J.R. Dawson Books In Order

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Anthologies

About J.R. Dawson

J.R. Dawson, a distinguished American author, has made a mark in the realms of historical and fantasy literature. Her skill at crafting characters and protagonists truly helps bring her works to life. The allure of her fiction lies in its captivating entertainment value. Moreover, her talent for weaving compelling narratives adds depth to her intriguing stories.

Dawson’s strength as a writer is clearly seen in the way she carves out characters. Each character in her books is inimitably constructed, making the reader feel a connection to them. As a result, her works become remarkably enjoyable and captivate attention from start to finish. The way she effortlessly melds historical and fantasy elements also adds layers of complexity, enriching her stories.

What truly sets Dawson apart is her ability to spin engaging narratives. The tales she creates don’t merely entertain, but also draw the reader in, inspiring them to become part of the narrative journey. Her unique storytelling method is captivating and memorable, further highlighting her strengths as a writer. This characteristic has cemented J.R. Dawson as a respected name in the literary world.

Dawson expertly intertwines compelling characters with engaging tales, always presenting something fresh and original. Her literary craft goes beyond simply storytelling, as she creates a universe filled with individuals whom readers find fascinating. Her command over character development, coupled with her knack for creating riveting narratives, makes for memorable literary experiences.

Her characters and stories form an alluring tandem, where neither overshadows the other. The perfect harmony between the two draws readers into her elaborately arranged storytelling realm. This balance lends her works a refreshing quality, keeping the audience hooked and leaving them yearning for more.

The beauty of Dawson’s work is in the uniqueness she brings to every story. Each narrative is not a mere rehash of familiar elements, but a fresh tale containing enchanting characters. This continual reinvention is a testament to her creativity. Her capacity to offer readers something new and unique in each tale underpins the global appreciation for her literary contributions.

Early and Personal Life

J.R. Dawson’s literary journey began in Omaha, Nebraska, where she was born. From a young age, she developed a deep love for reading and writing which would later shape her career. Adopting a pen name in 2013 as Jennifer R. Dawson, she welcomed a new chapter in her writing journey while striking a balance between her personal life and her teaching career.

Dawson finds inspiration in various writers, including prominent names like Ray Bradbury and K.A. Applegate, along with contemporary authors like Allie Brosh and Stephen Chbosky. These influences, along with her diverse interests, have played a significant role in the evolution of her writing. Her stories, underpinned by her fondness for writing about ‘uncool girls doing cool things’, exemplify her unique voice within the literary realm.

Throughout her career, Dawson’s pursuit of honing her craft led her to Stonecoast, a Master of Fine Arts program, where she documented her experiences on a blog, The MFA Years. A steadfast love for the color ‘blurple’ or indigo, the experience of surviving a meteor at the tender age of four, and her aspiration of becoming a cartoon voice actor during her childhood are notable quirks that make her a fascinating personality.

Today, Dawson is a recognized name in the literary world, represented by Rena Rossner at the Deborah Harris Agency.

Writing Career

J.R. Dawson has notably made her mark in the literary world with her short fiction appearing in renowned publications such as Lightspeed, F&SF, The Year’s Best Science Fiction and Fantasy, and DSF among others. As well as being a celebrated author, Dawson has spent a significant part of her career devoted to theatre education. In 2021, she displayed her narrative prowess in the theater sphere by collaborating with the Institute of Holocaust Education and Circle Theatre to pen ‘When We Go Away,’ a play centered around survivors in the Midwest.

In the summer of 2023, Dawson took another huge step in her writing career with the release of her debut novel, ‘The First Bright Thing,’ published by Tor. This marked a significant milestone in her journey as a writer, and she shows no signs of slowing down. As Dawson continues to write, her fans eagerly anticipate what compelling stories she’ll weave next.

The First Bright Thing

‘The First Bright Thing,’ J.R. Dawson’s debut novel, entered the literary landscape on June 13, 2023. The historical fantasy was published by Tor Books, a reputable name in the publishing industry, known for its focus on science fiction and fantasy genres. This publication marked a significant step in Dawson’s writing journey, introducing her unique literary voice to a wider audience. It would also provide her with a worldwide following of fans upon its release.

Rin, known to her closest as ‘Ringmaster,’ possesses the extraordinary ability to jump through time, much like her talented wife, Odette, effortlessly glides across the trapeze. Their extraordinary circus, the Circus of the Fantasticals, serves as a haven for magical outcasts, referred to as ‘Sparks,’ providing a fleeting night of awe and rest amidst the dizzying aftermath of World War I. However, Rin’s extraordinary world is under siege from all angles, with the devastating claws of a future war threatening her troupe and a malevolent past seeping threateningly close.

This past manifests in the guise of a rival circus, a formidable entity enveloped in a darkness as deep as midnight, led by a ringmaster with an insatiable desire for something at Rin’s circus – something he won’t rest until he rightfully claims.

As a debut novel this title from J.R. Dawson provides an unforgettable experience for readers. With a lively narrative set in a captivating world of magic and circuses, readers will be instantly enveloped in the story’s charm. The richness of the characters, combined with the complex web of events, makes for a truly engaging read. While it weaves a tale of intrigue, danger, and magic, at its very heart, this book is a celebration of diversity and resilience within a magical circus troupe.