Obsidian Quill

C.J. LaPolla writes Grimdark fantasy & Dieselpunk Military epics, having published ten novels since his 2013 debut with Within the Ice. A fan of expansive world-building and cartography, C. J. creates immersive worlds defined by gritty authenticity. He is best known for his Battle Engines & Veil of Obsidian series.

Beyond writing, C. J. is a dedicated martial artist in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). As his training is rooted in real fighting mechanics rather than stage combat or performance, he translates the correct weight, speed, and raw violence of sword fighting directly into his writing. C. J. prides himself on bringing visceral and authentic battle scenes to every story.

When he is not training or writing, you can find C. J. playing tabletop games, painting miniatures, and playing video games. C. J. lives in Pennsylvania with his wife, two children, four cats, and a Bichon Frise.