Upcoming Release

Return to Kalanon

October 2026

The fourth book in the Agents of Kalanon series is nearly here. Pre-order your copy of Mercury’s Return now through Amazon or buy your copy in person at
Auckland Armageddon October 2026.

As Seen At
Armageddon Expo New Zealand
Auckland Zine Fest
Supanova Australia

Bibliography

Books by Darian Smith

Since his writing journey began, Darian has written a wide variety of books across several genres that frequently combine psychological theory with storytelling craft to create memorable characters and settings. If you’re a lover of sci-fi, fantasy, or urban paranormal stories, there might be a book for you.

“I loved this book for its originality – part murder mystery, part political thriller and part high fantasy. And it balances all three elements with such ease! It’s a compelling read as well. I read it within 2 days. I couldn’t put it down once I reached the 60% point! Wonderfully detailed and evocative characters which, like any good murder mystery, leaves you guessing all the way to the disclosure in the climax. Strongly recommend this book.”

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Phil, Good Reads user

Review for Kalanon's Rising

“A common thread among sequels is that they’re worse then their predecessor but that simply isn’t the case here. Not only does this book build on all its foundations it’s left questions regarding the world in which it takes place that I desperately want answers to because Smith’s writing is just that good. It’s descriptive, addictive and simply an amazing read. If you’ve read the first book this one is no let down.”

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Kieren, Good Reads user

Review for Starlight's Children

“Smith does an excellent job in making you feel her suffering and trauma over her loss and previous experiences without falling into sentimental cliches or painting her as a weak victim. I really enjoyed the combination her of strength and vulnerability. […] I recommend this book to anyone who likes romantic and/or supernatural suspense stories. It’s well-written with rich descriptions of small town New Zealand, engaging characters and an intriguing storyline weaving together the past with the present.”

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Debbie, Good Reads user

Review for Currents of Change

Biography

About the author

Darian Smith is a New Zealand fantasy and speculative fiction author based in Auckland. He has a background in both psychology and counselling, holding degrees in Psychology and English as well as a Diploma of Counselling. He holds two Koru Awards, a Sir Julius Vogel Award, and won the SpecFicNZ/Steam Press manuscript competition for the first Agents of Kalanon book, Kalanon’s Rising.

By day, he works with people who have bleeding disorders such as haemophilia. He is also a qualified family therapist and can be seen – by those very swift with the pause button – on television shows such as Legend of the Seeker and Spartacus.

Darian Smith