H.B. Reneau is an author of YA and adult fantasy. Author, ER doctor, and proud dog mom, H.B. Reneau is best known for her character-driven, genre-crossing fiction that draws on her experiences in both medicine and the military. When not writing or at the hospital, she can be found hiking, drinking coffee to excess, and getting lost in new cities with her spaniel Rory.
Like most writers, I was always the kid that loved books, staying up late into the night to finish the latest Harry Potter or Tamora Piece novel. It wasn’t long before I began writing my own stories and sharing them with anyone who would listen. Fast forward 15 years and a pandemic later and I finally got up the courage to put those stories out into the world. Now I'm the author of an entire series of YA Fantasy novels and novellas with no end in sight.
Unlike most authors, I also have a passion for science, medicine, and my time in the military - all of which have inspired my unique perspective on the world. While maybe not the most typical of journeys to authorship, mine is one that has inspired me to dream big, always keep learning, and try to see the world in a whole new light.
Curious? To learn more about me, check out my books, blog, and fun extras from the menu above. Or reach out directly!
Finally, neither writer nor globe trotting adventurer is complete without their trusty sidekick. For me, that is undoubtedly Rory, my adorable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who has been with me every step of the way…Authoring, Doctoring, and of course Cavaliering.
So even if you don’t like my writing, follow me for the puppy pics! 😋🐶
The Art of the Underworld: Writing Dark, Immersive Worlds That Transform Your Characters
Want to craft an unforgettable underworld for your story? Whether it’s an ancient labyrinth, a criminal hideout, or a forgotten city buried beneath the surface, a great underworld is more than just a dark setting—it’s a transformative experience for your characters. In this post, we’ll explore how to design an immersive, dangerous, and thematically rich underworld that shapes both your world and your protagonist. Using The Remnant as a case study, we’ll break down the layers of world-building, the role of danger, and the metaphorical weight of descending into the dark. Ready to build an underworld your readers won’t forget? Let’s dive in.
Meet the Cast – The Remnant Edition
Step into the world of The Remnant, where submerged cities, political intrigue, and impossible choices shape the fate of the Cross-Sea Lands. As Basha struggles to escape her sister’s shadow, Dai plays a dangerous game of ambition, Chiko wrestles with betrayal, and Sara’s secrets linger long after her death. Who will rise, and who will drown beneath the weight of their choices?
Discover exclusive character insights, untold backstories, and the motivations driving the cast of The Remnant. If you love complex characters, high-stakes drama, and richly woven fantasy worlds, this is the deep dive you’ve been waiting for.
When the World Fights Back: Environmental Collapse in Fantasy Fiction
Explore how The Remnant, The Stormlight Archive, The Broken Earth Trilogy, and The Earthsea Cycle use environmental collapse as a driving force in fantasy. From rising seas to vengeful landscapes, these stories reveal how civilizations adapt—or fall—when nature turns against them. Read more on the battle between humanity and the environment in epic fantasy!
Exclusive First Look: Cover Reveal for The Remnant
Discover the breathtaking cover for The Remnant, the newest companion novella in H.B. Reneau’s Legion of Pneumos series. This captivating design showcases the Cross-Sea Lands, a world of towering cities and rising tides, where Inaba Bashira must navigate political intrigue, forbidden romance, and ancient magic. Learn about the creative process behind the cover, its intricate details, and the themes it represents. The Remnant releases widely on May 20th, 2025, with a special edition Kickstarter coming soon.
Perfect for fans of YA fantasy, Leigh Bardugo, and Victoria Aveyard, this cover reveal is your first step into an unforgettable adventure. Read the full story behind the design on the blog today!
Behind the Mask: Villains Who Shape the Legion of Pneumos World
Discover the compelling villains of the Legion of Pneumos series and the deep complexities that shape their motives. From the ambitious Lady Junia, driven by her fight for power and equality, to Neval Brennan, a rebel leader torn between justice and destruction, and the calculating Imperator Lanus, each antagonist challenges the heroes in profound ways. Explore how these characters blur the lines between good and evil, revealing the cost of power, the weight of ambition, and the sacrifices demanded by rebellion. Dive into the world of Pneumos and uncover the stories that make these villains unforgettable.
Magic Systems That Matter: Fueling Character Transformation
Using examples from The Legion of Pneumos, learn how to create magic systems that deepen your narrative and resonate with readers. Discover actionable tips and reflective questions to refine your craft and transform your fantasy story into an unforgettable journey.
