Picture a British storyteller who swapped a welder’s torch for a pen, crafting epic GameLit adventures that pull readers into vibrant, action-packed worlds—meet Jez Cajiao! Born in Hartlepool, UK, this Northern England native has become a standout in the GameLit genre, blending gaming mechanics with science fiction and fantasy to create stories that feel like stepping into a video game. His journey from manual labor to bestselling author is as gripping as his novels, proving that passion and perseverance can forge a remarkable career.
The Making of Jez Cajiao
Born in 1980, Jez Cajiao grew up in Washington, UK, with a bustling family and a Rottweiler named Jasper. School wasn’t his thing—by age 11, he was working in the family catering business, a far cry from the literary world. After stints in Greece’s bar scene (where, as he cheekily notes, “what happens in Greece stays in Greece”), he found his calling in welding, only to be sidelined by a lung condition. The 2020 pandemic furlough turned out to be a blessing in disguise, giving Jez the chance to write daily and launch his writing career with a bang.
Jez Cajiao’s Unforgettable Stories
Jez’s debut, Brightblade (2020), kicked off the UnderVerse series, a GameLit saga following Jax, a scarred hero battling creatures in a mysterious realm. With seven books, including Dark Tide Rising (2022), the series is lauded for its fast-paced action and intricate world-building. His Rise of Mankind series, starting with Age of Stone (2021), takes a unique spin on dungeon core narratives, focusing on humanity’s survival in a system-driven world. Titles like Age of Conquest (2025) keep fans hooked with their blend of strategy and heart. Jez’s Arise series, launched in 2022, adds more layers to his repertoire, showcasing his knack for multidimensional characters and unexpected plot twists. His writing style—accessible yet thought-provoking—draws from sci-fi, fantasy, and gaming, creating immersive worlds that resonate with readers.
While some critique the occasional over-the-top romantic elements, Jez’s humor and cultural nod to his Northern England roots shine through, making his stories both relatable and thrilling. His ability to craft protagonists who feel real, with dreams and flaws, sets him apart in a genre often dominated by tropes.
Why Jez Cajiao Matters
Jez Cajiao’s rise from welder to GameLit star is a testament to chasing dreams against the odds. His stories don’t just entertain—they explore themes of resilience, community, and growth, reflecting his own life’s trials. With a loyal fanbase on platforms like Audible and Goodreads, Jez has carved a niche in GameLit, inspiring aspiring authors to blend genres and take risks. His prolific output—24 books across multiple series—shows a dedication to storytelling that keeps readers eagerly awaiting his next release.
- Born: 1980, Hartlepool, UK
- Key Works: UnderVerse, Rise of Mankind, Arise
- Genre: GameLit, Science Fiction, Fantasy
- Fun Fact: Jez wrote the first six UnderVerse books in just one year!
Ready to dive into a world where gaming meets epic storytelling? Snag Brightblade or Age of Stone and get lost in Jez Cajiao’s thrilling GameLit universe!