Picture a storyteller who weaves dark whimsy with steampunk flair, crafting worlds where bloodthirsty rabbits and mysterious Bludmen roam—meet Delilah S. Dawson! Born in Roswell, Georgia, this New York Times bestselling author has captivated readers with her vivid imagination and genre-blending tales. From her Star Wars novels to her acclaimed Blud series, Dawson’s stories pulse with adventure, romance, and a touch of the bizarre.
A late bloomer in the literary world, Dawson didn’t publish her first novel until her thirties, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream. With a knack for creating diverse protagonists and tackling complex themes, she’s earned accolades like the RT Book Reviews Steampunk Book of the Year and a loyal fanbase eager for her next tale.
The Making of Delilah S. Dawson
Born on October 21, 1977, in Roswell, Georgia, Delilah S. Dawson grew up with a love for reading and writing, though she never imagined it as a career. Her early days were filled with maudlin poetry and art class sketches, and her career path was a colorful whirlwind—art teacher, balloon artist, even a stint as a Disney princess! It wasn’t until she was 32, balancing motherhood and editing her husband’s work, that she penned her first novel. That unpublished magical realist story sparked the confidence to pursue writing professionally, leading to her breakout with the Blud series.
Delilah S. Dawson’s Unforgettable Stories
Dawson’s bibliography is a treasure trove of genre-blending brilliance. Her Blud series, starting with Wicked as They Come (2012), whisks readers to Sangland, a steampunk world of Bludmen, blood-drinking carnies, and kraken-filled adventures. Critics praised its innovative voice, with Wicked as She Wants snagging the 2013 Steampunk Book of the Year. Writing as Lila Bowen, Dawson crafted the Shadow series, beginning with Wake of Vultures (2015), a gritty Weird West tale lauded for its diverse protagonist and raw exploration of identity.
In the Star Wars universe, Dawson shines with Phasma (2017) and Galaxy’s Edge: Black Spire (2019), bringing depth to characters like Vi Moradi. Her middle-grade works, like Mine and the Minecraft Mob Squad series, showcase her versatility, while comics like Ladycastle and Sparrowhawk highlight her visual storytelling. Dawson’s style—vivid, immersive, and often darkly humorous—blends romance, horror, and fantasy, with themes of self-discovery and breaking free from societal constraints.
Why Delilah S. Dawson Matters
Delilah S. Dawson’s impact lies in her ability to craft inclusive, thought-provoking stories that resonate across genres. Her diverse characters challenge traditional fantasy tropes, earning praise from outlets like Publishers Weekly for their “frank realism and sensitivity.” Her work in Star Wars and comics has expanded beloved universes, while her original series inspire readers to embrace their own paths. With multiple starred reviews and awards, Dawson is a trailblazer in modern fantasy, proving that imagination knows no bounds.
- Born: October 21, 1977, Roswell, Georgia
- Key Works: Blud series, Shadow series, Star Wars: Phasma, Minecraft Mob Squad
- Awards: 2013 RT Steampunk Book of the Year, 2015 RT Fantasy Book of the Year, 2024 Dragon Award
Ready to dive into a world of steampunk carnivals and galactic adventures? Snag Wicked as They Come or Phasma and lose yourself in Delilah S. Dawson’s spellbinding stories!