Picture a globe-trotting engineer turned sci-fi storyteller, crafting interstellar adventures from a beachside haven in Mexico—meet Bob Blanton! A lifelong reader with a knack for weaving tales of hidden powers and cosmic exploration, Blanton’s 'Stone' and 'Delphi in Space' series have captivated fans with their blend of relatable characters and visionary tech. His journey from HP’s corporate world to self-published author is as inspiring as the galaxies he creates.
The Making of Bob Blanton
Born in Augsburg, Germany, to a U.S. soldier and a German mother, Bob Blanton’s early life was a whirlwind of moves across the U.S., from Colorado Springs to Noble, Oklahoma. A voracious reader since age five, he devoured sci-fi, mysteries, and thrillers, planting the seeds for his future stories. After earning a degree from the University of Oklahoma, Blanton spent over 30 years as an engineer and manager at Hewlett Packard in San Diego, dreaming up novels during long flights to Singapore and Europe. Retirement to Mexico’s serene shores finally gave him the space to write, trading spreadsheets for starships.
Bob Blanton’s Unforgettable Stories
Blanton’s debut, 'Matthew and the Stone' (2017), launched the 'Stone' series, a young adult sci-fi saga about Matthew Brandt, a teen who discovers a mysterious stone with extraordinary powers. The series, including 'Stone Ranger' (2018), 'Stone Undercover' (2019), and 'Stone Investigations' (2021), blends martial arts, friendship, and supernatural intrigue, earning praise for its relatable hero and fast-paced plots. His 'Delphi in Space' series, starting with 'Starship Sakira' (2019), is a sprawling space opera following the McCormack family as they leverage alien technology to elevate Earth into an interstellar powerhouse. With 18 books, including 'Delphi Federation' (2020) and 'Delphi Castaways' (2023), the series shines with its focus on realistic science, character-driven storytelling, and themes of innovation and humanity. Blanton’s style—fun, accessible, and grounded in plausible tech—makes his worlds feel both thrilling and attainable.
His lesser-known 'Laim-Saga,' co-authored with Aybiline I Dahlson, explores galactic politics and adventure, adding depth to his portfolio. Blanton’s knack for crafting likable characters, like the resourceful Catie McCormack, and his ability to balance action with social commentary, like critiquing greed in 'Delphi Embassy,' keep readers hooked. His stories invite us to imagine a future where human ingenuity triumphs.
Why Bob Blanton Matters
Bob Blanton’s impact lies in his ability to make sci-fi feel personal. His self-published series resonate with readers who crave adventure without galactic wars, offering hope through stories of collaboration and discovery. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon laud his 'Delphi in Space' as a refreshing take on space opera, with some calling it one of the best sci-fi series in years. By tackling themes like environmental improvement and societal harmony, Blanton inspires readers to dream of a better world. His transition from engineer to author also proves it’s never too late to chase a passion, making him a quiet but powerful influence in indie publishing.
- Born: Augsburg, Germany
- Key Works: 'Stone' series, 'Delphi in Space' series, 'Laim-Saga'
- Genres: Science Fiction, Young Adult
- Fun Fact: Blanton wrote his first novel in two weeks after a flight to Singapore!
Ready to blast off? Snag 'Starship Sakira' or 'Matthew and the Stone' and dive into Bob Blanton’s vibrant sci-fi universe!