David R. Slayton grew up in Guthrie, Oklahoma, where finding fantasy novels was pretty challenging and finding fantasy novels with diverse characters was downright impossible. Now he lives in Denver, Colorado, with his partner, Brian, and writes the books he always wanted to read. White Trash Warlock is his first novel. In 2015, David founded Trick or Read, an annual initiative to give out books along with candy to children on Halloween as well as uplift lesser-known authors or those from marginalized backgrounds. Find him online at www.DavidRSlayton.com.
This contemporary fantasy is a smashing debut for David R. Slayton and, happily, the first in a planned series. -- Shelf Awareness Slayton's book gathers up pretty much every modern fantasy trope, turns them upside down, and shakes them...The elves who show up would have Tolkien rolling in his grave, which is my highest endorsement, and the LGBTQIA+ rep is all around outstanding. -- Book Riot White Trash Warlock is one helluva ride! Adam Binder is a compelling, deeply relatable protagonist, and the journey he leads us on is dazzling and wonderfully original. What David R. Slayton does with class, sexuality, race, and magic creates an immersive world I didn't want to leave. Kudos! -- Lynn Flewelling, author of the Nightrunner series and the Tamir Triad First of all, I am blown away by this story of all things supernatural and what borders our reality. Couldn't put it down. The supernatural beings were true to form, while adding a wonderful layer of personality and believable motivations and culture to each race. Not to mention the story held surprises to the last page. Well written, pulls you in, and keeps you guessing. -- J. C. Owens, author of the Anrodnes series This is a really interesting, smooth ride of a novel. I enjoyed the unique backwater setting, and the exploration of characters we rarely get to see: the titular 'white trash, ' that is. Adam is adorable and relatable, and I don't think I've seen a protagonist gay dude witch/wizard in a while, or ever. The plot moves pretty quickly, and the fluid writing skillfully moves the reader along. Excited to see where Slayton goes next. -- Mya Alexice, contributor for BookRiot