Picture a Canadian storyteller who traps ancient gods in backyard sheds and crafts robots pondering humanity’s fate—meet J-F Dubeau! This Montreal-based author weaves science fiction, horror, and urban fantasy into genre-defying tales that captivate readers with their eerie atmospheres and complex characters. From marketing designer to celebrated novelist, Dubeau’s passion for storytelling shines through in every chilling page.
The Making of J-F Dubeau
Born in Trois-Rivières, Canada, J-F Dubeau grew up in Montreal, immersed in both French and English cultures. His love for stories blossomed early, fueled by comics, role-playing games, and improv theater. By day, Dubeau thrived as a graphic designer, crafting visual narratives for brands. But his true calling emerged when he began writing novels, channeling his fascination with science and philosophy into speculative fiction. A life-altering accident at 21, where a car crash shattered his legs, deepened his resilience and perspective, subtly shaping the human struggles in his stories.
J-F Dubeau’s Unforgettable Stories
Dubeau’s debut, The Life Engineered (2014), is a hopeful sci-fi tale set in 3594, following Capeks—artificial beings preparing for humanity’s return. Its optimistic tone earned it a Dragon Award nomination. His breakout, A God in the Shed (2017), blends horror and fantasy in the cursed village of Saint-Ferdinand, where a trapped god unleashes chaos. Praised as a “gothic/cosmic mashup,” it was a Barnes & Noble Best Horror pick. The trilogy continues with Song of the Sandman (2020) and A God in the Shed II (2021), diving deeper into dark forces and human resilience. Dubeau’s style is vivid and atmospheric, blending gore with philosophical musings. He writes anywhere—subways, cafes, or his home office—using curated playlists to set the mood and trigger his creative flow.
Beyond novels, Dubeau contributes to anthologies like Horrorsmith’s Fear Forge, with stories like “The Ozymandias Crucible” and “Bread,” showcasing his knack for haunting, compact tales. His web comic, The Eldritch Age, marries his art and storytelling, while his podcast Achewillow explores witches and demons with a Twin Peaks vibe. Each project reflects his love for building intricate worlds where science, horror, and humanity collide.
Why J-F Dubeau Matters
J-F Dubeau’s work resonates because it dares to ask big questions: What makes us human? How do we face unimaginable evil? His stories blend visceral horror with intellectual depth, earning praise from Fangoria and Wicked Horror for their originality. As a Canadian author, he brings a fresh voice to speculative fiction, crafting small-town terrors and cosmic wonders with universal appeal. Though still rising, Dubeau’s growing fanbase and critical acclaim mark him as a storyteller to watch.
- Born: Trois-Rivières, Canada
- Key Works: The Life Engineered, A God in the Shed, Song of the Sandman
- Awards: Dragon Award nominee, Barnes & Noble Best Horror Books of 2017
Ready to get spooked and inspired? Grab A God in the Shed and dive into J-F Dubeau’s thrilling world of horror and wonder!