Picture a California-born storyteller who swapped wrestling rings for fantastical worlds of demons and gourmet dishes—meet Matt Wallace! Born in 1982, this Hugo Award-winning author has carved a niche in urban fantasy with his wildly imaginative Sin du Jour series, blending culinary chaos with supernatural flair. From professional wrestler to celebrated novelist, Wallace’s journey is as vibrant as his prose.
The Making of Matt Wallace
Born in Rio Hondo, California, and raised in Bell Gardens, Matt Wallace’s early life was far from the literary world. Before penning novels, he spent a decade as a professional wrestler, traveling globally and even teaching unarmed combat. His eclectic career also included roles as a private security officer and Tai Chi instructor for seniors. In 2007, Wallace retired from these high-octane pursuits to focus on writing, a decision that unleashed his creative potential. His diverse experiences—grit, discipline, and a knack for storytelling—shaped his bold, boundary-pushing narratives.
Matt Wallace’s Unforgettable Stories
Wallace’s Sin du Jour series, starting with Envy of Angels (2015), is a riotous blend of urban fantasy and culinary adventure. This seven-book saga follows Lena and Darren, two down-on-their-luck chefs hired by Sin du Jour, a catering company serving demons, goblins, and other supernatural clients. The debut novella dazzles with its quirky characters and shocking twists, earning praise for its ‘raucous, riotous tale of culinary madness.’ Wallace’s prose is fast-paced, witty, and unafraid to dive into the grotesque, making dishes like angel meat as unforgettable as the demons devouring them.
Beyond Sin du Jour, Wallace’s versatility shines in works like Savage Legion (2020), an epic fantasy exploring rebellion in a utopian city, and Bump (2021), a heartfelt middle-grade novel about a girl dreaming of wrestling glory. His over one hundred short stories, many award-winning, showcase his ability to weave humor, horror, and heart across genres. Wallace’s style—described as ‘adrenalized’ by author Chuck Wendig—marries vivid world-building with sharp social commentary, often poking at consumer culture or power dynamics.
Why Matt Wallace Matters
Matt Wallace’s impact lies in his fearless originality. By blending culinary arts with urban fantasy, he’s redefined genre boundaries, offering readers a fresh lens on familiar tropes. His diverse cast and inclusive storytelling resonate with fans seeking authentic, boundary-breaking voices. As a Hugo Award winner, Wallace has earned critical acclaim, yet his approachable, fan-friendly presence on platforms like X keeps him grounded. His transition from wrestler to writer inspires aspiring authors, proving that unconventional paths can lead to literary success.
- Born: 1982, Rio Hondo, California
- Key Works: Envy of Angels, Savage Legion, Bump
- Awards: Hugo Award winner
- Fun Fact: Once taught Tai Chi to seniors!
Ready to taste the chaos? Snag Envy of Angels and dive into Matt Wallace’s deliciously demented urban fantasy world!