Picture a storyteller who weaves epic tales of magic, space, and adventure—meet David A. Tatum! Born in Ithaca, New York, this American author has carved a niche in science fiction, space opera, military fiction, and fantasy with his gripping narratives and richly imagined worlds. From his breakout series The Law of Swords to his innovative short stories, Tatum’s work captivates readers with its blend of action, intrigue, and heart.
With a knack for defying convention, Tatum turned personal setbacks into creative fuel, building a devoted global fanbase. His journey from a precocious child spelling ‘cat’ at age four to a celebrated author is as inspiring as the worlds he creates. Ready to dive into his story?
The Making of David A. Tatum
David A. Tatum’s path to authorship was anything but ordinary. Born to a fashion designer mother and a librarian-turned-spy father, Tatum grew up surrounded by books and imagination. By age four, he was spelling words, a sign of the literary destiny his parents foresaw. Moving to Washington, DC, at seven, he trained in kenpo for twenty years but fell short of a black belt, redirecting his passion to writing. In high school, he led a national adventure and exploration group, dreaming of discovering a route to the Earth’s core—only to find Virginia’s caves were dead ends. After inheriting his father’s vast library and facing a serious dental condition, Tatum chose professional writing over a history degree’s limited prospects, embracing a career fueled by creativity.
David A. Tatum’s Unforgettable Stories
Tatum’s bibliography spans fantasy and science fiction, marked by intricate plots and relatable characters. His Law of Swords series, set in the fictional kingdom of Svieda, follows Prince Maelgyn navigating political intrigue and magical battles. The first book, In Treachery Forged (2013), blends gripping combat with clever twists, earning praise for its refreshing unpredictability. Its sequel, In Forgery Divided (2016), deepens the saga with complex alliances and elven conflicts.
In the fantasy realm, The Kitsune Stratagem (2014) introduces Kieras, a young kitsune vixen, whose quest to save Ekholm weaves epic stakes with personal growth. For sci-fi fans, To the Rink of War (2014) offers a unique tale of a hockey star turned asteroid athlete, showcasing Tatum’s ability to merge sports and space opera. His style—vivid, action-packed, and layered with political and emotional depth—appeals to readers craving immersive worlds.
Tatum’s self-publishing journey, via his Fennec Fox Press, reflects his commitment to quality. He’s known for rigorous self-editing, ensuring his works rival traditionally published novels. His contribution to anthologies like Tales From the Starport Lounge further showcases his versatility, blending humor and wonder in shared sci-fi universes.
Why David A. Tatum Matters
David A. Tatum’s impact lies in his ability to craft stories that resonate across genres, inspiring readers and writers alike. His self-publishing success highlights the power of perseverance, proving that passion can overcome industry barriers. Fans admire his accessible yet ambitious narratives, which balance entertainment with thought-provoking themes like loyalty, power, and redemption. By embracing diverse genres, Tatum has expanded the boundaries of speculative fiction, earning a loyal following and respect among indie authors.
His influence extends to aspiring authors, showing that a unique voice and dedication can build a lasting legacy. In a crowded literary landscape, Tatum’s work stands out for its heart and originality, making him a hidden gem in modern fiction.
- Born: Ithaca, New York
- Key Works: In Treachery Forged, The Kitsune Stratagem, To the Rink of War
- Genres: Science fiction, fantasy, space opera, military fiction
- Publisher: Fennec Fox Press
Snag In Treachery Forged and dive into David A. Tatum’s thrilling blend of fantasy and adventure! Whether you’re a sci-fi buff or a fantasy fanatic, his worlds are waiting to captivate you.