Picture a Texas storyteller who spun tales of epic quests and mythical worlds—meet R.L. Pool! A U.S. Army veteran turned fantasy author, Pool has enchanted readers with his bestselling Catlorian series, blending adventure, mythology, and young adult flair. His knack for immersive world-building and unforgettable characters has made him a rising star in high fantasy, leaving fans eager for each new chapter in the saga.
From his roots in Leakey, Texas, to his vibrant personal appearances, Pool’s journey is as captivating as the worlds he creates. His stories, born from tales told to his sons during military travels, invite readers into the richly crafted realm of Ta’el, where heroes battle dark forces with grit and heart.
The Making of R.L. Pool
R.L. Pool’s storytelling began not in a writer’s den but amidst the hustle of a 22-year U.S. Army career. Stationed across continents, he crafted fantastical stories for his sons, inspired by the diverse cultures he encountered. After retiring in 1988, Pool worked as a metrology technician for the National Institute of Standards Technology, but his passion for storytelling never faded. A niece’s discovery of his old manuscripts sparked the Catlorian series, turning dusty drafts into a published saga that resonates with readers today.
R.L. Pool’s Unforgettable Stories
Pool’s Catlorian series, starting with Catlorian I: The Savon’El (2016), is a thrilling blend of high fantasy and adventure. The series follows a young half-elf with no memory, leading a diverse team against a malevolent evil in the mythical world of Ta’el. With five books, including Catlorian II: Temples (2017) and Catlorian V: Lords of Sharlend (2019), Pool weaves tales of valor, magic, and redemption, enriched by mythological elements and complex characters like Priestess Dementhal and the Cheal warrior Tisha.
Beyond Catlorian, Pool ventured into cyberpunk with Nevermore (2020) and Quoth The Raven (2020), co-authored with Kat Lewis, exploring darker, tech-driven narratives. His style shines through vivid world-building and ensemble casts, where every character—from rangers to clerics—gets a moment to shine. Fans praise his ability to balance gritty battles with heartfelt themes, making his books a hit for both fantasy veterans and newcomers.
Pool’s writing stands out for its innovative take on classic tropes. Instead of a lone hero, he crafts teams of flawed, relatable adventurers, each driven by personal quests for truth or revenge. This approach, paired with his knack for blending Western lore and fantasy, creates stories that feel both timeless and fresh.
Why R.L. Pool Matters
R.L. Pool’s impact lies in his ability to craft worlds that feel alive, drawing readers into Ta’el’s sprawling landscapes and moral dilemmas. His Catlorian series has earned a dedicated following, with fans on platforms like Goodreads lauding its thrilling pace and rich mythology. Pool’s personal engagement—through forums and appearances—fosters a tight-knit community, making him a beloved figure in fantasy circles.
His journey from soldier to storyteller inspires aspiring authors, proving that passion and perseverance can turn childhood tales into bestselling novels. By blending genres and championing diverse characters, Pool has carved a unique niche, influencing the next generation of fantasy writers to think beyond traditional archetypes.
- Born: Texas, USA
- Key Works: Catlorian series, Nevermore, Quoth The Raven
- Fun Fact: Pool’s niece, Katherine L. Lewis, created evocative cover art for the Catlorian books.
Ready to embark on an epic adventure? Snag Catlorian I: The Savon’El and dive into R.L. Pool’s thrilling high fantasy world!