Where to Start with David A. Tatum
David A. Tatum has built a reputation for writing rich, multi-genre speculative fiction, ranging from classic political fantasy to military space opera. Because his works are divided into distinct universes, you can start with whichever genre appeals to you most. However, the best overall starting point for fantasy lovers is In Treachery Forged, the first book in his acclaimed Law of Swords series. If you prefer military science fiction, begin with The Merrimack Event from the Shieldclads series.
The Law of Swords Series (Svieda)
The Law of Swords is Tatum's signature fantasy series. Set in the fictional kingdom of Svieda, the plot follows Prince Maelgyn as he navigates intense political intrigue, magical battles, and complex elven conflicts. The series centers around the "Law of Swords"—a royal decree designed to prevent heirs from destroying the kingdom through infighting. The books should be read in strict publication order as they follow a continuous narrative arc:
- In Treachery Forged (2013) – The first installment introduces Prince Maelgyn and the tense political landscape of Svieda.
- In Forgery Divided (2016) – The sequel expands on the elven conflicts and deeper political alliances.
- In Division Imperiled (2021) – The third book raises the stakes as Svieda faces threats to its very survival.
Inari's Children Series
For readers who enjoy mythology-infused fantasy, Tatum's Inari's Children series offers a unique setting where the wizard Inari created the kitsune (fox spirits). This creates a world where different breeds of kitsune and humans clash. The series is currently open-ended, and a planned sequel titled By Claw and Arrow has been delayed. Start with the debut novel:
- The Kitsune Stratagem (2014) – Follows Kieras, a young kitsune vixen, and the hunter Mathis as they navigate a magical world under threat.
Shieldclads Series
Stepping away from fantasy, the Shieldclads series is a military science fiction and space opera saga. The story centers on a specialized class of warships developed by the Earth Alliance. When a war game turns into a real conflict, a group of cadets from the Earth Alliance Naval Academy must take charge of a Shieldclad vessel. Read this series in order:
- The Merrimack Event (2017) – The launch of the series, introducing the cadets and the first major conflict.
- The Farragut Affair (Planned / Delayed) – The announced follow-up, which has been delayed.
Standalone Books, Collections, and Anthologies
Beyond his primary series, Tatum has written short stories and standalone collections that showcase his versatility:
- To the Rink of War (2014) – A unique science fiction novelette about a hockey star who establishes a microgravity hockey league in space. Tatum has expressed interest in expanding this concept into a longer project.
- Worlds Enough: Fantastic Defenders (2017) – An anthology containing short fiction in collaborative settings.
- This Book Cannot Make Any Money (2018) – A collection of short pieces and experimental work published under his own imprint.
What to Know Before You Start
All of David A. Tatum's books are published under his independent imprint, Fennec Fox Press. Known for rigorous self-editing, Tatum's self-published novels have been praised for matching the production quality of major publishing houses. While his fantasy and science fiction works exist in entirely separate universes, they share his signature style: fast pacing, detailed tactical combat, and a strong emphasis on political intrigue and personal honor.