Picture a storyteller who spun a modern-day Atlantis out of tarot cards and queer found-family vibes—meet K.D. Edwards! This American author burst onto the urban fantasy scene with his acclaimed Tarot Sequence series, blending magic, mystery, and heartfelt representation. With a knack for crafting worlds that feel both surreal and achingly real, Edwards has carved a unique niche in fantasy literature, captivating readers with his sharp wit and intricate plots.
From his debut novel The Last Sun to his growing fanbase on social media, Edwards’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and a love for lost continents. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this genre-bending wordsmith!
The Making of K.D. Edwards
Born on August 21, 1971, in Worcester, Massachusetts, K.D. Edwards grew up with a wanderer’s spirit, living in states like Maine, Colorado, and Montana before settling in North Carolina. His early career was a whirlwind of eclectic jobs—think food service, corporate banking, and even bariatric furniture—before he found stability in higher education at the University of North Carolina System. Snow, he jokes, was a constant companion in his pre-North Carolina days. This diverse background shaped his storytelling, infusing it with a grounded, relatable edge.
Edwards’s love for fantasy was sparked by urban fantasy greats like Ilona Andrews and Charlaine Harris, but his fascination with tarot’s archetypes and the myth of Atlantis set his work apart. After years of brainstorming, he channeled his passion into The Last Sun, published in 2018, marking his bold entry into the literary world.
K.D. Edwards’s Unforgettable Stories
The Tarot Sequence is Edwards’s crown jewel, a nine-book saga (planned as three trilogies) set in New Atlantis, a magical island off Massachusetts governed by courts based on tarot’s major arcana. The Last Sun introduces Rune Saint John, the last heir of the fallen Sun Court, and his bodyguard Brand as they unravel conspiracies and face supernatural threats. Praised for its “jaw-dropping worldbuilding” and “noir-snark blend,” the novel hooked readers with its fast-paced mystery and queer representation.
Its sequel, The Hanged Man (2019), dives deeper into Rune’s trauma and the political intrigue of New Atlantis, while The Hourglass Throne (2022) wraps the first trilogy with a race against time to save the city. Edwards also delights fans with free novellas like The Sunken Mall and Holiday Scenes from Sun Estate, showcasing his commitment to his community. His style—rich with humor, emotional depth, and meticulous plotting—makes each story a thrilling ride.
What sets Edwards apart is his authentic portrayal of queer characters and found-family dynamics, drawing from his own identity as a gay man. His worldbuilding, inspired by tarot’s archetypes, weaves magic and technology into a vibrant, believable setting that feels like a love letter to fantasy fans.
Why K.D. Edwards Matters
K.D. Edwards has redefined urban fantasy by centering queer voices and complex emotional narratives in a genre often dominated by formulaic tropes. His Tarot Sequence tackles heavy themes like trauma and loss while radiating hope and humor, resonating with readers who see themselves in Rune’s journey. The series’ inclusive representation has earned praise from authors like T.J. Klune, and its growing fandom on platforms like Reddit and Discord speaks to its cultural impact.
Edwards’s engagement with fans—through free stories, AMAs, and Patreon content—has built a loyal community, proving that even a relatively new author can leave a lasting mark. As he works on the next trilogy, his influence continues to grow, inspiring a new wave of diverse fantasy storytelling.
- Born: August 21, 1971, Worcester, MA
- Key Works: The Last Sun, The Hanged Man, The Hourglass Throne, The Eidolon
- Current Home: North Carolina
- Fun Fact: He’s obsessed with tarot’s Tower card, a nod to deception and spies!
Ready to explore a world where tarot meets high-stakes magic? Snag The Last Sun and dive into K.D. Edwards’s spellbinding urban fantasy today!