Picture a Southern California storyteller who trades corporate life for cosmic adventures and paranormal thrills—meet Jonathan Yanez! This USA Today bestselling author has been spinning wild tales of science fiction, fantasy, and young adult adventures since 2012, captivating readers with series like the Nephilim Chronicles and Elite Series. With a knack for blending heart-pounding action, relatable characters, and mythical lore, Yanez has carved a unique niche in the literary world.
From his home in California, where he lives with his wife, daughter, and two pets, Yanez crafts stories that transport readers to galaxies far away or shadowy urban corners. But when he’s not writing, you might catch him tackling mud runs, practicing archery, or—believe it or not—baking cupcakes. Let’s dive into the journey of this dynamic author whose love for storytelling is as boundless as his imagination.
The Making of Jonathan Yanez
Born and raised in Southern California, Jonathan Yanez studied English at Biola University, but his early career took a detour into sales and management. Despite the paychecks, his heart wasn’t in it. In a bold move, Yanez quit his job, cashed in his 401(k), and pursued writing full-time, a leap of faith supported by his wife. After eight months and eighty rejections, he landed a publishing deal in 2013, marking the start of his prolific career. His determination and Latino heritage infuse his work with a vibrant, grounded perspective.
Jonathan Yanez’s Unforgettable Stories
Yanez’s bibliography is a treasure trove of high-octane adventures. His Nephilim Chronicles, starting with Alan Price and the Colossus of Rhodes, follows an orphaned teen navigating a world of fallen angels and ancient myths. The series weaves Christian lore with urban fantasy, earning praise for its fast-paced narrative and rich world-building. Similarly, the Elite Series, beginning with The Beast Within, introduces Conner Moore, a young man entangled in a supernatural battle tied to his mysterious father.
The Forsaken Mercenary series, described as “Jason Bourne on steroids,” showcases Yanez’s love for sci-fi action, following a battle-hardened hero across star systems. His Gateway to the Galaxy series, with its tagline “You know that ‘We come in peace’ thing? Apparently, they didn’t get the memo,” delivers humor and interstellar chaos. Yanez’s style is accessible yet layered, blending adrenaline-fueled plots with themes of courage, identity, and redemption, appealing to both young adult and adult readers.
Beyond books, Yanez’s stories have leapt into audiobooks, graphic novels, and even film considerations, a testament to their cinematic appeal. His ability to craft relatable heroes—like Alan Price, who battles depression and bullying—resonates deeply, making his work both thrilling and heartfelt.
Why Jonathan Yanez Matters
Jonathan Yanez’s impact extends beyond his page-turning tales. As a Latinx author, he brings diversity to sci-fi and fantasy, genres often dominated by homogenous voices. His Jack London Award for advocating young writers and his role as former president of the California Writers Club highlight his commitment to nurturing creativity. Yanez’s “Wolf Pack” reader community fosters connection, offering exclusive stories and a space for fans to bond over their love of fiction.
His journey from corporate burnout to bestselling author inspires aspiring writers, proving that passion and persistence can rewrite your story. By embracing transmedia—books, films, and merchandise—Yanez is redefining what it means to be an indie author in the digital age.
About Jonathan Yanez
- Genres: Science fiction, urban fantasy, young adult
- Key Works: Nephilim Chronicles, Elite Series, Forsaken Mercenary
- Awards: Jack London Award, USA Today Bestseller
- Hobbies: Mud runs, archery, baking cupcakes
Ready for an adventure? Snag Alan Price and the Colossus of Rhodes or The Beast Within and dive into Jonathan Yanez’s electrifying worlds of myth, action, and heart!