Picture a rugged Montana cowboy spinning tales of the Wild West under a starry sky—meet Dave Lloyd! A fourth-generation Montanan, Lloyd is a celebrated author whose historical fiction, young adult novels, and poetry breathe life into the American frontier. With a knack for vivid storytelling and a heart rooted in Montana’s history, he’s earned prestigious Fulbright Scholarships and a loyal readership.
From his days herding cattle to directing Le Moyne College’s Creative Writing Program, Lloyd’s journey is as captivating as his novels. His work, steeped in the lore of the Old West, invites readers to gallop through gold rushes, face outlaws, and feel the pulse of a bygone era. Ready to saddle up for his story?
The Making of Dave Lloyd
Born into a family with deep Montana roots, Dave Lloyd grew up hearing tales of his great-grandmother, who arrived in Miles City via steamboat. These stories of the Wild West sparked his imagination, fueling a lifelong passion for history. As a young man, Lloyd lived the cowboy life, working as a ranch manager for the Western Cattle Company, overseeing thousands of cattle across vast acres. This hands-on experience shaped his authentic voice, grounding his narratives in the grit and glory of frontier life.
Lloyd’s literary path took him to Brown University, where he earned a doctorate and studied under novelist John Hawkes. Initially drawn to poetry, he honed his craft, blending his love for Montana’s landscapes with a scholar’s precision. His transition to fiction was seamless, driven by a desire to preserve the West’s stories for new generations.
Dave Lloyd’s Unforgettable Stories
Lloyd’s bibliography is a treasure trove of historical fiction and poetry, each work a window into the American West. His Ben Hite series, starting with Sharp Shooter, follows a Civil War sniper navigating Montana’s goldfields. Facing outlaws and harsh winters, Ben protects orphaned children, embodying the resilience Lloyd so masterfully captures. The novel weaves historical accuracy with thrilling stakes, drawing from Lloyd’s ancestral tales.
Another gem, The Hunters, continues Ben’s saga, exploring the growth of cities like Salt Lake City during the gold rush. Lloyd’s young adult novel Boys: Stories and a Novella shifts gears, delving into the turbulent lives of 1960s teens, showcasing his versatility. His poetry collections, like Warriors and The Gospel According to Frank, reflect his Welsh-American heritage, blending myth and personal history with lyrical finesse.
Known for his meticulous research and immersive style, Lloyd crafts characters that feel like old friends—or formidable foes. His themes of survival, identity, and community resonate, making his work timeless yet accessible, whether you’re a history buff or a young reader.
Why Dave Lloyd Matters
Dave Lloyd’s impact stretches beyond the page. As a Fulbright Scholar at Bangor and Cardiff Universities, he’s bridged cultures, exploring Welsh-American identity in his poetry and fiction. At Le Moyne College, he inspires budding writers, sharing his passion for storytelling. His awards, including the Poetry Society of America’s Robert H. Winner Memorial Award, underscore his literary prowess.
In Montana, Lloyd’s novels preserve a fading history, celebrating the state’s rugged spirit. His stories remind us that the past isn’t just a place—it’s a pulse, beating in every tale of courage and adventure. For readers, he’s a guide to a world where history feels alive and urgent.
- Born: Montana, fourth-generation resident
- Key Works: Sharp Shooter, The Hunters, Boys: Stories and a Novella, Warriors
- Awards: Fulbright Scholarships (2001, 2021), Robert H. Winner Memorial Award (2000)
Ready to ride into the Wild West? Snag Sharp Shooter and dive into Dave Lloyd’s thrilling historical fiction!