Picture an American storyteller who traded Texas plains for Hawaiian shores, weaving epic tales of dystopian worlds and magical kingdoms—meet David Estes! Born in 1981, this prolific science fiction and fantasy author has penned over thirty novels, captivating readers with series like the Dwellers Saga and Fatemarked Epic. With a knack for immersive world-building and a life as adventurous as his stories, Estes is a name every genre fan should know.
The Making of David Estes
Born in El Paso, Texas, David Estes moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as a young child, where his love for reading took root. A Penn State graduate, he ventured to Sydney, Australia, meeting his wife, Adele, before settling in their dream home in Hawaii. Estes began writing for young adult and children’s markets in 2010, becoming a full-time author in 2012. His global travels and quirky passions—like dancing when no one’s watching and poolside writing—shape his vibrant storytelling.
David Estes’s Unforgettable Stories
Estes’s bibliography is a treasure trove of science fiction and fantasy, blending gritty dystopias with sprawling epics. The Dwellers Saga, starting with The Moon Dwellers (2012), follows Adele, a teen navigating a subterranean society after humanity’s retreat underground. Praised by Buzzfeed as a must-read for Hunger Games fans, it’s a thrilling mix of action and heart. The Fatemarked Epic, launched with Fatemarked (2017), is a sprawling fantasy series set in warring kingdoms, rich with prophecy and complex characters, earning a #1 Amazon bestseller spot. Slip (2014), from the Slip Trilogy, explores a futuristic world of identity and rebellion, showcasing Estes’s knack for thought-provoking themes. His style—character-driven, fast-paced, and laced with twists—keeps readers hooked, balancing dark stakes with humor and hope.
Estes’s versatility shines across series like the Country Saga, a sister series to Dwellers, and the post-apocalyptic Salem’s Revenge, which blends witches and horror. His latest, Forsworn (2024) in The Forsworn Oath series, builds on the Fatemarked world, proving his ability to evolve while staying true to his epic roots. Fans love his accessible prose and ability to craft diverse, relatable characters across vivid settings.
Why David Estes Matters
David Estes has carved a niche in young adult and adult genre fiction, offering stories that resonate with readers seeking adventure and emotional depth. His global perspective, shaped by living in Australia and Hawaii, infuses his work with unique cultural textures. With over 188,000 Goodreads ratings and a dedicated fan group, Estes fosters a tight-knit community, treating readers like friends. His commitment to accessibility—offering free short stories and engaging directly with fans—sets him apart in a crowded genre, making him a beloved indie author.
- Born: 1981, El Paso, Texas
- Key Works: The Moon Dwellers, Fatemarked, Slip, Forsworn
- Fun Fact: He’s a self-proclaimed ping-pong wizard and writes best by the pool!
Ready to escape into a world of rebels, prophecies, and magic? Grab The Moon Dwellers or Fatemarked and dive into David Estes’s thrilling sci-fi and fantasy adventures!