Picture a Texas-born storyteller who spins dark fantasy with a wicked sense of humor—meet Bill McCurry! With a knack for blending snarky heroes, brutal magic, and the absurdities of human nature, McCurry has carved a unique niche in the fantasy world. His novels, like those in the 'Death-Cursed Wizard' series, captivate readers with their irreverent charm and moral complexity, proving that swords and sarcasm make a killer combo.
Born in Fort Worth and now calling Dallas home, McCurry’s journey from improv actor to acclaimed author is as colorful as his prose. His stories aren’t just about magic—they’re about what it means to be human, wrapped in a package of epic battles and laugh-out-loud wit.
The Making of Bill McCurry
Growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, where the stockyards hum and the West begins, Bill McCurry was a late bloomer to fiction, initially favoring history and science books. In his mid-teens, he discovered fantasy giants like Roger Zelazny, Ursula Le Guin, and Michael Moorcock, devouring Moorcock’s Elric saga in a single day while battling a cold. These early influences shaped his love for vivid characters and complex worlds. With an M.A. in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington, McCurry learned a key lesson: no one’s obligated to teach you, so teach yourself. This self-reliant spirit fueled his diverse career, from construction to improv comedy, before he turned to writing.
Bill McCurry’s Unforgettable Stories
McCurry’s debut series, 'Death-Cursed Wizard,' introduced Bib, a sorcerer cursed by the God of Death to kill—and hating how much he loves it. The first book, 'Death’s Collector' (2019), follows Bib’s quest for redemption as he battles his bloodlust, delivering fast-paced action and razor-sharp dialogue. 'Death’s Baby Sister' (2019) sees Bib protecting a girl from a mad goddess, while 'Sorcerers Dark and Light' (2020) pits him against a demonic demigod. The series, capped by 'Dark Lands' (2022), is lauded for its innovative magic system, where power comes at a steep personal cost, and its blend of dark humor and existential themes.
McCurry’s newer series, 'Sorcerer of Bad Examples,' kicks off with 'The Dragon’s Manservant' (2023), showcasing his evolving style with fresh characters and more irreverent adventures. His writing stands out for its snarky, flawed heroes and a magic system inspired by equivalent exchange, reminiscent of 'Fullmetal Alchemist.' McCurry’s stories tackle adult themes—grief, cynicism, and courage—while keeping readers hooked with witty insults and epic swordplay.
Why Bill McCurry Matters
Bill McCurry’s impact lies in his ability to make dark fantasy accessible and human. His blend of humor and heartbreak resonates with readers who crave more than just escapism—they want stories that reflect life’s messiness. By crafting heroes like Bib, who grapple with their flaws yet press on, McCurry offers a fresh voice in a genre often dominated by predictable tropes. His improv background shines through in his sharp dialogue, earning praise for being both hilarious and profound.
Though not a household name, McCurry’s growing fanbase and glowing reviews—like comparisons to Jonathan Stroud’s 'Bartimaeus' series—highlight his rising influence. He’s proof that lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark with originality and heart.
- Birthplace: Fort Worth, Texas
- Key Works: 'Death’s Collector,' 'Death’s Baby Sister,' 'The Dragon’s Manservant'
- Fun Fact: McCurry lives with five cats, aspiring internet stars!
Snag 'Death’s Collector' and dive into Bill McCurry’s wild world of dark fantasy and snarky sorcery!