Picture an American storyteller who conjures zombies, vampires, and cosmic horrors with a wicked sense of humor—meet Tim Waggoner! Since his debut novel in 2001, this horror and fantasy maestro has spun over fifty novels and countless short stories, blending gritty supernatural tales with dark wit. From his chilling Nekropolis series to tie-ins for Supernatural and Alien, Waggoner’s work thrills readers and inspires aspiring writers as a beloved professor at Sinclair College.
Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, Waggoner’s knack for storytelling emerged early, sparked by a childhood love for monsters and mysteries. Today, he’s a four-time Bram Stoker Award winner, celebrated for pushing the boundaries of speculative fiction while mentoring the next generation of authors.
The Making of Tim Waggoner
Growing up in Dayton, Tim Waggoner was captivated by the eerie and fantastical, penning his first comic at age five about a King Kong versus Godzilla showdown. His passion led him to Wright State University, where he earned a Master of Arts in English with a Creative Writing Concentration in 1989. Before becoming a full-time author, Waggoner worked as a newspaper reporter, magazine editor, and copy editor, honing his craft. His early love for horror and fantasy fueled his determination to tell stories that blend the macabre with human emotion.
By 2001, Waggoner published his first novel, launching a prolific career. His experiences in journalism and editing sharpened his ability to craft tight, engaging narratives, while his Dayton roots grounded his stories in relatable, often gritty settings.
Tim Waggoner’s Unforgettable Stories
Waggoner’s bibliography is a treasure trove of dark fantasy and horror, with standout works like the Nekropolis series, which follows zombie private investigator Matt Richter in a supernatural city teeming with vampires, demons, and spellcasters. The first novel, Nekropolis (2009), bursts with dark humor and inventive world-building, earning praise for its unique blend of noir and urban fantasy. Fans adore Matt’s struggle to keep his decaying body intact while solving mystical crimes.
His novel Like Death (2005) is considered a modern horror classic, weaving psychological depth with supernatural terror. Waggoner’s media tie-ins, including Supernatural: Carved in Flesh (2013) and Alien: Prototype (2019), showcase his knack for capturing iconic franchises’ essence while adding his signature twist. His non-fiction guide, Writing in the Dark (2020), won a Bram Stoker Award, offering aspiring horror writers practical advice drawn from his decades of experience.
Waggoner’s style is marked by vivid characters, darkly comedic undertones, and a fearless exploration of fear’s psychological roots. Whether crafting original tales or diving into franchises like Doctor Who or Transformers, he balances thrills with emotional resonance, making his stories unforgettable.
Why Tim Waggoner Matters
Tim Waggoner’s impact on horror and fantasy is profound, blending innovative storytelling with accessibility. His Nekropolis series redefined urban fantasy by infusing it with noir and horror, inspiring authors to experiment with genre boundaries. As a professor at Sinclair College, he shapes aspiring writers, sharing insights from his storied career. His Writing in the Dark books have become go-to resources for crafting compelling horror, cementing his role as a mentor and innovator.
Waggoner’s awards, including four Bram Stoker Awards and nominations for the Shirley Jackson and Splatterpunk Awards, highlight his influence. By weaving pop culture, myth, and human struggles into his work, he connects with readers who crave both escapism and depth, ensuring his legacy in speculative fiction endures.
About Tim Waggoner
- Birthplace: Dayton, Ohio
- Key Works: Nekropolis, Like Death, Writing in the Dark, Supernatural: Carved in Flesh
- Awards: Four-time Bram Stoker Award winner, Horror Writers Association Mentor of the Year (2015)
- Profession: Author and Professor at Sinclair College
Ready to dive into a world of zombies, vampires, and cosmic dread? Snag Nekropolis or Writing in the Dark and experience Tim Waggoner’s thrilling blend of horror and heart!