ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MICHAEL NICOL

Michael Nicol is an author known for crafting dark fantasy novels that balance brutal realism with a glimmer of hope. His works—most notably the Godstone Saga and the Shadows of the Ryugari series—have earned a multitude of glowing reviews for their immersive worlds, layered storytelling, and emotionally resonant characters. What began as a grimdark exploration with his debut novel Gloom transformed into something deeper: a nobledark journey that proves even the bleakest worlds can spark light. Drawing inspiration from authors like Joe Abercrombie, Michael sought to write stories where cynicism meets idealism, and characters fight not just to survive—but to matter.

Originally from Windsor, California, Michael now lives in Texas with his wife, daughter, and two cats. A full-time IT professional by day, he spent years shaping Gloom in the quiet hours of the night. Driven by a deep fascination with systems—economic, political, psychological, and beyond—Michael approaches worldbuilding with the mind of an architect. He doesn’t just imagine settings; he constructs living, breathing societies shaped by their own internal logic. The result: immersive, intricate realms that feel as complex and dynamic as the real world.