Picture a Southern storyteller who turned vampires into lovable, snarky geeks—meet John G. Hartness! This Charlotte-based author has taken urban fantasy by storm with his witty, action-packed tales. Best known for the EPIC Award-winning The Black Knight Chronicles, Hartness blends humor, horror, and heart, earning a devoted following. Beyond writing, he’s a publisher, podcaster, and self-proclaimed defender of ladies’ virtues, making him a true speculative fiction powerhouse.
With over 100 titles, a publishing house, and a knack for storytelling that feels like a late-night chat with a clever friend, Hartness is no ordinary author. Let’s dive into his journey, from theatre stages to vampire-slaying pages!
The Making of John G. Hartness
Born in South Carolina, John G. Hartness graduated from Winthrop University with a theatre degree, setting the stage for a colorful career. Before penning novels, he wore many hats: actor, lighting designer, arts administrator, and even poker blogger under the pseudonym “Falstaff.” This eclectic path shaped his storytelling, infusing it with Southern charm and sharp wit. His shift to fiction began with poetry and short stories, but urban fantasy became his true calling, sparked by a love for comic books and genre fiction.
John G. Hartness’s Unforgettable Stories
Hartness’s breakout series, The Black Knight Chronicles, follows vampire detectives Jimmy Black and Greg Knightwood, two comic book nerds turned unlikely heroes. Starting with Hard Day’s Knight (2010), this comedic urban fantasy tackles the question, “Why aren’t there more fat vampires?” with snarky dialogue and thrilling plots. The series, spanning ten books, earned an EPIC Award for its fresh take on vampire lore.
Equally compelling is Quincy Harker, Demon Hunter, a darker saga that won the 2016 Manly Wade Wellman Award for Raising Hell. This series follows Quincy, a descendant of Dracula’s characters, battling demons with grit and magic. Hartness also delivers laughs with Bubba the Monster Hunter, a redneck-flavored horror-comedy series featuring a beer-loving monster slayer. His versatile style—blending humor, horror, and heart—sets him apart in speculative fiction, with Charlotte, NC, as a vibrant backdrop.
From standalone novels like Fireheart to anthologies like Lawless Lands, Hartness’s work spans urban fantasy, horror, and weird westerns. His dialogue sparkles, his characters feel like old friends, and his plots keep readers hooked, whether he’s writing about vampires, demons, or jealous El Caminos in his Shingles series.
Why John G. Hartness Matters
John G. Hartness has redefined urban fantasy by making it accessible, funny, and deeply human. His inclusive casts and relatable heroes—flawed, geeky, and often Southern—resonate with readers who see themselves in his stories. By founding Falstaff Books in 2016, he’s championed diverse voices in genre fiction, publishing over 150 titles from new and established authors. His podcasts, like Authors & Dragons, showcase his playful spirit, connecting fans with the speculative fiction community.
Hartness’s impact extends beyond books. His storytelling fosters a sense of belonging, blending Southern gothic vibes with modern geek culture. Whether at conventions or through his newsletter, he engages fans with warmth and humor, cementing his legacy as a genre trailblazer.
- Birthplace: South Carolina, USA
- Key Works: The Black Knight Chronicles, Quincy Harker, Demon Hunter, Bubba the Monster Hunter
- Awards: EPIC Award, Manly Wade Wellman Award (2016)
- Fun Fact: He once blogged about illegal poker games as “Falstaff”!
Ready for a wild ride? Snag Hard Day’s Knight and dive into John G. Hartness’s snarky, supernatural world!