Epic Fantasy Ramblings: I Write Epic Fantasy

I write epic fantasy. Not “diverse fantasy.” Even though it fits under that category for those looking to “expand their palate” or whatever. But I hate those words, and in private I never actually think that about my work. The dance I do to appeal to “diverse” readers is a systemic thing and I can’t …

Epic Fantasy Ramblings: Culture, Tangled Relationships, and Grey Characters

One of the most interesting things I’ve learned writing epic fantasy novels is realizing just how deeply people apply their own worldview on things. So that if something doesn’t “match,” it feels off. I write from the perspective of someone who grew up, and is still surrounded, by a culture that emphasizes getting along and …

When Sometimes You Feel Like Molly Grue…

“Where have you been?” she cried. “Damn you, where have you been?” She took a few steps toward Schmendrick, but she was looking beyond him, at the unicorn. When she tried to get by, the magician stood in her way. “You don’t talk like that,” he told her, still uncertain that Molly had recognized the …

So Who Notices Race Anyway? I Read [X] Book and Never Paid Attention…

When I was little, anime based on classic novels were very popular in the mornings. I remember being seven years old and crying over the ending of The Dog of Flanders. We all related to the lives and struggles of the characters very well (for a while there were even Princess Sarah memes going around). …