Jon Cronshaw's Blog, page 19

🌌 Crafting a Space Western & Fantasycon Anticipation | Author Diary – October 11. 2024 📚

https://youtu.be/ypMAOmvz6pE

Writing a Space Western:

This week has been a thrilling ride as I’ve ventured into the realm of a Space Western, already hitting the 20,000-word mark. The process is as fun as it is challenging, weaving together elements of frontier lawlessness with futuristic sci-fi. While I’m still shaping the story’s direction, the journey of crafting it is proving to be immensely enjoyable.

Gearing Up for Fantasycon:

I’m also gearing up for a busy weekend at Fantasycon in Chester. I’ll be participating in four panels, discussing everything from genre nuances to character development. It’s an opportunity I’m particularly excited about, as it allows me to meet fellow writers and fans, exchange ideas, and gain new insights.

Reading Adventures:

On the reading front, I’ve finished “The KLF” by John Higgs, which delves into the eccentric and enigmatic music group known for their avant-garde antics. Inspired by this, I’ve started “Illuminatus” by Robert Anton Wilson, a complex and layered novel that promises to be as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Looking Forward:

As I prepare for the panels and continue my writing, I’m excited to see where both these adventures take me. The combination of discussing my craft with peers and pushing the boundaries of my creative work is what keeps this journey fascinating.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on blending genres like the Space Western, your experiences at conventions, or any transformative books you’ve read. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and stories from my author’s life

The post 🌌 Crafting a Space Western & Fantasycon Anticipation | Author Diary – October 11. 2024 📚 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Fantasy World-Building: The Power of History and Memory

In fantasy literature, history isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing entity that shapes characters, drives conflicts, and adds depth to imaginary worlds.

Today, we’ll explore how history and memory function in fantasy, using the legacy of Meerand from my Ravenglass Legends series as our guide.

The Weight of the Past

In “The Fall of Wolfsbane”, the history of Meerand isn’t just a collection of dry facts.

It’s a force that profoundly influences our protagonists, Ragnar and Maja Wolfsbane.

The fall of their homeland serves as both a personal tragedy and a catalyst for their individual journeys.

Ragnar’s memories of Meerand’s warrior culture shape his identity, even as he’s forced to adapt to life in the Ostreich Empire.

Meanwhile, Maja’s recollections of her homeland fuel her resistance against the Empire’s attempts to ‘civilise’ her.

In both cases, we see how personal and cultural memories can act as anchors in a changing world.

History as Conflict

The conquest of Meerand by the Ostreich Empire illustrates how history often serves as the root of conflict in fantasy worlds.

The clash between Meerand’s clan-based society and the Empire’s ‘civilising’ mission creates tension that drives much of the story.

This conflict isn’t just about territory.

It’s a battle between differing worldviews, each shaped by its own history.

The Empire sees itself as a force of progress, while the people of Meerand view it as a destroyer of tradition.

This dynamic mirrors real-world colonial conflicts, adding depth and relevance to our fantasy narrative.

The Unreliability of History

One fascinating aspect of using history in fantasy is the opportunity to explore how stories change over time.

In “The Fall of Wolfsbane”, we see how the Empire’s version of events differs from the memories of those from Meerand.

This discrepancy raises interesting questions.

Who gets to write history?

How do victors shape the narrative?

How do the conquered keep their stories alive?

By presenting multiple perspectives, we create a richer, more nuanced world that challenges readers to think critically about the nature of historical truth.

Cultural Memory and Identity

The legacy of Meerand isn’t just about past events—it’s a crucial part of our characters’ cultural identity.

Ragnar and Maja’s struggles to maintain their connection to their heritage while navigating a new world reflect the real-world challenges faced by displaced peoples.

Through their experiences, we explore how cultural memory can be both a source of strength and a burden.

It provides a sense of identity and belonging, but can also create barriers to adaptation and understanding.

Legends and Myths

In many fantasy worlds, including that of the Ravenglass Legends, historical events often take on mythic proportions.

The story of Meerand’s fall, the tales of past Wolfsbane chieftains, and the legends surrounding ravenglass all contribute to a rich tapestry of lore.

These in-world myths and legends serve multiple purposes.

They add depth to the world, provide motivation for characters, and often foreshadow future events.

They also allow us to explore how stories evolve over time, taking on new meanings for new generations.

History as World-Building

From a craft perspective, using history and memory is a powerful tool for world-building.

The legacy of Meerand helps to create a sense of depth and realism in our fantasy world.

It suggests a world that existed long before our story began and will continue long after it ends.

By referencing past events, hinting at ancient conflicts, and showing how different cultures interpret shared history, we create a world that feels lived-in and authentic.

This depth invites readers to immerse themselves fully in the story.

The Future Shaped by the Past

Finally, it’s worth noting how the legacy of Meerand doesn’t just inform the present in “The Fall of Wolfsbane”.

It also shapes the future.

Ragnar and Maja’s actions, driven by their memories and cultural heritage, have the potential to change the course of their world’s history.

This interplay between past, present, and future creates a dynamic narrative where history isn’t just a static backdrop, but an active force in the story.

The Power of Memory

The legacy of Meerand in “The Fall of Wolfsbane” demonstrates the power of history and memory in fantasy world-building.

It shapes characters, drives conflicts, adds depth to the world, and provides a rich foundation for storytelling.

By engaging with themes of history and memory, fantasy doesn’t just offer escapism.

It provides a lens through which we can explore complex ideas about identity, culture, and the stories we tell about ourselves.

How do you think the use of history and memory enhances fantasy storytelling?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

start reading The Fall of Wolfsbane.

The post Fantasy World-Building: The Power of History and Memory first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

🎉 7 Years and Countless Stories: Celebrating My Author Diary Podcast! 🎙️

Hello from Morecambe!

Can you believe it? This week marks the 7th anniversary of my Author Diary podcast!

On October 8, 2017, I nervously hit ‘record’ for the very first time, not knowing where this journey would lead.

Now, 366 consecutive weekly episodes later, I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone with you, my loyal listeners and readers.

A Journey Through the Ravenglass Universe

For seven years, every single Saturday, I’ve invited you into my world:

• Sharing the triumphs and challenges of bringing my fiction to life,

• Offering exclusive sneak peeks at upcoming releases and works-in-progress,

• Discussing my favourite reads, films, and TV shows,

Thank You for Being Part of This Adventure

This podcast has been more than just a diary; it’s been a conversation with you, my wonderful community of readers and fellow fantasy enthusiasts.

Your support, questions, and enthusiasm have fueled this journey, making each episode a joy to create.

Looking to the Future

As we embark on year eight of the Author Diary podcast, I’m more excited than ever about what’s to come. Expect:

• Even more behind-the-scenes insights into the Ravenglass Universe,

• Exciting announcements about new projects,

• In-depth discussions on fantasy literature and storytelling,

• And maybe a few surprises along the way!

Never Miss an Episode

If you haven’t tuned in yet, now’s the perfect time to start!

You can find Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary podcast on all major platforms:

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts

• Stitcher

Simply search for “Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary” and subscribe.

Or ask Alexa to play “Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary podcast” (be sure to add podcast at the end).

New episodes release every Saturday – perfect for your weekend listening pleasure!

Thank you for seven incredible years.

Here’s to many more adventures!

Until next time, cherio.

Jon

P.S. If you prefer video, I post my weekly diaries on YouTube every Friday. Visit: youtube.com/c/joncronshawauthor

The post 🎉 7 Years and Countless Stories: Celebrating My Author Diary Podcast! 🎙️ first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

🎉 Celebrating 7 Years & Gearing Up for Fantasycon | Author Diary – October 4, 2024 📚🎙️

7th Anniversary of the Author Diary Podcast:

This week marks the seventh anniversary of my Author Diary podcast. It’s been a wonderful journey of sharing insights, challenges, and triumphs from my writing life. I’ve enjoyed connecting with all of you, and I’m grateful for your continued support.

Current Writing and Reading:

I’ve been making steady progress on “Forged in Blood,” the latest installment in the Guild of Assassins series. Writing this book has been an intricate process, weaving complex characters and dark themes into the narrative fabric. Alongside writing, I’ve been immersed in “Vengeful Spirit” from the Horus Heresy series, a gripping tale that complements the intense and dramatic tone of my own work.

Reader Interaction:

In this special anniversary episode, I took the opportunity to answer some reader questions.

Prepping for Fantasycon:

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to be attending Fantasycon next weekend. I’ll be participating in four panels discussing topics ranging from rogues and grimdark to post-apocalyptic fiction and the portrayal of disability beyond the trope of ‘superpower.’ As I prepare for the convention, I’m excited to meet many of you there, share insights, and explore the diverse and dynamic world of fantasy literature.

Stay tuned for updates from Fantasycon and more adventures from the writing desk!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on podcast milestones, your experiences with fantasy conventions, or any questions you might have about writing and reading. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and updates from my author’s journey!

follow jon on Youtube.

The post 🎉 Celebrating 7 Years & Gearing Up for Fantasycon | Author Diary – October 4, 2024 📚🎙️ first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

The Role of Empires in Fantasy: Beyond Good vs Evil

In fantasy literature, empires loom large.

They are vast, powerful, and frequently cast as the antagonist.

But what happens when we move beyond the simple ‘evil empire’ trope?

Let’s explore the more nuanced portrayal of empires in fantasy, with a particular focus on the Ostreich Empire from my Ravenglass Legends series.

The Empire as a Mirror

Empires in fantasy serve as powerful tools for exploring real-world issues.

They act as mirrors, reflecting our own society’s complexities, moral dilemmas, and power dynamics.

The Ostreich Empire in Ravenglass Legends is no exception.

It’s not a cartoonishly evil entity, but a multifaceted society with its own beliefs, justifications, and internal conflicts.

By presenting the empire in this way, we create a space for readers to grapple with challenging questions.

Is the empire’s mission to ‘civilise’ the conquered lands entirely wrong?

Are there any benefits to their rule?

These questions don’t have easy answers, and that’s precisely the point.

Shades of Grey in Imperial Rule

One of the most compelling aspects of the Ostreich Empire is its internal diversity.

We see this through characters like Prince Gregor, who is both a conqueror and a mentor to Ragnar.

Then there’s Prince Friderich, whose kindness and scholarly nature challenge our preconceptions of what an ‘imperial prince’ should be.

These characters embody the empire’s contradictions.

They’re not cackling villains twirling their moustaches, but complex individuals navigating a system that has both virtues and deep flaws.

This nuanced portrayal invites readers to think critically about power, duty, and morality.

The Cost of ‘Civilisation’

The empire’s claim to bring ‘civilisation’ to conquered lands is a familiar refrain in both fantasy and real-world history.

In “The Fall of Wolfsbane”, we see this play out through Maja’s experiences in the imperial capital.

The empire seeks to ‘elevate’ her, but at what cost?

This storyline allows us to explore themes of cultural erasure, forced assimilation, and the arrogance of assuming one culture is superior to another.

It’s not a black-and-white issue.

Some may argue that the empire brings advancements in technology or governance.

But is this worth the loss of indigenous cultures and ways of life?

Power, Corruption, and Lies

Empires, with their vast bureaucracies and concentrated power, provide fertile ground for exploring how power corrupts.

In the Ostreich Empire, we see this through characters like Princess Saranka and Prince Eckhart.

Their actions show how the immense power of the empire can warp individuals and lead to cruelty.

However, by also showing characters who resist this corruption—like Friderich or even Ragnar in his journey—we create a more complex picture.

The empire becomes not just a monolithic force of evil, but a system that individuals must navigate, sometimes compromising, sometimes resisting.

The Empire as a Catalyst for Change

Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of the empire for me in “The Fall of Wolfsbane” is how it acts as a catalyst for change in our protagonists.

Ragnar and Maja are both profoundly transformed by their experiences within the empire.

Ragnar learns the ways of knighthood and statecraft.

Maja develops cunning and resilience in the face of oppression.

This demonstrates how empires in fantasy can be more than just antagonists to be overthrown.

They can be complex environments that shape our heroes, for better or worse.

Subverting Expectations

By presenting a more nuanced view of empire, I hope “The Fall of Wolfsbane” subverts reader expectations.

Those coming in expecting a straightforward ‘plucky rebels versus evil empire’ story will find something far more complex.

This subversion challenges readers to think more deeply about issues of power, culture, and morality.

It’s worth noting that this approach doesn’t excuse or glorify imperialism.

Rather, it presents imperialism as a complex historical and social phenomenon.

One that affects both the conquerors and the conquered in profound and often unexpected ways.

The Power of Nuance

In crafting the Ostreich Empire, I hope I’ve moved beyond simple villains to create a more realistic and thought-provoking antagonist.

This approach allows me to explore complex themes and moral questions that don’t have easy answers.

But I hope it will encourage readers to think critically about power structures in their own world.

After all, the best fantasy doesn’t just help us escape reality—it helps us understand it better.

How do you feel about complex portrayals of empires in fantasy?

Do you prefer clear-cut good and evil, or do you enjoy wrestling with moral ambiguity?

Share your thoughts in the comments!

start reading The fall of wolfsbane.

The post The Role of Empires in Fantasy: Beyond Good vs Evil first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

📚 Perseverance and Progress | Author Diary – September 27, 2024 🤒✍️

Battling Illness:

Despite being ill this week, I pressed on with my writing commitments. It’s often difficult to maintain momentum during such times, but staying connected to my projects helps keep my spirits up.

I managed to add about 10,000 words to “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series

Reading Updates:

 I wrapped up “Fake Heroes” by Otto English, a compelling read that offers sharp insights into cultural and historical narratives.

Moving on, I’ve started “Vengeful Spirit,” part of the expansive Horus Heresy series. Diving into this new book has been a great way to escape and recuperate, immersing myself in the rich lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe.

Looking Ahead:

As I recover and continue with “Forged in Blood,” I look forward to regaining my full strength and embracing the creative challenges ahead.

Next week, I hope to share more positive updates and perhaps some insights from my journey through the Horus Heresy series.

I’d love to hear about how you cope with setbacks and continue to find inspiration in your projects or readings. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights from my author’s life and the perseverance that drives it!

The post 📚 Perseverance and Progress | Author Diary – September 27, 2024 🤒✍️ first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Are you going to Fantasycon?

Hello from Morecambe!

Exciting news! I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be attending Fantasycon 2024 in Chester, England, from October 11-13.

This is a fantastic opportunity for us to meet in person, chat about all things fantasy, and maybe even share a pint or two!

 Event Details:

What: Fantasycon 2024

Where: The Queen at Chester Hotel, Chester, England

When: October 11-13, 2024

Website: britishfantasysociety.org/events-calendar/fantasycon-2024/

 Panel Appearances:

I’m honoured to be participating in four author panels this year:

The Art of Writing Roguish CharactersExploring the Depths of Grimdark FantasyImagining Tomorrow: Post-Apocalyptic FictionDisability Beyond a Superpower

These panels promise to be engaging discussions, and I’d love to see some familiar faces in the audience!

 How to Find Me:

I’ll be easy to spot – just look for the guy who matches my author photo, accompanied by my trusty Guide Dog, Digit. We’re quite the dynamic duo, and Digit is always up for a pat (but please ask first, as he’ll be working).

 Extra Fun:

If the stars align (and I’ve had a pint or two), you might even catch me at the karaoke event. Fair warning: my singing voice is more “enthusiastic” than “melodious”!

 Let’s Connect:

I’m really looking forward to meeting you all in person. Whether you want to chat about your favourite characters, geek out about fantasy books, or just say hello, please don’t hesitate to approach me.

If you’re planning to attend Fantasycon, drop me a email at joncronshawauthor@gmail.com. It would be great to know who to look out for!

This is shaping up to be an incredible event, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.

See you in Chester!

Jon

The post Are you going to Fantasycon? first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Secrets and Schemes: Why Royal Courts Captivate Fantasy Readers

In fantasy literature, few settings captivate readers quite like the royal court.

These hubs of power, intrigue, and danger serve as perfect crucibles for character development and plot twists.

But what makes royal courts so appealing in fantasy storytelling?

Let’s explore this fascinating aspect of worldbuilding, with a particular focus on the courts depicted in my novel, “The Fall of Wolfsbane“.

A Nexus of Power and Politics

Royal courts are where the fate of kingdoms is decided.

Often through whispered conversations and subtle manipulations rather than grand battles.

In “The Fall of Wolfsbane”, we see this dynamic play out in Prince Gregor’s palace in Welttor and the grand Imperial Palace in Reichsherz.

Ragnar’s experience in Welttor offers readers a front-row seat to the machinations of a conquering power.

As he navigates the treacherous waters of Gregor’s court, we witness the delicate balance of power between military might and political acumen.

The palace becomes a chessboard, with Ragnar as a pawn slowly learning the rules of a game he never asked to play.

Cultural Clash and Assimilation

Royal courts in fantasy often serve as melting pots, where different cultures clash and blend.

This is particularly evident in Maja’s journey in the Imperial Palace at Reichsherz.

Her struggle to maintain her identity while being forced to adopt Ostreich customs highlights the court as a place of cultural assimilation—or resistance.

The opulence of the Imperial Palace, with its ravenglass throne and jade carpets, stands in stark contrast to the simpler ways of Maja’s homeland.

This juxtaposition allows us to explore themes of identity, colonialism, and the price of so-called ‘civilisation’.

A Stage for Character Growth

The pressures and temptations of court life provide fertile ground for character development.

Ragnar’s transformation from a clan warrior to a knight of the Empire showcases how the court environment can reshape an individual.

His relationships with Prince Friderich and the antagonistic Prince Eckhart illustrate the complex web of alliances and rivalries that define court politics.

Meanwhile, Maja’s experiences under Princess Saranka’s harsh tutelage demonstrate how the court can be a crucible for resilience and cunning.

Her journey from captive to subtle rebel encapsulates the potential for growth—and danger—inherent in navigating royal politics.

Secrets, Schemes, and Subterfuge

What would a fantasy court be without its fair share of secrets?

The courts in “The Fall of Wolfsbane” are rife with hidden agendas and clandestine plots.

From Ragnar uncovering the truth about his uncle’s betrayal to Maja’s discovery of her ability to influence minds, the palace settings provide a perfect backdrop for revelations and reversals of fortune.

The presence of characters like the enigmatic fool Peterade in Reichsherz adds layers of mystery and intrigue.

In a world where every smile could hide a dagger, the royal court becomes a thrilling puzzle for both characters and readers to unravel.

Magic and Mystique

Fantasy courts often intertwine political power with magical elements, adding an extra layer of wonder and danger.

In “The Fall of Wolfsbane”, the presence of ravenglass artefacts and the mysterious wyvern in Welttor blur the lines between the mundane and the magical.

Ragnar’s reforging of his ravenglass weapons and Maja’s encounters with magical artefacts in Reichsherz demonstrate how royal courts can serve as nexuses of arcane power.

Ancient magics and political ambitions collide in these settings.

The Appeal of the Unattainable

For many readers, royal courts represent a world of privilege and power that’s fascinating precisely because it’s so removed from everyday experience.

The lavish descriptions of palace life, from grand balls to elaborate ceremonies, offer a form of escapism.

Yet, as Ragnar and Maja’s experiences show, this glittering world comes with its own set of dangers and moral compromises.

A Rich Setting for Storytelling

Royal courts in fantasy provide a rich, multifaceted setting for exploring themes of power, identity, and moral complexity.

Through the contrasting experiences of Ragnar in Welttor and Maja in Reichsherz, “The Fall of Wolfsbane” demonstrates the versatility of court settings in driving both plot and character development.

Whether it’s the thrill of political intrigue, the clash of cultures, or the allure of forbidden magic, royal courts continue to captivate readers.

They offer a glimpse into a world where every polite conversation could change the fate of nations.

What’s your favourite depiction of a royal court in fantasy literature?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Read The Fall of Wolfsbane.

The post Secrets and Schemes: Why Royal Courts Captivate Fantasy Readers first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

🚢 A Week of Travels and Literary Journeys | Author Diary – September 22, 2024 📚🌍

Cruise Adventures:

This week, I took a break from writing to embark on a cruise that took me to some of Europe’s most storied destinations, including Pompeii, Rome, and Girona. Each city offered its own unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking sights. From the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the medieval charm of Girona, this journey was a treasure trove of inspiration and a wonderful escape from the daily grind.

Reading Along the Way:

During the cruise, I immersed myself in “Among the Trolls” by Marianna Spring, a captivating exploration of modern conspiracism. I’m currently engrossed in “Fake Heroes” by Otto English, which offers insightful commentary wrapped in engaging storytelling.

Next week, I plan to return to writing, energised by the wealth of experiences and ideas gathered during my travels. I’d love to hear about your experiences with travel and how they have influenced your creative or professional life.

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates from my author’s life and the inspiration that fuels it!

The post 🚢 A Week of Travels and Literary Journeys | Author Diary – September 22, 2024 📚🌍 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

The Challenge of Writing Sibling Relationships in Fantasy

In fantasy literature, we often encounter chosen ones, dark lords, and magical creatures.

But amidst the epic battles and world-altering prophecies, there’s a relationship dynamic that can be just as complex and compelling.

Siblings.

The Unique Bond of Blood

Sibling relationships offer a wealth of storytelling opportunities.

They’re a blend of shared history, rivalry, and unconditional love—often all at once.

In fantasy, where characters frequently face life-or-death situations, these bonds can be pushed to their limits.

Take Ragnar and Maja Wolfsbane from my Ravenglass Legends series.

Their relationship is tested by the conquest of their homeland, forced separation, and the divergent paths they must follow.

It’s not your typical family disagreement over who ate the last biscuit—unless that biscuit was enchanted and vital to saving the kingdom, of course.

Conflict and Loyalty: A Delicate Balance

One of the primary challenges in writing sibling relationships is balancing conflict with loyalty.

Siblings may quarrel, compete, and even betray one another, but there’s often an underlying connection that can’t be severed.

In “The Fall of Wolfsbane”, Ragnar and Maja face external pressures that threaten to drive them apart.

Ragnar’s oath to Prince Gregor and Maja’s captivity under Princess Saranka create a chasm between them.

Yet, their shared heritage and memories of Meerand serve as a bridge, keeping their bond intact despite the distance.

The Shadow of Family Legacy

Family legacies often play a crucial role in epic fantasy.

Siblings must navigate these expectations together—or in opposition to one another.

The weight of a family name, an inherited magical ability, or a prophesied destiny can strain sibling relationships to breaking point.

Ragnar and Maja both carry the Wolfsbane legacy, but their circumstances force them to approach it differently.

Ragnar grapples with upholding his family’s honour while serving the empire that destroyed his clan.

Maja, on the other hand, becomes a symbol of resistance, using her captivity as a means to undermine the empire from within.

Different Paths, Shared Destiny

One of the most intriguing aspects of writing siblings in fantasy is exploring how characters with shared origins can take wildly different paths.

This divergence can create tension, misunderstanding, and conflict—all excellent ingredients for a compelling story.

In Ravenglass Legends, Ragnar and Maja’s separate journeys allow us to explore different facets of the world and the conflict.

Ragnar’s perspective gives us insight into the empire’s military and political machinations.

Maja’s story delves into the cultural clash and the subtle forms of resistance employed by the conquered.

The Power of Reconciliation

Despite the conflicts and separations, sibling relationships in fantasy often offer powerful moments of reconciliation.

These reunions can be some of the most emotionally charged scenes in a story, especially when siblings have been through individual trials and transformations.

While I won’t spoil the journey for Ragnar and Maja, rest assured that their relationship continues to evolve throughout the Ravenglass Legends series.

Their individual growth and shared experiences shape their bond in ways that even they couldn’t have predicted.

A Rich Vein for Storytelling

Writing sibling relationships in fantasy presents unique challenges.

But it also offers rich opportunities for character development, conflict, and emotional depth.

Whether your siblings are vying for the throne or just trying to survive in a world of magic and danger, their relationship can provide a grounding element of relatability in even the most fantastical settings.

So the next time you’re crafting a fantasy tale, consider the power of sibling bonds.

After all, who better to help you overthrow a dark lord than the person who’s known you since you were in nappies?

What are your favourite sibling relationships in fantasy literature?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

start reading ravenglass Legends.

The post The Challenge of Writing Sibling Relationships in Fantasy first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.