Picture a San Antonio storyteller weaving epic tales of dragons, elves, and forgotten heroes—meet R.G. Long! This epic fantasy author has captured readers’ imaginations with his sprawling Legends of Gilia series, a 15-book saga born from a childhood steeped in video games and classic novels. With a knack for crafting intricate worlds and a heart for family and community, Long’s journey from gamer to celebrated author is as enchanting as his stories.
The Making of R.G. Long
Growing up, R.G. Long was immersed in the fantastical realms of Final Fantasy video games, Dragonlance novels, and Warhammer tabletop battles. These influences fueled his boundless imagination, leading him to tinker with RPG Maker as a teen, dreaming up his own worlds. A pivotal moment came when a friend challenged him to compete in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), sparking his first novel, Sword of Ruyn. Long’s win in the competition marked the start of his writing career, blending his love for epic narratives with a disciplined creative process. Today, he balances writing with his roles as a pastor to middle school students and a devoted dad in San Antonio, Texas.
R.G. Long’s Unforgettable Stories
Long’s Legends of Gilia series is a cornerstone of modern epic fantasy, spanning five continents and 15 books. The saga begins with Sword of Ruyn, where Ealrin Bealouve, a shipwrecked amnesiac, navigates a world of elves, dwarves, and looming genocide. Readers praise its vivid world-building and fast-paced action, though some note editing hiccups. Magic of Ruyn deepens the magic system, fleshing out characters like the young mage Blume, while Dragon of Ruyn delivers thrilling battles and surprising twists. Long’s newer series, Origins of Gilia, explores the empire of Anorwyn a thousand years before, with titles like Blade of the Faithful. His style—rich with betrayal, humor, and morally complex characters—echoes Tolkien and Jacques, yet feels fresh and accessible.
Long’s writing process is as dynamic as his stories. To combat writer’s block, he sets a 15-minute timer and writes nonstop, often birthing quirky characters or unexpected plot twists. His love for crafting minor villains adds depth, making even secondary characters memorable. Despite criticism for occasional pacing issues, Long’s ability to weave sprawling narratives keeps fans hooked across trilogies.
Why R.G. Long Matters
R.G. Long’s impact lies in his ability to transport readers to Gilia, a world where magic and morality collide. His series has garnered a loyal following, with over 9,000 Goodreads ratings, reflecting his knack for relatable heroes and epic stakes. As an indie author, Long’s success highlights the power of self-publishing to amplify unique voices. His community work as a pastor and family man adds authenticity to his tales of sacrifice and hope, resonating with readers seeking meaningful fantasy. Long’s ongoing projects, like Origins of Gilia, promise to expand his legacy, cementing his place in the genre.
- Pen Name: R.G. Long
- Key Works: Sword of Ruyn, Magic of Ruyn, Dragon of Ruyn, Blade of the Faithful
- Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
- Influences: Final Fantasy, Dragonlance, Warhammer
Snag Sword of Ruyn and dive into R.G. Long’s epic fantasy adventure—your next obsession awaits!