Picture a Texas storyteller who weaves epic fantasy with a scientist’s precision—meet Kel Kade! A New York Times bestselling author, Kade has captivated readers with her immersive worlds in series like King’s Dark Tidings and The Shroud of Prophecy. Her knack for blending gritty adventure, complex characters, and geoscience-inspired world-building makes her a standout in modern fantasy.
From her military upbringing to her academic roots in geosciences, Kade’s journey is as fascinating as her stories. With a playful yet meticulous style, she crafts tales that challenge tropes and keep fans eagerly awaiting her next release.
The Making of Kel Kade
Kel Kade grew up in a military family, hopping from place to place and soaking up diverse cultures and landscapes. This wanderlust shaped her expansive view of the world, sparking a curiosity that fueled her love for science, ancient history, and cultural anthropology. Before becoming a full-time author, Kade worked as an environmental consultant and pursued a doctorate in geosciences, diving into volcanic rock geochemistry and marine research in places like the Izu-Bonin-Mariana volcanic arcs. Her scientific background and global experiences laid the foundation for her richly detailed fantasy worlds.
Writing was a natural outlet for Kade’s vivid imagination. She began crafting stories as a hobby, drawing on her fascination with epic quests and morally complex characters. Her breakout success came with the self-published King’s Dark Tidings series, which won over fans and paved the way for her to write full-time.
Kel Kade’s Unforgettable Stories
Kade’s flagship series, King’s Dark Tidings, follows Rezkin, a young warrior trained in secrecy and thrust into a world of political intrigue and epic battles. Starting with Free the Darkness (2016), the series spans six books, with Knight of Shadows (2024) being the latest. Fans love its fast-paced action, intricate plotting, and Rezkin’s enigmatic charm, all narrated vividly by audiobook performer Nick Podehl.
In The Shroud of Prophecy trilogy, Kade flips the chosen-one trope on its head. Fate of the Fallen (2019) introduces Aaslo, a grumpy forester who must save the world after the prophesied hero dies early. The series, concluding with Sanctum of the Soul (2025), blends dark humor, chaotic battles, and a cast of misfits. Published by Tor Books, it showcases Kade’s ability to craft unpredictable narratives.
Kade’s style is character-driven and immersive, with worlds grounded in her geosciences expertise. From volcanic terrains to rugged landscapes, her settings feel alive, reflecting her knack for blending science with fantasy. Her stories explore themes of perseverance, hope, and defying destiny, delivered with a witty edge that keeps readers hooked.
Why Kel Kade Matters
Kel Kade has carved a niche in fantasy by merging scientific precision with boundless creativity. Her ability to subvert tropes—whether through Rezkin’s antihero journey or Aaslo’s reluctant heroism—resonates with readers craving fresh takes on classic genres. Her diverse influences, from anthropology to spirituality, enrich her storytelling, making her worlds vibrant and inclusive.
As a Texas-based author and parent, Kade balances her writing with teaching geosciences, inspiring young minds. Her rise from self-publishing to bestseller status shows her dedication and connection with fans, who eagerly await her next releases. Kade’s work proves that fantasy can be both thrilling and thoughtful, cementing her as a rising star.
- Key Works: King’s Dark Tidings series, The Shroud of Prophecy trilogy, Mage of No Renown (2022)
- Hobbies: Creating criminal empires, plotting tyrannous downfalls, diving into fantastical mysteries
- Notable Narrator: Nick Podehl for audiobooks
Snag Free the Darkness or Fate of the Fallen and dive into Kel Kade’s epic, trope-twisting fantasy today!