Picture an American storyteller who spun tales of rogues and heroes, captivating readers worldwide—meet Michael J. Sullivan! From a boy typing on a friend’s basement typewriter to a New York Times bestselling author, Sullivan’s epic fantasy and science fiction novels, like The Riyria Revelations, blend humor, heart, and adventure, proving that perseverance can turn dreams into reality.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Sullivan’s journey is a testament to grit and passion. His works, translated into 14 languages, have sold over 2 million copies, earning him a spot on io9’s list of most successful self-published authors. With a knack for crafting immersive worlds, he’s become a beloved name in fantasy literature.
The Making of Michael J. Sullivan
Born on September 17, 1961, Michael J. Sullivan discovered his love for storytelling at age ten, mimicking Snoopy’s iconic line, 'It was a dark and stormy night.' After studying authors like Tolkien, Hemingway, and King, he wrote 13 novels in his twenties, only to face rejection and quit writing for a decade. In 2004, he returned to the craft to create stories for his dyslexic daughter, sparking The Riyria Revelations—a series that would launch his career.
Sullivan’s early career as a commercial artist and illustrator honed his creative discipline. After closing his advertising agency in 2005, he embraced writing full-time, choosing to write for joy rather than publication. His wife, Robin, championed his work, ensuring his stories reached readers, marking the start of his remarkable rise.
Michael J. Sullivan’s Unforgettable Stories
Sullivan’s debut series, The Riyria Revelations, follows the roguish duo Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater in a medieval fantasy world brimming with intrigue and humor. Published initially through self-publishing, titles like Theft of Swords and Heir of Novron became ebook bestsellers, later picked up by Orbit Books. The series’ six books, conceived as a single epic, weave tight plots with satisfying resolutions.
The Riyria Chronicles, a prequel series, dives into the duo’s early adventures, with books like The Crown Tower showcasing their origin. Sullivan’s Legends of the First Empire, a standalone series set 3,000 years before Riyria, explores humanity’s rise against godlike beings, with Age of Myth and Age of War earning New York Times bestseller status. His sci-fi novel, Hollow World, a 2014 Goodreads Choice nominee, blends time travel and utopia, proving his versatility.
Known for classic fantasy with unlikely heroes, Sullivan infuses humor and heart into his tales. His style—accessible yet rich—appeals to both new readers and genre veterans. Themes of friendship, resilience, and defying odds resonate deeply, making his Elan universe a joyful escape.
Why Michael J. Sullivan Matters
Sullivan’s impact on fantasy is profound. As a hybrid author mastering self-publishing, small press, and big-five publishers, he’s a trailblazer for aspiring writers. His success, with over 85 novels translated and nine Goodreads Choice Award nominations, inspires countless authors to pursue their dreams. Fans on platforms like Reddit praise his ability to craft fun, emotional stories that rival giants like Tolkien and Sanderson.
By writing for his daughter, Sullivan sparked a love of reading in others, particularly those who, like him, found solace in fantasy. His generosity—mentoring authors and sharing publishing insights—has built a loyal community, cementing his legacy as a storyteller who makes the genre feel like home.
- Birth Date: September 17, 1961
- Key Works: The Riyria Revelations, Legends of the First Empire, Hollow World
- Awards: Two New York Times bestsellers, nine Goodreads Choice Award nominations
- Languages: Translated into 14 languages
Snag Theft of Swords and dive into Michael J. Sullivan’s thrilling fantasy world! Whether you’re a rogue at heart or a hero in waiting, his stories promise adventure and a few laughs along the way.