Shane Staley, a luminary in the realm of independent publishing, is best known for his transformative role as the founder and operator of Delirium Books. Born with an insatiable passion for literature and an entrepreneurial spirit, Staley embarked on his journey into the world of publishing at a young age.

After studying English literature in college, Staley recognized a void in the market for genre fiction, particularly horror, dark fantasy, and speculative fiction. In 1999, he founded Delirium Books, a boutique publishing house dedicated to championing emerging voices and pushing the boundaries of genre fiction.

Under Staley’s visionary leadership, Delirium Books quickly gained renown for its uncompromising commitment to quality and innovation. Staley’s keen editorial eye and unwavering dedication to his authors earned him the respect and admiration of both writers and readers alike.

Throughout his tenure at Delirium Books, Staley curated an impressive catalog of more than 200 titles, showcasing the works of both established masters and promising newcomers. From chilling horror anthologies to mind-bending speculative novels, each publication bore the hallmark of Staley’s discerning taste and uncompromising standards.

Beyond his role as a publisher, Staley also served as a mentor and advocate for aspiring authors, offering guidance and support as they navigated the often-daunting world of publishing. His passion for nurturing talent and fostering community within the genre fiction community left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with him.

Though Delirium Books and its connected imprints officially closed in 2017, Staley’s legacy endures as a testament to the transformative power of passion, vision, and unwavering dedication. Today, Shane Staley continues to inspire and influence the world of publishing through his various ventures and remains a beloved figure within the literary community.

—Richard Patrick Spencer
Curator, ShaneRyanStaley.com