Picture a Canadian storyteller who weaves epic fantasy with a touch of mystery—meet Violette Malan! With her Spanish-Polish roots and a knack for crafting worlds where mercenaries and magic collide, Malan has carved a unique niche in fantasy literature. From her Dhulyn and Parno series to her work as V. M. Escalada, she’s a master of blending heroic adventure with metaphysical depth, all while championing new voices in crime fiction.
The Making of Violette Malan
Born in Canada with a vibrant Spanish and Polish heritage, Violette Malan grew up in a household where mealtimes were a cultural adventure. She holds a PhD in 18th-century English literature from York University, which she’s found surprisingly handy for crafting intricate fantasy worlds. Before becoming a full-time writer, Malan’s career was as colorful as her stories—she taught creative writing, English as a second language, Spanish, and even choreography for strippers. Her most unusual gig? Translating love letters between an English-only and a Spanish-only paramour. This eclectic background fuels her ability to create richly diverse characters and settings.
Malan’s writing journey began at age eight, when she dove into fantasy and science fiction. Her first published work came later, with a short story, 'Brush Off,' earning the Bony Pete award at the Crime Writers of Canada’s Bloody Words Conference. This early success paved the way for her transition from short stories to novels, where she found her true calling in epic fantasy.
Violette Malan’s Unforgettable Stories
Malan’s bibliography shines with her Dhulyn and Parno series, a four-book saga starting with The Sleeping God (2007). This series follows mercenaries Dhulyn Wolfshead and Parno Lionsmane, members of the Mercenary Brotherhood, who navigate a world of strict honor codes, magic, and political intrigue. Inspired by Fritz Leiber’s Fafhrd and Grey Mouser, Malan crafts a male-female duo whose partnership is deep but platonic, keeping the focus on adventure and camaraderie rather than romance. Critics praise the series for its swashbuckling action and vivid world-building.
Her debut novel, The Mirror Prince (2006), is a standalone fantasy that blends Narnia-esque wonder with Tolkien’s depth. It follows Max Ravenhill, a history professor who discovers he’s a Faerie exile, navigating a dual-world adventure with his guardian, Cassandra. Malan’s work under the pen name V. M. Escalada, like Halls of Law (2017), explores paranormal fantasy with a focus on magical healers, showcasing her versatility. Her mystery and crime fiction, including the anthology Dead in the Water (co-edited with Therese Greenwood), celebrates Canada’s waterways with gripping tales.
Malan’s style is a delightful mix of witty banter, intricate plots, and metaphysical twists. Her worlds feel alive, populated by characters who grapple with honor, identity, and destiny. Influenced by authors like Robin Hobb and Barbara Hambly, she balances classic heroic fantasy with fresh, inclusive perspectives, making her stories accessible yet profound.
Why Violette Malan Matters
Violette Malan’s impact extends beyond her novels. As co-founder of the Scene of the Crime Festival on Wolfe Island, she’s nurtured emerging Canadian crime writers, organizing workshops and judging the Wolfe Island Prize. Her work in anthologies like Crime Spree and Ladies Killing Circle has amplified diverse voices in mystery fiction. In fantasy, her focus on non-romantic partnerships and complex female leads like Dhulyn Wolfshead challenges genre norms, offering readers fresh takes on heroism.
Malan’s ability to straddle fantasy and mystery, combined with her academic rigor and cultural richness, makes her a standout. Her stories resonate with readers who crave adventure with depth, and her mentorship ensures her legacy will inspire future storytellers. She’s proof that even lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark.
- Born: Canada, with Spanish and Polish heritage
- Key Works: The Mirror Prince, The Sleeping God, Halls of Law (as V. M. Escalada)
- Awards: Bony Pete Award for 'Brush Off'
- Notable Role: Co-founder, Scene of the Crime Festival
Ready for a thrilling escape? Snag The Sleeping God and dive into Violette Malan’s epic fantasy world!