Picture a Philadelphia-born storyteller who swapped city streets for Seattle’s misty shores, weaving noir urban fantasy with a gritty edge—meet Harry Connolly! Known for his electrifying Twenty Palaces series and epic Great Way trilogy, Connolly blends crime and fantasy into tales that pulse with suspense and supernatural intrigue, captivating readers worldwide.
With over 58 million copies sold and translations in more than three dozen languages, Connolly’s work, like his acclaimed debut Child of Fire, has carved a unique niche in literary fiction. His stories aren’t just page-turners; they’re a thrilling ride through dark magic and moral dilemmas. Ready to dive into his world?
The Making of Harry Connolly
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Harry Connolly grew up immersed in science fiction novels and the quirky charm of local TV hosts like Dr. Shock and Wee Willie Weber. After studying at Temple University, he faced a tough job market and moved to Seattle in 1989. There, the internet sparked his lifelong dream of becoming a fiction author. A stay-at-home dad with a passion for storytelling, Connolly spent two years crafting his debut novel, pouring his love for libraries and narrative into every page.
Harry Connolly’s Unforgettable Stories
Connolly’s Twenty Palaces series is a masterclass in noir urban fantasy. His debut, Child of Fire (2009), introduces Ray Lilly, an ex-con turned reluctant hero for the secretive Twenty Palace Society, tasked with battling rogue magicians and otherworldly predators. Named one of Publishers Weekly’s Best 100 Books of 2009, it’s a gritty tale of magic and sacrifice. The sequel, Game of Cages (2010), dives deeper into Ray’s world, earning a starred review for its intense pacing and Lovecraftian horrors. Circle of Enemies (2011) wraps the trilogy with Ray facing a past nemesis, blending crime-thriller tension with supernatural stakes.
Beyond Twenty Palaces, Connolly’s The Great Way trilogy (2014–2015) showcases his versatility. This crowdfunded epic fantasy, one of Kickstarter’s most-funded fiction projects at the time, follows a world ravaged by chaos and magic. His 1930s pulp adventure King Khan (2013) adds a playful nod to role-playing games, while A Key, an Egg, an Unfortunate Remark (2015) offers a pacifist twist on urban fantasy. Connolly’s style—sharp dialogue, flawed protagonists, and morally complex worlds—sets him apart as a storyteller who doesn’t shy away from darkness.
Why Harry Connolly Matters
Harry Connolly’s impact lies in his ability to merge crime and fantasy into narratives that feel both fresh and timeless. His Twenty Palaces series, often compared to Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files, stands out for its darker, less romanticized take on urban fantasy. Despite being canceled due to initial poor sales, the series has gained a cult following, with fans praising its originality and Ray Lilly’s reluctant heroism. Connolly’s crowdfunded success with The Great Way proves his knack for connecting with readers, while his translations into over 36 languages highlight his global reach. His work challenges genre norms, offering a gritty, thought-provoking alternative to mainstream fantasy.
- Born: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: Child of Fire, Game of Cages, The Way into Chaos, King Khan
- Awards: Child of Fire named to Publishers Weekly’s Best 100 Books of 2009; starred reviews for Game of Cages and Circle of Enemies
- Fun Fact: Connolly homeschools his son and is a huge fan of Seattle’s library system.
Snag Child of Fire or The Way into Chaos and dive into Harry Connolly’s thrilling blend of noir and fantasy—you won’t look back!