Jon Cronshaw's Blog, page 16

This week on Patreon

Here’s what’s been happening on Patreon this week:

For Paid Members:Chapters 11 and 12 of Forged in Blood (Guild of Assassins, Book 2) are now live.A new chapter of Hunters, my space Western side project.The latest chapter of Niamh’s Journey (Punks Versus Zombies side story).For Free Members:Prisoner of the Wasteland—a side story set in the world of my Wasteland series.As the Gravity Flipped—a sci-fi tale about a cleaner unwittingly joining a rebellion on a space station. The Perfect Daughter —a brand-new satirical short story about a woman who uses an AI voice clone to call her mother.Cyber Monday Special:

The 70% off offer for your first month on any paid tier ends Monday!
Use the promo code WYVERN to claim this incredible deal and get access to exclusive chapters, audio stories, and more.

Apple Users: To avoid the 30% surcharge in the app, please sign up through a browser.

Join me on Patreon now!

Visit: patreon.com/joncronshawauthor

Thank you for your support, and I can’t wait to share more stories with you!

– Jon

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🏰 Crafting “The Ravenglass Throne” & Enjoying Michael J. Sullivan’s “Ezrahaddon” | Author Diary – December 6, 2024 📚✨

Introducing “The Ravenglass Throne”

This week, I continued developing my new project, The Ravenglass Throne, a 12-novella serial releasing monthly episodes. Subscribers on Patreon can enjoy three chapters per week before the full novellas are released on ebook platforms.

Set in the Ravenglass Universe, this epic fantasy follows three royal sisters navigating corrupted magic, political intrigue, and the shadowy conspiracy surrounding their father’s mysterious assassination.

Current Reading

Alongside writing, I’ve been savouring Ezrahaddon by Michael J. Sullivan. It’s been a joy immersing myself in his world.

Special Offer on Patreon

Don’t miss out on my 70% discount on your first month of Patreon membership, running until December 9!

Use promo code WYVERN when signing up. If you’re using the Apple app, please subscribe through a browser to avoid the surcharge.

Visit: patreon.com/joncronshawauthor

What’s Next

As I continue crafting The Ravenglass Throne, I’m diving deeper into the lore and political dynamics that shape the sisters’ journeys. This world is brimming with secrets, and I can’t wait to share them with you.

Your Turn!

What are your favourite YA fantasy reads, or recent stories that have inspired you? How do you enjoy seeing conspiracy and mystery woven into epic tales? Share your thoughts below, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates on my writing journey!

The post 🏰 Crafting “The Ravenglass Throne” & Enjoying Michael J. Sullivan’s “Ezrahaddon” | Author Diary – December 6, 2024 📚✨ first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Found Family in Dark Fantasy: Why We Love Brotherhood Bonds

Dark fantasy often shows us the worst of human nature.

Betrayal, violence, and corruption dominate the landscape.

Yet within these shadows, we find something profound: the bonds forged between broken people.

The ‘found family’ trope resonates not despite the darkness, but because of it.

Broken Characters Finding Strength Together

My novel Guild of Assassins explores this beautifully through its guild recruits.

Each arrives carrying their own wounds.

Soren with his murdered father.

Alaric torn from his fishing life.

Nia with her street survivor’s cynicism.

Isolde fleeing academic constraints.

Jareth haunted by lost nobility.

Alone, they’re vulnerable.

Together, they form something stronger than blood.

Bonds Tested Through Darkness

What makes these bonds compelling isn’t their initial formation but their testing.

When Kierak brutalises Soren, the others don’t just offer sympathy.

They risk themselves to help him reclaim his dagger.

When Jareth is injured by a trap, they carry him rather than abandon him as Ganrel suggests.

These moments matter because they’re choices made despite survival instincts, not because of them.

Loyalty Forming Against the Odds

The fascinating thing about found families in dark fantasy is how they form despite institutional pressure.

The guild tries to pit recruits against each other.

Yet bonds form anyway.

Like the Bridgeburners in Malazan Book of the Fallen or the Night’s Watch brothers in A Song of Ice and Fire, loyalty emerges precisely because the system demands its absence.

Brotherhood as Salvation and Burden

But these relationships aren’t simple.

When Soren and Alaric face the Threshing, their brotherhood becomes both salvation and burden.

Their loyalty keeps them human but also binds them to violence.

It’s reminiscent of how the Gentleman Bastards in Lynch’s series enable each other’s criminal lives while preserving each other’s humanity.

Shared Trauma as Bonding Agent

The training sequences reveal another aspect of found family – shared trauma as a bonding agent.

When recruits endure Varus’s brutality together.

When they learn killing arts from Quillon.

When they face Tamasin’s poisonous lessons.

They’re not just gaining skills.

They’re forming bonds through shared hardship.

Like soldiers in trenches, their brotherhood is forged in fire.

The Poisonous Side of Brotherhood

Yet dark fantasy recognises that found family isn’t always healthy.

Ganrel’s manipulation of group dynamics, his attempted exploitation of loyalties, shows how brotherhood can become poison.

The genre acknowledges that sometimes the family we choose can damage us as much as the one we’re born to.

Surviving Moral Transformation

What makes Guild of Assassins’ treatment of found family particularly compelling is how it shows these bonds surviving moral transformation.

When Soren becomes capable of killing.

When Alaric’s hands learn violence.

Their friendship adapts rather than breaks.

They accept each other’s darkness while helping each other retain fragments of light.

The Guild as a Dark Mirror of Family

The guild itself serves as a dark mirror of family structure.

The masters become twisted parent figures, dealing out both nurture and trauma.

Fellow recruits become siblings competing for approval while protecting each other from the worst abuses.

It’s a dysfunctional family, but family nonetheless.

Connection in Hostile Environments

Perhaps most powerfully, found family in dark fantasy shows how connection survives in the most hostile environments.

When the Threshing forces recruits to kill each other, previously forged bonds determine who lives and dies.

Loyalty proven through smaller moments pays off in ultimate tests.

Why We Love Brotherhood Bonds in Dark Fantasy

This is why we love brotherhood bonds in dark fantasy.

They show us how connection persists despite corruption.

How loyalty survives in darkness.

How family can be forged rather than just born.

Through characters like Soren and Alaric, we explore how shared darkness can create the strongest bonds.

The Double-Edged Nature of Brotherhood

Yet these stories don’t present found family as pure salvation.

They acknowledge how loyalty can enable destruction.

How brotherhood can perpetuate cycles of violence.

When Soren and Alaric face their final test, their bond saves them but also damns them to a killer’s path.

The Truth About Found Family in Dark Fantasy

Maybe that’s the ultimate truth about found family in dark fantasy – that it’s both salvation and burden.

Both light and shadow.

These bonds matter not because they’re perfect, but because they’re chosen despite imperfection.

Because they represent connection forged in darkness, loyalty tested by fire.

Your Thoughts

What are your favourite examples of found family in dark fantasy?

How do you think these bonds differ from similar relationships in lighter fantasy?

Share your thoughts below.

The post Found Family in Dark Fantasy: Why We Love Brotherhood Bonds first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Cyber Monday Special: 70% Off Your First Month!

This Cyber Monday, I’m offering an exclusive deal for new paid members on Patreon—get 70% off your first month on any paid tier!

Use the promo code WYVERN to unlock this incredible discount and gain access to:

The Knight and the Rebel (Ravenglass Legends, Book 3).The complete Wyvern Rider novella.Early access to chapters of Forged in Blood (Guild of Assassins, Book 2).Niamh’s Journey (A Punks Versus Zombies side story).My side project Hunters, a space Western adventure.Audio stories, regular short fiction, and more!

How to Redeem the Offer:

Visit my Patreon page via your browser (important for Apple users—see below!).Choose your preferred tier.Enter the promo code WYVERN at checkout.

A Quick Note for Apple Users:
To avoid the 30% surcharge in the app, make sure you sign up through a browser instead. It’s quick, easy, and ensures you get the best value.

This offer is only available for a limited time, so don’t miss out on this chance to join my Patreon community at a fraction of the cost!

Claim Your Discount at patreon.com/joncronshawauthor.

Thank you for your continued support,
Jon

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🏰 New YA Fantasy Project & Epic Reads | Author Diary, November 29, 2024 📚✨

Introducing “The Ravenglass Throne”:

This week marks the beginning of a new venture into YA epic fantasy with my latest project, “The Ravenglass Throne.”

The story unfolds around three princesses thrown into turmoil after their father, the king, is mysteriously assassinated without naming an heir.

Set against a backdrop of looming conspiracy and dark secrets, the narrative explores themes of power, loyalty, and the quest for truth.

Current Reading:

Alongside developing this new tale, I’m engrossed in “Ezzraharden” by Michael J. Sullivan. Sullivan’s ability to weave intricate plots and richly drawn characters never fails to inspire.

I’m reading “Wild Faith” by Talia Levin, a book that offers a fresh perspective on spirituality and belief systems within the context of far-right politics.

Both books provide a wonderful blend of escapism and intellectual engagement, feeding into my creative process.

What’s Next:

As “The Ravenglass Throne” begins to take shape, I’m focused on outlining the complex relationships and political intrigue that drive the heart of the story.

I’m excited to develop this world and its rulers, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of each princess.

I’d love to hear about your favourite YA fantasy books or any recent reads that have captured your imagination.

How do you like to see conspiracy and mystery handled in fantasy settings?

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and updates from my author’s journey!

listen to the audio version.

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The Perfect Daughter: A Story About Automating What We Can’t Fix

Ever wondered what would happen if we could outsource our family guilt to AI?

I did, and the result is my new short story, “The Perfect Daughter” – available now to read for free on Patreon.

Meet Ellie, a management consultant who’s mastered the art of minimising her mother’s calls during client meetings.

When she discovers an AI service that promises to handle her family obligations, it seems like the perfect solution.

VoiceEase will maintain her relationship with her mother while she focuses on selling certainty to people who can afford to buy it.

This story emerged from watching all of us become increasingly skilled at maintaining the appearance of connection while drifting further apart.

It’s about the small compromises we make in the name of efficiency, the ways we try to optimise relationships that were never meant to be optimised, and the messy reality of mother-daughter dynamics in an age where everything can be automated—except the feelings we’re trying to avoid.

“The Perfect Daughter” explores what happens when we apply startup solutions to human problems.

It’s about artificial intelligence and authentic avoidance, about the ghosts in our machines and the ones in our family trees. You can read it right now on my Patreon—no subscription required.

Read Here.

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Why Disney’s Moana is a Treasure for Fantasy Lovers

In the vast ocean of fantasy cinema, where tales of adventure and magic crash upon us like relentless waves, there sails a film that has captured the hearts of fantasy aficionados.

Disney’s “Moana” isn’t just a pleasant watch; it’s a veritable treasure chest brimming with elements that resonate deeply with lovers of fantasy literature.

Let’s embark on a voyage to uncover why “Moana” is the perfect film for those who wallow in realms of dragons, wizards, and epic quests.

The Call to Adventure: A Hero’s Journey Awaits

At its core, “Moana” is a bog-standard tale of adventure and self-discovery.

Moana’s escape from her island prison to the vast Pacific mirrors the quintessential hero’s journey so adored in fantasy literature.

She faces trials, encounters mentors, and battles her fears – a narrative arc that would leave Joseph Campbell patting himself on the back.

Mythology and Legend: Diving into Rich Cultural Lore

“Moana” plunges headfirst into Polynesian mythology, introducing viewers to a world steeped in legend and lore.

Fantasy readers, who often hanker for immersive worlds with well-developed backstories and mythos, will find a veritable buffet of cultural depth in the film’s portrayal of demigods, mystical islands, and the Ocean’s anthropomorphic antics.

The Power of Nature: More than Just a Setting

The Ocean in “Moana” is a character in its own right, guiding, challenging, and interacting with Moana throughout her escapades.

This depiction of nature as an active, sentient force echoes a common theme in fantasy literature, where the natural world often plays a crucial, if annoyingly meddlesome, role in the narrative.

A Tale of Magic and Wonder

From Maui’s shape-shifting party tricks to the heart of Te Fiti’s life-giving bauble, “Moana” is drenched in magical elements that are the lifeblood of fantasy storytelling.

The film’s effortless blend of magic and mythology provides a sense of wonder that fantasy readers chase in their literary pursuits, much like a cat chasing an eternally elusive laser dot.

An Unconventional Heroine

Moana is a refreshing twist on the fantasy heroine archetype.

She’s strong, determined, and driven by a sense of duty to her people and her inner nagging.

This portrayal aligns with the modern fantasy trend of featuring complex, empowered female protagonists who are more than just damsels in distress – though distress is always lurking just a plot twist away.

Overcoming the Impossible: Triumph Against All Odds

At its climax, “Moana” features a showdown with a seemingly indomitable adversary, a theme as old as fantasy itself.

The film’s portrayal of overcoming staggering odds through courage and resilience mirrors the epic battles and struggles omnipresent in fantasy literature, where the heroes prevail just in time for the credits to roll.

The Beauty of Storytelling: A Rich Narrative Tapestry

“Moana” is a testament to the power of storytelling, weaving a narrative that is both visually sumptuous and emotionally stirring.

The film’s meticulous attention to detail, from its animation to its music, captures the essence of what makes fantasy literature so captivating – the ability to tell a gripping tale that transports us to another world, albeit one pixel at a time.

Why ‘Moana’ Resonates with Fantasy Lovers

“Moana” is more than just an animated distraction; it’s a celebration of the elements that make fantasy literature so beloved.

Its rich mythology, vibrant world-building, and powerful storytelling make it a film that resonates with anyone who loves to escape reality and lose themselves in a fantastical realm.

So, dear fantasy readers, have you dared to set sail with “Moana” on her epic journey?

How do you see its parallels with your cherished fantasy tales?

Share your thoughts, and let’s continue to traverse the magical worlds that both cinema and literature have to offer – while keeping one eye on the exit, just in case.

The post Why Disney’s Moana is a Treasure for Fantasy Lovers first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Important Announcement – RE: Ream

Dear Ream Subscribers,
I want to thank you all for your incredible support on this platform. It’s been a wonderful experience connecting with you and sharing my stories, but I’ve made the decision to transition fully to Patreon.

What Does This Mean for Ream?
I’ll be wrapping up all open projects for paid members here on Ream, so no one misses out.
However, all current and future updates will now also be available on Patreon, alongside:
– Hunters, my new space Western side project.
– Audio stories for immersive storytelling.
– Regular short stories and updates.

Why the Move?
I need a more robust platform to continue building and sharing my work. Patreon provides the tools and community features to help me grow as a creator and deliver even more content to you.

What’s Waiting for You on Patreon?
Even free members of Patreon get plenty of regular updates, including short stories, behind-the-scenes posts, and author diary videos.
Paid subscriptions offer even more, with access to exclusive content like early chapters, bonus projects, and more.

I hope you’ll join me on Patreon to continue this journey. Your support has meant the world to me, and I’d love to keep sharing my stories with you.
Join me on Patreon today!
Thank you for everything,
Jon
Visit: patreon.com/joncronshawauthor.

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This week on Patreon

Exciting updates for both free and paid members this week!

For Paid Members:

Early access to Forged in Blood (Guild of Assassins, Book 2), with chapters seven and eight now available.New chapters of Niamh’s Journey (Punks Versus Zombies side story).A fresh chapter of Hunters, my fun space Western side project.

For Free Members:

The Speed of Boredom, a dark flash fiction piece about a young man convinced boredom is the secret to eternal life.The Gibson Continuum, a cyberpunk-inspired short story.

At the moment, I’m posting four different chapters weekly, alongside a short story. Free members also receive regular updates, including short stories and author diary videos.

Paid subscriptions start at just $4.99 per month, so don’t miss out on all the exclusive content!

Join me on Patreon today at patreon.com/joncronshawauthor.

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📚 Draft Completion & Delving into New Reads | Author Diary – November 22, 2024 🖋️📖

Finishing “Blade of Sorrows”:

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve completed the draft of “Blade of Sorrows,” the third book in the Guild of Assassins series.

Current Reading:

As I take a brief pause from writing to recharge, I’ve started reading “Ezzrahdon” by Michael J. Sullivan. It’s proving to be an engaging read, filled with the compelling storytelling and rich character development.

Looking Ahead:

With “Blade of Sorrows” now in draft completion, my focus will soon shift towards the editing process, a critical step in preparing the book for its journey to the readers.

I’d love to hear about your experiences with completing big projects or the books that currently captivate you. How do you transition from intense writing phases to other creative or leisure activities?

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and updates from my author’s life!

The post 📚 Draft Completion & Delving into New Reads | Author Diary – November 22, 2024 🖋️📖 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.