My name is Christopher Nolen. I’m an American writer and video game designer living in Bordeaux, France.

My name is a letter away from a certain famous director, so I publish under my childhood nickname C.J. to appease the algorithm gods.

Writer

I write fiction that blends literary and genre vibes. My first novel is a fantasy murder mystery masquerading as a novel of manners.  Somehow, that’s getting a sequel.

The Talavara Prophecy is a YA Literary Fantasy Series. Other projects are in the pipeline.

Book cover titled "The First Whispers of Fate" by C.J. Nolen, displayed on an e-reader and a physical book, featuring a ship sailing on stormy seas with a mask in flames at the bottom.

Reader Praise for The First Whispers of Fate:

“Part Epic Fantasy, part Murder Mystery, dripping with Jane Austin vibes.”

“C.J. has a gift for creating rich worlds and dynamic characters with a writing style that’s sure to delight readers.

Game Maker

I am one of the cofounders of Goo Monster Studio, a small independent video game studio.

Our debut title is a goofy sandbox shooter that plays like modded UT99 cranked to 11. Coming to Steam soon(ish).

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Most of them feel like they’re manufacturing content to meet some arbitrary frequency goal. I don’t send out a newsletter unless I have something to share. Things like release dates. You know—NEWS.

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