Picture an American storyteller who conjured dragons and detectives from the pages of fantasy—meet Dan Willis! Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in rural Maryland, this award-winning author has enchanted readers with his contributions to the DragonLance series and his spellbinding Arcane Casebook novels. With a knack for blending magic, mystery, and adventure, Willis has carved a unique niche in fantasy and young adult literature, all while calling Utah home with his family.
From his early days crafting tales to his current works that transport readers to magical 1930s New York, Willis’s journey is as captivating as his stories. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this fantasy maestro!
The Making of Dan Willis
Dan Willis’s love for storytelling sparked young, growing up in the quiet landscapes of rural Maryland. Born on December 31, 1967, he was drawn to the written word, a passion that followed him through diverse careers. Before becoming a full-time author, Willis worked in the video and board game industries, honing his creative skills as a programmer, web designer, and technical writer. His big break came when Wizards of the Coast invited him to contribute to the iconic DragonLance series, marking his debut with major publishers and igniting his career in young adult fantasy.
Dan Willis’s Unforgettable Stories
Willis’s bibliography is a treasure trove of fantasy, with his DragonLance novels earning acclaim for their vivid world-building and relatable characters. His first young adult novel, The Dragon Well (2004), the third volume in DragonLance: The New Adventures, introduced readers to a magical realm crafted for ages 10 and up. Its 3.8/5 Goodreads rating reflects its enduring appeal. Dragon Knight (2005), the seventh volume, is often hailed as the series’ best, praised for its gripping narrative and emotional depth.
Beyond DragonLance, Willis’s Arcane Casebook series redefines urban fantasy. Set in a magical 1930s New York, the series follows detective Alex Lockerby, a runewright tackling mobsters, sorcerers, and supernatural mysteries. Starting with In Plain Sight (2018) and continuing through Equal & Opposite (2024), the series blends noir detective vibes with spellbinding magic, earning comparisons to Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files. Willis also explores steampunk in The Dragons of the Confederacy with Tracy Hickman, a Civil War-inspired saga, and The Flux Engine, a wild west adventure with a mysterious crystal at its heart.
Willis’s style is a masterclass in genre-blending, weaving humor, grit, and heart into intricate worlds. His characters, from plucky young heroes to hard-boiled detectives, leap off the page, making every story a page-turner.
Why Dan Willis Matters
Dan Willis’s impact on fantasy is profound yet understated. His DragonLance novels introduced young readers to epic storytelling, earning spots on Utah’s junior high accelerated reading lists. The Arcane Casebook series has captivated urban fantasy fans, with its fresh take on noir and magic sparking dedicated Reddit communities. Willis’s ability to craft accessible, engaging stories across age groups and genres has made him a beloved figure in speculative fiction.
His work also inspires aspiring writers. Self-published through Amazon, Willis champions independent publishing, proving that compelling stories can thrive outside traditional systems. His legacy is one of imagination, resilience, and connection with readers worldwide.
- Born: December 31, 1967, Washington, D.C.
- Key Works: The Dragon Well, Dragon Knight, In Plain Sight, The Flux Engine
- Awards: Award-winning author for DragonLance contributions
- Residence: Utah, with his wife and four children
Snag In Plain Sight or The Dragon Well and dive into Dan Willis’s magical worlds—your next adventure awaits!