiction appeared in genre magazines, hinting at the epic tales to come. Alongside her husband, J.C. Hendee, Barb honed her craft, blending their creative energies into a dynamic writing partnership.
The couple’s big break came in 2001 when they sold Dhampir, the first novel in the Noble Dead saga. Published in 2003, it marked a turning point, allowing Barb and J.C. to quit teaching in 2006 and embrace writing full-time. Now settled just south of Portland, Oregon, Barb finds inspiration in the misty Northwest, a perfect backdrop for her fantastical worlds.
Barb Hendee’s Unforgettable Stories
The Noble Dead saga, co-authored with J.C. Hendee, is Barb’s crown jewel, spanning 14 books across three series. This dark fantasy epic follows Magiere, a dhampir (half-human, half-vampire), and her half-elf partner, Leesil, as they battle the Noble Dead—vampires and other undead—in a richly imagined medieval world. The saga’s first book, Dhampir, introduces their con-artist-turned-hero journey, blending gritty action with deep emotional stakes.
Other standout works include Thief of Lives, which delves into Leesil’s haunted past, and Sister of the Dead, where Magiere uncovers shocking truths about her origins. Barb’s solo ventures, like the Mist-Torn Witches series, showcase her versatility, blending fantasy with mystery. Her recent foray into romance and suspense, starting with Alone with a Soldier, highlights her ability to craft compelling narratives across genres. Barb’s style—marked by intricate plots, vivid settings, and flawed, relatable characters—keeps readers hooked.
Her worlds feel alive, with no modern conveniences; characters travel by horse, boat, or foot, immersing readers in a time where magic and danger lurk around every corner. This Tolkienesque flair, paired with vampire-infused horror, has earned the saga praise for its “incredible world-building and intriguing characters.”
Why Barb Hendee Matters
Barb Hendee’s impact on fantasy fiction lies in her ability to breathe new life into the vampire genre. When many thought vampire tales were passé, the Noble Dead saga proved otherwise, offering a fresh spin with its dhampir heroine and layered mythology. The series’ longevity—one of the longest-running dark fantasy sagas—speaks to its enduring appeal. Barb and J.C.’s collaborative storytelling has inspired countless readers to embrace high fantasy’s magic and mystery.
Beyond her books, Barb’s transition from academia to authorship inspires aspiring writers. Her dedication to craft, seen in her workshops and seminars, reflects a commitment to nurturing the next generation of storytellers. Living near Portland with J.C. and their two cats, Barb continues to expand her literary legacy, proving that great stories can come from unexpected places.
- Key Works: Noble Dead saga, Mist-Torn Witches, Vampire Memories
- Genres: Dark Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Romantic Suspense
- Location: Near Portland, Oregon
- Fun Fact: Barb and J.C. have a daughter, Jaclyn, living in Houston, Texas
About Barb Hendee
Ready to lose yourself in a world of vampires and magic? Snag Dhampir and dive into Barb Hendee’s spellbinding dark fantasy!