Picture an American storyteller who swapped law briefs for fantastical worlds, crafting tales that blend history, magic, and steampunk flair—meet D.J. Butler! From his desk in the Rocky Mountain west, once used by Stephen R. Covey, Butler spins genre-spanning stories like Witchy Eye and City of Saints, captivating readers with intricate worlds and vibrant characters. His journey from courtroom to bookshelf is as thrilling as his novels.
The Making of D.J. Butler
Born David John Butler, D.J. grew up in the diverse landscapes of swamps, deserts, and mountains, nurturing a love for languages, music, and storytelling. A voracious reader and self-taught guitarist, he initially pursued law, earning a Juris Doctor from New York University in 1999. For over a decade, he worked as a securities lawyer for giants like Micron Technology and later ran his own firm. Yet, his childhood dream of writing never faded. In 2010, Butler took the leap, trading legal documents for speculative fiction, fueled by his passion for fantasy and history.
D.J. Butler’s Unforgettable Stories
Butler’s bibliography is a treasure trove of speculative fiction, spanning steampunk, fantasy, and science fiction. His Witchy Eye series, starting with the 2017 novel, follows Sarah, a fierce Appalachee witch navigating a magical alternate America. The series, including Witchy Winter and Witchy Kingdom, earned critical acclaim, with Witchy Kingdom snagging the 2020 Dragon Award for Best Alternate History Novel. His steampunk Western City of the Saints, a 2012 Whitney Award finalist, weaves historical figures like Sam Clemens into a neo-Victorian adventure filled with airships and intrigue.
Butler’s style is a vibrant mix of meticulous world-building, diverse magical systems, and characters that leap off the page. His Rock Band Fights Evil series, a “Dresdenesque” urban fantasy, pits a rock band against supernatural foes, showcasing his playful yet gritty tone. For younger readers, The Kidnap Plot delivers steampunk adventures with heart. Whether writing for adults or kids, Butler’s narratives blend historical depth with fantastical innovation, earning praise for their ambitious scope and emotional resonance.
Why D.J. Butler Matters
D.J. Butler’s impact lies in his ability to bridge genres and audiences, crafting stories that resonate with both young readers and seasoned fantasy fans. His alternate histories and magical systems challenge conventional storytelling, while his inclusive casts reflect a modern sensibility. As a corporate trainer, he uses his storytelling prowess to educate, proving his narratives transcend the page. Butler’s work, published by Baen, Knopf, and WordFire Press, continues to inspire, offering readers a lens into worlds where history and imagination collide.
- Born: David John Butler, date undisclosed
- Key Works: Witchy Eye, City of Saints, The Kidnap Plot
- Awards: Dragon Award (2020), Whitney Award finalist (2012, 2018)
- Fun Fact: He’s married to novelist Emily Butler, and they have three children
Ready to explore magical Americas and steampunk showdowns? Grab Witchy Eye and dive into D.J. Butler’s thrilling worlds!