Turtledove published his first two novels, Wereblood and Werenight, in 1979, under the pseudonym "Eric G. Iverson". Turtledove later explained that his editor at Belmont Towers did not think people would believe the author's real name was "Turtledove" and suggested that he come up with something more Nordic.
He is married to mystery writer Laura Frankos. They have three daughters: Alison, Rachel, and Rebecca.