Picture an American storyteller who whisked readers to ancient Arabia and epic battlefields—meet Howard Andrew Jones! A master of sword-and-sorcery and historical fantasy, Jones captivated fans with thrilling tales like The Desert of Souls and the Chronicles of Hanuvar. His knack for blending cinematic pacing with rich historical detail made him a standout in speculative fiction, while his editorial work revived forgotten gems for modern readers.
Born in Terre Haute, Indiana, Jones wore many hats—cameraman, professor, and editor—before becoming a beloved author. His passion for pulp fiction and heroic tales shaped a career that not only entertained but also reshaped the fantasy genre. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this fantasy trailblazer!
The Making of Howard Andrew Jones
Howard Andrew Jones (July 19, 1968–January 16, 2025) grew up in Indiana, where a high school encounter with Harold Lamb’s swashbuckling tales sparked a lifelong love for historical adventure. This passion led him to collect and edit Lamb’s pulp stories, cementing his expertise in the genre. Before writing, Jones worked in television as a cameraman and production assistant, edited technical books, and taught English at the University of Southern Indiana. His diverse path honed a sharp eye for storytelling, blending scholarly insight with a fan’s enthusiasm.
Jones’s early career took a pivotal turn when he joined Black Gate magazine as Managing Editor in 2004. His work there, alongside editing Tales from the Magician’s Skull, showcased his dedication to sword-and-sorcery. These roles laid the groundwork for his own stories, which burst onto the scene with a unique mix of historical grit and fantastical flair.
Howard Andrew Jones’s Unforgettable Stories
Jones’s debut novel, The Desert of Souls (2011), introduced readers to Dabir and Asim, a scholar-warrior duo navigating 8th-century Baghdad. This historical fantasy, praised for its Arabian Nights vibe and fast-paced action, earned a spot on Locus Magazine’s 2011 Recommended Reading List. Its sequel, The Bones of the Old Ones (2012), deepened the saga with a starred review from Publishers Weekly, showcasing Jones’s skill in crafting immersive worlds.
The Ring-Sworn trilogy, starting with For the Killing of Kings (2018), blended epic fantasy with knightly intrigue, earning critical acclaim for its vivid characters and relentless pace. Jones’s Chronicles of Hanuvar, beginning with Lord of a Shattered Land (2023), drew inspiration from Hannibal, delivering sword-and-sorcery with a Mediterranean flair. His Pathfinder Tales novels, like Beyond the Pool of Stars, won awards for their vibrant storytelling in the roleplaying game’s universe.
Jones’s style—cinematic, character-driven, and steeped in historical authenticity—owes much to influences like Robert E. Howard and Leigh Brackett. His stories pulse with heroic deeds, dark sorcery, and witty banter, making them a thrilling bridge between classic pulp and modern fantasy.
Why Howard Andrew Jones Matters
Howard Andrew Jones was a titan of sword-and-sorcery, not just for his novels but for his tireless advocacy of the genre. As editor of Tales from the Magician’s Skull, he nurtured new talent and championed the gritty, action-packed tales that inspired him. His work with Black Gate earned a 2016 World Fantasy Award, a testament to his influence. By reviving Harold Lamb’s stories through eight Bison Books volumes, Jones ensured a forgotten pulp master reached new generations.
Jones’s legacy lies in his ability to make readers feel the clash of swords and the weight of history. His Chronicles of Hanuvar, blending heroism with heartbreak, is hailed as a generational work. Even after his passing in 2025, his stories continue to inspire fans and writers to embrace the thrill of heroic fantasy.
- Born: July 19, 1968, Terre Haute, Indiana
- Key Works: The Desert of Souls, Ring-Sworn trilogy, Chronicles of Hanuvar
- Awards: 2016 World Fantasy Award (Black Gate), 2016 Chesley Award (Pathfinder Tales cover)
- Roles: Managing Editor (Black Gate), Editor (Tales from the Magician’s Skull)
Snag Lord of a Shattered Land and dive into Howard Andrew Jones’s sword-and-sorcery adventures—your next epic quest awaits!