Picture an American storyteller who fuses magic with code, crafting worlds where hackers wield spells—meet Kelly McCullough! Born in 1967, this Wisconsin-based author has enchanted readers with his contemporary fantasy and science fiction novels, most notably the critically acclaimed WebMage series. With a knack for blending Greek mythology with cyberpunk flair, McCullough’s stories are a thrilling ride through digital sorcery and chaotic adventures.
From his early days performing at Renaissance festivals to his award-winning writing career, McCullough’s journey is as vibrant as his narratives. His unique voice and imaginative storytelling have carved a niche in speculative fiction, making him a beloved figure for fans of magic-infused tech tales.
The Making of Kelly McCullough
Kelly David McCullough was raised by free-range hippies, a quirky upbringing that sparked his creative spirit. Growing up in 1960s America, he soaked in a mix of counterculture and curiosity, later earning a theater degree and diving into improv comedy. Before becoming a full-time author, he performed at the Minnesota, Colorado, and Arizona Renaissance Festivals, honing his knack for captivating audiences. This theatrical flair would later infuse his writing with vivid characters and dynamic pacing. His shift to writing came naturally, fueled by a lifelong love for storytelling and a 2000 Writers of the Future Award that cemented his path as a speculative fiction author.
Kelly McCullough’s Unforgettable Stories
McCullough’s WebMage series, launched in 2006, is his crown jewel. The five-book saga follows Ravirn, a hacker-sorcerer and descendant of the Greek Fates, navigating a world where magic meets digital code. In WebMage, Ravirn battles his Great Aunt Atropos to preserve free will, blending cyberpunk grit with mythological stakes. Sequels like Cybermancy (2007) and Spellcrash (2010) amp up the stakes, with Ravirn hacking Hades and fixing a virus-ridden magical internet. Readers love the series’ witty banter and inventive fusion of tech and fantasy.
Beyond WebMage, McCullough’s Fallen Blade series (2011–2014) explores a darker fantasy realm, following assassin Aral Kingslayer through six gritty novels. For younger readers, he penned School for Sidekicks (2015) and the middle-grade duo Magic, Madness, and Mischief and Spirits, Spells, and Snark. His short stories, like ‘The Uncola’ and ‘When Jabberwocks Attack,’ showcase his playful versatility, while his non-fiction work includes an NSF-funded middle school science curriculum. McCullough’s style—sharp, humorous, and richly imaginative—makes every tale a page-turner.
Why Kelly McCullough Matters
Kelly McCullough’s impact lies in his ability to merge ancient myths with modern tech, creating speculative fiction that feels both timeless and cutting-edge. His WebMage series pioneered the fantasy-cyberpunk hybrid, influencing a generation of writers exploring digital magic. Fans adore his relatable heroes, like Ravirn, who balance chaos with heart. Beyond novels, McCullough’s educational contributions and local governance roles in Dunn County, Wisconsin, reflect his commitment to community and learning, making him a multifaceted figure in and out of fiction.
- Born: 1967, USA
- Key Works: WebMage, Fallen Blade, School for Sidekicks
- Awards: 2000 Writers of the Future
- Fun Fact: He lives with his physics-professor wife, Laura, and a herd of cats!
Snag WebMage and dive into Kelly McCullough’s spellbinding blend of magic and tech!