Picture a Baltimore-born storyteller who spun a 700,000-word epic from a childhood love of dragons and knights—meet Daniel M. Ford! A fantasy author with a knack for crafting vivid worlds, Ford blends gritty heroism with heartfelt storytelling. From his acclaimed Paladin Trilogy to his quirky necromancer tales, he’s carved a unique niche in modern fantasy.
With degrees in English, Irish Literature, and Creative Writing, Ford isn’t just a writer—he’s a high school English teacher and cheese enthusiast who brings the same passion to his classroom as he does to his novels. His journey from a kid enchanted by The Hobbit to a celebrated author is as epic as his tales.
The Making of Daniel M. Ford
Born and raised near Baltimore, Maryland, Daniel M. Ford’s love for fantasy sparked at age four when he first encountered The Hobbit. Tales of swords, elves, and wizards fueled his imagination, leading him to explore Irish mythology and literary giants like Homer and Yeats. Ford’s academic path took him to Villanova University for a B.A. in English, Boston College for an M.A. in Irish Literature, and George Mason University for an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, specializing in poetry. Before diving into novels, he published poems in journals like Soundings Review and taught English at a college prep high school in rural Maryland, where he still inspires students.
Daniel M. Ford’s Unforgettable Stories
Ford’s debut, the Paladin Trilogy, kicked off with Ordination in 2016, introducing Allystaire Coldbourne, a war-weary knight chosen by a forgotten goddess to restore hope to a ravaged world. Spanning Ordination, Stillbright, and Crusade, this 700,000-word epic blends medieval combat with deep emotional stakes, earning praise for its rich characters and minimalist world-building. Fans love its gritty yet hopeful tone, reminiscent of classic fantasy with a modern twist.
In 2019, Ford ventured into mystery with the Jack Dixon series, starting with Body Broker. This series follows a Delaware PI with a wrestler’s past, tackling gritty cases with sharp wit. His latest triumph, The Warden series, began with The Warden in 2023, featuring Aelis de Lenti, a young necromancer navigating a rural village’s secrets. Necrobane (2024) and the upcoming Advocate (2025) continue her adventures, blending magic, humor, and moral dilemmas. Ford’s style—vivid, character-driven, and laced with poetic rhythm—sets him apart, with a nod to Dungeons & Dragons in his magic systems.
Why Daniel M. Ford Matters
Daniel M. Ford’s impact lies in his ability to craft relatable heroes who face impossible odds with courage and heart. His minimalist approach to world-building lets characters shine, resonating with readers who crave emotional depth in fantasy. The Paladin Trilogy has become a cultural touchstone for fans of epic fantasy, while The Warden series draws new readers with its fresh take on necromancy. As a teacher, Ford inspires the next generation, proving that storytelling can bridge classrooms and fantastical realms. His blend of grit, humor, and hope ensures his stories endure.
- Born: Baltimore, Maryland
- Key Works: The Paladin Trilogy, The Warden, Body Broker
- Notable Trait: Teaches cheese appreciation alongside English
Snag The Warden or Ordination and dive into Daniel M. Ford’s thrilling fantasy worlds—perfect for fans of epic quests and quirky heroes!