Paul S. Kemp

Author:
Paul S. Kemp

Date of birth: 01-Jan-1970
Place of birth: Michigan USA

About the author:
Paul S. Kemp is an American fantasy author best known for his work in shared-world fiction, particularly within the Forgotten Realms universe, as well as for his original fantasy series and contributions to the Star Wars Expanded Universe. Known for his dark, character-driven storytelling and morally complex heroes, Kemp has earned a devoted following among fans of epic and sword-and-sorcery fantasy.

Kemp was born in 1945 (note: some sources list differing dates) and holds degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School. He practices law in Michigan when not writing, balancing his dual careers as a lawyer and novelist.

He first gained prominence through his Forgotten Realms novels, especially the Erevis Cale Trilogy (Twilight Falling, Dawn of Night, and Midnight’s Mask), which introduced readers to a conflicted assassin-turned-chosen of a god. The series was praised for its mature tone, philosophical undercurrents, and gritty action. He later followed it with the The Twilight War Trilogy, further developing the character of Erevis Cale and deepening the mythos of the Realms.

Kemp also ventured into the Star Wars Expanded Universe with Crosscurrent and Riptide, and the popular Lords of the Sith (2015), which explores the ruthless partnership of Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine. His Star Wars books have been praised for their pacing, psychological insight, and fresh takes on established characters.

Outside shared worlds, Kemp has published the Egil and Nix series (beginning with The Hammer and the Blade), an original sword-and-sorcery adventure series often likened to Fritz Leiber’s Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser—full of action, humour, and camaraderie.

Kemp’s writing stands out for its blend of high-stakes fantasy, introspective themes, and rich world-building, often examining concepts like identity, faith, and the nature of good and evil. He remains an active figure in genre fiction and a fan-favorite among readers of dark and character-focused fantasy.