J. D. Edwards Explores Blurred Lines Between History and Fantasy
PHOTO: J. D. Edwards, author of the critically acclaimed Faerie Chronicles and Indomitable, shares insights on loss, myth, and storytelling.
Award-Winning Author Blends Myth, History, And Emotional Truths
J. D. Edwards dives into his creative process, blending Celtic mythology, genealogical research, and emotional authenticity to create unforgettable novels that span fantasy, history, and beyond.
J. D. Edwards stands as a creative force in modern literature, seamlessly blending Epic Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Horror, Theology, and Poetry into works that are both emotionally resonant and intellectually rigorous. With an ability to craft stories that traverse the realms of myth, history, and human experience, Edwards delivers narratives that stay with readers long after they’ve turned the final page. His latest fantasy novel, The Scions of Faerie, continues the tradition of immersive storytelling that invites readers to explore themes of loss, redemption, and identity through richly constructed worlds inspired by Celtic mythology.
Known for his extraordinary versatility in navigating literary genres, Edwards draws attention not only for his skill as a storyteller but also for his meticulous research and commitment to emotional authenticity. An award-winning author, theologian, and genealogist, he enriches his speculative fiction and historical narratives with layers of historical precision, spiritual insight, and deeply human arcs. His bestselling historical novel, Indomitable: The Story of Eliza Harris, is a masterclass in weaving real-life events into a compelling narrative, earning him critical acclaim and a space among the most celebrated authors of his generation.
J. D. Edwards masterfully combines emotional depth, rigorous research, and imaginative storytelling across genres to craft stories that resonate deeply.
Edwards doesn’t just craft stories; he creates transformative experiences. His epic fantasy series, The Faerie Chronicles, is a modern-day masterpiece that intertwines Celtic lore with contemporary settings, blurring the line between myth and reality in a way that challenges readers’ perceptions. This approach stems from Edwards’ desire to offer more than just escapism. He sets out to create narratives rooted in truth, where allegory merges seamlessly with the human condition and every shadow hints at deeper meaning.
The initial inspiration for The Faerie Chronicles came from a deeply personal place. Edwards and his wife discovered they were expecting a second child in 2003, following the devastating loss of their first son, Jonathan Ian Edwards. This emotional turning point gave birth to an epic fantasy series that blends grief, hope, and magic. As Edwards explains, the series blurs the lines between fantasy and reality so subtly that readers might sometimes question where one ends and the other begins. To honor the deep roots of Celtic mythology, Edwards avoided contemporary reinterpretations of ancient stories, instead turning to texts from the 18th and 19th centuries to rediscover timeless myths with fresh eyes.
The evolution of The Scions of Faerie and its follow-up, The Soul Stones of Faerie, reflects an organic approach to storytelling. Edwards admits he often begins with loose plot points and allows the story to grow during the writing process, embracing the unknown and inviting discovery. His creative philosophy mirrors J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous words: “The story grew in the telling.” Much like Tolkien, Edwards lets the magic and wonder of his storylines guide him, cultivating emotional depth alongside dynamic plots that resonate with readers across all ages.
Balancing lighter adventures with profound themes like grief, betrayal, and personal identity presents a challenge. Edwards sees these dualities not as contradictions but as essential for his characters’ journeys. He explains, “You cannot have light without shadow.” The result is a series that reflects an authentic exploration of grief and resolution, finding space for redemption and hope even amid heartache. This commitment to emotional honesty led to memorable advice he once received from another literary giant, George R. R. Martin: “Never create a character you’re unwilling to kill.” Edwards feels this principle allows him to build meaningful emotional arcs without compromising the narrative momentum.
Edwards’ historical fiction demonstrates the same commitment to authenticity and rich storytelling. His genealogical expertise has significantly influenced his work, as seen in Indomitable: The Story of Eliza Harris, which chronicles the journey of a runaway slave whose story intersects with Edwards’ family history. Edwards spent nearly a decade uncovering the real-life details of Eliza’s escape and the people who helped her find her way to freedom, using historical evidence to shape her story. Even fictional elements in Indomitable are carefully crafted to bridge documented truths, with historical accuracy carefully assessed down to the phases of the moon during key events.
Remarkable rigor in research isn’t limited to Edwards’ historical works; it also drives his world-building in fantasy novels. Whether crafting weapons or mythology, he ensures every detail feels lived-in and true, grounding his imagined worlds in reality even as they explore all things supernatural. His dedication to precision and authenticity creates stories brimming with emotional resonance and a sense of lived history.
Edwards approaches writing with boundless energy, often juggling multiple manuscripts across different genres simultaneously. He attributes this productivity to his ADHD, which allows him to shift between projects depending on which story captures his attention most strongly at any given moment. Currently, he is working on The Defender of Faerie, a prequel to The Scions of Faerie, and The Dark Realms of Faerie, which launches a new series, alongside ongoing progress on historical fiction manuscripts like Dauntless.
Throughout his career, Edwards has created unforgettable characters who embody the challenge of facing grief and personal hardship. He emphasizes that it is not the pain itself but the response to adversity that defines us. This recurring theme in his works encourages readers to reflect on their own lives while immersing them in fantastical or historical worlds.
For aspiring authors navigating their own creative journeys, Edwards offers simple yet transformative advice: Expect your first draft to be imperfect, but persevere. He rewrote The Scions of Faerie four times before it was ready for publication, demonstrating that the key to storytelling lies in the editing and refining process. Dedication and patience are vital, whether crafting a character’s emotional arc, interweaving historical detail, or shaping fantastical landscapes. “Finishing the novel is the most important step. Everything after that is shaping it into something great,” Edwards advises.
J. D. Edwards continues to redefine storytelling with works that balance deep historical precision, emotional authenticity, and the boundless imagination of speculative fiction. His unwavering commitment to blending myth and meaning ensures his stories transform and inspire audiences across all genres.
Source: Reader’s House Magazine
