Picture an Indiana storyteller who conjures zombies and ghost hunters with a tech-savvy twist—meet Daniel Humphreys! A former IT guru turned acclaimed author, Humphreys has carved a niche in horror, science fiction, and post-apocalyptic literature. His gripping Z-Day series and Paxton Locke novels have thrilled readers worldwide, earning a Dragon Award nomination and a loyal fanbase eager for his next tale.
With a knack for blending gritty survival with supernatural flair, Humphreys draws from his corporate IT days to craft immersive, believable worlds. Whether it’s zombies evolving in a ravaged America or a paranormal investigator battling demonic forces, his stories pulse with action and heart. Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this speculative fiction star!
The Making of Daniel Humphreys
Born and raised in Indiana, Daniel Humphreys was a sci-fi geek from a young age. At just nine, he penned a dinosaur story that won a movie ticket—a hint of the creativity to come. His early career took him to Software City at 16, fueling his love for tech. After decades in corporate IT, a client’s PC reconditioning gig sparked his writing journey. Inspired by sci-fi movies and a friend named Kent, Humphreys began crafting epic manuscripts, laying the foundation for his genre-defying career.
His first serious attempt, a 900-page novel called Warhawks, was followed by a 600-page Spectre. Though he paused writing after losing Kent, this personal loss shaped the heartfelt friendships in his Paxton Locke series. Now happily married and living in Indiana with his family, Humphreys balances storytelling with a lifelong passion for the Arizona Cardinals—despite the stress they bring!
Daniel Humphreys’s Unforgettable Stories
Humphreys’s Z-Day series kicks off with A Place Outside the Wild, a 2017 Dragon Award finalist for Best Apocalyptic Novel. Set eight years after a zombie apocalypse, it follows survivors in a walled Indiana community facing new threats. Praised for its detailed world-building and diverse cast, the trilogy continues with A Place Called Hope and A Place for War, blending military sci-fi with horror. Readers love the evolving zombies and Humphreys’s fresh take on the genre.
The Paxton Locke series, starting with Fade, introduces a ghost-hunting hero with magical powers inherited from a dark family ritual. Paxton battles supernatural forces while grappling with his mother’s sinister legacy. Books like Night’s Black Agents and A Vital Breath mix urban fantasy with humor, earning comparisons to Supernatural and the Dresden Files. Humphreys’s style—action-packed, character-driven, and laced with techy details—makes his worlds feel vividly real.
Beyond series, Humphreys contributes to anthologies like Places Beyond the Wild and Punching Demons, showcasing his versatility. His knack for crafting believable characters and intricate plots keeps readers hooked, whether they’re dodging zombies or banishing demons.
Why Daniel Humphreys Matters
Daniel Humphreys has redefined post-apocalyptic and urban fantasy fiction by grounding fantastical tales in human resilience and technical precision. His Z-Day series offers a unique perspective, exploring life long after the zombie outbreak, while Paxton Locke’s adventures bring humor and heart to supernatural battles. The 2017 Dragon Award nomination for A Place Outside the Wild cemented his status as a rising star, inspiring indie authors to tackle ambitious genres.
Humphreys’s impact extends to his fans, who rave about his relatable characters and immersive storytelling. By self-publishing and relaunching his Paxton Locke series on platforms like Kindle Unlimited, he’s embraced the digital age, connecting directly with readers. His work proves that indie authors can rival traditional heavyweights, making him a beacon for aspiring writers.
- Key Works: Z-Day series, Paxton Locke series
- Awards: 2017 Dragon Award finalist (Best Apocalyptic Novel)
- Hobbies: Sci-fi movies, target shooting, tinkering with computers
- Fun Fact: His childhood dinosaur story is rumored to fetch thousands on eBay!
Snag A Place Outside the Wild or Fade and dive into Daniel Humphreys’s thrilling blend of zombies, magic, and heart-pounding adventure!