Picture a storyteller weaving epic tales of magic and rebellion in a world where only clerics wield power—meet Derrick Smythe! This American fantasy author from Upstate New York burst onto the scene with his bestselling debut, The Other Magic, in 2019. Known for immersive world-building and complex characters, Smythe’s Passage to Dawn series has captivated readers globally, earning him a spot among today’s most exciting fantasy voices.
With a knack for crafting vast universes and morally gray heroes, Smythe draws you into realms where every choice sparks adventure. Let’s dive into the life, works, and magic of this rising star!
The Making of Derrick Smythe
Born and raised in Upstate New York, Derrick Smythe grew up running through the woods, brandishing sharpened sticks to defend imaginary forts with his brothers. This childhood steeped in fantasy fueled his love for elvish, dwarvish, and magical tales. Devouring books by giants like Brandon Sanderson and Robert Jordan, Smythe honed a unique voice, blending rich literary tradition with his own vivid imagination. After years of refining his craft, he took the leap into indie publishing, launching his career with a bold debut that resonated with readers worldwide.
Derrick Smythe’s Unforgettable Stories
Smythe’s flagship work, The Other Magic (2019), kicks off the Passage to Dawn series with a bang. Set in the world of Doréa, it follows Kibure, a slave who discovers forbidden magic, and Sindri, a rogue priestess defying the law to save him. This Amazon bestseller, lauded for its intricate lore and diverse characters, won a B.R.A.G. Medallion and set the stage for Smythe’s epic saga.
The series continues with The Other Way (2021), a #1 bestselling new release that deepens the world-building, and The Other Battle (2024), further expanding Doréa’s stakes. Smythe also penned two prequels, To Earn the Sash (2020) and To Wield a Plague (2022), the latter inspired by fans’ love for the quirky halfling Dwapek. His style—marked by cinematic prose, witty dialogue, and morally complex heroes—appeals to both seasoned fantasy fans and newcomers.
Drawing from his influences, Smythe crafts soft magic systems that feel organic yet unpredictable, paired with sprawling narratives that balance action, intrigue, and heart. His ability to juggle multiple perspectives, like the spoiled prince Aynward or the zealous priest Grobennar, keeps readers hooked.
Why Derrick Smythe Matters
In a genre crowded with tropes, Smythe stands out by blending classic high fantasy with fresh, character-driven storytelling. His focus on free will and compassion, as seen in Dwapek’s journey in To Wield a Plague, resonates with readers seeking depth alongside adventure. With over 2,500 copies sold and an audiobook deal with Podium Entertainment, Smythe’s indie success proves that bold voices can thrive outside traditional publishing.
His work inspires fans to explore the power of choice in their own lives, while his vivid worlds offer an escape that lingers long after the final page. As he continues the Passage to Dawn series, Smythe’s star is only rising.
About Derrick Smythe
- Key Works: The Other Magic (2019), The Other Way (2021), The Other Battle (2024), To Wield a Plague (2022)
- Awards: B.R.A.G. Medallion for The Other Magic
- Hobbies: Hiking the Adirondack Mountains, traveling the world
- Fun Fact: Lives in Upstate New York with his wife, four children, and a neurotic Australian Shepherd named Magnus
Ready to lose yourself in a world of magic and rebellion? Snag The Other Magic and dive into Derrick Smythe’s epic fantasy today!