Picture a Marine-turned-master storyteller who traded signals intelligence for epic tales of vampires and video game heroes—meet Justin Sloan! This American author and screenwriter has penned over sixty novels and shaped immersive narratives for blockbuster franchises like The Walking Dead and Game of Thrones, captivating audiences with his thrilling blend of action, fantasy, and heart.
From his military roots to his prolific creative career, Sloan's journey is a testament to chasing passion with grit and imagination. Whether you’re a fan of post-apocalyptic vampires or interactive storytelling, Sloan’s work offers something to ignite your curiosity.
The Making of Justin Sloan
Born in California and raised in Washington, Justin Sloan’s early life was shaped by discipline and adventure. A five-year stint in the U.S. Marine Corps as a signals intelligence officer instilled values of camaraderie and resilience, qualities that later infused his storytelling. After leaving the Corps, Sloan explored the world, living in Japan, Korea, and Italy, and earned advanced degrees in international relations from Johns Hopkins SAIS and creative writing from Johns Hopkins. His pivot to writing began at UCLA’s screenwriting program, where he honed his craft, blending his global experiences with a knack for narrative.
Sloan’s early career wasn’t all ink and paper—he taught Muay Thai kickboxing and even played three songs on the bagpipes! But his heart was set on storytelling, and a move to San Francisco marked his leap into freelance screenwriting and novel-writing, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
Justin Sloan’s Unforgettable Stories
Sloan’s bibliography is a treasure trove of genres, from military sci-fi to urban fantasy, with over sixty novels to his name. His Reclaiming Honor series, co-created with Michael Anderle, is a standout in the Kurtherian Gambit universe. The series follows Valerie, a vampire with a fierce sense of honor, as she battles injustice in a post-apocalyptic America. With over 1,000 reviews for its first book, Justice Is Calling, it’s a fan favorite for its fast-paced action and moral depth.
In the gaming world, Sloan’s narrative design shines in titles like Game of Thrones: A Telltale Games Series, nominated for Best Storytelling at the 2015 Golden Joystick Awards, and The Walking Dead: Michonne, a gripping interactive story. His work on Tales from the Borderlands earned IGN’s Best Adventure Game of 2015, showcasing his ability to craft emotionally resonant choices. Sloan’s Modern Necromancy series, co-authored with Michael La Ronn, dives into supernatural thrills, following a man’s dark quest to reunite with his lost love through forbidden magic.
Sloan’s style is cinematic, blending high-stakes action with relatable characters. His military background lends authenticity to his sci-fi and fantasy worlds, while his global travels add cultural richness. Whether it’s a vampire enforcer or a necromancer, Sloan’s heroes grapple with honor, redemption, and sacrifice—universal themes that resonate deeply.
Why Justin Sloan Matters
Justin Sloan’s impact lies in his ability to bridge gaming, literature, and screenwriting, creating immersive worlds that invite fans to explore complex moral landscapes. His Reclaiming Honor series has built a loyal readership in the urban fantasy niche, while his game writing has elevated interactive storytelling, earning nominations and awards. As a veteran, Sloan also inspires through his advocacy for creative careers, mentoring aspiring writers via programs like the Writers Guild Foundation’s Veterans Writing Project.
His journey from Marine to storyteller underscores the power of reinvention. Sloan’s work reminds us that stories—whether on the page or screen—can reflect the resilience and curiosity that define the human spirit, making him a unique voice in modern speculative fiction.
- Born: California, USA
- Key Works: Reclaiming Honor series, Modern Necromancy series, Game of Thrones: A Telltale Games Series, The Walking Dead: Michonne
- Notable Awards: Nominations for Golden Joystick Awards (2015), IGN Best Adventure Game (2015), Webby and Emmy nominee for Silent Hill: Ascension (2024)
- Fun Fact: Sloan can play three songs on the bagpipes!
Ready to dive into a world of vampires, necromancers, and epic quests? Grab Justice Is Calling or fire up The Walking Dead: Michonne to experience Justin Sloan’s thrilling storytelling!