Picture a Georgia-born storyteller who weaves horror and fantasy into spellbinding tales—meet S.A. Hunt! This Afghanistan veteran turned bestselling author has carved a unique niche in speculative fiction with her vivid worlds and gritty characters. From the witch-hunting thrills of Malus Domestica to the gunslinging saga of The Outlaw King, Hunt’s stories pulse with raw energy and heart.
Known for her cinematic prose and fearless exploration of human struggles, Hunt has captivated readers and critics alike. Her journey from self-publishing to a celebrated deal with Tor Books is as inspiring as her novels. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this fantasy-horror trailblazer!
The Making of S.A. Hunt
Samara Abigail Hunt, who goes by S.A. Hunt, was born in Summerville, Georgia, where her love for storytelling took root. Growing up in the Appalachian hills, she devoured books and honed her craft in high school, encouraged by teachers who saw her talent. In 2005, Hunt joined the U.S. Army, serving as a transportation coordinator in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom (2010). Her experiences as a veteran deeply shaped her writing, infusing her characters with a sense of alienation and resilience. After returning home, she faced challenges finding work, so she forged her own path by writing and self-publishing her early novels.
S.A. Hunt’s Unforgettable Stories
Hunt’s breakout came with The Outlaw King series, a fantasy epic blending steampunk and horror. Its first book, The Whirlwind in the Thorn Tree, won Reddit’s /r/Fantasy “Independent Novel of the Year” Stabby Award in 2014. The series follows veteran Ross Brigham, who uncovers his late father’s fantasy world might be real, delivering a thrilling mix of adventure and existential dread. Hunt’s prose, described as “silvery” and “psychedelic,” paints vivid scenes that linger like dreams.
In 2020, Hunt unleashed Malus Domestica, a horror-action trilogy published by Tor Books. Kicking off with Burn the Dark, it stars Robin Martine, a YouTube witch hunter seeking revenge against a sinister coven. Followed by I Come With Knives and The Hellion, the series blends gritty urban fantasy with chilling supernatural stakes. Hunt’s ability to craft flawed, relatable heroes and weave humor into horror has drawn comparisons to early Stephen King. Her influences, from Dean Koontz to Lev Grossman, shine through in her genre-bending narratives.
Beyond these series, Hunt is working on new projects, including a sci-fi tale about a cyborg in a nuclear winter and a haunted-house story inspired by Cold War propaganda. Her versatility keeps fans eagerly awaiting her next move.
Why S.A. Hunt Matters
S.A. Hunt’s impact lies in her fearless storytelling and representation. As a non-binary author, she champions queer characters and diverse voices, enriching fantasy and horror with fresh perspectives. Her veteran background adds authenticity to themes of displacement and survival, resonating with readers who feel like outsiders. By blending high-octane action with emotional depth, Hunt has redefined what speculative fiction can be, earning praise from authors like Jonathan Maberry and Chuck Wendig.
Her rise from self-publishing to a Tor Books deal inspires aspiring writers, proving talent and grit can break barriers. Hunt’s worlds invite readers to confront darkness while finding hope, making her a vital voice in modern literature.
- Born: Summerville, Georgia
- Key Works: The Outlaw King series, Malus Domestica trilogy
- Awards: Reddit /r/Fantasy Stabby Award (2014)
- Fun Fact: Hunt is a fervent cyclist and coffee enthusiast!
Snag Burn the Dark and dive into S.A. Hunt’s thrilling blend of horror and fantasy—you won’t look at witches the same way again!