Blog

The Power of Grimdark: How Dark Fantasy is Reshaping the Landscape of Epic Fantasy

Explore the transformative power of grimdark fantasy in reshaping epic fantasy. Discover the darker tone, morally ambiguous characters, and realistic worlds that have redefined the genre’s landscape.

The world of epic fantasy has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with the rise of dark fantasy playing a major role in its development.

Grimdark,is a subgenre of fantasy that features a darker, grittier, and more morally ambiguous world than traditional epic fantasy.

This new trend has not only attracted new readers to the fantasy genre, but it has also influenced the way in which epic fantasy is written and perceived.

What are the differences between epic fantasy and dark fantasy?

One of the key differences between dark fantasy and traditional epic fantasy is the tone.

Dark fantasy often explores the darker aspects of humanity and the world, such as death, murder, evil, and corruption—a stark contrast to the more optimistic and hopeful themes found in traditional epic fantasy, where good and evil are often clearly defined and the hero is often destined to triumph.

Where did dark fantasy become popular?

The rise of dark fantasy can be traced back to the early 1960s. However, the success of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, more commonly known as “Game of Thrones,” brought grimdark fantasy to the mainstream. Its popularity has inspired a new wave of grimdark writers.

How has grimdark fantasy influenced epic fantasy?

The influence of grimdark fantasy on epic fantasy can be seen in the way that stories are structured, the themes authors are choosing to explore, and the types of characters who take a central role.

In grimdark fantasy, characters are often morally grey and their motivations are not always clear-cut. This has led to a shift in the way epic fantasy is written, with more complex and morally ambiguous characters being introduced into the genre.

The world in grimdark fantasy is often darker, grittier, and less magical. This has led to a trend in epic fantasy of creating worlds that are more realistic and less fantastical with fewer mythical creatures and low magic.

The influence of grimdark fantasy has had a significant impact on the epic fantasy genre. Its darker tone has challenged the traditional themes and structures of epic fantasy, leading to a shift towards more complex and realistic stories.

If you love grimdark fantasy, you can get my novel Birth of Assassins for free as part of the Ravenglass Universe starter library.

Jon’s author diary – September 22, 2023

Hello from sunny Morecambe!

Welcome back to another episode of my author diary series. In today’s video, we’re diving deep into the world of creativity, ideas, and a pinch of heavy metal!

🗡 Guild of Assassins Update

I’ve made some substantial progress on my upcoming novel, ‘Guild of Assassins,’ and I can’t wait to give you all a sneak peek of what’s to come. This book is shaping up to be an exhilarating adventure you won’t want to miss!

🧟‍♀️ Introducing: Punks Versus Zombies

That’s not all! I’m thrilled to announce a brand-new project: ‘Punks Versus Zombies.’ The first chapter will be posted on my Substack next week. Get ready for a fresh take on the zombie apocalypse that’s as rebellious as it is spine-chilling.

🎵 Currently Reading: Doomed to Fail & Jeish Space Lasers

On the reading front, I recently finished ‘Doomed to Fail,’ a fascinating dive into doom, sludge, and post-metal music genres. If you’re a fan of heavy, slow, and loud music, this book is a must-read.

Now, I’ve moved on to ‘Jewish Space Lasers’’ a book that explores the history of anti-Semitic conspiracy theories. It’s an eye-opening read that I highly recommend.

👉 Get Involved

I’d love to hear from you. What are you reading at the moment? Are you excited about ‘Guild of Assassins’ or ‘Punks Versus Zombies’? Let me know in the comments below!

🔔 Don’t Forget!

If you enjoyed this video, please give it a thumbs up, and if you haven’t already, consider subscribing for more updates. Your support means the world to me!

💌 Stay Connected with Substack

For exclusive content and to be the first to know about my latest projects, subscribe to my Substack: joncronshawauthor.substack.com

Thanks for watching and catch you in the next video!

Cheerio! 📚🎉

From Zelda to Epic Tales: Tracing Hyrule’s Footprints in Contemporary Fantas

Dive into how The Legend of Zelda’s Hyrule influences modern fantasy literature. From time-bending tales to silent heroes, Zelda’s essence lives on in today’s epics.

The Legend of Zelda, with its green-clad hero and captivating world of Hyrule, has been more than just a digital escape for many.

Beyond the pixels, heart containers, and haunting ocarina melodies, it seems Hyrule’s winds have whispered inspiration to the realms of modern fantasy literature.

Let’s dive into that Deku Tree of influence, shall we?

A Link to the Past (and Future):

Time is but a playground in Zelda, particularly in “Ocarina of Time.”

This playful approach to chronology is mirrored in novels like Mark Lawrence’s “Red Queen’s War” series.

Just as Link jumps between timelines, some protagonists grapple with a fluidity of past, present, and potential futures.

Silent Protagonists with Loud Legacies:

Link, the hero of few words, lets his actions speak.

This archetype is echoed in characters like Fitz from Robin Hobb’s “Farseer Trilogy,” whose quiet demeanour masks his true heroism, proving you don’t need words when you’ve got courage (and a Master Sword).

Landscape as Character:

From the fiery depths of Death Mountain to the serene Zora’s Domain, Hyrule is diverse and alive.

Similarly, authors like George R.R. Martin give settings such as the Wall in “A Song of Ice and Fire” a heartbeat, making locales as vital as any character with a speaking role.

Enigmatic Mentors:

Zelda games abound with wise, enigmatic figures, like the owl Kaepora Gaebora.

In literature, the mysterious mentor figure has roots in characters like Gandalf, but newer figures, like Jasnah from Brandon Sanderson’s “Stormlight Archive,” carry that torch (or staff) forward.

Puzzling Plots:

Much as Link often faces intricate puzzles to proceed, readers find similar brain-teasers in books like Erin Morgenstern’s “The Night Circus,” where deciphering the plot feels like unlocking a complex Zelda dungeon.

The Eternal Triangle: Power, Wisdom, Courage:

The Triforce’s triad has found its way into modern tales, symbolising the balance of strengths needed in a hero (or anti-hero).

Patrick Rothfuss’s “Kingkiller Chronicle” displays this balance, with Kvothe seeking power, wisdom, and courage in his tumultuous journey.

Benevolent Royalty and the Weight of Duty:

Princess Zelda is no mere damsel; she’s a beacon of hope, often bearing burdens beyond her royal title.

This theme resonates in characters like Maia from Katherine Addison’s “The Goblin Emperor,” where royalty is both a privilege and a heavy chain of duty.

Linking (pun completely intended) it all together, The Legend of Zelda hasn’t just been a game series.

It’s been a rich tapestry from which contemporary fantasy authors have, perhaps unknowingly, snipped threads to weave into their own sagas.

As the lines between Hyrule and the written page blur, one truth stands tall: in every heart piece of fantasy, a bit of Zelda’s legend lives on.

Capers and Castles: A Guide to the 10 Must-Read Fantasy Novels Featuring Thieves

Discover the captivating world of thieves in fantasy novels. From daring heists to cunning schemes, these must-read books offer action, suspense, and thrilling twists. Explore the top picks that will keep you on the edge of your seat. #fantasybooks #thieves #mustreadnovels

Trial of Thieves by Jon Cronshaw

Fantasy novels often offer a unique twist to traditional crime stories, and tales about thieves are no exception.

Whether it’s a heist gone wrong, a daring escape, or a cunning scheme, these stories are full of action, suspense, and thrilling twists.

Here are ten must-read fantasy novels about thieves that will keep you on the edge of your seat:

1. “The Lies of Locke Lamora” by Scott Lynch.

Set in the city of Camorr, the Gentlemen Bastards series follows the adventures of Locke Lamora and his band of thieves. The books are filled with complex heists, daring escapes, and political machinations, and the characters are both lovable and deeply flawed. Lynch’s writing is sharp and witty, and the world of Camorr is a rich and fully realized setting.

2. “Thief of Time” by Terry Pratchett.

Set in Discworld, this novel follows the adventures of thief-turned-monk Lu-Tze and his journey to prevent Time itself from being stolen. Pratchett’s signature wit and humour shine in this book, making it a must-read for fans of his work.

3. “Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo.

Set in Bradugo’s Grishaverse, this story follows a group of six criminals hired for a nearly impossible heist. With a diverse cast of characters and fast-paced action, Six of Crows is a thrilling ride from start to finish.

4. “Farseer Trilogy” by Robin Hobb.

This classic fantasy series follows the story of FitzChivalry Farseer, an assassin and thief who is forced to navigate the dangerous world of the Six Duchies. Hobb’s writing is rich and descriptive, and the characters are complex and fully realized. Fitz is a compelling protagonist, and his adventures are both thrilling and thought-provoking.

5. “Riyria Revelations” by Michael J. Sullivan.

This six-book series follows the adventures of Royce and Hadrian, two thieves who find themselves caught up in a web of political intrigue and ancient magic. The witty banter between the two leads, combined with Sullivan’s intricate world-building and fast-paced action, make Riyria Revelations a must-read for fans of the genre.

6. “The Master Thief series” by Ben Hale.

A delightful romp through a world of thieves, con artists, and other unsavoury characters. The main character, Jute, is a street thief who finds himself drawn into a larger scheme that will test his skills and loyalty. The books are filled with twists and turns, and the writing is both witty and action-packed.

7. “Lightbringer series” by Brent Weeks.

This series follows the adventures of Gavin Guile, a powerful magician and master thief who must navigate the dangerous world of the Chromeria. Weeks’ writing is fast-paced and action-packed, and the world of the Chromeria is rich and complex. The characters are fully realized, and the twists and turns of the plot will keep you on the edge of your seat.

8. “Mistborn series” by Brandon Sanderson.

Set in the world of Scadrial, the Mistborn series follows the story of Vin, a young thief who discovers she has the ability to use magic. Sanderson’s writing is fast-paced and action-packed, and the world of Scadrial is rich and complex. Vin’s journey from street urchin to powerful Allomancer is both thrilling and heart-warming, and the twists and turns of the plot will keep you on the edge of your seat.

9. “Thief of Magic” by Trudi Canavan.

This second book in the Millennium’s Rule series follows the adventures of Rielle, a young thief who discovers she has a talent for magic.

10. “The Thief’s Gamble” by Juliet E. McKenna.

This book is the first in a series of novels that follow the adventures of Kaira, a young thief who finds herself caught up in a world of magic and political intrigue. With a strong and likable protagonist, fast-paced action, and intricate world-building, The Thief’s Gamble is a must-read.

If you love fantasy with thieves, you can get my novel Birth of Assassins for free as part of the Ravenglass Universe starter library.

Jon’s author diary – September 15, 2023

Welcome back to another edition of my weekly Author Diary.

🚨 This week is a bit different 🚨
I haven’t managed to write any fiction this week. I’ve been under the weather and taking it easy to get back to full health. 🤒 However, I’ve been doing some reading in between my rest periods. I delved into “The Ultimate History of Video Games Volume 2,” explored the intricacies of “Colonialism: A World History,” and also read “Sellout.” Fantastic reads and highly recommended!

🎉 Exciting News! Indie Author Mastermind is LIVE 🎉
Though I’ve not been working on my stories, I’ve been super productive in another realm. I’ve set up a brand new blog on Substack—Indie Author Mastermind. It’s designed to help aspiring indie authors navigate the maze of self-publishing and create a sustainable income from their writing.

🔗 Check it out here: Indie Author Mastermind

Imaginary Icons: The Coolest Mythical Creatures in Fantasy

Discover the coolest mythical creatures in fantasy! From dragons to unicorns, explore the fascinating world of fantasy creatures and their powers. Unleash your imagination with these legendary beings.

Fantasy is a genre filled with endless possibilities and imagination.

One of its defining features is the presence of mythical creatures, each with its own unique powers, abilities, and backstory.

From dragons to centaurs, these creatures have captured the imagination of people for centuries.

Here are some of the coolest mythical creatures in fantasy:

1. Dragons.

One of the most iconic creatures in fantasy, dragons have been depicted in countless stories, films, and games. They are known for their immense size, strength, and the ability to breathe fire.

2. Griffins.

A hybrid creature with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle, griffins are known for their courage and strength. They are also associated with guarding treasures and acting as protectors.

3. Merfolk.

Mysterious creatures of the sea, the merfolk have captivated audiences for centuries. They are known for their singing voices and enchanting powers, but also for their dangerous and unpredictable nature.

4. Centaurs.

Half-horse and half-human, centaurs are known for their speed and strength. They are often depicted as wild and untamed creatures, but they can also be wise and noble.

5. Minotaurs.

With the head of a bull and the body of a man, minotaurs are fierce and powerful creatures. They are often depicted as living in labyrinths and guarding treasures.

6. Unicorns.

These majestic creatures are known for their beauty and grace. They are also believed to possess magical powers and bring good luck to those who see them.

7. Phoenixes.

Mythical birds known for their ability to rise from the ashes of their own death, reborn anew. They are associated with renewal, hope, and immortality.

8. Goblins.

Mischievous and malevolent creatures, goblins are often depicted as living underground and causing trouble for humans. Despite their dark reputation, they can also be portrayed as creative and resourceful.

9. Giants.

Huge and powerful beings, giants are often depicted as lumbering and slow, but their size and strength make them formidable foes.

10. Elementals.

Creatures made of earth, air, fire, or water, elementals are known for their mastery of nature.

These are just a few of the many cool mythical creatures found in fantasy. Whether they are depicted as fearsome beasts or magical beings, they continue to capture our imaginations and inspire new tales and legends.

Don’t miss out on your chance to claim the free Ravenglass Universe starter library today!

Dive into a captivating world of fantasy, adventure, and magic with this exclusive collection of books.

How Final Fantasy Has Shaped Modern Fantasy Literature

Explore the influence of the iconic ‘Final Fantasy’ video game series on contemporary fantasy literature, from world-building to character complexity. Dive into the parallel universes!

Final Fantasy, the video game series that’s been anything but ‘final’, has made a considerable impact not just on the gaming world, but also on the pages of contemporary fantasy literature.

So, how exactly did a bunch of pixelated characters hopping across our screens wield such influence over authors and their hefty tomes?

Chocobos to Giant Hawks?

The first, and possibly most important, aspect is the sheer scope of the worlds Square Enix created.

If you’ve read any of Patrick Rothfuss’s “Kingkiller Chronicle”, you may have noticed his world’s depth, from the currency system to the layout of the University.

Much like the intricate maps and city layouts of Final Fantasy, it seems Rothfuss might’ve spent a wee bit too much time in virtual taverns.

Eco-Crisis Alert!

Environmental issues, from the lifeforce-sapping Mako Reactors in FFVII to the Sin-tainted oceans of FFX, run deep.

N.K. Jemisin, in her “Broken Earth” series, paints a world under ecological collapse.

Coincidence?

Well, maybe. But who wouldn’t fancy a ride on the Highwind while navigating through a post-apocalyptic Earth?

Character Complexity

You thought Cloud’s and Squall’s angst was reserved for teenagers with oversized swords?

Think again.

The nuanced character development we see, especially in later FF titles, mirrors the emotional depth and complexity found in characters like Kaladin from Brandon Sanderson’s “Stormlight Archive.”

Moody hero with hidden depth? Check.

 Not-so-Side Quests

Just as in the games, where a side quest could lead to acquiring that elusive ultimate weapon, authors like Sarah J. Maas in her “Throne of Glass” series often indulge in side plots that are just as compelling as the main narrative.

Sometimes, they even steal the show.

 Mixing Technology and Magic

FF has always toyed with the balance between the mystical and the mechanical.

A theme picked up by authors like Brian McClellan in his “Powder Mage” trilogy where gunpowder sits alongside sorcery, lending the stories a similar charm to FF’s technological landscapes brimming with magic.

In the end, while it’s a playful stretch to claim that every modern fantasy author has a hidden stash of FF games under their bed, there’s no denying the influence of this legendary series.

It’s as if the literary realm looked at Final Fantasy and thought, “Well, why should video games have all the fun?”

The Dark Side of Fantasy: Why Readers Love Books Featuring Assassins

Discover the allure of assassins in fantasy books. From their lethal skills to mysterious motivations, explore why readers love these intriguing and complex characters in the dark side of fantasy tales.

Step into a world where danger lurks in the shadows, where mystery hangs in the air, and where cunning becomes a deadly art.

Assassins, the captivating figures of the fantasy realm, have stolen the hearts of readers everywhere.

Uncover the secrets behind their irresistible allure as we delve into why these enigmatic characters hold a special place in the hearts of fantasy enthusiasts.

Brace yourself for a thrilling journey into the realm of assassins!

The Art of Assassination

Assassins are known for their lethal skills and cunning strategies, which can make for thrilling and suspenseful reading. The idea of a skilled assassin carrying out a carefully planned hit is a captivating one, and the action and tension that follows only adds to the excitement.

The Mystery and Intrigue

Assassins often work in the shadows, and their motivations and allegiances are often shrouded in mystery. This makes for intriguing reading, as readers are always wondering what the assassin’s next move will be and what their true motives are.

The Anti-Hero Archetype

Like thieves, assassins often fall into the category of anti-heroes, which means they have both good and bad qualities. This makes them complex, multi-dimensional characters that are interesting to read about, as readers are never quite sure what they will do next.

The Personal Journey

Many assassin characters are on a personal journey, whether it’s a quest for redemption or a journey of self-discovery. This can make them relatable and allows readers to connect with them on a deeper level.

The Fantasy Element

Fantasy novels often take place in fantastical worlds, and the inclusion of assassins adds another layer of danger and excitement to the story. Whether they are using magic or other fantastical elements to carry out their hits..

If you love fantasy with assassins, you can get my novel Birth of Assassins for free as part of the Ravenglass Universe starter library.

Walk the Line of Morality: 10 Fantasy Novels with Thieving Protagonists

Dive into fantasy’s darker corners with our top 10 novels featuring cunning thief heroes, who prove that sometimes, moral ambiguity steals the show.

In the usual realm of swords, sorcery, dragons and direwolves, aren’t we all occasionally partial to a protagonist that’s a bit, well… shifty?

I’m not talking about the big muscle-bound, honour-bound heroes that are as predictable as the British weather, I’m talking about the sneak-thieves, the tricksters, the rogues!

There’s something devilishly enjoyable about a character that walks the line of morality, their pockets full of ill-gotten goods, their minds full of cunning plans, and their hearts (eventually, after some character development) full of the right intentions.

So, buckle up as we take a tour of fantasy’s ten finest novels where the heroes are thieves, and the morals are as loose as a poorly-fastened coin purse.

1. “The Lies of Locke Lamora” by Scott Lynch:

In the gloomy yet enthralling city of Camorr, young Locke Lamora isn’t just a thief—he’s a bloody artist, he is.

His plots aren’t petty pickpocketing, but intricate scams comparable to a masterpiece painting, each stroke of deceit layered carefully to create an overall image of bromance.

Picture an underworld Ocean’s Eleven, with a dash of Italian renaissance and a liberal helping of naughty words.

One might say it’s crime at its most entertainingly convoluted.

If you fancy your thieves with a bit of style and a whole lot of cunning, then Mr. Lynch’s work might be right up your crooked alley.

2. “Theft of Swords” by Michael J. Sullivan:

Ever seen a pair of thieves who can banter as smoothly as they can pilfer?

Meet Hadrian and Royce, the dynamic duo of larceny, the jesters of jeopardy, the… you get the idea.

These two might be the most likeable robbers you’ll ever read about.

Expect swordplay, sarcasm and situations so sticky they’d put a jar of Marmite to shame.

3. “Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo:

This ensemble cast of characters, led by the wily thief Kaz Brekker, are about as far from virtuous knights as you can get.

Bardugo creates a motley crew of criminals and misfits, each with their own set of unique skills, emotional baggage, and snappy one-liners.

The group’s mission? To infiltrate an impenetrable fortress, of course!

What could possibly go wrong?

4. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien:

Remember our good old friend Bilbo Baggins?

Yes, that cuddly, comfort-loving hobbit who got dragged on a journey by thirteen dwarves and a wizard with an apparent disregard for proper notice.

Hired as a burglar to reclaim the dwarves’ treasure from Smaug the dragon, Bilbo might be the most unlikely, and yet most endearing, thief in all of fantasy literature.

5. “The Queen’s Thief” series by Megan Whalen Turner:

If you’re a fan of political intrigue, clever schemes, and a thief who’s a touch more regal than your average cutpurse, then you’ll love Gen, the protagonist of this enthralling series.

Starting with “The Thief,” the series follows Gen’s evolution from a simple (if ridiculously talented) thief to a player in the highest echelons of power.

6. “Among Thieves” by Douglas Hulick:

What’s that? You want more thieves? Well, I hope you’re not tired of twisty alleyways and shadowy figures because that’s exactly what you’re getting in the form of Drothe, a Nose (information gatherer) for one of the criminal organizations in the city of Ildrecca.

With its gritty atmosphere and compelling plot, you’ll feel like you’re right there in the criminal underworld (without the risk of being pickpocketed).

7. “Mistborn: The Final Empire” by Brandon Sanderson:

Our next stop on the larceny express takes us to the heart of the “Mistborn” series.

The story begins in a city oppressed under the iron fist of the Lord Ruler, where our resourceful heroine Vin exists as part of a thieving crew.

But Vin isn’t just any common thief—she’s a Mistborn, able to consume metals and gain powers from them.

She’s soon embroiled in a plot to overthrow the tyrant, and you can bet your last bent copper that there will be heists, intrigue, and a fair amount of metal-fuelled mayhem.

8. “The Blacktongue Thief” by Christopher Buehlman:

This is a tale with a fresh and compelling voice that might just swipe the top spot on your favourite thieves list.

Our main character, Kinch Na Shannack, is a thief trained by the Takers Guild (so he’s got a professional edge, you see).

He owes the guild an awful lot of money (or ‘guilders’ as they call it), so he’s trying to earn… or, let’s be honest, steal, his way out of debt.

He’s sardonic, rough around the edges, and utterly captivating.

This book is a wild, action-packed ride filled with danger, dark humour, and a dash of magic.every.

9. “The Palace Job” by Patrick Weekes:

Want some audacious heists with a side of snappy dialogue and a diverse cast of characters?

Look no further than “The Palace Job.”

This tale follows Loch and her eccentric crew (which includes a death priestess and a unicorn, among others) as they attempt to steal from the most secure building in the Republic.

It’s Ocean’s Eleven meets high fantasy, and it’s every bit as delightful as that sounds.

10. “Master Thief” series by Ben Hale:

Rounding off our list, we have Ben Hale’s “Master Thief” series.

Here, we follow the (mis)adventures of Jack Myst, the titular master thief who’s so adept at his craft that he’s practically an artist.

Well, an artist in stealing everything from precious gems to tightly guarded secrets.

The story is a delightful romp of thievery set against a backdrop of a richly built world.

And Jack? Well, he’s as charismatic a rogue as they come.

So, go ahead, immerse yourself in these fascinating worlds of fantasy where the thieves reign supreme.

Remember, though—stealing is wrong.

But reading about it? Now that’s a crime I’m willing to commit.

The Heroines Who Wear the Crown: Princess Protagonists in Modern Fantasy

Explore the evolution of princess protagonists in fantasy literature, from damsels in distress to empowered heroines with depth, agency, and nuance. Dive into their captivating tales.

From magical kingdoms to epic quests, princess protagonists have long captivated readers of fantasy literature.

While early fantasy works often portrayed princesses as damsels in distress or prizes to be won, modern takes on the archetype have brought nuance, depth and agency to these royal heroines.

 Let’s explore some of the most influential princess protagonists in contemporary fantasy novels and what makes them so impactful.

A Leader of Legends: Eilonwy in The Chronicles of Prydain

Though Lloyd Alexander’s The Chronicles of Prydain often takes a lighthearted tone, the series broaches serious themes of war, death and finding inner strength. At its heart is Princess Eilonwy, a headstrong young girl grappling with her magical gifts and her role in saving the mythical land of Prydain. Far from a passive damsel, Eilonwy shows courage and cleverness from the start, often rescuing the hero rather than waiting to be rescued. Her matter-of-fact personality and dry wit add humor to the epic journey. Eilonwy emerges a wise, powerful leader who chooses duty over love – a subversion of classic princess tropes.

The Girl Who Would Be Queen: Aerin in The Hero and the Crown

Aerin, the heroine of Robin McKinley’s acclaimed novel The Hero and the Crown, is a fascinating study in duality. As the ignored daughter of the king, she is no one’s idea of a princess, much less a future queen. Shy and bookish, she seems an unlikely hero. Yet through grit and ingenuity, Aerin overcomes deadly dragons and becomes a battle-tested warrior. She claims both her magical heritage and her rightful place on the throne, proving that a princess’s power lies within. McKinley crafts a psychologically complex, inspiring character who finds greatness by being wholly herself.

The Princess as Warrior: Angharad in The Green Rider

Kristen Britain’s Green Rider series whisks readers away to an enchanted world on the brink of war. Standing strong against looming darkness is Princess Angharad, heir to the empire. Though a skilled fighter, Angharad’s true power lies in uniting allies toward a common cause. Her keen sense of diplomacy complements her warrior skills, showing that mind and muscle can partner in a strong leader. Angharad must navigate complex family dynamics and political intrigues while staying true to her principles of loyalty and justice. She proves a princess can fight battles both on the battlefield and in the cutthroat royal court.

Princess of Shadow: Elisa in The Girl of Fire and Thorns

Rae Carson’s The Girl of Fire and Thorns follows Princess Elisa, who must shed her insecurities to embrace her destiny as a prophesized ruler. Marked by a magical stone in her navel, Elisa is blessed – or cursed – with an ancient power, and hunted by dark forces who want to control it. Though born a princess, Elisa begins an unlikely hero, overweight and uncertain. Through painful growth and loss, she taps into her hidden strengths to claim her birthright and stand against evil. Elisa’s transformation inspires readers to look beyond the surface and find the spirit of the warrior princess within.

The Princess and the Commoner: Sophie in Howl’s Moving Castle

Diana Wynne Jones’ fantastical Howl’s Moving Castle stars Sophie, the eldest of three sisters doomed to fail in her fairy tale world. When she’s turned into an old crone by a jealous witch, plucky Sophie refuses to accept her fate. She bargains her way into an apprenticeship with the wizard Howl and finds magic, adventure and even true love. Sophie uses wit and indignation to become a powerful sorceress in her own right, proving that destiny is what you make it. Though a commoner, she ultimately wins over Howl, resolving the tension between princess and peasant that permeates fairy tales.

The Warrior Heir: Princess Cimorene in Dealing with Dragons

In Patricia C. Wrede’s endearing Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Princess Cimorene bucks tradition by running away to become a dragon’s princess. Cimorene’s practicality, competence and no-nonsense attitude make her an untraditional yet beloved heroine. She slays stereotypes of princesses as demure and passive.

The Clever Spy: Princess Irene in The Princess and the Goblin

In George MacDonald’s classic The Princess and the Goblin, young Princess Irene displays courage and wit. When her kingdom is threatened by sinister goblins, Irene devises clever traps and strategies to defeat them. She proves you can fight evil with intelligence just as well as strength.

The Beast Charmer: Beauty in Robin McKinley’s Beauty

Robin McKinley puts a fresh spin on the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast in her novel Beauty. As the title character, Beauty must navigate her shifting feelings for the Beast while defending her kingdom from political unrest. Her empathy and inner strength enable her to gently tame the Beast and restore peace.

The Summoner: Aru Shah in Aru Shah and the End of Time

In Roshani Chokshi’s Pandava series, 12-year-old Aru Shah can summon ancient Hindu gods and goddesses. When she accidentally sparks the evil god of time, Aru must undertake a dangerous journey to turn back the clock. Smart and brave, Aru proves you don’t need a crown to be a hero.

The Reluctant Ruler: Sophos in Megan Whalen Turner’s The Queen’s Thief series

Sophos is an unlikely king – timid and bookish, he’s more scholar than ruler. Yet in Megan Whalen Turner’s Queen’s Thief books, Sophos displays quiet strength and care for his people. Though he never expected the crown, Sophos grows into a just, compassionate leader.

The Assassin Who Would Be Queen: Celaena Sardothien in Throne of Glass

Sarah J. Maas’ bestselling Throne of Glass series introduces Celaena Sardothien, a legendary teenage assassin sentenced to toil in the salt mines of Endovier. Offered a chance at freedom if she wins a competition to become the king’s champion, Celaena must summon the strength to once again embrace her deadly talents. Behind her fierce exterior, she hides a painful past and greater destiny as future Queen of Terrasen.

These princess protagonists capture the hearts of fantasy fans by showing courage, intelligence and growth.

While honoured for their royal blood, they rely on their personal strengths—quick wits, martial skill, humility in the face of destiny.

They lead with wisdom and prove girls can be the heroines of their own stories.

Fantasy authors continue to move princess characters to the foreground, making them complex individuals rather than lovely figures in the background.

%d bloggers like this: