Picture a California dreamer spinning tales of interstellar wars and magical realms—meet B.V. Larson! This USA Today bestselling author has crafted over 70 novels, blending science fiction, fantasy, and paranormal romance with a flair that’s distinctly his own. From the gripping military sci-fi of Star Force to the urban fantasy thrills of Unspeakable Things, Larson’s stories have sold over four million copies, captivating readers worldwide.
Born in Turlock, California, in 1975, Larson’s sunny roots and family life shape his vibrant narratives, often set in places like Las Vegas or coastal beaches. A former college professor and textbook author, he balances academic rigor with creative freedom, making him a unique voice in speculative fiction.
The Making of B.V. Larson
Raised in California and Nevada, Larson’s early years were steeped in the vibrant cultures of these regions. While studying computer science in college, he surprised everyone by editing the university’s literary magazine—a role typically reserved for English majors. His passion for storytelling grew, but it wasn’t until his late teens that he penned his first short story. After years of juggling industrial engineering and teaching, Larson took a leap into self-publishing in 2010, releasing three novels that sparked his prolific career.
Inspired by the indie publishing boom, he drew from authors like J.A. Konrath and embraced the Kindle revolution. His ability to write across genres—sci-fi, fantasy, and romance—stems from a love for diverse storytelling, honed during his college days and enriched by his life with his wife and three children.
B.V. Larson’s Unforgettable Stories
Larson’s bibliography is a treasure trove of adventure. His Star Force series, starting with Swarm (2010), is a military sci-fi epic where Earth’s fate hangs in the balance as aliens test humanity’s mettle. Fans love its fast-paced action and strategic depth. Similarly, Undying Mercenaries follows James McGill, a soldier reborn through alien tech, blending humor with gritty battles.
In fantasy, the Haven series, beginning with Amber Magic (2010), dives into a magical world of dragons and sorcery, showcasing Larson’s knack for vivid world-building. His Unspeakable Things series, led by Technomancer (2012), merges urban fantasy with sci-fi, following Quentin Draith as he unravels supernatural mysteries in Las Vegas. Larson’s style is breezy yet imaginative, balancing action, character depth, and a touch of romance that feels natural, not overpowering.
His versatility shines in settings—often sun-soaked cities or cosmic battlegrounds—and themes like survival, loyalty, and human resilience. Whether it’s mechs, magic, or mercenaries, Larson’s stories are accessible yet layered, appealing to both casual readers and genre enthusiasts.
Why B.V. Larson Matters
Larson’s impact lies in his ability to bridge genres, making sci-fi and fantasy approachable while delivering thrilling narratives. His indie success—over 30 novels translated into multiple languages and 39 audiobooks—proves the power of self-publishing. As an educator, his computer science textbooks (now in their seventh edition) reflect a commitment to knowledge-sharing, paralleling the immersive worlds he builds for readers.
His stories resonate because they’re grounded in human experiences—family, duty, and curiosity—set against extraordinary backdrops. For fans, Larson’s work is a gateway to adventure, blending the familiar with the fantastical in a way that feels both fresh and timeless.
About B.V. Larson
- Born: 1975, Turlock, California
- Key Works: Star Force, Undying Mercenaries, Haven, Unspeakable Things
- Fun Fact: Larson wrote 17 novels in his first year of publishing (2010)!
- Current Home: Central California, with his wife and three children
Ready for a galactic adventure or a magical escape? Grab Swarm or Technomancer and dive into B.V. Larson’s thrilling worlds today!