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Listen to “Shattered Kingdom” for FREE on Patreon!

Hello from Morecambe!

I’m excited to announce that the audio edition of Shattered Kingdom (The Ravenglass Throne: Part One) is now available to listen to completely FREE on my Patreon!

Experience the Ravenglass Universe in Audio

For those who prefer to experience their fantasy adventures through audio, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the world of the Ostreich Kingdom during one of its most tumultuous periods.

Follow the three royal sisters—Irmin, Adelinde, and Elana—as they navigate political intrigue, magical corruption, and the aftermath of their father’s assassination.

The audio edition brings the story to life in a whole new way, allowing you to experience the tension, drama, and magic of the Ravenglass Universe while you’re on the go, relaxing, or simply closing your eyes to fully immerse yourself in this epic fantasy world.

How to Access the Free Audio Edition

It’s incredibly simple to start listening:

1. Visit my Patreon page HERE.

2. Join as a free member (any tier gives you access to this audio content)

3. Navigate to the “Shattered Kingdom” audio post

4. Press play and enjoy!

Why Patreon?

Patreon allows me to connect more directly with readers like you and provide exclusive content including audio editions, behind-the-scenes insights, early access to new releases, and more.

Your support on Patreon helps make these additional formats possible while allowing me to continue creating the stories you love.

About Shattered Kingdom

Shattered Kingdom is the first instalment in my new Ravenglass Throne novella serial.

Set centuries before The Ravenglass Chronicles in the same universe, it follows three royal sisters after their father’s assassination.

As the ravenglass that bonds riders to their wyverns begins to corrupt from within, the sisters must overcome their differences and unite their unique strengths before the Kingdom falls to enemies both within and without.

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to sharing more of the Ravenglass Universe with you through this and future audio releases!

Happy listening,

Jon

P.S. Prefer ebooks? Don’t worry, Shattered Kingdom will go live on your favourite ebook platform on March 12. You can preorder today!

Order here.

The post Listen to “Shattered Kingdom” for FREE on Patreon! appeared first on Jon Cronshaw.

Coming-of-Age in the Shadows: The Dark Fantasy Perspective

Coming-of-age stories have always captivated readers.

When filtered through the lens of dark fantasy, they take on a particularly haunting resonance.

In my novel Forged in Blood, from the Guild of Assassins trilogy, we witness Soren’s transformation from an idealistic sculptor’s apprentice into a ruthless assassin.

His journey reflects a darker truth about growing up: sometimes innocence isn’t gently shed but violently stripped away.

Beyond Traditional Coming-of-Age

Traditional coming-of-age stories often focus on self-discovery and first experiences.

Dark fantasy takes these familiar themes and twists them, showing how knowledge can corrupt and experience can destroy.

When Soren first joins the Guild seeking justice for his father’s murder, he still believes in clear divisions between right and wrong.

By the end, those moral lines have blurred beyond recognition.

The Price of Knowledge

Like Kvothe in Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind, Soren’s pursuit of knowledge and power comes with unexpected costs.

But where Kvothe’s story maintains elements of wonder, dark fantasy protagonists often discover that knowledge brings not enlightenment but disillusionment.

Think of Robin Hobb’s Fitz, whose training as an assassin forces him to confront brutal truths about loyalty and sacrifice.

Broken Friendships

One of the most painful aspects of dark coming-of-age stories is the destruction of childhood friendships.

In Forged in Blood, Soren’s relationship with his best friend Alaric slowly deteriorates as their paths diverge.

This mirrors George R.R. Martin’s treatment of the Stark children, showing how circumstance and choice can shatter even the strongest bonds.

The Loss of Choice

Perhaps the most terrifying aspect of these stories is how they strip away the illusion of choice.

When Soren begins his training, he believes he’s choosing his path.

Gradually, he realises he’s been manipulated from the start, much like Pierce Brown’s Darrow in Red Rising.

The real horror lies not in the loss of innocence itself, but in the recognition that it might have been inevitable.

The Corruption of Ideals

Dark fantasy coming-of-age stories often show how ideals become corrupted.

Soren begins as an artist, creating beauty from raw stone.

His transformation into an assassin perverts this artistic talent into something darker – he’s still shaping and creating, but now his medium is death.

This mirrors how Mark Lawrence’s Jorg Ancrath twists his noble education into tools for revenge and conquest.

Why These Stories Matter

These darker coming-of-age tales resonate because they reflect truths about growing up that more optimistic stories often ignore.

Knowledge can destroy as easily as it empowers.

Growth often requires sacrifice.

Childhood friendships don’t always survive into adulthood.

Our choices may be more limited than we believe.

Talent can be turned to dark purposes.

The Appeal of Darkness

What makes these stories compelling isn’t just their darkness, but how they reflect real aspects of growing up through a darker lens.

When Soren finally completes his transformation, it’s tragic precisely because we understand every step that led him there.

We see our own compromises and lost innocence reflected in these darker mirrors.

Beyond Simple Corruption

The best dark fantasy coming-of-age stories aren’t simply about corruption.

They’re about the complexity of growth, the price of knowledge, and the sometimes terrible choices we make in pursuit of our goals.

They remind us that growing up isn’t always about becoming better – sometimes it’s about becoming what we need to be to survive.

What dark fantasy coming-of-age stories have resonated most with you?

How do they differ from more traditional coming-of-age tales?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Want to explore more dark fantasng? Check out my Patreon for early access to chapters, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes insights into the writing process. See how stories evolve from first draft to final publication, and join a community of readers passionate about dark fantasy.

join the community.

The post Coming-of-Age in the Shadows: The Dark Fantasy Perspective appeared first on Jon Cronshaw.

How Magic Works in The Ravenglass Throne: The Ravenglass Network Explained

One of the most intriguing aspects of The Ravenglass Throne is its distinctive approach to magic.

The ravenglass network combines physical artefacts, psychic bonds, and geometric principles to create a system that feels both mystical and scientifically grounded.

The Ravenglass Core: The Heart of the Network

At the centre of this system lies the ravenglass core, a massive crystalline structure hidden beneath the palace.

This is not just a power source—it is the nexus of a vast web of connections that maintains the bonds between wyverns and their riders across the kingdom.

What makes this system particularly fascinating is how it operates on multiple levels at once: physical, psychological, and geometric.

The Physical Properties of Ravenglass

Ravenglass itself possesses unique and mysterious qualities.

In its pure form, it appears as a void-black crystal that absorbs light rather than reflecting it.

It cannot be shaped by conventional tools, requiring extreme heat to forge, which suggests both its supernatural nature and the difficulty of working with it.

When corrupted, its flawless surface becomes threaded with purple veins, a striking visual metaphor for the corruption of power itself.

The Psychological Bonds Between Riders and Wyverns

The ravenglass network is not just a mechanical system—it is a deeply psychological one.

The bonds between wyverns and their riders go beyond simple telepathic communication.

These connections allow for shared thoughts, emotions, and even physical sensations.

What makes this even more compelling is how the larger network amplifies and stabilises these individual bonds.

Each personal connection contributes to and draws strength from the whole, reinforcing the kingdom’s unity.

The Geometric Precision of the Network

Perhaps the most unusual aspect of this magic system is its reliance on geometry.

The positioning of ravenglass specimens, the alignment of celestial bodies, and the arrangement of focal points all play crucial roles in the network’s function.

This mathematical precision gives the magic a sense of structure, making it feel more grounded and systematic than traditional fantasy magic.

Adelinde’s Research and the Spread of Corruption

Adelinde’s research into the network provides vital insights into how this magic functions on a technical level.

Her discovery that corruption spreads through existing resonance patterns suggests that the network follows consistent rules, even when being subverted.

This adds a layer of scientific credibility to the magic system while establishing logical limitations on how it can be manipulated.

Corruption as a Plot Device and Metaphor

The corruption of the network serves both as a driving force for the story and as a broader metaphor.

As the purple corruption spreads through ravenglass specimens, it demonstrates how the perversion of power can travel through existing systems, using their own strengths against them.

The fact that this corruption affects both the physical crystals and the psychological bonds between wyverns and riders underscores the interconnected nature of the system.

The Purification Ritual: A Display of Unified Power

The purification ritual near the climax of the story masterfully showcases the different aspects of the system working in harmony.

Precise geometric positioning, celestial alignment, and the combined will of the three sisters all play crucial roles.

This moment reinforces the idea that the magic of the ravenglass network requires both technical knowledge and personal strength to function at its fullest potential.

Thematic Depth of the Ravenglass Network

What makes this magic system particularly effective is how it serves the story’s themes.

The ravenglass network is not just a source of power—it is a physical manifestation of the bonds that hold the kingdom together.

Its vulnerability to corruption reflects the fragility of any system built on trust and connection.

The necessity for unity in maintaining and protecting it mirrors the kingdom’s larger political struggles.

Military Applications of the Network

The military applications of the network are equally well considered.

Rather than simply granting individual power to riders and wyverns, the system creates a sophisticated command and communication structure.

This structure shapes how aerial forces operate, integrating magic into tactical military operations in a way that feels both practical and believable.

A Magic System That Feels Both Mystical and Logical

For worldbuilding enthusiasts, the ravenglass network offers an excellent example of how to craft a magic system that feels both mystical and structured.

Its rules are consistent enough to establish meaningful limitations while remaining mysterious enough to retain a sense of wonder.

The way it operates on multiple levels—physical, psychological, and geometric—allows for complex interactions and challenges that cannot be overcome through sheer power alone.

Magic as a Reflection of the Story’s Core Themes

Understanding how the ravenglass network works deepens appreciation for both the immediate conflicts of the story and its larger themes.

It demonstrates that magic can be more than just a tool—it can be an integral part of a world’s social, military, and political structure.

This careful integration of magical elements with practical concerns results in a system that feels both fantastical and grounded.

A Reminder of What Makes Great Fantasy Magic

The ravenglass network is a reminder that the best fantasy magic systems are not just about what is possible.

They are about how supernatural elements reflect and reinforce a story’s fundamental themes.

By weaving magic into the world’s political and military systems, The Ravenglass Throne creates a setting where power is not just wielded, but carefully balanced and maintained.

read the Ravenglass Throne.

The post How Magic Works in The Ravenglass Throne: The Ravenglass Network Explained appeared first on Jon Cronshaw.

How Intellectuals Shape the Best Fantasy Novels

Fantasy literature has moved beyond the trope of scholars serving as mere exposition tools for adventuring heroes.

Modern fantasy increasingly presents scholarship as a form of power in its own right, capable of driving narratives, shifting political landscapes, and even determining the fate of entire worlds.

Scholarship as a Driving Force in Fantasy

In The Ravenglass Throne, Adelinde’s journey exemplifies the growing prominence of academic knowledge in fantasy storytelling.

Her research into the ravenglass network is not just background detail—it is essential to the survival of the kingdom.

Rather than serving as a passive observer or an advisor to warriors and rulers, she actively uses her scholarship as a tool for action.

Her understanding of magical infrastructure allows her to intervene in events with as much influence as any military strategist or political leader.

Brandon Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archive similarly elevates scholarship through the characters of Jasnah and Shallan.

Their academic pursuits lead to revelations about the true nature of spren and the hidden history of the Radiants.

Knowledge becomes more than just a tool for worldbuilding; it drives the plot, influences character arcs, and reshapes the reader’s understanding of the world itself.

The process of discovery becomes a form of power, one that rivals brute strength or political manoeuvring.

Michael J. Sullivan’s Farilane takes this idea even further by making its protagonist a scholar whose academic expertise directly shapes the events of the story.

Farilane’s deep understanding of history and ancient languages allows her to unlock secrets that others overlook.

In a genre often dominated by warriors and mages, this novel demonstrates that historical knowledge can be just as formidable as a sword or a spell.

The past is not simply a setting but a force that can be harnessed by those who truly understand it.

The Role of Academic Knowledge in Worldbuilding

This shift in storytelling reflects a broader trend in fantasy worldbuilding.

Instead of treating knowledge as static information, modern fantasy recognises that an understanding of systems, histories, and patterns can drive real change.

Scholarship is not just a way to provide exposition—it is an active and necessary force in the narrative.

In The Ravenglass Throne, Adelinde’s research into the ravenglass network is central to the kingdom’s survival, blending scholarly study with magical infrastructure.

Terry Pratchett’s Unseen University offers a different but equally compelling take, portraying academia as a political force where scholarly rivalries are as fierce as those found in royal courts.

The Name of the Wind integrates academic study into magical training, presenting learning as a demanding process where knowledge must be earned rather than bestowed.

Guy Gavriel Kay’s Sailing to Sarantium demonstrates how expertise in art and architecture can shape history just as profoundly as warfare or diplomacy.

Rather than presenting knowledge as something passively absorbed, these works highlight the importance of intellectual effort.

Learning is a process that requires dedication, problem-solving, and the ability to challenge assumptions.

The best fantasy novels reflect this complexity, showing that understanding the past, the present, and the systems that govern them can provide the means to shape the future.

Libraries as Centres of Power

The role of libraries and archives has also evolved in fantasy storytelling.

No longer just repositories of forgotten lore or convenient plot devices, they now serve as active spaces where pivotal discoveries shape the course of the narrative.

Instead of being mere set pieces, they become arenas of intellectual conflict, where knowledge is sought, guarded, and sometimes even weaponised.

In The Ravenglass Throne, Adelinde’s study of ancient texts reveals the corruption at the heart of the ravenglass network, positioning libraries as centres of power rather than passive collections of books.

In The Stormlight Archive, libraries and research are not just for academics; they hold secrets that can shift the balance of power in a world on the brink of war.

The Name of the Wind presents the university’s archives as a place of both opportunity and danger, where knowledge can be as treacherous as it is enlightening.

This evolving portrayal of libraries reflects a deeper understanding of how knowledge functions within a society.

Information is not neutral—it can be restricted, distorted, or manipulated to serve those in power.

Fantasy novels that explore these themes bring a new level of sophistication to worldbuilding, acknowledging that control over knowledge can be just as significant as control over armies or magical forces.

The Practical Impact of Scholarly Power

Modern fantasy increasingly acknowledges that intellectual power is not passive—it is transformative.

Characters who engage in research, analysis, and critical thinking are no longer sidelined in favour of warriors or rulers.

Instead, their knowledge actively contributes to resolving conflicts and reshaping their worlds.

Adelinde’s discoveries in The Ravenglass Throne show how scholarship can provide solutions that brute force cannot achieve.

Jasnah and Shallan’s work in The Stormlight Archive proves that uncovering forgotten truths can be more powerful than wielding a blade.

Farilane’s linguistic and historical expertise demonstrates that the past is not dead but is an active force in shaping the present.

This shift in perspective makes for richer, more nuanced storytelling.

Intellectual effort is not separate from action—it is action.

Whether through uncovering secrets, understanding magical systems, or challenging political structures, scholars in fantasy fiction are proving that knowledge is not just a tool for adventurers but a source of power in its own right.

Why This Evolution Matters

For writers, this trend opens up new possibilities for storytelling.

Scholarship is no longer a background element but a means of driving conflict, shaping characters, and deepening worldbuilding.

By integrating intellectual pursuits into their narratives, authors can craft more intricate plots where intelligence and insight become as crucial as swords and spells.

For readers, this approach creates stories that engage on both an intellectual and an emotional level.

Fantasy is no longer just about high-stakes battles and magical duels—it is also about the power of discovery, the thrill of solving a mystery, and the challenge of understanding a world’s hidden truths.

The success of works that foreground scholarship suggests that audiences appreciate narratives where knowledge is a driving force rather than a passive tool.

The evolution of academic knowledge in fantasy literature reminds us that the most powerful magic does not always come from spells or swords.

Sometimes, it lies in the ability to see patterns others miss, to understand what history has to teach, and to recognise that knowledge itself is one of the most formidable forces in any world—real or imagined.

Through characters like Adelinde, modern fantasy proves that scholarship can be just as vital to saving the world as any warrior or sorcerer.

start reading the ravenglass throne.

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🏰 The Ravenglass Throne is Complete! What’s Next? | Author Diary – February 21, 2025 📚✨

This week marks a major milestone—I’ve finished book 12 of The Ravenglass Throne, meaning the entire series is now complete!

Now, it’s a waiting game for the edits to come back, but the hard work of drafting is done.

With The Ravenglass Throne wrapped up, I’ve been reflecting on what’s next.

I need to take stock of my open projects and decide which one excites me the most before diving in.

There are plenty of ideas pulling at my attention, so it’s all about choosing the right one.

I also discuss The Fourth Turning is Here, a thought-provoking book that explores generational cycles and societal shifts.

It’s made me think about how we’re in the midst of a zeitgeist shift, and what that means for the stories people will connect with most in the years ahead.

Exciting times ahead—both in my writing and in the changing landscape of storytelling!

download shattered kingdom.

The post 🏰 The Ravenglass Throne is Complete! What’s Next? | Author Diary – February 21, 2025 📚✨ appeared first on Jon Cronshaw.

Characters Torn Between Cultures: A Fantasy Perspective

The question of identity—who we are and where we belong—lies at the heart of many great fantasy works.

As I wrote The Knight and the Rebel, I became increasingly focused on characters caught between cultures, navigating conflicting loyalties and shifting identities.

Ragnar’s Struggle Between Duty and Heritage

Ragnar Wolfsbane, as Knight Protector of the Empire, embodies this struggle.

Born to lead one of Wiete’s great clans, he now serves the very empire that conquered his homeland.

Every decision he makes forces him to balance his duty to the Empire with his love for his people and homeland.

His journey examines how people adapt to conquest—whether they resist, accommodate, or attempt to reform the system from within.

Maja’s Identity as a Rebel Leader

Ragnar’s sister, Maja, faces a different but equally complex identity crisis.

Leading a rebellion requires her to transcend her upbringing as a noble’s daughter and forge a new identity.

She must unite disparate rebel factions while staying true to her ideals of justice and freedom.

Exploring Divided Identity Through Fantasy

Fantasy provides unique tools to delve into these themes of divided identity.

Fonda Lee’s Green Bone Saga explores the tension between traditional jade warrior culture and modernisation.

Rick Riordan’s half-blood characters are literally caught between divine and mortal worlds, resonating with readers who feel they belong to multiple cultures.

Using Metaphors for Identity Conflicts

Fantasy often uses metaphorical lenses to explore identity conflicts.

Magic can symbolise cultural power or knowledge.

Different races or nations can reflect cultural clashes without directly corresponding to real-world divisions.

In The Knight and the Rebel, the magic system—with its ability to influence minds and loyalty—acts as a metaphor for how power and culture shape identity.

The Challenge of Avoiding Simple Resolutions

One of the most difficult aspects of writing characters caught between worlds is avoiding simple resolutions.

It’s tempting to have characters choose one identity over another, but reality is rarely so neat.

Instead, these characters often craft new identities that incorporate elements of both worlds.

R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War demonstrates this complexity as the protagonist reconciles her humble beginnings with her newfound powers and responsibilities.

The Empire’s Role in Shaping Identity

The Empire in my story, like many colonial powers, seeks to reshape the identities of the conquered.

It offers power and position to those who adopt Imperial culture while marginalising those who cling to their traditions.

This creates impossible choices—how much of themselves can characters sacrifice for survival or advancement?

Relating Fantasy to Real Human Experiences

What makes these stories compelling is that they mirror real human experiences.

Many readers understand the challenge of navigating between cultures, feeling simultaneously part of and separate from different worlds.

Fantasy allows us to explore these struggles through characters facing even more dramatic versions of these challenges.

Complex Characters and Their Unique Journeys

The most interesting characters are often those who refuse simple answers.

They neither fully reject their origins nor completely assimilate into new cultures.

Instead, they forge new ways of being, drawing from multiple sources of identity.

This complexity makes them relatable and realistic, even in fantastical settings.

Belonging in Resistance Movements

The question of belonging becomes even more complicated in resistance movements.

How do characters preserve their cultural identity while fighting against overwhelming odds?

How do they avoid becoming defined solely by opposition?

Through Maja’s chapters, I explore how resistance fighters balance preserving their culture with adapting to new realities.

Identity as a Constant Negotiation

The best fantasy recognises that identity isn’t fixed—it’s a constant negotiation between influences and loyalties.

Characters like Ragnar and Maja illustrate different ways of navigating these negotiations, neither entirely right nor entirely wrong.

Share Your Thoughts

What are your favourite examples of characters caught between worlds in fantasy?

How can the genre better explore themes of identity and belonging?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The post Characters Torn Between Cultures: A Fantasy Perspective appeared first on Jon Cronshaw.

Dark Fantasy’s Warning: Ambition’s Hidden Price

Every great power comes at a cost. This theme resonates throughout dark fantasy literature, where characters’ pursuit of power often leads to their moral corruption.

In my novel Forged in Blood, the second book in the Guild of Assassins trilogy, we follow Soren’s transformation from an idealistic sculptor’s apprentice to a ruthless assassin.

His journey exemplifies how ambition can slowly erode one’s humanity through seemingly rational choices.

The Gradual Fall

What makes a fall from grace compelling isn’t the destination, but the journey.

Consider Prince Arthas in Warcraft’s lore – each step toward becoming the Lich King seemed necessary, even righteous, until it was too late.

Similarly, Soren’s path begins with a justifiable goal: seeking justice for his father’s murder.

Each compromise, each small sacrifice of his principles, leads him further from who he once was.

The most terrifying villains are often those who began as heroes.

Take Raistlin Majere from Dragonlance – his pursuit of magical power stemmed from understandable desires but ultimately consumed everything he was.

Like Soren, he sacrifices his closest relationships, including that with his twin brother, in his relentless pursuit of power.

The Cost of Power

In Forged in Blood, the ravenglass dagger serves as a physical metaphor for the price of power – it must be forged with blood and tears, literally consuming pieces of its wielder.

This mirrors how Martin’s Valyrian steel in A Song of Ice and Fire requires blood sacrifice in its forging, suggesting that great power always demands payment in flesh and soul.

The true horror lies not in the final price, but in how willingly characters pay it.

When Soren ultimately betrays his childhood friend Alaric, it’s not a moment of dramatic revelation but the natural culmination of choices made long before.

Like Baru Cormorant in Seth Dickinson’s The Traitor, the protagonist becomes what they once fought against, one rational decision at a time.

Breaking Bonds

Perhaps the most significant cost of ambition is the destruction of human connections.

Just as Rand al’Thor in The Wheel of Time becomes increasingly isolated as his power grows, Soren’s pursuit of mastery within the Guild requires him to sever his strongest bonds.

The tragedy lies not in the loss itself, but in how necessary these sacrifices seem at the time.

The Seduction of Power

What makes these stories resonate is their exploration of power’s seductive nature.

Like Patrick Rothfuss’s Kvothe or Sanderson’s Vin, Soren discovers he has a natural talent for his craft.

The thrill of mastery, the satisfaction of excellence – these become their own kind of addiction, making each moral compromise easier than the last.

A Different Kind of Horror

The horror in these stories doesn’t come from supernatural monsters but from watching characters we empathise with make choices we understand, even as we recognise their destructive nature.

In Forged in Blood, Soren’s transformation is terrifying precisely because readers can follow his logic every step of the way.

Dark fantasy reminds us that the most dangerous falls aren’t dramatic plunges but gradual slides.

The most terrible choices aren’t made in moments of passion but through careful rationalisation.

It shows us that the real price of power isn’t just what it takes from us, but what we willingly give up in its pursuit.

Forged in Blood and other dark fantasy novels serve as warnings about ambition’s cost, even as they compel us to follow their protagonists down these dark paths.

They remind us that the most frightening monsters aren’t born – they’re made, one choice at a time.

What Are Your Thoughts?

What dark fantasy novels examining the price of power have resonated most with you?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Want to discover more fantasy tales? Check out my Patreon for early access to chapters, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes insights.

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The post Dark Fantasy’s Warning: Ambition’s Hidden Price appeared first on Jon Cronshaw.

Beyond Dragons: The Unique Role of Wyverns in The Ravenglass Throne

While dragons dominate much of fantasy literature, the wyverns of The Ravenglass Throne offer a distinct and compelling alternative.

These are not the typically solitary, often antagonistic dragons of traditional fantasy.

Instead, they are integral to a complex military and social structure, bound to their riders through a sophisticated magical network.

The Ravenglass Bond: A True Partnership

What sets these wyverns apart is their deep integration into the kingdom’s fabric.

Unlike dragons, often portrayed as ancient, independent beings who might deign to work with humans, these wyverns exist in a symbiotic relationship with their riders.

The ravenglass bond network creates a psychic connection that goes beyond mere telepathy.

It is a merging of purpose and identity that shapes both the rider and the mount.

Physical Characteristics and Practical Design

The physical attributes of these wyverns also distinguish them from traditional dragons.

While they share the general body plan of winged reptiles, their scale colours are more naturalistic, ranging from Berthold’s midnight black to Velten’s silver and Gisela’s gold.

They are designed for practical military use, rather than being overwhelming behemoths barely contained by human will.

This makes them more like actual military mounts than forces of nature.

Wyverns with Personality and Agency

These wyverns possess distinct personalities that complement their riders while maintaining their own agency.

Berthold’s tactical mindset pairs seamlessly with Irmin’s martial nature.

Gisela’s scholarly curiosity matches Adelinde’s intellectual pursuits.

Yet they are not simply reflections of their riders—they provide counterpoints, offering balance to human impulses.

Aerial Combat and Military Strategy

The military applications of wyverns in The Ravenglass Throne feel remarkably well thought out.

The aerial combat sequences demonstrate careful consideration of how such creatures would function in warfare.

Formations and tactics make strategic sense, integrating wyverns into military operations beyond simply unleashing fire at convenient moments.

The Ravenglass Network: A Source of Strength and Weakness

The ravenglass bond network adds another layer of depth, making these wyverns essential to the kingdom’s power structure in a way rarely seen with dragons.

The corruption of these bonds presents not just a military threat but an existential one, undermining the very foundation of society.

This elevates the wyverns beyond their role as mounts, making them essential participants in the kingdom’s stability.

Witz: The Royal Wyvern and Symbol of Authority

The wyverns also represent different aspects of power and governance.

Witz, as the royal wyvern, embodies both tradition and change.

He serves as an advisor and witness to multiple generations of rulers.

His role differs from the conventional “wise dragon” trope, focusing on practical governance rather than abstract wisdom.

Magic, Politics, and the Limits of Power

The relationship between wyverns and the ravenglass network creates unique magical and political dynamics.

Unlike dragons, who often wield innate magical abilities, these wyverns derive their power from their connection to a larger system.

This makes them vulnerable in ways dragons typically are not, allowing for more complex storytelling around themes of unity and interdependence.

Wyverns as an Everyday Presence

Even in daily life, these wyverns serve a different role than dragons in traditional fantasy.

Dragons are often portrayed as rare and semi-mythical, existing on the fringes of human society.

These wyverns, however, are woven into the fabric of the kingdom.

They perform military patrols, deliver messages, and take part in ceremonial functions.

Their presence is practical and necessary rather than simply awe-inspiring.

Corruption and the Fragility of Bonds

The corruption of wyverns in The Ravenglass Throne highlights a fresh take on familiar themes.

The idea of corrupted dragons is not new, but here, it is handled with nuance.

The corruption of the ravenglass bonds affects both wyvern and rider, reinforcing their interconnected nature.

This is not about powerful creatures turning evil—it is about the perversion of fundamental relationships.

A Masterclass in Fantasy Worldbuilding

For worldbuilding enthusiasts, the wyverns of The Ravenglass Throne serve as an excellent example of how to craft magical creatures that feel both fantastic and grounded.

They retain the awe-inspiring qualities of dragons while fulfilling specific and practical functions in society.

Their integration into military, political, and social structures makes them feel essential rather than ornamental.

Thematic Depth and Storytelling Potential

This approach to wyverns enriches the story’s themes of unity, trust, and interdependence.

It also creates unique opportunities for conflict and resolution.

It serves as a reminder that the most interesting fantasy creatures are not always the most powerful.

Instead, they are the ones most meaningfully connected to the structures that define their world.

start reading the ravenglass throne.

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🏰 Nearing the End of The Ravenglass Throne & Adjusting My Schedule | Author Diary – February 14, 2025 📚✨

This week has been a lighter one, as I’ve mostly been resting after a big push on Book 11 of The Ravenglass Throne over the weekend.

Now, I’m onto the final novella in the series—the last stretch is in sight!

I’ve also been reading The 10 Cent Plague, a fascinating history of comic books in America.

It’s been a great read, full of insight into the cultural impact and controversies surrounding comics.

On the scheduling side, I realised I miscalculated my timeline—I originally planned to have Book 12 finished by February 22, but I didn’t account for my son’s half-term break.

So, I’m pushing my deadline back a week to give myself more breathing room.

Looking forward to the final push on The Ravenglass Throne!

The post 🏰 Nearing the End of The Ravenglass Throne & Adjusting My Schedule | Author Diary – February 14, 2025 📚✨ appeared first on Jon Cronshaw.

Colonial Themes in Fantasy: A Deeper Look

Fantasy has long engaged with themes of conquest and resistance, from Tolkien’s hobbits facing industrialisation to modern works exploring the complexities of empire and colonisation.

As I wrote The Knight and the Rebel, I became deeply immersed in these themes, examining both the machinery of conquest and the human cost of resistance.

The Colonial Narrative in Fantasy

Colonial narratives in fantasy often follow familiar patterns—an advanced civilisation imposes its will on “lesser” peoples under the guise of progress.

The Ostreich Empire in my story operates on this principle, genuinely believing they’re bringing civilisation to Wiete.

Through Ragnar’s perspective, we see how this ideology seduces even those who might question it.

The Empire doesn’t conquer solely with swords; it conquers with ideas, promises of progress, and power.

Examples of Subverting Colonial Tropes

N.K. Jemisin’s Broken Earth trilogy powerfully examines systemic oppression through a fantasy lens, inverting traditional colonial narratives.

Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree explores how colonial powers wield religion and “civilisation” to justify conquest.

These works, like The Knight and the Rebel, show how colonisation impacts both the conqueror and the conquered, reshaping identities and loyalties.

Writing Resistance in Fantasy

Writing resistance is equally complex.

Through Maja’s chapters, I wanted to portray the harsh reality of fighting against overwhelming odds.

Resistance isn’t glorious—it’s desperate people making desperate choices.

Ken Liu’s Dandelion Dynasty series captures this dynamic, exploring how rebellion shapes and sometimes distorts those who fight for freedom.

The Moral Challenges of Resistance

I was particularly interested in how resistance movements can become corrupted by their own methods.

Maja aligns herself with Asgar, knowing his brutality might aid her cause but wrestling with the moral cost.

This reflects real historical resistance movements grappling with questions of acceptable violence and moral compromise.

The Role of Local Elites in Colonial Control

Another theme I explored was how colonial powers co-opt local elites to maintain control.

Ragnar’s elevation to knight isn’t merely personal—it’s a calculated move to legitimise Imperial rule.

This mirrors how real colonial powers worked through local authorities, creating intricate webs of loyalty and betrayal.

Fantasy as a Lens for Colonialism

Fantasy allows us to examine colonialism in ways that might feel too raw in historical fiction.

Through worldbuilding, we can analyse the mechanisms of conquest and the human cost of resistance.

The magic system in The Knight and the Rebel, focusing on mental influence and control, serves as a metaphor for how colonial powers manipulate both the conquered and their own people.

Showing Both Sides of Colonialism

Some readers have asked why I chose to show both perspectives rather than focusing solely on the resistance.

To understand colonialism, it’s essential to examine both sides.

Through Ragnar, we see how people justify their roles within oppressive systems.

Through Maja, we experience the devastating human cost of those justifications.

Modern Fantasy and Colonial Themes

Contemporary fantasy increasingly explores colonialism beyond military conquest, delving into culture, identity, and power.

Works like R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War and S.A. Chakraborty’s Daevabad Trilogy highlight how conquest reshapes societies and individuals.

Fantasy’s Unique Tools for Exploration

Fantasy offers unique tools to explore colonialism.

Magic can symbolise technology or cultural power.

Fantasy races provide a way to examine differences without directly reflecting real-world ethnicities.

Invented religions and customs help illustrate cultural imperialism.

The Impact of Colonialism in The Knight and the Rebel

In The Knight and the Rebel, I aimed to show how colonialism affects everyone—coloniser and colonised, collaborator and resistor.

There are no clean hands in these struggles, no purely heroic choices.

By understanding these dynamics through fantasy, perhaps we can better confront them in our own world.

Share Your Thoughts

What colonial themes in fantasy have resonated with you?

How do you think the genre can better explore these complex issues?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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