Picture an American storyteller who spins tales of love, grit, and diversity, where every character gets their happily ever after—meet J.M. Dabney! As a USA Today bestselling author, this non-binary writer crafts body-positive romance and crime fiction that celebrates the beauty of the broken. With a knack for creating vivid, inclusive worlds, Dabney’s stories resonate with readers who crave authentic, heartfelt narratives.
Using they/them pronouns, J.M. Dabney brings a unique perspective to genres like gay romance, mystery, and paranormal fiction. Their work, including the wildly popular Brawlers and Twirled World Ink series, proves that love conquers all, no matter the scars or struggles. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this remarkable author!
The Making of J.M. Dabney
Born and raised in Charlottesville, Virginia, J.M. Dabney’s love for storytelling sparked at age eight with a self-proclaimed 'worst poem in literary history.' Though their mother envisioned a career in investigative journalism, Dabney carved their own path, embracing fiction as a way to explore diverse identities and experiences. Their non-binary identity and commitment to body positivity shape their narratives, making them a distinctive voice in contemporary romance.
Dabney’s journey to authorship wasn’t linear. They describe themselves as 'dysfunction at its finest,' channeling personal and societal complexities into their work. This raw authenticity, paired with a passion for giving underrepresented characters their due, launched their career as a multi-genre author with a fiercely loyal readership.
J.M. Dabney’s Unforgettable Stories
J.M. Dabney’s bibliography is a kaleidoscope of crazy, as they affectionately call it, blending humor, heart, and heat. Their Brawlers series, starting with Crave, follows the chaotic crew of Brawlers Bar, where fights are frequent, and love is fierce. This spin-off from the Twirled World Ink series introduces characters like Crave, a quick-tempered giant haunted by an abusive past, finding solace in unexpected romance.
The Twirled World Ink series, beginning with Berzerker, dives into the world of tattoo artists and their unconventional families. Here, Dabney showcases their talent for crafting flawed, lovable characters who defy societal norms. Another gem, Not Another Statistic from the Yuri Sorenson Mysteries, follows a former federal agent turned PI navigating gritty mysteries with a side of romance. Their standalone works, like Waited So Long, explore daddy kink and emotional depth, proving Dabney’s versatility.
Dabney’s style is raw and unapologetic, weaving themes of resilience, diversity, and self-acceptance. Their characters—tattooed bikers, scarred detectives, or curvy romantics—reflect a belief that 'normal is never normal.' This commitment to inclusivity, paired with snappy dialogue and steamy romance, makes their books addictive reads for fans of MM romance and beyond.
Why J.M. Dabney Matters
J.M. Dabney’s impact lies in their fearless celebration of the marginalized. By centering body-positive, queer, and trauma-surviving characters, they challenge romance genre stereotypes, offering representation that resonates deeply with readers. Their stories remind us that love is universal, no matter the package, and that even the 'broken' can shine. Dabney’s influence extends beyond books, inspiring a community that values authenticity and diversity.
As a non-binary author, Dabney also paves the way for greater visibility in publishing, proving that unique voices can thrive. Their ability to blend humor, heart, and social commentary ensures their work remains relevant, earning them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim as a USA Today bestseller.
- Pen Name: J.M. Dabney (also writes as Siobhan Smile)
- Key Works: Crave, Berzerker, Not Another Statistic, Waited So Long
- Genres: Gay Romance, Mystery, Paranormal Romance
- Pronouns: They/Them
Snag Crave or Berzerker and dive into J.M. Dabney’s vibrant, inclusive world of romance and redemption!