Jon Cronshaw – The King of Nobledark
Author of epic fantasy with heart, grit, and moral weight. Where hope bleeds, but never dies.
The Ravenglass Chronicles is back! This week I reveal my secret project, post Ace of Swords to Patreon, try Meta’s Smart Glasses for vision aid, and talk about finishing Stranger Things.
This week I reveal my long-hinted secret project—I’m back writing The Ravenglass Chronicles!
The first two chapters of Ace of Swords is now live on Patreon, and I’m deep into Two of Swords.
I also tried out Meta’s Smart Glasses, a game-changer for accessibility, and share my thoughts on the Stranger Things finale.
Discover how Mark Lawrence’s “The Prince of Thorns” transformed fantasy literature with its grimdark themes and morally complex characters. Explore the book’s profound influence on the genre and why it remains a cornerstone of modern dark fantasy fiction.
When Mark Lawrence unleashed “The Prince of Thorns” upon the unsuspecting world, it was like dropping a ravenous wolf into a pen of fluffy sheep.
Fantasy literature would never be the same.
In a genre often adorned with noble quests and honourable heroes, Lawrence’s grimdark tale stormed in with blood, vengeance, and a protagonist who makes Joffrey Baratheon look like a choirboy.
Let’s take a look at how “The Prince of Thorns” has left its mark on the fantasy genre.
“The Prince of Thorns” introduced us to Jorg Ancrath, a charming young lad whose hobbies include murder, arson, and generally being the worst dinner guest imaginable.
Forget your chivalrous knights and gallant princes—Jorg is the poster child for ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’ in a post-apocalyptic wasteland.
Lawrence didn’t just break the mould; he smashed it with a war hammer and then set it on fire for good measure.
This book is a refreshing antidote to the saccharine tales of virtue that had been multiplying like rabbits on fertility drugs.
Jorg Ancrath is a character you wouldn’t want to meet in a dark alley—or a well-lit one, for that matter.
He’s not your average anti-hero; he’s the guy who makes anti-heroes question their life choices.
With a backstory darker than a black hole’s basement, Jorg’s rise to power is paved with corpses, betrayal, and the kind of moral ambiguity that would make Machiavelli proud.
In the grand tradition of rooting for the bad guy, Lawrence has given us a protagonist who is unapologetically ruthless.
And let’s be honest, it’s a breath of fresh air—or perhaps more accurately, a gust of acrid smoke from a burning village.
“The Prince of Thorns” is a cornerstone of the grimdark subgenre, where hope goes to die and the only light at the end of the tunnel is the flicker of a flaming sword.
Lawrence’s writing revels in the gritty and the grim, painting a world where life is cheap and death is often a relief.
This bleak yet captivating style has influenced a new wave of fantasy authors who have embraced the darker side of storytelling.
If you’ve ever read a book where the hero’s greatest triumph is simply not getting disembowelled, you’ve got Mark Lawrence to thank.
Lawrence’s success with “The Prince of Thorns” has opened the floodgates for more complex, morally grey characters in fantasy literature.
Publishers, previously wary of anything less wholesome than a Disney princess, suddenly found themselves inundated with tales of treachery, bloodshed, and protagonists who’d sooner stab you in the back than pat you on it.
Aspiring writers, inspired by Lawrence’s audacity, have ventured into darker territories, crafting stories where the line between good and evil is not just blurred but utterly obliterated.
It’s a beautiful, bloody mess, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Mark Lawrence has carved out a niche in the fantasy genre that’s as jagged and treacherous as Jorg’s path to power.
“The Prince of Thorns” stands as a testament to the power of unconventional storytelling and the appeal of characters who are more likely to steal your wallet than save your life.
So, whether you revel in the darkness or simply enjoy watching the world burn from a safe distance, “The Prince of Thorns” has left an indelible mark on fantasy literature.
It reminds us that sometimes, the best stories are those that drag us through the mud and leave us gasping for breath—and maybe a stiff drink.
So, here’s to Mark Lawrence, the dark prince of grimdark, and his unforgettable contribution to the world of fantasy.
Long may his reign of literary terror continue.
Explore the enthralling world of assassin’s guilds in fantasy fiction. Discover why these dark collectives captivate readers with their mix of secrecy, intrigue, and complex characters in Guild of Assassins.
In the darker corners of fantasy literature, where the moral compass spins like a weather vane in a storm, the Assassin’s Guild stands as a beacon of structured chaos.
This trope, beloved by authors and readers alike, serves up an irresistible concoction of secrecy, skills, and, more often than not, a side of sedition.
Imagine a place where every cloak hides a dagger, and the air is thick with the scent of intrigue and whispered secrets.
An Assassin’s Guild is essentially a structured organization, often shrouded in mystery, where professionals of the lethal arts gather, train, and ply their trade.
These guilds are not just about managing contracts for killing (though, admittedly, that is a significant part of their business model); they are also about political power plays, maintaining a balance of fear and respect, and the occasional internal betrayal because, well, habits die hard.
The allure of the Assassin’s Guild in fantasy fiction is manifold.
Firstly, there’s the thrill of the forbidden—delving into the lives of those who operate from the shadows appeals to our baser instincts.
These narratives allow us to explore the darker sides of human nature from the safety of our favourite reading nooks.
Moreover, Assassin’s Guilds often come with their own richly detailed lore and codes of conduct, which can be as intricate as any magic system in fantasy literature.
The concept of honour among thieves (or killers, in this case) provides a fascinating backdrop against which complex characters are developed, and moral lines are blurred until they resemble the scribbles of a toddler with a crayon.
Assassin’s Guilds are fertile ground for storytelling for several reasons:
This setting invites readers into a world where every shadow could hold a secret or a knife (sometimes both).
Guilds offer more than just contracts and covert operations; they are a microcosm of society, a dark mirror that reflects the complexities of power, loyalty, and ambition.
For those enchanted by these dark bastions of intrigue, the trope provides a playground of narrative possibilities where characters face not just external enemies but also internal conflicts.
If this shadowy world captivates your imagination, you won’t want to miss Guild of Assassins.
The story draws you into the life of Soren, a sculptor’s apprentice who plunges into the depths of an assassin’s guild following his father’s murder.
His journey from artisan to adept assassin is fraught with danger, moral dilemmas, and the quintessential quest for vengeance.
As Soren navigates this cutthroat world, he must decide if the price of his quest is worth the slice of his soul.
For a tale that cuts to the heart of what assassin’s guilds are truly about, Guild of Assassins promises to be a thrilling addition to your fantasy collection, delivering all the intrigue and peril that make the Assassin’s Guild trope a beloved pillar of fantasy fiction.
Discover the enchanting dance of human-animal bonds in fantasy fiction, where dragons and beasts aren’t just companions, but soulmates and telepathic partners. From “Dragonriders of Pern” to “The Farseer Trilogy,” delve into the complex, compelling layers these bonds add to the fabric of fantasy narratives.
In the intricate dance of fantasy fiction, there’s a tango that often goes unnoticed yet is as pivotal as a plot twist – the human-animal bond.
This isn’t your garden-variety, ‘man’s best friend’ scenario; it’s more ‘man’s best friend can breathe fire and has a penchant for telepathy’.
From Anne McCaffrey’s “Dragonriders of Pern” to Robin Hobb’s “The Farseer Trilogy”, the bond between human and beast (mythical or otherwise) adds layers to the narrative fabric that are as complex as they are compelling.
Anne McCaffrey‘s “Dragonriders of Pern” elevates the human-animal bond to stratospheric levels.
Here, dragons are not just oversized reptiles but telepathically bonded partners.
This bond isn’t just about shared emotions; it’s a union that defines identity and purpose.
The dragons of Pern aren’t just transportation with scales; they are soulmates with wings, sharing everything from thoughts to feelings, making your average pet-owner relationship seem as exciting as watching paint dry on a dungeon wall.
Robin Hobb’s “The Farseer Trilogy” takes the bond a step further, with two distinct types of connections: the Wit and the Skill.
The Wit is a frowned-upon bond with animals, seen as something only slightly more respectable than being a court jester.
The Skill, however, is a telepathic link with humans, considered far more noble.
This dichotomy not only provides an intriguing plot device but also mirrors our own world’s class divisions and prejudices – with a fantastical twist.
Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” introduces us to daemons, animal representations of a person’s soul.
These aren’t just pets; they are the essence of a person’s being in animal form.
The bond here is not just deep; it’s existential.
Lose your daemon, and you lose yourself – a consequence far graver than forgetting where you left your keys.
Naomi Novik’s “Temeraire” series presents an alternate history where dragons are a vital part of military forces during the Napoleonic Wars.
The bond between Captain William Laurence and his dragon, Temeraire, is one of mutual respect and deep friendship.
Their relationship challenges the norms of their society and highlights themes of loyalty, duty, and the struggle against societal constraints.
In Cressida Cowell’s “How to Train Your Dragon,” the focus is on the growing relationship between Hiccup and Toothless, a dragon he initially intends to kill.
Their evolving friendship represents a journey of understanding and breaking down prejudices, as they learn to trust and depend on each other in a world that often misunderstands both of them.
In “The Inheritance Cycle” by Christopher Paolini, the bond between Eragon and Saphira is explored not just in battles but in everyday interactions.
Their relationship showcases how deep connections can influence personal growth and understanding, helping each other overcome fears, insecurities, and challenges.
In the realm of fantasy, the human-animal bond, particularly between humans and dragons, is a symphony of complex, emotional, and profound connections.
These bonds are not mere plot devices; they are the heart and soul of many narratives, offering insights into trust, friendship, loyalty, and growth.
Characters like Eragon and Saphira, Laurence and Temeraire, Hiccup and Toothless embody the depth and richness of these relationships.
Through their stories, we see reflections of our own bonds with the natural world, reminders of the deep connections that can exist beyond the human experience.
In fantasy literature, these relationships are not just about the fantastical; they are a mirror to our own hearts and souls, echoing the unspoken bonds we share with those we care about, both human and otherwise.
Dive into Steven Brust’s ‘Vlad Taltos’ series, where magic, noir, and sardonic wit collide. Explore the enchanting world of Dragaera and its unconventional hero, Vlad Taltos, as we uncover his lasting impact on fantasy literature.
In the rich, multi-layered realm of fantasy fiction, where tales of magic, intrigue, and adventure intertwine, Steven Brust’s “Vlad Taltos” series cuts a unique figure, sharp as a witch’s tongue and just as enchanting.
This series, with its blend of classic fantasy elements, noir-esque intrigue, and a dash of sardonic wit, has carved a distinct niche in the genre.
Let’s step into the shadowy alleyways of Adrilankha and explore how Vlad Taltos has left a lasting imprint on the face of fantasy literature.
For those who haven’t yet walked the streets of Brust’s Dragaera, the “Vlad Taltos” series follows the eponymous protagonist, a human assassin in a world dominated by the Dragaerans (elf-like sorcerers).
The series stands out for its blend of sword-and-sorcery, witty dialogue, and a first-person narrative that’s as engaging as a bard’s best tale.
It’s a world where magic and swords clash, political intrigue simmers, and your best friend might just be a telepathic, mini-dragon.
One of Brust’s significant contributions to fantasy is his protagonist, Vlad Taltos.
Far from your typical hero, Vlad is an assassin with a moral compass that doesn’t always point north.
He’s a small-time mobster, a wisecracking cynic, and an underdog in a world that looks down on humans.
This complex, unconventional hero has opened the door for more diverse and morally ambiguous protagonists in the genre, challenging the notion of what a fantasy hero can be.
The “Vlad Taltos” series is renowned for its unique fusion of genres.
Brust melds the traditional elements of fantasy with the dark, gritty undertones of noir detective fiction.
This blend creates a narrative that’s both familiar and refreshingly original, encouraging other fantasy authors to experiment with genre conventions and storytelling styles.
Brust’s mastery of dialogue and humour sets the series apart.
Vlad’s narrative voice is laced with a dry wit that provides levity even in the darkest of scenarios.
This use of humour has not only endeared readers to Vlad as a character but has also shown how effective witty dialogue can be in building a fantasy world that’s both immersive and relatable.
The world of Dragaera, with its intricate social structures, elaborate history, and rich cultural tapestry, is a testament to Brust’s world-building prowess.
The series has influenced the genre by demonstrating how deep and complex world-building can enrich a story, providing a backdrop that’s as compelling as the characters themselves.
Brust’s “Vlad Taltos” series is more than just a set of books; it’s a landmark in fantasy literature.
With its memorable protagonist, genre-blending narrative, and sharp wit, it has influenced the genre in numerous ways.
It’s a reminder that fantasy can be as smart and sardonic as it is magical and epic.
In the realm of fantasy, where heroes often wield swords and spells, Vlad Taltos wields something just as powerful: a sharp tongue and an even sharper mind.
Explore the appeal of princess protagonists in fantasy fiction, their diversity, and 10 compelling novels featuring royal heroines.
Once upon a time, in a realm not so different from our own, a certain type of heroine began to emerge from the realms of fantasy, turning heads and capturing hearts.
With a wave of a magic wand and a flick of a quill, the princess protagonist was born. Since then, it’s been “happily ever after” in the land of fantasy fiction.
But what’s the real fairy dust behind the appeal of princesses as in fantasy stories? Is
it the glittering tiaras, the brocade gowns, or the limitless supply of chocolate from the royal pantry?
Perhaps.
But let’s dig a little deeper and you’ll see it’s not all about pumpkin carriages and glass slippers.
First and foremost, there’s the notion of transformation.
Everyone loves a good makeover story, right?
From ragged Cinderella to radiant princess, it’s the oldest trick in the book.
Even if the transformation is less literal—say from timid princess to fearless leader—it’s always satisfying to witness a character’s growth, especially when they end up with a crown on their head and a kingdom at their feet.
Next on the docket, we have the “royal package.”
What we’re talking about is the complex weave of royal drama, intrigue, and power dynamics.
These elements offer a deliciously rich broth of plot possibilities, from cloak-and-dagger conspiracies to forbidden love stories.
It’s like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re going to get (unless, of course, you’re a princess. Then you probably have someone to pre-sort your chocolates for you).
Then there’s the matter of responsibility. With great power comes…a lot of paperwork, apparently.
The princess protagonist is not just a lady of leisure. She is a ruler-in-waiting, and with that comes the weight of the world.
The conflicts and challenges she faces allow us to explore themes of duty, sacrifice, and leadership.
It’s the perfect recipe for character development and stirring storylines.
And let’s not forget the glittering royal backdrop.
Who wouldn’t be mesmerised by towering castles, enchanted forests, or even a bit of dragon drama?
These fantastical settings provide the perfect stage for our princess to strut her stuff, and a healthy dose of escapism for us, the humble reader. It’s like a holiday without the hassle of packing.
It’s worth noting that princess protagonists are not stamped from a single mould.
We have a delightful assortment of princess personalities, each adding their own unique sparkle to the narrative crown.
Let’s meet some, shall we?
In the annals of fantasy fiction, this princess would rather go barefoot in the park than be corseted and courted.
She’s a free spirit, often uncomfortable with the pomp and circumstance of royal life.
Aerin from Robin McKinley’s “The Hero and the Crown” is a fine example.
Despite being a princess, Aerin has no interest in the royal court’s intrigue and instead becomes a dragon-slaying hero.
Don’t let the royal title fool you, these princesses are fierce, independent, and not afraid to take up arms when the kingdom’s at risk.
Ever heard of Princess Cimorene from Patricia C. Wrede’s “Dealing with Dragons?”
She refuses to be a damsel in distress and runs away to live with dragons, learning magic and sword-fighting along the way.
This is a princess who uses her wit and cunning to navigate court politics and protect her kingdom.
Take Kelsea from “The Queen of the Tearling” by Erika Johansen.
She’s more likely to be found with a book than a sword, but her knowledge and intelligence make her a formidable ruler.
Sometimes, our princess must hide her identity for the sake of safety, intrigue, or a good plot twist.
“Throne of Glass” by Sarah J. Maas gives us Celaena Sardothien, an assassin who *spoiler alert* doesn’t reveal her true royal identity until later in the series.
And when she does, it’s a game-changer.
These princesses are destined to rule, showing leadership skills and an innate sense of justice from an early age.
In Tamora Pierce’s “Song of the Lioness” series, Alanna of Trebond disguises herself as a boy to train as a knight.
Her journey is not only about personal achievement, but also about becoming a leader who can inspire and guide others.
Whether they’re battling dragons, solving royal mysteries, or navigating the treacherous waters of court politics, these princesses truly rule the roost.
Here are some fantasy books with princesses as main characters:
As previously mentioned, our protagonist Aerin is an unconventional princess who’d rather slay dragons than sip tea at courtly gatherings. A Newbery Medal winner, this novel is a must-read for lovers of adventure and strong heroines.
In the first book of the Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Princess Cimorene finds her royal duties terribly dull. So, she runs away to live with dragons, and along the way, manages to turn the princess stereotype on its head.
Kelsea Raleigh must reclaim her deceased mother’s throne and rebuild her kingdom. A gripping tale of power and politics, this book combines elements of fantasy and dystopian fiction.
Celaena Sardothien is an assassin, but she’s also a princess in hiding. This thrilling series is filled with action, romance, and plenty of plot twists.
In this first installment of the Song of the Lioness series, we meet Alanna of Trebond, a princess who defies the gender norms of her time to become a knight.
In this loose retelling of the Rumpelstiltskin fairy tale, we follow the journey of Miryem, a moneylender’s daughter who gets entangled with the icy Staryk king. Though not a princess from the start, her story is worthy of royal status.
Sorcha, the seventh child and only daughter of Lord Colum of Sevenwaters, must undertake a perilous journey to save her brothers. While not explicitly a princess, Sorcha’s story is deeply embedded in elements of classic fairy tales and fantasy novels.
In the Seven Kingdoms, some people are born with a Grace—a unique, often supernatural, skill. Katsa, niece to the king and thus a princess of sorts, was unfortunately graced with killing. Rebelling against her royal role, she sets out on a journey of self-discovery and epic adventure.
A retelling of the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, this novel follows Crown Princess Anidori-Kiladra of Kildenree as she’s betrayed by her own people and must become a goose girl to survive. It’s a captivating tale of resilience and reclaiming one’s identity.
In this sweeping epic, we follow several characters, one of whom is Queen Sabran the Ninth who must conceive a daughter to protect her realm. Meanwhile, Ead Duryan is a lady-in-waiting with a secret mission to protect the queen. It’s a tale packed with dragons, magic, and a unique matriarchal society.
Each of these books adds a unique dimension to the idea of a princess protagonist, breaking the conventional mould and serving up some hearty, unforgettable adventures.
Be prepared for some late nights—these books are hard to put down!
Dive into the realm of fantasy literature with these top blogs, offering reviews, news, and insights on beloved authors and emerging tales. Dive deeper now!
Fantasy fiction has exploded in popularity in recent years, with epic tales of magic, monsters and mythical worlds capturing the imagination of readers across the world.
If you can’t get enough of authors like N.K. Jemisin, Robin Hobb, and George R.R. Martin, you’ll want to check out these top fantasy blogs for your regular dose of news, reviews, and commentary from the world of fantasy literature.
(www.britishfantasysociety.org/blog/)
Run by the British Fantasy Society, this blog features reviews of new fantasy book releases by British authors and posts from their annual FantasyCon event. It’s a great way to discover new British fantasy writers and series to add to your reading list.
One of the most popular fantasy blogs online, Fantasy Faction features in-depth discussions of all aspects of fantasy, from analyses of magic systems in different novels to debates about tropes and trends in the genre. They also post regular author interviews.
Book lover Kristen runs this blog sharing her passion for fantasy books old and new. She posts thoughtful, in-depth reviews and has a “My Favorite Bit” series highlighting fun excerpts from fantasy novels.
(www.thewertzone.blogspot.com)
British blogger Adam Whitehead reviews an impressively wide range of fantasy books and shares news about upcoming releases. He also covers fantasy computer games and TV/film adaptations of popular fantasy series.
(www.speculativefictionjunkie.co.uk)
UK blogger Susan clarifies that she’s “a speculative fiction junkie, not a drug addict!” She writes reviews focused on the young adult fantasy genre but also covers adult and children’s fantasy books, short stories and more.
So check out these top sites to discover your next great fantasy read and connect with fellow fantasy fans online. Just beware of getting sucked into magical digital rabbit holes when you meant to be doing work.
Revisiting Pratchett’s ‘The Colour of Magic’: a journey through Discworld’s humor, worldbuilding, and the antics of the reluctant hero, Rincewind.
Ah, Terry Pratchett’s ‘The Colour of Magic,’ an enigmatic tome that has a special place in my heart, much like an old pair of slippers that’ve seen better days but still possess an undeniable charm.
With the new audio editions of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series now out, I decided to revisit it was time for a re-read from the very beginning.
And let me tell you, it was as comforting as a cup of tea during a drizzly afternoon.
If there’s one thing that Pratchett does with aplomb, it’s worldbuilding.
Now, you might be thinking, “How difficult can it be to build a world that’s essentially a disc on the backs of four elephants standing on a giant turtle floating in space?”
But it’s not just about the peculiar shape of the world; it’s about the colourful (pun intended) inhabitants, the odd logic, and the unapologetic defiance of traditional physics.
From the bustling metropolis of Ankh-Morpork to the mysterious Counterweight Continent, every corner of Discworld brims with its own unique flavour.
Each locale is a testament to Pratchett’s staggering imagination, an exquisite blend of the fantastical and the absurd.
You can almost smell the distinct odours of Ankh-Morpork, a pungent mixture of questionable street food and wizardly incense.
Not always pleasant, but always memorable.
Pratchett’s humour is like an impish sprite that leaps out at you from the pages.
It’s there in the footnotes, the character dialogue, and even in the most dire of circumstances.
The man could probably make a tax return hilarious, given half the chance.
In ‘The Colour of Magic,’ Pratchett uses satire, parody, wit, and puns to transform the mundane into the hilarious and the serious into the absurd.
The humour isn’t just an added spice—it’s baked into the narrative like currants in a hot cross bun.
This is a book that makes you chuckle, guffaw, and occasionally snort tea out of your nose (this isn’t a good look, especially if it’s been several hours since your last cuppa).
Let’s talk about Rincewind.
Rincewind, the wizard with no spells, the eternal pessimist, and the man who turns running away into an art form.
It’s safe to say he’s not your typical hero.
In fact, he’s a downright coward, more likely to be found hiding in a barrel than brandishing a sword.
Yet, it’s this very cowardice that makes Rincewind so endearing.
His flight instinct, strong enough to qualify as an Olympic sport, often lands him in situations where, much to his exasperation, he ends up saving the day.
He’s a hero who doesn’t want any part of heroism, thank you very much.
Can’t a man just enjoy a quiet pint in peace?
Rincewind’s character is a testament to Pratchett’s ability to subvert expectations and create characters who are deeply flawed yet irresistibly charming.
He’s not the hero we’re used to, but he’s the hero Discworld deserves.
Revisiting ‘The Colour of Magic’ has reminded me, as an author, of the power of creativity and the importance of humour.
Pratchett’s world is not just a flat disc on four elephants—it’s a vibrant universe that lives and breathes in the minds of its readers.
His characters are not just characters—they’re old friends who make us laugh, roll our eyes, and occasionally, shed a tear.
Pratchett has shown us that it’s okay to be different, to break rules, and to create characters who are gloriously, unabashedly, themselves.
And he’s reminded us that sometimes, the best heroes are the ones who’d rather be somewhere else, preferably with a good book or a pint of ale.
So here’s to you, Rincewind, the reluctant, cowardly hero.
May your legs always be swift, and may your Luggage always be close behind.
Explore Brent Weeks’ transformative impact on fantasy through his novel, ‘The Way of Shadows,’ and the subsequent rise of the grimdark subgenre.
From the sun-kissed lands of Tolkien’s Middle Earth to the frostbitten realms of Martin’s Westeros, we thought we’d seen it all in fantasy.
Ah, bless our naïve little socks. Little did we know, the genre was primed to be knocked squarely on its ethereal arse by an unassuming bloke named Brent Weeks and his seminal novel, “The Way of Shadows.”
In the dimly-lit world of fantasy, where elves prance about with their pointy ears, dragons spew fire like faulty North Sea gas wells, and wizards wield staffs with the girth of telegraph poles, Weeks cast a dark, smoky shadow of refreshing realism.
‘The Way of Shadows,’ published in 2008, introduced us to the enchanting city of Cenaria, a place as pleasant as a wet weekend in Scunthorpe and twice as grimy.
Here, Weeks crafted his protagonist, Azoth, a scamp with the morals of a pickpocket and the fortitude of a stale pork pie.
But the lad had ambition. And that’s always a good start, right? Well, not quite.
Weeks took Azoth, our lovable rogue, and yanked him through a schooling as a wetboy—a word Weeks insists means ‘assassin,’ but I can’t help picturing a soggy tween wielding a knife down by the bus station.
Nevertheless, this was a stark contrast to the usual well-lit halls of wizardry or dashing knight academies of conventional fantasy.
Instead, we delved headfirst into an underworld teeming with grit, grime, and more moral ambiguity than an MP’s expenses claim (I went there).
And there, precisely, lies the crux of Weeks’ influence on fantasy fiction: ‘The Way of Shadows’ sidestepped the well-trodden path of light vs dark, good vs evil, Marmite vs Bovril.
The lines were smudged, the moral compasses skewed, and reader expectations tossed out like a controversial referendum result.
Suddenly, fantasy wasn’t about some prophesied lad with the personality of a damp lettuce leaf taking down a dark lord with an affinity for eye makeup.
Instead, it focused on the common man, or, in this case, the common guttersnipe, and his moral journey in a world where the road to power is paved with daggers and dodgy dealings.
Moreover, Weeks was unflinching in his depictions of violence and societal horrors.
It was as if he took George R.R. Martin’s penchant for character decimation and said, “Hold my pint, Georgie.”
He wove a tapestry of a world where life was cheaper than a Lidl’s meal deal, and, let’s be honest, was it mesmerising.
Weeks’ gift to fantasy was a murky, grimy realm where the heroes are just as broken as the villains and the outcome is as predictable as a British summer.
With ‘The Way of Shadows,’ Weeks proved that even in a world overflowing with magic and monsters, the most compelling stories revolve around characters with depth and a sense of humour darker than a bar of Bournville.
Post ‘The Way of Shadows,’ we’ve seen a surge of grimdark fiction, a subgenre that’s less ‘unicorns and rainbows’, more ‘corpses and rainclouds…smashed into the mud…with blood and guts everywhere…and screams…lots of screams…and bits of sick.’
A more sinister tone to the fantasy genre seems to have taken root, spreading like unchecked ivy across a trellis.
And for this, we have Brent Weeks to thank (or to send a sternly worded letter, depending on your disposition).
So, Brent Weeks didn’t so much change the face of fantasy as grabbed it by the jowls, gave it a good shake, and told it to buck up its ideas.
His influence continues to be felt with every morally ambiguous protagonist, every sinister cityscape, and every grim depiction of reality that creeps into our beloved genre.
For better or worse, ‘The Way of Shadows’ gave fantasy a gritty facelift. And honestly, it’s a look we’re starting to quite fancy.
Here are ten fantastic fantasy novels featuring assassins, published after Brent Weeks’ Night Angel trilogy.
Each of these will plunge you into worlds of shadowy intrigue, where lives can be taken as quickly as a pint at last call:
Buroker’s charming and cunning ensemble, led by an infamous assassin, will keep you entertained and hooked from beginning to end.
This series opener introduces us to a gripping world of politics, backstabbing (literal and otherwise), and a royal youth thrust into the midst of it all.
In a world where magic is forbidden, two young girls must use their secret abilities to survive.
The title says it all, really. Peloquin’s moody hero, the Hunter, stalks the grimy streets of Voramis, serving as judge, jury, and executioner.
This is an East Asian-inspired fantasy, where a band of ‘heroes’ is resurrected to serve the whims of a mysterious child. Among them is an infamous assassin, whose skills prove essential to their mission.
In a tale of warfare, intrigue, and dark magic, a young boy, trained to be a killer, rises to power.
Follow the journey of a young heir to a criminal empire, trained in the arts of stealth and murder.
Dive into a world of shadowy politics, brutal warfare, and a protagonist who knows a thing or two about killing.
Follow the story of Rezkin, an assassin with a stringent code of honour, in a tale that blends action and adventure in a fantastic fantasy
Barker has certainly outdone himself with this rousing foray into the fantasy genre. “Age of Assassins” is an exhilarating rollercoaster ride of deceit, intrigue, and surprise that gleefully chucks you into the life of our protagonist, Girton Club-Foot.
Now there’s a selection to make an assassin blush!
Just remember to tread lightly as you wander through these pages, as these are worlds where shadows often bite back.
Would you like a free copy of my novel Birth of Assassins? Grab your copy as part of the free Ravenglass Universe starter library.
Explore the mystical influence of tarot cards on fantasy fiction, from cryptic symbolism to plot devices in novels and films. Always beware the reversed Tower!
Today, we’re braving the arcane, treading the path of mystics, and charting a course through the enigmatic world of tarot cards.
We’re going to explore their fascinating influence on the realm of fantasy fiction.
Tarot cards, for those as yet uninitiated, are a pack of 78 playing cards, dating back to the mid-15th century in various parts of Europe.
They were initially used for games like Italian tarocchini and French tarot (a bit like bridge, but with more capes and incense).
By the 18th century, they had adopted a new mantle as tools of divination.
Fast forward to the modern day, and their mystical symbolism has been picked up and played with by many an imaginative author (including myself).
Each tarot card carries a wealth of symbolism, from the Fool (a happy-go-lucky chap with a penchant for cliff edges) to the Lovers (no prizes for guessing what they’re about) and Death (not as gloomy as you might think).
They’re a bit like cryptic crossword clues, but with more pictures and fewer anagrams.
Fantasy fiction has always been a melting pot of myth, folklore, and symbolism, so it’s no wonder tarot has found its way into this genre.
In fact, it’s as at home in fantasy as a hobbit in a hole or a dragon in a dungeon.
Take, for instance, Roger Zelazny’s “Chronicles of Amber.”
Here, tarot cards are not used merely for forecasting futures over a cuppa.
Instead, they are a means of communication and even transportation between different worlds.
In Piers Anthony’s “Tarot” trilogy, a whole planet is shaped according to the principles of the tarot, with each life form and geographical feature corresponding to a card.
It’s like someone took a pack of tarot cards, flung them into space, and said, “Let’s make this a place to live.”
It’s as bonkers as it sounds, and it’s a cracking good read.
Then there’s “The Greater Trumps” by Charles Williams, where the tarot deck takes centre stage, possessing powers over life, death, and the weather.
It’s like your weather app, but with higher stakes and more dramatic flair.
It’s not just the written word that has been seduced by the allure of tarot.
The silver screen has also embraced these enigmatic emblems.
Remember, “Now You See Me?”
The Four Horsemen, a group of illusionists, use tarot cards as a plot device to add mystery and a splash of the occult. It’s like a magic show with a side of prophecy.
So, there you have it. From a humble pack of playing cards to a powerful plot device, tarot cards have certainly made their mark on fantasy fiction.
Intriguing, mysterious, and brimming with symbolism, they’re a gift to any writer looking to add depth and intrigue to their work.
Next time you pick up a fantasy novel or watch a fantasy film, keep a keen eye out for the tarot’s influence.
You’ll be surprised how often they pop up, usually at the most dramatic of moments.
And if you’re considering a bit of fortune telling yourself, just remember—always beware the reversed Tower.
It’s never a good sign, especially if you’re planning any DIY…
