Dive into this week’s Author Diary as I tackle a variety of writing projects, from editing a sequel to revisiting a prequel, and even venturing into festive zombie territory!
📝 Editing “Forged in Blood”:
I’m deep into the editing process for “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series. It’s always a detailed task to refine the narrative, enhance character development, and ensure the plot twists keep readers on the edge of their seats. This stage is crucial for bringing the polished version of the story to life.
📚 Revisiting “Scoundrels”:
After a year, I’ve returned to “Scoundrels,” a prequel to the Dawn of Assassins series. Diving back into this story is like reconnecting with an old friend and rediscovering their secrets. It’s fascinating to explore the backstory that sets the stage for the events and dynamics in the main series.
🎅 Writing “Santa Versus Zombies”:
In a lighter, more whimsical vein, I penned a short story titled “Santa Versus Zombies.” This festive, fun piece provided a great creative outlet, blending the cheer of the holiday season with the thrill of a zombie apocalypse. It was a delightful project that offered a humorous break from my more intense writing.
🚶♂️ Completing “Niamh’s Journey”:
I also wrapped up “Niamh’s Journey,” a side story in the Punks Versus Zombies series. Finishing this narrative provided closure for a thread that added depth and perspective to the main storyline.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on handling multiple projects, or your experiences with returning to a story after a long break.
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights and updates from my journey through worlds both deadly and whimsical!
In this week’s Author Diary, I celebrate a significant milestone in my writing journey and share my plans for the coming weeks as the seasons change.
📖 Completing “Forged in Blood”:
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve completed the draft of “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series. Finishing this draft marks a major achievement in the development of the series, and I’m looking forward to the next stages of editing and refining.
📚 Current Reading:
Continuing my literary exploration, I’m currently delving into “Illuminatus Part II” by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson. This series, known for its complex narrative and intriguing themes, provides a thought-provoking read that perfectly complements the darker, introspective months.
🕰️ Adjusting to Seasonal Changes:
With the clocks changing and the onset of colder weather, I’m mindful of the impact this time of year tends to have on me, notably Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In anticipation, I plan to take things a bit easier over the next few weeks, allowing myself some needed rest and recalibration to stay healthy and maintain my creative output.
🍁 Looking Ahead:
During this quieter period, I will be focusing on self-care, continuing my reading, and beginning the initial edits on “Forged in Blood.” It’s important to balance productivity with personal health, and I’m committed to managing both as we move into November.
I’d love to hear how you adjust to seasonal changes and manage your creative projects during these times. Do you find certain times of the year more challenging or inspiring? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and updates from my journey as an author!
In this week’s Author Diary, I share my experiences from Fantasycon, delve into new and ongoing writing projects, and explore some intriguing reads.
🏰 Fantasycon Adventures:
This past weekend at Fantasycon was a whirlwind of inspiration and connection. Participating in panels, enjoying the banquet, and meeting both fellow authors and avid readers was fantastic. It’s always exhilarating to be part of such a dynamic gathering of creative minds.
🎩 Crafting a New Lord Sidebottom Tale:
In the spirit of Halloween, I’ve started working on a new Lord Sidebottom story. This steampunk adventure promises to be as wacky and inventive as its protagonist, perfectly fitting for the spooky season. I’ll be posting this as a free story on my Patreon on October 31! Visit: patreon.com/joncronshawauthor
🗡️ Progress on “Forged in Blood”:
I’m also nearing the completion of “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series. Currently 80% through the draft, the final stages are both the most challenging and exciting as I tighten the narrative and escalate towards a compelling climax.
📖 Reading Update:
After finishing “The Eye in the Pyramid,” the first book of the Illuminatus! trilogy by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson, I’m still processing its wild and intricate narrative. Now, I’ve moved on to “Incarcerat,” part of the TerrorTome series by Garth Marenghi. This horror parody offers a refreshing and humorous take on the genre, proving to be an entertaining read.
I’d love to hear about your experiences at conventions, any Halloween-themed stories you’re working on, or your thoughts on blending humour with horror in literature.
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights from my author’s journey!
This week’s Author Diary is a testament to the challenges and triumphs of the creative process, even when under the weather.
🤒 Battling Illness:
Despite being ill this week, I pressed on with my writing commitments. It’s often difficult to maintain momentum during such times, but staying connected to my projects helps keep my spirits up.
I managed to add about 10,000 words to “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series
📘 Reading Updates:
I wrapped up “Fake Heroes” by Otto English, a compelling read that offers sharp insights into cultural and historical narratives.
Moving on, I’ve started “Vengeful Spirit,” part of the expansive Horus Heresy series. Diving into this new book has been a great way to escape and recuperate, immersing myself in the rich lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
📅 Looking Ahead:
As I recover and continue with “Forged in Blood,” I look forward to regaining my full strength and embracing the creative challenges ahead.
Next week, I hope to share more positive updates and perhaps some insights from my journey through the Horus Heresy series.
I’d love to hear about how you cope with setbacks and continue to find inspiration in your projects or readings. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights from my author’s life and the perseverance that drives it!
Welcome to this week’s Author Diary where I celebrate a major writing milestone, dive into a gripping novel, and enjoy some of the best performances from this year’s Glastonbury festival
📘 Finishing “The Knight and the Rebel”: I’m thrilled to share that I’ve completed the draft of “The Knight and the Rebel,” book 3 in the Ravenglass Legends series. Reaching the end of a draft is always a significant moment, filled with a mix of relief and excitement as I begin to look ahead to the editing phase and eventually sharing this story with you all.
📚 Reading “Poison Study” by Maria V. Snyder: This week, I enjoyed delving into Maria V. Snyder’s “Poison Study,” an engaging and beautifully crafted novel that captivates from the first page. It’s always refreshing to get lost in such a well-written story, and it’s provided some wonderful inspiration.
🎤 Glastonbury Highlights: Catching up on this year’s Glastonbury festival has been a delight. I especially enjoyed performances by Alvvays, LCD Soundsystem, James Blake, PJ Harvey, and James. Each artist brought their unique style to the stage, making for an eclectic and enjoyable musical experience.
As I transition from writing to revising “The Knight and the Rebel,” and reflecting on the creative energies from Glastonbury and “Poison Study,” I am reminded of the vibrant and diverse world of art and expression. I’m eager to bring these influences into my future work.
Feel free to share your recent creative milestones, thoughts on “Poison Study,” or your favorite performances from Glastonbury. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into my author’s life and the ongoing journey through storytelling!
Dive into this week’s Author Diary as I share exciting progress on my latest writing project, revisit a favorite novel, and indulge in musical creativity.
📖 Progress on “The Knight and the Rebel”: This week, I’ve reached an important milestone in “The Knight and the Rebel” (Ravenglass Legends book 3), hitting the midpoint of Maja’s POV. It’s a pivotal moment that’s both challenging and thrilling, as it shapes the direction of the story and deepens the narrative layers.
🎸 Rediscovering Music: Alongside writing, I’ve been reconnecting with my musical side, playing music and writing songs. Returning to this creative outlet has been refreshing and invigorating, providing a wonderful balance to my literary endeavors. The joy of crafting melodies and lyrics reminds me of the interconnectedness of all creative expressions.
📺 & 📚 From Screen to Page: I’ve just finished watching “The Three-Body Problem” on Netflix and decided to revisit the novel by Cixin Liu. Watching the adaptation brought new insights and perspectives, compelling me to dive back into Liu’s intricate universe in the book. It’s fascinating to compare the visual and textual interpretations of such a complex story.
As I balance writing, music, and reading, I’m reminded of the richness that diverse creative practices bring to my overall artistic journey. I look forward to seeing how these varied influences will weave into my future projects.
Share your experiences with balancing different creative outlets, or your thoughts on “The Three-Body Problem,” either the series or the book. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates from my author’s life and explorations in storytelling!
Explore how the surreal and eclectic music of Mr. Bungle can inspire fantasy writers to blend genres, embrace the absurd, and innovate with narrative style, enhancing their storytelling with a touch of musical chaos.
In the realm of fantasy literature, where worlds are bound only by the limits of imagination, finding unique sources of inspiration is crucial.
For writers looking to inject a dose of the extraordinary into their narratives, the eclectic and often surreal music of Mr. Bungle offers a treasure trove of creative cues.
Known for their genre-defying soundscapes and theatrical flair, Mr. Bungle transcends conventional musical boundaries, providing a rich palette for fantasy writers seeking to spice up their creations.
The Art of Blending Genres
Mr. Bungle is infamous for their fearless fusion of genres—from metal and funk to jazz and circus music—creating a sound that is as unpredictable as it is compelling.
Fantasy writers can take a leaf out of Mr. Bungle’s book by mixing elements from various fantasy subgenres.
Imagine a world where high fantasy meets steampunk, or dark fantasy is infused with comic relief, much like how a Mr. Bungle track might weave heavy riffs with whimsical carnival tunes.
This approach not only sets a work apart but also enriches the narrative landscape, offering readers an experience as unexpected and refreshing as the band’s music.
Embracing the Absurd
Mr. Bungle’s lyrics often delve into the absurd, drawing on bizarre and grotesque imagery that challenges the listener’s perception of reality.
Fantasy writers can draw inspiration from this willingness to explore the strange and the surreal.
By incorporating elements of the absurd into their worlds—be it through peculiar characters, surreal environments, or illogical rules that govern the world—authors can create a distinct narrative voice that captures the imagination in uniquely profound ways.
Creating Complex Characters
The members of Mr. Bungle are known for their theatricality and ability to assume various personas, much like actors in a play.
This fluid identity is something fantasy writers can use to develop their characters.
Just as a Mr. Bungle song might shift perspectives and tones, characters in fantasy novels can be crafted with layers that reveal complexity and depth over time, surprising readers and adding a dynamic quality to the storytelling.
Utilizing Rich Symbolism
Mr. Bungle’s music is rife with symbolism, using sounds and lyrics to evoke emotions and ideas.
Fantasy writers can similarly enrich their narratives with symbols drawn from their worlds’ unique cultures and mythologies.
Whether it’s a cursed relic, a sacred animal, or a weather phenomenon peculiar to the fictional land, these symbols can deepen the thematic resonance of the story, much like how a haunting melody might underscore a pivotal moment in a song.
The Power of Unpredictability
If there’s one thing Mr. Bungle teaches us, it’s the power of unpredictability.
Their music never follows a predictable path, often veering off into unexpected directions.
In fantasy writing, maintaining an element of surprise can keep the readers engaged and on their toes.
Plot twists, unconventional world rules, or mysterious character motives—all these can make the narrative as thrilling and innovative as a Mr. Bungle album.
In the symphony of fantasy writing, drawing inspiration from a band like Mr. Bungle reminds us that the conventional can always be twisted into something spectacularly novel.
Just as the band blends disparate musical styles to create something entirely new, fantasy writers are challenged to meld diverse elements into their narratives, crafting worlds that resonate with originality and vibrancy.
So, tune into your favourite Mr. Bungle track, let the fusion of sounds transport you, and channel that creative energy into your writing.
Who knows what fantastic realms you might dream up with a little musical inspiration from one of the most avant-garde bands in the history of alternative music?
Join me in this week’s Author Diary as I gear up for the exciting launch of “Guild of Assassins,” dive into some captivating reading, and continue my work on ongoing projects.
📘 Preparing for “Guild of Assassins” Launch: The launch of “Guild of Assassins” is just around the corner, and preparations are in full swing. This phase is always thrilling as everything starts coming together—from final edits to marketing strategies. I’m eager to share this new installment with you all and hope it captivates and entertains.
📖 Current Reading: This week, I’ve been engrossed in “Rip It Up and Start Again,” a fascinating book about the post-punk music scene. It’s an insightful exploration of the genre’s evolution and its impact, offering great inspiration and a break from the writing routine.
📝 Writing Updates:
“Wyvern Rider”: I managed to draft a new chapter for “Wyvern Rider,” further developing the story’s complex world and deepening the characters’ journeys.
“Punks Versus Zombies”: Additionally, I’ve written two new episodes for “Punks Versus Zombies.” Keeping the narrative fresh and engaging in this series is always a fun challenge.
As I balance book launch preparations with writing and reading, I look forward to the new insights and developments each brings. Stay tuned for more updates on the launch and my creative progress next week.
I’d love to hear what you’re reading or how you manage multiple creative projects. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into my author’s life and journey through the worlds I create!
Discover how “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” offers unexpected fantasy writing lessons, exploring character flaws, plot twists, and satire. A guide for fantasy authors seeking to enrich their narratives with darkly comedic elements.
In the labyrinthine world of fantasy writing, inspiration can bubble up from the most unexpected fountains.
Yet, beneath its chaotic surface, this series offers a trove of insights for the fantasy writer willing to look beyond the conventional.
Let’s delve into the grimy taverns and shadowy alleys of Philadelphia, drawing parallels to the murky depths of the fantasy realm.
Embracing Flawed Characters
At the heart of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” is a quintet of characters who are as flawed as they come—selfish, cunning, and delightfully unheroic.
Fantasy writers can glean much from this portrayal, crafting protagonists who are not just the valiant heroes typical of the genre but are complex, fallible beings whose questionable morals drive the narrative.
This complexity adds layers to the story, making characters resonate with realism and unpredictability.
Rich, Layered Conflict
Conflict in “It’s Always Sunny” often arises from the characters’ own decisions, spiralling into situations as absurd as they are enlightening.
Fantasy writers can adopt this dynamic, letting their characters’ choices and flaws be the genesis of conflict.
This internal source of strife, rather than external forces like marauding dragons or evil sorcerers, can yield a plot that is intensely personal and compelling.
Unpredictable Plot Twists
The unpredictable nature of the plot in “It’s Always Sunny” keeps viewers on their toes.
Fantasy authors can take a leaf from this book, weaving narratives that take unexpected turns, thwarting the reader’s expectations and keeping the pages turning.
Whether it’s a sudden betrayal or an unlikely alliance, the element of surprise is a potent tool in the writer’s arsenal.
Subverting Genre Conventions
“It’s Always Sunny” thrives on subversion, turning typical sitcom scenarios on their head.
Similarly, fantasy authors can challenge and subvert genre conventions.
By twisting traditional tropes—perhaps a knight in shining armour is the villain or the damsel in distress saves herself—writers can offer fresh perspectives and keep the genre evolving.
Satire and Social Commentary
While not overtly political, “It’s Always Sunny” masterfully satirises societal norms and behaviours.
Fantasy realms, too, can be grounds for satire, reflecting our world through the distorted mirror of the fantastical.
By embedding social commentary in their tales, authors can make their fantasy worlds not just escapes, but reflections that prompt readers to think critically about the real world.
Maintaining a Cohesive Group Dynamic
The chemistry among the main characters in “It’s Always Sunny” is undeniable, driving much of the show’s appeal.
In fantasy writing, maintaining a cohesive group dynamic, even among characters with clashing personalities, can add depth to the interactions and drive the narrative forward.
This dynamic can become the core around which the plot and the character development revolve.
“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” with its darkly comedic lens and its penchant for the absurd, offers unexpected lessons for the fantasy writer.
By adopting its approach to character flaws, conflict, and plot dynamics, writers can craft stories that are not only enthralling and entertaining but also resonate with a truth that is often stranger than fiction.
So, fantasy writers, why not venture into the dimly lit corners of your imagination, guided by the gleeful anarchy of “It’s Always Sunny”?
Who knows what twisted tales await in the shadows?
Let’s raise a glass to the chaos and see where the wild stories lead.
Explore how “Thomas the Tank Engine” inspires fantasy writing with lessons on world-building, character diversity, and storytelling techniques. Perfect for authors seeking to enrich their creative narratives.
In the realm of fantasy literature, inspiration can come from a variety of sources, including children’s stories and shows like “Thomas the Tank Engine.”
This beloved series, based on “The Railway Series” books by the Reverend W. Awdry, offers more than just entertaining tales of anthropomorphic trains.
It provides valuable storytelling elements that can be adapted by fantasy authors.
Let’s chug along the tracks with Thomas and friends to uncover what fantasy writers can learn from the Island of Sodor.
The Importance of World-Building
The Island of Sodor, the setting for Thomas’s adventures, is a well-constructed world with its geography, history, and rules.
For fantasy authors, building a detailed and coherent world, no matter how fantastical, is essential for immersing readers and providing a believable backdrop for the story.
Character Diversity and Personalities
Each engine in “Thomas the Tank Engine” has a distinct personality and role, from the cheeky Thomas to the proud Gordon.
Fantasy writers can learn from this, creating diverse and multifaceted characters, each contributing uniquely to the story’s progression and the world’s dynamics.
Moral and Ethical Lessons
The stories often contain moral lessons, teaching about friendship, responsibility, and teamwork.
In fantasy writing, weaving in themes and lessons can give the story depth, making it not only entertaining but also meaningful, especially for younger readers.
Simple Yet Effective Plots
“Thomas the Tank Engine” features simple but engaging plots that are easy to follow.
Fantasy authors can take a cue from this, understanding that sometimes a straightforward, well-told story can be as effective as a complex one, particularly when appealing to a broad audience.
Balancing Light and Dark Elements
While primarily lighthearted, the series does not shy away from moments of tension or conflict.
Fantasy writers should balance lighter elements with darker moments or conflicts, creating a narrative that is both compelling and suitable for their target audience.
The Power of Serialized Storytelling
“Thomas the Tank Engine” is episodic, with each episode telling a complete story while building on a larger narrative.
Fantasy authors can use this serialized approach, especially in series, where each book or chapter tells a satisfying story but contributes to a larger overarching plot.
Utilizing an Omniscient Narrator
The series often uses an omniscient narrator to tell the stories.
Fantasy authors might consider using a similar narrative voice to provide a broad perspective of the events and insights into multiple characters, enhancing the storytelling experience.
Thomas the Tank Engine, with its rich world-building, diverse characters, and balance of simplicity and depth, offers unexpected but valuable lessons for fantasy authors.
By incorporating these storytelling elements, writers can craft enchanting fantasy tales that engage and delight readers of all ages.
So, fantasy authors, are you ready to stoke the fires of your creativity, inspired by the timeless tales of Thomas and friends?
How will the storytelling techniques of this cherished series influence your fantastical narratives?
Share your thoughts, and let’s discuss how a children’s show about trains can fuel the art of fantasy writing.
