Have you heard the news that Brandon Sanderson made a deal with Apple TV to make Mistborn and Stormlight Archive adaptations? Everyone I follow from YouTube to Instagram to Facebook seems to be amazed and thrilled that he’s finally got a deal and unprecedented creative control. I, for one, am probably a bit more cautious…
Have you ever been the victim of gatekeeping? Gatekeeping is when someone goes to enjoy something and a person who is already involved tells you that you aren’t allowed to be here. Sometimes they say it flat out, and other times it’s more subtle. Gatekeeping in fantasy can look like a guy alienating a woman…
The prevalence of outcast heroes in fantasy and sci-fi reflects deep human experiences of alienation, longing for inclusion, and the desire for underdog triumphs. Characters like Aloy and Katniss resonate because they embody bravery and resilience, mirroring our struggle for acceptance and hope, ultimately reinforcing that everyone matters.
My review of the cozy fantasy Legends & Lattes is up!
Updates about what I’m writing, when stories will be released. Also a short teaser for a story I’m working on now!
Read my review of Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros!
My review of Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings, the first book in the Stormlight Archive
My book review of The Seventh Tower series by Garth Nix
Fantasy tropes, while familiar, can become clichéd if overused, leading to boredom among readers. Key clichés include “The Chosen One,” “The Evil Dark Lord,” “The Magical Artifact Quest,” overused races like elves and dwarves, “The Farm Boy Hero,” and “The Wise Old Mentor.” Writers should reimagine or avoid these to create fresh, engaging stories.
The Aeolian Dunes of Muspelheim were inspired by the gypsum sand dunes at White Sands National Park in New Mexico.
