Picture a Silicon Valley marketing guru by day, spinning epic fantasy tales by night—meet John Forrester! This American author has enchanted readers with his Blacklight Chronicles series, a magical saga blending adventure, mystery, and coming-of-age themes. With over 90,000 books sold worldwide, Forrester’s stories transport readers to worlds where fire mages battle dark sorcerers, all while weaving in his love for gardening, gaming, and lucid dreaming.
From his Palo Alto home, Forrester crafts narratives that feel both fantastical and grounded, drawing inspiration from literary giants like J.K. Rowling and J.R.R. Tolkien, as well as cinematic classics like Lord of the Rings. His unique blend of high-stakes magic and relatable characters has earned him a loyal following among young adult and adult fantasy fans alike.
The Making of John Forrester
Born and raised in California, John Forrester’s life is a vibrant tapestry of creativity and curiosity. By day, he navigates the fast-paced world of tech marketing, but his heart lies in storytelling. His passion for fantasy was sparked by childhood favorites like The Hobbit and The Golden Compass, which fueled his imagination. Forrester’s diverse hobbies—yoga, hiking, and playing Minecraft with his sons—infuse his writing with a playful, adventurous spirit. He began writing in 2011, debuting with Fire Mage, a novel that launched his Blacklight Chronicles series and marked his arrival as a fantasy author.
John Forrester’s Unforgettable Stories
The Blacklight Chronicles, Forrester’s flagship series, is a seven-book epic that follows young mage Talis Storm and his fearless friend Mara as they battle dark forces in the city of Naru. The series kicks off with Fire Mage (2011), where Talis discovers his wild fire magic during a sorcerer invasion. Sun Mage (2012) takes readers to the Underworld, exploring themes of light and darkness, while Shadow Mage (2012) delves into forbidden magic and betrayal. Later entries like Dragon Mage (2013) and Origin Mage (2017) deepen the saga with cosmic stakes and emotional growth.
Forrester’s writing style is fast-paced and action-packed, perfect for pre-teens, teens, and adults craving immersive fantasy. His magic system, inspired by balance and consequence, draws comparisons to Raymond Feist’s Riftwar Saga. Beyond Blacklight, Forrester has ventured into other series like the Shandian Chronicles with Reins of Power (2021), a tale of magic and political intrigue, and the Maledorian Chronicles with Lord of the Fallen, blending cult conspiracies and sorcery. His ability to weave sci-fi elements into fantasy, as seen in Shadow Mage, keeps readers hooked.
Each book brims with vivid world-building, from ancient temples to starlit sanctuaries, reflecting Forrester’s knack for blending the fantastical with the familiar. His characters, like the loyal Mara or the conflicted Rikar, resonate with readers through their struggles and triumphs, making every page a thrilling ride.
Why John Forrester Matters
John Forrester’s impact lies in his ability to craft accessible yet profound fantasy for a wide audience. His Blacklight Chronicles series has garnered a 3.70 average rating on Goodreads, with fans praising its addictive pacing and imaginative magic. By targeting young readers while captivating adults, Forrester bridges generational gaps, making fantasy a shared adventure. His stories explore themes of friendship, courage, and moral ambiguity, offering timeless lessons wrapped in thrilling plots.
In a genre dominated by household names, Forrester’s rise as an indie author is inspiring. His dedication to storytelling, balanced with a full-time career and family life, resonates with aspiring writers. With each new release, he continues to build a legacy of magic and wonder, proving that even lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark.
- Key Works: Fire Mage, Sun Mage, Shadow Mage, Reins of Power
- First Published: 2011
- Notable Series: Blacklight Chronicles, Shandian Chronicles
Ready to embark on a magical journey? Snag Fire Mage and dive into John Forrester’s spellbinding world of fantasy adventure!