Picture an American storyteller who swapped paintbrushes and video game scripts for epic fantasy novels that captivate readers worldwide—meet Jenn Lyons! With her intricate plots and mythical worlds, Lyons has carved a unique niche in fantasy literature, blending dragons, mystery, and magic in series like A Chorus of Dragons. Her journey from illustrator to bestselling author is as fascinating as the tales she spins.
The Making of Jenn Lyons
Born with a passion for stories, Jenn Lyons grew up in the safe havens of libraries and bookstores, nurturing her love for science fiction, fantasy, and noir. Hailing from Los Angeles before settling in Atlanta, Georgia, she initially pursued a career as a graphic artist and illustrator, spending two decades in print media and advertising. Later, she dove into video game development, working on titles like Lord of the Rings: Conquest at EA Games. But her heart belonged to writing, and in her late thirties, Lyons made a bold leap to craft the fantastical worlds she’d always dreamed of.
Influenced by Dungeons & Dragons, mythology, and authors like Ursula K. Le Guin and Robin Hobb, Lyons honed her storytelling craft through years of worldbuilding. Her eclectic hobbies—fountain pens, tabletop RPGs, and costume design—infused her work with vibrant detail, setting the stage for her literary breakout.
Jenn Lyons’s Unforgettable Stories
Lyons’s debut epic fantasy series, A Chorus of Dragons, launched with The Ruin of Kings in 2019, earning accolades like a Kirkus Best of Science Fiction and Fantasy pick. This five-book saga follows Kihrin, a bastard prince entangled in prophecies, dragons, and divine conspiracies. Known for its complex narrative structure—complete with footnotes, alternating timelines, and body-swapping immortals—the series is a love letter to epic fantasy, tackling themes of fate, redemption, and identity. Its final book, The Discord of Gods (2022), delivers a thrilling conclusion to over a million words of adventure.
Before her fantasy fame, Lyons explored paranormal mystery with the Blood Chimera duology (2014), featuring Jackson Pastor, a kidnap-and-ransom expert navigating a noir-style world of supernatural creatures. Her standalone novel, The Sky on Fire (2024), offers a fresh take on dragonrider tales, blending heist vibes with mature, gritty characters. Lyons’s writing style is witty, layered, and unapologetically complex, appealing to readers who crave depth and diversity in their fantasy.
Her upcoming sci-fi novel, Full Negative, crowdfunded via Backerkit, showcases her versatility, proving she’s not afraid to venture beyond fantasy. Lyons’s ability to weave intricate worlds and flawed, relatable characters has earned her two Astounding Award nominations and a TV option for A Chorus of Dragons.
Why Jenn Lyons Matters
Jenn Lyons has redefined modern epic fantasy by embracing complexity and diversity. Her inclusive casts—featuring strong female and asexual characters—challenge genre norms, while her focus on redemption and agency resonates with readers seeking meaningful narratives. By subverting tropes like the Chosen One, Lyons invites fans to question fate and power, making her work both timeless and timely. Her transition from visual arts to literature inspires aspiring creators, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream.
Beyond her books, Lyons’s engagement with fans through Reddit AMAs and her support for causes like ending violence against women amplify her impact. She’s a geek icon, blending her love for dragons, mythology, and coffee into stories that spark imagination and conversation.
- Born: Details unavailable, but she’s an Atlanta-based American.
- Key Works: A Chorus of Dragons, Blood Chimera, The Sky on Fire.
- Awards: Twice-nominated for the Astounding Award for Best New Writer.
- Fun Fact: She once dreamed of marrying Batman!
Ready to dive into a world of kaiju-sized dragons and cunning heroes? Snag The Ruin of Kings and lose yourself in Jenn Lyons’s epic fantasy magic!