Nicholas James Wagner is a writer, musician and independent filmmaker from Ft. Belvoir, Virginia. He was born to Sergeant Major Bryan James Wagner and Chief Warrant Officer Sonia Funes Wagner, both deceased United States Army.

He graduated from the College of William and Mary with a double major in History and English Literature. His notable works include the short story collections Razor Country and Bedlam Trances, as well as the horror film Shelter for the Bloodstained Soul. He plays music under the name shadowladder.