NY Review
Tempie W. Wade: Defying the Odds to Become an Award-Winning Author
Tempie W. Wade’s unexpected rise as an author proves it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
At 47, most people are reflecting on what they’ve accomplished and settling into the comfort of routine. For Tempie W. Wade, however, this was the moment she decided to take a bold step into the unknown: she became an author. Without formal training or any guarantee of success, Wade’s leap of faith led her to an award-winning career, proving that timing is everything — and that it’s never too late to rewrite your own story. Her debut novel, A Timely Revolution, not only catapulted her into the literary world but also earned her the title of Best Historical Fantasy at the 2019 American Book Fest American Fiction Awards. This is a story of reinvention, courage, and a passion for storytelling that knows no age limits.
The Unlikely Path to Writing
Tempie W. Wade never envisioned herself as a writer. In fact, like many, she grew up with dreams that were quietly tucked away, relegated to the back of her mind. Born in Virginia, Wade’s heart was always drawn to history — particularly the Revolutionary War. But it wasn’t until her late forties that she truly started considering writing as a career. The decision wasn’t born from a sudden inspiration but rather from a desire to challenge herself, to prove that it was possible to reinvent oneself even later in life.
Her debut novel, A Timely Revolution, was the culmination of years of research, daydreaming, and an intense curiosity about blending historical events with the fantastical world of Celtic Fae lore. The result was a story that felt both grounded in history and elevated by the mysteries of magic. What made the book even more remarkable was that it was written by someone who had never been formally trained as a writer but had the passion to craft something special.
Facing Early Challenges: The Road to Recognition
Like any aspiring author, Wade encountered obstacles early on. There were the doubts — not only from others but from within herself. Could she truly make it as an author, starting at an age when many are thinking about retirement? Could her work stand out in a crowded literary market?
“I didn’t have the luxury of being naive,” Wade shares. “I knew it would be tough, but I was driven by a passion that couldn’t be ignored.”
Despite facing these early challenges, Wade’s perseverance paid off. After she published A Timely Revolution, the book was recognized for its originality and historical depth, ultimately winning the Best Historical Fantasy award at the 2019 American Book Fest American Fiction Awards. This victory wasn’t just a personal triumph — it was a sign that Wade was on the right path. The validation she received pushed her to continue writing, and she hasn’t looked back since.
An Author Emerges
The win at the American Book Fest was a turning point in Wade’s career. No longer just an aspiring writer, she began to gain recognition as a serious author. Her confidence grew with every new project, and her second book cemented her place in the literary world. She moved from the struggles of self-doubt to the realization that her voice was unique, her stories were captivating, and her presence in the industry was undeniable.
Her books, which blend historical fiction with the supernatural, quickly gained a following. The success wasn’t just about her awards or accolades but about connecting with readers who resonated with her characters and plots. They appreciated the way she merged history with fantasy, allowing them to experience the past in ways they never expected.
Why Tempie W. Wade’s Books Stand Out
What makes Tempie W. Wade’s books truly special is their ability to transport readers into a world where history and fantasy collide. Her writing isn’t just about retelling historical events; it’s about breathing new life into them. Through her eyes, readers explore the past, not just as observers but as participants in the magic that unfolds in the pages.
Wade’s books are rich in historical accuracy, providing readers with a sense of time and place that feels authentic. But it’s the infusion of myth, magic, and folklore that sets her apart. Characters from different times, places, and even mythical realms come to life in a way that is unique to Wade’s storytelling.
“There’s something powerful about blending the real with the imagined,” Wade explains. “It allows me to create something that feels familiar and fantastical all at once.”
This delicate balance between the historical and the mystical has made her Timely Revolution series a beloved favorite among fans of both historical fiction and fantasy. Over the years, Wade has honed her craft, published eleven books, and established herself as a trusted voice in the genre.
Tempie W. Wade’s story is proof that it’s never too late to start something new — and that passion can lead to remarkable achievements. Her books have not only captivated readers with their unique blend of history and fantasy but have also inspired those who may feel like time has passed them by. If you’re looking for an adventure that spans history and magic, look no further than Tempie W. Wade’s works. Discover her journey, explore her world, and immerse yourself in the stories that have earned her recognition and acclaim. Visit TempieWade.com to start your next great adventure today.
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Tempie W. Wade: A Timely Revolution in Fantasy Fiction
Tempie W. Wade is a talented Virginia-based writer whose historical fantasy series offers readers an escape into time-travel adventures and Celtic Fae lore.
Aug 14, 2025
In the world of storytelling, where new voices constantly emerge, Tempie W. Wade stands out as a beacon of resilience, imagination, and creativity. Known for her captivating Timely Revolution Book Series, Wade has taken readers on an unforgettable journey through time, blending the rich history of the American Revolutionary War with the mystical elements of ancient Celtic Fae lore. But Tempie’s journey to becoming an award-winning author didn’t begin in her youth — it started in 2018, when she was 47. Since then, she has published ten novels, each distinct in its genre, and quickly garnered recognition for her intricate plots and vivid worlds.
A Journey That Proves It's Never Too Late to Start
Tempie W. Wade’s story proves the old adage, “It’s never too late to start something new.” Although she spent much of her life navigating various paths, writing became her true calling only later in life. In 2018, at the age of 47, Wade embarked on a writing journey that would quickly lead to her first published work, A Timely Revolution. It was a bold step, and one that not only set her on a new course but also launched her into the world of historical fantasy.
"I always loved history, but I was drawn to a different type of storytelling," Tempie reflects. "I wanted to blend real-world events with the magic of ancient lore, creating something that felt both authentic and fantastical. Time travel, historical fiction, and fantasy were the perfect combination."
Her debut novel A Timely Revolution, which combines the turbulence of the Revolutionary War with the mysticism of Celtic Fae magic, earned recognition far beyond her expectations. In 2019, the novel won Best Historical Fantasy at the American Book Fest American Fiction Awards, setting the stage for an impressive literary career.
The Allure of Time Travel and Celtic Fae Lore
What makes Wade’s work so captivating is her seamless integration of historical events with imaginative, otherworldly elements. The Timely Revolution series, for example, draws readers into the heart of the Revolutionary War, where pivotal moments in history are woven together with the mysterious and magical world of the Celtic Fae.
“The combination of history and fantasy allows me to tell a story where reality and imagination are equally important,” Wade explains. “In my books, the past isn’t just a backdrop; it’s an integral part of the world-building. I want readers to feel like they’ve stepped back in time, yet they’re still surrounded by magic and wonder.”
Through her rich, detailed settings and well-crafted characters, Tempie brings history to life in a way that allows readers to connect emotionally with both the events of the past and the enchanting realms of fantasy. It’s no surprise that her works have found a dedicated following.
Diverse Genres, Unmatched Storytelling
While her Timely Revolution series has drawn considerable attention, Tempie W. Wade’s literary talents extend far beyond time-travel fantasy. In addition to historical fiction, she’s delved into historical fantasy and gothic fantasy, producing works that stretch the boundaries of imagination while keeping readers enthralled with powerful storytelling.
In total, Wade has published eleven novels, and each offers a unique reading experience. Whether it’s a gothic tale of mystery or a sweeping historical saga, Tempie’s ability to transport readers to different worlds with each book is unmatched.
"I'm not afraid to explore different genres," Wade admits. "It’s important to push boundaries, try new things, and stay true to the stories I’m passionate about. Each book is a new adventure, both for me as a writer and for my readers."
The Impact of Awards and Recognition
Tempie’s writing journey, though only beginning a few years ago, has already earned her a place among the notable voices in historical and fantasy fiction. Her debut novel, A Timely Revolution, was awarded Best Historical Fantasy at the 2019 American Book Fest American Fiction Awards — an honor that solidified her standing as an author to watch.
"The recognition from the American Book Fest was a huge moment for me. It validated the work I had put into creating something new, something different,” says Wade. “It gave me the confidence to keep writing and to explore even more stories.”
Her continued success, both critically and commercially, proves that talent and dedication transcend age. Wade is a prime example of how it’s never too late to embark on a new path and achieve great things. Through her stories, she’s carved out a niche that blends historical events with fantasy in a way that’s both innovative and immersive.
The Future of Tempie W. Wade's Writing
Looking ahead, Tempie W. Wade shows no signs of slowing down. With eleven novels already published, her imagination continues to flow, and new projects are always on the horizon.
"I’m always working on something new," Wade shares. "Writing is a lifelong journey, and I have plenty more stories to tell. My fans can expect even more adventures, deeper characters, and plots that will challenge their expectations."
For fans of historical fantasy, time travel, and Celtic mythology, Tempie W. Wade’s books offer a captivating escape into worlds of magic and historical intrigue. But beyond that, her journey as an author is one of perseverance, passion, and proving that no dream is too big — or too late — to chase.
Explore Tempie W. Wade’s Books
Are you ready to dive into the world of Tempie W. Wade’s historical and fantasy fiction? Visit her website at tempiewade.com to explore her complete collection of novels, from A Timely Revolution to her other works. Join her growing community of readers on Facebook at Tempie W. Wade and Instagram at @tempiewade to discover more about her books. Don’t miss out on these thrilling, genre-defying adventures that will leave you wanting more!
Award-winning author Tempie W. Wade continues her literary journey with the release of her latest book in the Timely Revolution series, blending history with fantasy.
Virginia, USA, August 15, 2025 -- Tempie W. Wade, a Virginia-based author celebrated for her Timely Revolution book series, has captured the attention of readers with her latest release, which continues the captivating fusion of history and fantasy that has become her hallmark. Drawing inspiration from both the Revolutionary War and ancient Celtic Fae lore, Wade transports readers to a world where history and the supernatural intersect in unique and thrilling ways.
Wade's literary journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion, no matter the stage in life. Though she began her writing career later in life, at the age of 47, she quickly established herself as a talented voice in historical fiction and fantasy. Her debut novel, A Timely Revolution, was recognized at the 2019 American Book Fest American Fiction Awards, where it won Best Historical Fantasy. This recognition paved the way for Wade's growing presence in the literary world, where she now boasts a diverse portfolio of novels across multiple genres.
A Writer's Journey: From the Page to the Awards Stage
Before becoming a published author, Tempie W. Wade's love of storytelling spanned decades, but it wasn’t until 2018 that she took the bold step of pursuing her passion full-time. With a focus on historical fiction and fantasy, Wade's first book—A Timely Revolution—was met with critical acclaim and positioned her as an emerging talent. She quickly followed it up with a series of novels that captivated readers with their mix of historical depth and fantastical elements.
The success of her debut novel was followed by numerous accolades, establishing Wade as a strong voice in the historical fantasy genre. A Timely Revolution won the Best Historical Fantasy category at the 2019 American Book Fest American Fiction Awards, a prestigious recognition that affirmed her skill in blending intricate historical settings with vivid, otherworldly concepts. Since then, Wade has published ten novels, each expanding her storytelling universe and demonstrating her evolving mastery of narrative complexity.
The Timely Revolution Series: A Groundbreaking Fusion of History and Fantasy
At the core of Wade's work is the Timely Revolution series, a captivating saga that blends real-world historical events with elements of Celtic Fae mythology. The series follows time-traveling protagonists who experience pivotal moments in history, including the American Revolutionary War, through the lens of fantastical, otherworldly forces. The combination of rich historical detail with the magic and mystery of the Fae sets Wade's work apart from others in the genre.
Wade’s novels allow readers to experience history like never before, offering an immersive and entertaining way to explore significant moments in time, all while drawing on the magical realms of Celtic folklore. Each book in the series builds on its predecessor, creating a complex, layered narrative that captures the imagination and keeps readers eagerly turning pages.
“The art of blending history with fantasy is something that has always intrigued me,” says Wade. “History offers such rich stories, and when combined with the fantastical elements of folklore and myth, it can create a truly unique reading experience. I’m thrilled that readers are connecting with the Timely Revolution series, and I can’t wait to continue to share these stories with them.”
Inspirational Milestones: Writing Later in Life
What makes Wade’s journey even more remarkable is her decision to pursue a career in writing later in life. While many authors begin their careers much younger, Wade's story proves that age is no barrier to following your dreams. She has become a role model for aspiring writers, particularly those who may feel it's “too late” to start something new.
“My message to anyone who’s thinking about pursuing a creative endeavor, whether it's writing or something else, is this: it’s never too late,” says Wade. “My first book was published when I was in my late forties, and I’ve had the privilege of watching my career grow with each new story. I encourage others to take that leap of faith—whether they’re in their twenties or their sixties—because anything is possible if you believe in yourself and your work.”
Her ability to inspire others is part of what makes Wade’s story so special. She embodies the notion that it’s never too late to chase after your dreams, and her continued success serves as a testament to that belief.
The Future of Tempie W. Wade’s Literary World
With her latest book continuing to receive positive reviews, Wade is showing no signs of slowing down. She has already outlined several more books in the Timely Revolution series and is working on expanding into new genres. While her roots remain firmly in historical and fantasy fiction, she is eager to explore different styles and themes in her upcoming works.
Readers can expect to see more thrilling time-travel adventures, rich historical narratives, and imaginative world-building in the years to come. Wade remains dedicated to her craft, and her ever-expanding body of work promises even more captivating stories that blend the past with the magical and mysterious.
“I’m always thinking ahead, always striving to create something new for my readers. The stories I’ve told so far are only the beginning. There’s so much more to come,” Wade adds.
About Tempie W. Wade
Tempie W. Wade is an award-winning author based in Virginia, known for her Timely Revolution series. Combining historical events, particularly the American Revolutionary War, with ancient Celtic Fae lore, her work has captivated readers worldwide. Wade began her writing career in 2018 at the age of 47 and has since published ten novels, spanning historical fiction, fantasy, and gothic genres. Her debut novel won Best Historical Fantasy at the 2019 American Book Fest American Fiction Awards, and her work continues to resonate with fans and critics alike.
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Witches, history, fantasy make a book?
By Wilford Kale
April 17, 2024
Lifelong Virginia resident Tempie W. Wade, now living in Williamsburg, writes historical fantasy novels in her spare time.
Her newest effort, “Where Witches Lie” (Tempie W. Wade, 340 pgs., $15.99), features English archaeologist Dr. Cassie Summers, who has a unique talent.
It is not uncovering dramatic and historical artifacts, but rather in the ability to have visions from the past from the artifacts she holds in her hands.
I must be honest. I have never read this type of book before and don’t imagine I’ll read many more.
Nevertheless, it’s an interesting story, a genuine supernatural fantasy that Wade handles with marvelous aplomb.
Although she has been writing for only six years, Wade has written nine novels, seven of them in the “Timely Revolution” series. Her first book, “A Timely Revolution,” won the 2019 best historical fantasy award of the American Book Fest American Fiction Awards. The series is a time-travel adventure that takes the reader back to the American Revolution. It interposes historical figures such as George Washington with other characters, including Maggie Bishop who travels back from 2018.
Now that she works for Preservation Virginia on Jamestown Island, Wade doesn’t have the time she used to devote to her science-fiction/historical fantasy writings. However, she already has finished another volume, “The Purveyor,” which should be published in the near future.
The Next Door Neighbor Magazine
The Timely Revolution
Article Written By Brandy Centolanza
Five years ago, while Tempie W. Wade was suffering from some health issues, she turned to writing to occupy her time. Within six months, she penned a half a dozen historical fantasy books. “Before that, I had never considered writing anything, but once I started, I ended up writing 93,000 words in 30 days,” she says. “It turned out to be extremely therapeutic for me.”
The books are part of The Timely Revolution book series. Her debut book, A Timely Revolution, was named best historical fantasy in 2019 in the American Book Fest American Fiction Awards. The series, which currently has seven titles, is described as a time-travel fantasy adventure that takes readers on a magical journey back to the Revolutionary War. It features characters who are both real, such as George Washington, and imaginary, such as the character of Maggie Bishop, who time travels from 2018 to 1765, as well as old Celtic Gods who meddle in the war.
“Williamsburg is full of history and is the perfect backdrop for time travel,” Tempie says. “I let a friend of mine read the first book. She loved it and encouraged me to do something with it. I looked into my options and decided to give the self-publishing route a go. I made my fair share of mistakes, but I also learned a great deal along the way.”
Tempie’s books are available on Amazon, and she also promotes her works at science fiction and literary conventions, where she’s developed a fan following as well as relationships with other authors. She is planning on three more books as part of the book series. In addition to the series, she has written a stand-alone tale called “A Spy Among Them” that features some of the same characters from the series. At least five other books are in the works.
This fall, a new fantasy piece called Where Witches Lie will be published. Tempie’s latest book, set in the United Kingdom, focuses on Dr. Cassie Summers, an archeologist with a gift of seeing visions through the artifacts she holds, who stumbles upon a case involving the burial of thirteen witches.
“I love writing fantasy because it is such a wonderful escape,” she says. “I believe that is also why people like reading fantasy. In this day and time, everyone seems to be looking for a way to take their minds off things happening in a world that can sometimes be a little overwhelming.”
Tempie grew up in a rural town in central Virginia, where she first developed a love of the world of words, thanks to her mother. “As a kid, the bookmobile was my saving grace,” she says. “Twice a month, my mother drove me over to a neighbor’s house to meet it so I could load up on a new set of adventures, including the latest Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys mysteries. Those books were my refuge, and I spent every free moment lost in their pages. Little did I know that one day I would have books of my own sitting on those very shelves.”
Tempie, a mother of two, spent many years as a stay-at-home mother and moved to Williamsburg with her family in 2008. Currently, she works for Preservation Virginia at Historic Jamestowne, greeting visitors at the front counter. “We are the first people our guests see when they come to Historic Jamestowne,” she says. “I absolutely love my job. I have found the perfect home for myself. The 1907 Memorial Church on the island is one of my favorite places in the area. The amount of history there is nothing short of astounding. Archaeologists are actively excavating and something new comes out of the ground every day. I am fortunate to bear witness to this work. I adore history, especially the Historic Triangle area, and many of the ideas for my books come from that love. I can’t think of a better place to look for motivation than in my own backyard. After living here for 15 years, I still learn new things about it all the time.”
Most of her time off is spent traveling to various historic museums, ruins, and sites throughout Virginia. She likes to visit such places for story ideas.
“I like going to out-of-the-way museums,” she says. “The Exchange Hotel Civil War Museum in Gordonsville actually inspired the introductory piece for one of my upcoming novels. I love places like Monticello and Mt. Vernon. George Washington and his Culper Spy Ring are a big part of my main book series, but the smaller museums with the lesser-known stories are always the ones that steal my heart. I hope to find more of those in the future.”
Tempie also enjoys attending sci-fi conventions, both as a guest and as a vendor to promote her works. She’s been to MarsCon as well as RavenCon, an event in Richmond for fans of Edgar Allan Poe; Fairfax ComiCon; and Scares That Care, a sci-fi convention that benefits charities and is held locally at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Williamsburg. The next Scares That Care event is scheduled for April 2024 and will feature science-fiction and fantasy authors and other artists.
“I love going to sci-fi conventions. People of all ages find a place there, from little ones to people in their 70s and 80s, who are all dressed up and having a great time,” Tempie says. “It’s a lot of fun.” In addition to writing, Tempie also does prop work as a hobby, and her pieces have also been a part of the local sci-fi conventions. She has an Etsy store, where she creates and sells vampire hunting kits for cosplayers. She’s made hundreds of kits and often has a waiting list. The kits come with stakes, holy water, garlic, crucifixes, journal pages, and maps. “My daughter got me started on it,” she says. “I have always been a big fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Halloween happens to be my favorite holiday. We tend to go all out. Making the kits is just another creative avenue for me. Some people buy them for their homes, some like to collect them as memorabilia. Some use them for cosplay. One of my kits was even featured on the show, “Preacher.” It is pretty amazing to actually see something you spent so much time creating end up on TV.”
Tempie stays busy between writing and prop work and finds influence in her everyday life as well. Her cat, Darcy, was the inspiration for a horse character in her book series. Before taking a job at Historic Jamestowne, she was writing between six and eight hours a day. She continues to write daily whenever she finds the time. “I often take notes at home and at work,” she says. “My purse is stuffed full of notes and ideas. I’ve made friends all over the world on social media who are writers. We have a good, supportive community, a place where you can find someone who will be there to lend a hand, run ideas by, or give you a boost when you are having a down day.”
Eventually, Tempie Wade would like to offer her expertise to local high school students who may be interested in writing but are unsure where to start. “I’d love to create a program to help young writers who need a little guidance in the right direction,” she says. “Writing is therapeutic, and being able to encourage the next generation to focus on something positive will always be time well spent.” -NDN
