Jon Cronshaw's Blog, page 23

What is Grimdark Fantasy? An In-Depth Look

Welcome, fantasy aficionados, to the delightful world of grimdark, where rainbows are a myth, unicorns are carnivorous, and happy endings are as rare as a dragon’s polite dinner conversation.

If you’ve ever wondered what grimdark is and whether it’s for you, then prepare yourself for a journey through the murkiest swamps of fantasy literature.

Grab your rusty swords, don your tattered cloaks, and let’s dive in!

Grimdark: The Basics

Grimdark is a subgenre of fantasy that revels in the gritty, the grim, and the disturbingly realistic.

Think of it as fantasy’s rebellious teenager, smashing the rose-tinted glasses of high fantasy and replacing them with cracked monocles.

In the world of grimdark, heroes are deeply flawed, morality is a luxury few can afford, and the line between good and evil is blurrier than an ogre’s vision after a night in the tavern.

Where Hope Goes to Die

In grimdark, hope is that quaint little concept you can reminisce about while dodging arrows in a war-torn wasteland.

This genre thrives on the brutal realities of life, where even the most valiant knight has skeletons in their closet—sometimes literally.

Expect betrayal, bloodshed, and a level of moral ambiguity that would make even the most seasoned politician blush.

Characters with More Issues Than a Tabloid

Grimdark characters aren’t your typical noble heroes on a quest to save the world.

They’re more likely to be anti-heroes, mercenaries, or downright villains.

Picture a protagonist who’s as charming as a rattlesnake and as trustworthy as a used car salesman.

These characters are scarred, both physically and emotionally, and their backstories are darker than the bottom of a wizard’s cauldron.

Worlds That Make Mordor Look Cosy

The settings in grimdark are about as welcoming as a dragon’s lair.

Expect desolate landscapes, corrupt cities, and societies that make you grateful for your boring nine-to-five job.

Whether it’s a plague-ridden medieval town or a dystopian future, the world-building in grimdark is meticulously detailed and relentlessly bleak.

It’s the perfect backdrop for the endless parade of suffering and strife that the characters endure.

Plot Twists with a Side of Trauma

If you like your plots predictable and your endings happy, grimdark might not be for you.

In this genre, plot twists are as common as goblins in a cave, and they usually come with a side of existential dread.

Characters you love will die, alliances will shatter, and the closest thing to a victory is surviving another day.

It’s like a rollercoaster ride where the tracks are falling apart and the operator has a sinister grin.

Dark Humour: The Silver Lining

Despite—or perhaps because of—the darkness, grimdark often comes with a healthy dose of black humour.

When life is constantly trying to kill you, sometimes all you can do is laugh.

Expect witty one-liners, gallows humour, and a general sense that the characters are well aware of their miserable lot in life.

It’s this humour that provides a twisted sort of relief amidst the carnage.

Notable Grimdark Works

If you’re ready to plunge into the abyss, here are some notable grimdark works to get you started:

“A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R.R. Martin: The poster child for grimdark, where weddings are deadly and power is a game of thrones.“The First Law Trilogy” by Joe Abercrombie: Featuring morally ambiguous characters and a world where heroes are hard to find.“The Broken Empire Trilogy” by Mark Lawrence: Following the charmingly ruthless Jorg Ancrath as he carves a bloody path to power.“The Black Company” by Glen Cook: Chronicling the mercenary company as they navigate a world full of magic and betrayal.

Grimdark is not for the faint of heart.

It’s a genre that strips away the fantasy veneer to reveal a world as brutal and unforgiving as our own, only with more swords and sorcery.

If you’re tired of the same old tales of chivalry and virtue, give grimdark a try.

Embrace the darkness, relish the moral complexity, and above all, enjoy the ride—no matter how bumpy it gets.

Welcome to the grimdark side; we’ve got misery and mayhem in spades.

order guild of assassins.

The post What is Grimdark Fantasy? An In-Depth Look first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

📚 Midpoint Milestones & Creative Diversions | Author Diary – June 28, 2024 🎶🌌

Progress on “The Knight and the Rebel”: This week, I’ve reached an important milestone in “The Knight and the Rebel” (Ravenglass Legends book 3), hitting the midpoint of Maja’s POV. It’s a pivotal moment that’s both challenging and thrilling, as it shapes the direction of the story and deepens the narrative layers.

Rediscovering Music: Alongside writing, I’ve been reconnecting with my musical side, playing music and writing songs. Returning to this creative outlet has been refreshing and invigorating, providing a wonderful balance to my literary endeavors. The joy of crafting melodies and lyrics reminds me of the interconnectedness of all creative expressions.

& From Screen to Page: I’ve just finished watching “The Three-Body Problem” on Netflix and decided to revisit the novel by Cixin Liu. Watching the adaptation brought new insights and perspectives, compelling me to dive back into Liu’s intricate universe in the book. It’s fascinating to compare the visual and textual interpretations of such a complex story.

As I balance writing, music, and reading, I’m reminded of the richness that diverse creative practices bring to my overall artistic journey. I look forward to seeing how these varied influences will weave into my future projects.

Share your experiences with balancing different creative outlets, or your thoughts on “The Three-Body Problem,” either the series or the book. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates from my author’s life and explorations in storytelling!

follow jon on Youtube.

The post 📚 Midpoint Milestones & Creative Diversions | Author Diary – June 28, 2024 🎶🌌 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

The Role of Deconstruction in Creating Rich Fantasy Worlds

In the intricate and imaginative craft of fantasy writing, where authors build worlds and narratives that stretch beyond the bounds of reality, philosophical insights can offer profound depth and perspective.

Jacques Derrida, a key figure in the field of post-structuralism and known for his theory of deconstruction, provides a unique lens through which fantasy authors can explore and enhance their storytelling.

Let’s delve into the complex world of Derrida’s philosophy and uncover what fantasy writers can learn from his ideas.

The Art of Deconstruction

Derrida’s concept of deconstruction, which involves questioning and breaking down established structures and ideas, can inspire fantasy authors to examine and subvert traditional genre tropes.

This approach can lead to more original, thought-provoking narratives that challenge conventional storytelling.

Exploring Layers of Meaning

Derrida’s work often focused on the multiple layers of meaning in texts.

Fantasy writers can apply this notion by creating narratives with rich symbolism, themes, and subtexts, allowing readers to uncover deeper meanings with each read.

Challenging Binary Oppositions

Derrida challenged binary oppositions such as good/evil and reality/illusion.

Fantasy authors can embrace this by crafting characters and worlds that exist beyond simple binaries, exploring moral ambiguity, and presenting multifaceted perspectives on their world’s conflicts and challenges.

The Fluidity of Language and Meaning

Derrida emphasized the fluidity of language and meaning, suggesting that words can have multiple interpretations.

Fantasy writers can use this concept to play with language, create unique dialects, and explore the power of words and names in their worlds.

The Nature of Reality and Perception

Derrida’s ideas about the nature of reality and perception can inspire fantasy authors to question and experiment with the very nature of reality in their narratives, perhaps through unreliable narrators, dream sequences, or alternative dimensions.

Critiquing Established Narratives

Derrida often critiqued established historical and philosophical narratives.

Fantasy authors can similarly critique real-world histories and narratives within their fictional worlds, offering commentary or alternative perspectives through their storytelling.

Embracing Complexity and Ambiguity

Derrida’s philosophy embraces complexity and ambiguity.

In fantasy writing, weaving complex plots and embracing ambiguity in themes and characters can add depth and intrigue, encouraging readers to engage more deeply with the story.

Infusing Derrida’s Philosophical Insights into Fantasy

Jacques Derrida’s philosophical contributions, particularly his ideas on deconstruction, language, and reality, offer valuable insights for fantasy authors.

By incorporating elements of his philosophy, writers can craft fantasy narratives that are not only imaginative and captivating but also intellectually stimulating and philosophically rich.

So, fantasy authors, are you ready to deconstruct your narratives and explore the depths of meaning in your fantastical worlds?

How will the philosophical teachings of Jacques Derrida influence your approach to fantasy storytelling?

Share your thoughts, and let’s discuss how the principles of deconstruction can reshape the landscape of fantasy literature.

more writing tips.

The post The Role of Deconstruction in Creating Rich Fantasy Worlds first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Exploring the Rich World of “A Song for Arbonne” by Guy Gavriel Kay

Guy Gavriel Kay’s “A Song for Arbonne” stands as a towering achievement in the realm of fantasy literature, masterfully blending historical finesse with a rich narrative full of intrigue and conflict.

Based loosely on the Albigensian Crusade in medieval France, the novel transcends the typical boundaries of historical fantasy to offer a story that is both familiar and startlingly original.

Let’s delve into the elements that make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre.

The Art of Subtle World Building

“A Song for Arbonne” is renowned for its intricate world-building that steps away from the usual swords-and-sorcery backdrop to embrace a more nuanced, almost Renaissance-like setting.

The lands of Arbonne and its surrounding territories are depicted with a complexity that mirrors the political and cultural intricacies of medieval Occitania, crafting a world that feels alive and teeming with possibility.

The novel’s setting avoids becoming a dry historical lecture and instead presents a vibrant stage upon which the drama of the narrative unfolds, captivating the reader’s imagination with every page.

A Symphony of Characters

The real magic of “A Song for Arbonne” lies in its rich ensemble of characters, each woven into the plot with care and depth.

The multitude of perspectives offered in the novel adds layers of understanding and emotion to the story, making the characters’ journeys feel incredibly real and compelling.

This narrative approach allows the reader to see the world through various eyes, enhancing the emotional and thematic richness of the story.

The Thrill of Political Intrigue

At the heart of the novel throbs a complex web of political intrigue, with plots and counterplots that unfold like a chess game with fatal stakes.

The political machinations are not just background noise but are central to the driving force of the plot, engaging the reader with their realism and relevance.

This element of the story keeps you guessing at every turn, making “A Song for Arbonne” a thrilling read that’s hard to put down.

Characters with Depth

Kay excels in creating characters who are as flawed as they are fascinating.

Far from the one-dimensional figures often found in lesser tales, the characters in “A Song for Arbonne” are driven by personal motives, desires, and the kind of deep-seated complexities that make them resonate with the reader.

They are heroes with their own fears and villains with their own charms, each contributing to the narrative’s gripping allure.

A Lasting Impression

“A Song for Arbonne” is more than just a staple in the fantasy genre; it is a narrative that weaves historical elements with rich storytelling to leave a lasting impact on its readers.

Guy Gavriel Kay offers a novel that sings with its own unique voice, much like the troubadours of Arbonne, whose melodies could sway the hearts of men and alter the course of history.

For anyone who loves fantasy that breathes with life, plots that captivate, and characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page, “A Song for Arbonne” is an essential read.

Dive into its pages and let yourself be transported into a world where history and fantasy dance together in a beautiful, unforgettable symphony.

get your copy.

The post Exploring the Rich World of “A Song for Arbonne” by Guy Gavriel Kay first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

🎉 Anniversary Reflections & Creative Updates | Author Diary – June 21, 2024 📚🌌

7-Year Anniversary of “Wizard of the Wasteland”

This week marks seven years since the launch of my debut post-apocalyptic novel, “Wizard of the Wasteland.” Reflecting on this journey fills me with gratitude for the experiences and growth it has brought me. Celebrating this milestone reminds me of how far I’ve come and the incredible support from readers like you.

Watching “Three Body Problem” on Netflix

I’ve started watching the new Netflix sci-fi series “Three Body Problem,” based on the novel by Liu Cixin. The adaptation dives deep into the complexities and existential themes of the original book, and it’s been fascinating to see how the intricate narrative translates on screen.

Progress on “The Knight and the Rebel”

In writing news, I’ve begun working on the second POV in “The Knight and the Rebel,” book 3 of the Ravenglass Legends series. This new perspective is adding layers and depth to the story, and I’m excited about the directions it’s taking.

Looking Ahead:

As I continue to develop “The Knight and the Rebel,” I’m also starting to outline future projects and exploring where to steer my creative energies next. The journey of writing never stops, and each new project brings its own set of challenges and discoveries.

I’d love to hear how you celebrate your creative milestones, your thoughts on “Three Body Problem,” or what projects you’re currently working on. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates from my author’s life and the worlds I’m creating!

read wizard of the wasteland.

The post 🎉 Anniversary Reflections & Creative Updates | Author Diary – June 21, 2024 📚🌌 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Fantasy Writing Lessons from Alex Jones and Infowars

In the fantastical landscapes of elves, dragons, and magic, inserting elements inspired by divisive figures and controversial themes might seem out of place.

However, the essence of compelling storytelling often lies in its ability to reflect the real world’s complexity through its narrative and characters.

Alex Jones, known for his provocative media platform Infowars, epitomises a type of character that fantasy authors might explore: the divisive oracle.

Crafting Divisive Characters

Characters inspired by figures like Alex Jones can serve as powerful catalysts in a fantasy narrative.

Such characters often challenge the status quo and provoke strong reactions from others in the story, driving conflict and intrigue.

Authors can learn to create multi-dimensional antagonists or controversial heroes who challenge the moral and societal norms of the worlds they inhabit.

These characters should have clear motivations and a defined worldview that consistently influences their decisions and actions, providing depth and complexity to the story.

Exploring Themes of Truth and Misinformation

Infowars is notorious for its bold claims and conspiracy theories, which can be a rich ground for fantasy narratives revolving around themes of truth, propaganda, and misinformation.

Use your fantasy world to explore how misinformation can spread in a society, who controls the flow of information, and the effects of propaganda on the populace.

Such themes can add a layer of realism and relevance to your story, resonating with readers familiar with these dynamics in the real world.

Handling Controversial Content Responsibly

Dealing with controversial content requires a delicate balance.

It’s crucial to approach such themes thoughtfully, ensuring that the narrative neither glorifies nor oversimplifies the complex issues involved.

When incorporating controversial elements inspired by figures like Alex Jones, fantasy authors should aim to encourage reflection and discussion.

It’s beneficial to present multiple perspectives within the story, allowing readers to engage with and question the morality and implications of the characters’ actions and beliefs.

The Power of Persuasive Characters

Alex Jones’ influence highlights the power of persuasive speech and charisma in swaying public opinion.

Characters with the gift of persuasion can be fascinating focal points in a fantasy setting.

Develop characters who wield words as weapons, influencing other characters and shaping the course of your story through sheer force of personality.

This not only adds to the character’s depth but also to the dynamic nature of the plot.

Reflecting Society

The popularity and impact of Infowars reflect certain societal fears and uncertainties.

Fantasy, while often an escape, also serves as a mirror to our world.

Use your fantasy realm to reflect and critique real-world issues.

This not only grounds your fantastical elements in relatable human experiences but also enriches the narrative by adding layers of meaning that resonate with contemporary readers.

Fantasy authors venturing to draw inspiration from controversial figures like Alex Jones tread a fine line.

The key is to weave elements that enhance the story’s complexity and appeal while handling sensitive topics with care and depth.

In doing so, writers can create worlds that challenge readers to think critically about the narratives they consume, both in fiction and reality.

more writing tips.

The post Fantasy Writing Lessons from Alex Jones and Infowars first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

How “Nevernight” Redefines Assassin Fantasy with Its Unique Style

In the often serene landscape of fantasy literature, where dragons occasionally soar and magic frequently blooms, Jay Kristoff’s Nevernight arrives like a dagger to the heart—a welcome jolt of adrenaline for those who prefer their tales dark and their humor darker.

Since its debut, Nevernight has carved a niche so deep it might just be considered a grave, redefining elements of the fantasy genre with a gleeful slash of its blood-soaked blade.

A Shadow in the Library: Redefining the Assassin’s Tale

At its core, Nevernight is about Mia Corvere’s indomitable quest for vengeance after her family’s destruction, a story woven with enough shadow to dim a sunlit day.

But Kristoff doesn’t just tell another tale of vengeance; he stitches a new cloak from the old fabric, patterning his narrative with intricacies that whisper secrets and scream lies.

The book’s darkly enchanting world, where shadows whisper and light threatens, has pushed the boundaries of traditional fantasy, asking readers to reconsider what they know about the genre’s capacity for darkness.

In Nevernight, the darkness doesn’t just flirt with the light; it swallows it whole.

Blood Ink: Writing Style that Slays

Kristoff’s narrative style in Nevernight—rich, evocative, and unapologetically brutal—has left as much of a mark on the genre as the protagonist’s blades leave on her enemies.

His prose is a dance of death, every sentence meticulously crafted to ensnare, enchant, and cut.

This approach has influenced a wave of writers to explore more daring, direct, and vivid storytelling techniques.

Gone are the days of meandering descriptions of pastoral landscapes; here, readers relish the visceral visuals of blood-soaked cobblestones and feel the shadows lurking in the corners.

Teaching Old Tropes New Tricks

Nevernight does not shy away from tropes; it embraces them with the gusto of a child in a candy store after dark.

The school setting, the coming-of-age narrative, and the mentor-student dynamics are all present but twisted in such a manner that they seem freshly forged.

The Red Church, serving as the deadly Hogwarts of assassin education, offers lessons in poisons, politics, and the art of silent death, turning the trope of the magical school on its head.

The inclusion of footnotes throughout Mia’s journey offers a meta-textual layer that educates as well as entertains, providing depth and a rich backdrop against which the carnage unfolds.

This inventive narrative device has encouraged authors to experiment with their own storytelling structures, proving that the footnotes of fantasy can be as compelling as their narratives.

A Legacy Written in Blood

Since its release, Nevernight has not only gathered a cult following but has also inspired a shift in how dark themes are integrated into fantasy settings.

It’s a series that invites readers to walk a tightrope over moral abysses and to question every character’s motives—often right before they’re killed in creatively gruesome ways.

Nevernight‘s impact on fantasy literature is as profound as the shadows in which its characters operate.

It challenges, entertains, and revitalizes the genre, proving that even in the darkest night, there are stories waiting to be told—in blood, if necessary.

For those yet to delve into its pages, be warned: Nevernight will change the way you view fantasy literature, and possibly increase your appreciation for well-placed sarcasm and well-wielded daggers.

So, if your idea of a light read involves light treason and lighter morals, Jay Kristoff’s opus might just be the shadow you’re looking to step into.

get your copy.

The post How “Nevernight” Redefines Assassin Fantasy with Its Unique Style first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

🚀 Book Launch & Musical Adventures | Author Diary – June 14, 2024 📚

“Guild of Assassins” Launch: This week was a milestone event with the launch of “Guild of Assassins.” Launch days are always exhilarating, filled with anticipation and excitement as the book finally makes its way to readers. Thank you to everyone who has supported the journey—your enthusiasm makes all the hard work worthwhile!

Rocking Out with Mr. Bungle: In a switch from my usual routine, I attended a Mr. Bungle concert in Manchester. Experiencing their unique blend of music live was an absolute blast and a great way to recharge creatively.

Jam Session: Additionally, I spent some quality time playing music with a friend. We laid down the foundations for a couple of new songs, tapping into a different vein of creative expression. Writing music offers a wonderful outlet and complements my literary endeavors beautifully.

While this week took a brief hiatus from writing, the experiences have provided new inspiration and energy, which I’m excited to bring back into my writing soon.

I’d love to hear about your experiences with balancing creative outlets or any recent adventures in music or reading. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into my author’s life and creative explorations!

The post 🚀 Book Launch & Musical Adventures | Author Diary – June 14, 2024 📚 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

What Fantasy Writers Can Learn From Mr. Bungle

In the realm of fantasy literature, where worlds are bound only by the limits of imagination, finding unique sources of inspiration is crucial.

For writers looking to inject a dose of the extraordinary into their narratives, the eclectic and often surreal music of Mr. Bungle offers a treasure trove of creative cues.

Known for their genre-defying soundscapes and theatrical flair, Mr. Bungle transcends conventional musical boundaries, providing a rich palette for fantasy writers seeking to spice up their creations.

The Art of Blending Genres

Mr. Bungle is infamous for their fearless fusion of genres—from metal and funk to jazz and circus music—creating a sound that is as unpredictable as it is compelling.

Fantasy writers can take a leaf out of Mr. Bungle’s book by mixing elements from various fantasy subgenres.

Imagine a world where high fantasy meets steampunk, or dark fantasy is infused with comic relief, much like how a Mr. Bungle track might weave heavy riffs with whimsical carnival tunes.

This approach not only sets a work apart but also enriches the narrative landscape, offering readers an experience as unexpected and refreshing as the band’s music.

Embracing the Absurd

Mr. Bungle’s lyrics often delve into the absurd, drawing on bizarre and grotesque imagery that challenges the listener’s perception of reality.

Fantasy writers can draw inspiration from this willingness to explore the strange and the surreal.

By incorporating elements of the absurd into their worlds—be it through peculiar characters, surreal environments, or illogical rules that govern the world—authors can create a distinct narrative voice that captures the imagination in uniquely profound ways.

Creating Complex Characters

The members of Mr. Bungle are known for their theatricality and ability to assume various personas, much like actors in a play.

This fluid identity is something fantasy writers can use to develop their characters.

Just as a Mr. Bungle song might shift perspectives and tones, characters in fantasy novels can be crafted with layers that reveal complexity and depth over time, surprising readers and adding a dynamic quality to the storytelling.

Utilizing Rich Symbolism

Mr. Bungle’s music is rife with symbolism, using sounds and lyrics to evoke emotions and ideas.

Fantasy writers can similarly enrich their narratives with symbols drawn from their worlds’ unique cultures and mythologies.

Whether it’s a cursed relic, a sacred animal, or a weather phenomenon peculiar to the fictional land, these symbols can deepen the thematic resonance of the story, much like how a haunting melody might underscore a pivotal moment in a song.

The Power of Unpredictability

If there’s one thing Mr. Bungle teaches us, it’s the power of unpredictability.

Their music never follows a predictable path, often veering off into unexpected directions.

In fantasy writing, maintaining an element of surprise can keep the readers engaged and on their toes.

Plot twists, unconventional world rules, or mysterious character motives—all these can make the narrative as thrilling and innovative as a Mr. Bungle album.

In the symphony of fantasy writing, drawing inspiration from a band like Mr. Bungle reminds us that the conventional can always be twisted into something spectacularly novel.

Just as the band blends disparate musical styles to create something entirely new, fantasy writers are challenged to meld diverse elements into their narratives, crafting worlds that resonate with originality and vibrancy.

So, tune into your favourite Mr. Bungle track, let the fusion of sounds transport you, and channel that creative energy into your writing.

Who knows what fantastic realms you might dream up with a little musical inspiration from one of the most avant-garde bands in the history of alternative music?

more writing tips.

The post What Fantasy Writers Can Learn From Mr. Bungle first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Top 10 Post-Apocalyptic Books to Read in 2024: The Ultimate Reading List

In the often bleak landscape of our future imaginations, post-apocalyptic novels hold a mirror up to society’s darkest fears and, occasionally, our bizarre optimism.

As the world teeters precariously on the brink of myriad potential disasters—climate change, nuclear war, a pandemic or two—it’s almost comforting to dive into a book where everything has already gone spectacularly wrong.

So, if you’re looking to explore the end of the world from the safety of your sofa, here are the top ten essential post-apocalyptic novels that offer a tour de force through desolation, despair, and the odd, indefatigable cockroach of hope that seems to survive every catastrophe.

So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or just looking for a new type of story to read, these books are guaranteed to be a thrilling ride.

“The Road” by Cormac McCarthy

In this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, follow a father and his son on a bleak road trip through a world scrubbed clean by an unnamed catastrophe.

McCarthy paints a world so grim that even the sun is on sabbatical.

As they navigate through the ashy wasteland, scrounging for canned goods, dodging cannibals, and sharing moments that are as tender as they are harrowing, it’s clear that their bond is the only fire that won’t go out in this cold, dark setup.

“The Children of Men” by P.D. James

Imagine a world where the baby section in supermarkets is as redundant as a comb in a bald man’s pocket.

P.D. James thrusts us into this unsettling reality where human fertility has fizzled out and the last generation born is now grown up, leading to global despair and a peculiar nostalgia for diaper adverts.

The story centres around a disillusioned bureaucrat who finds himself caught in a tumultuous movement to overturn a despotic government while grappling with the existential dread of humanity’s endgame.

“The Walking Dead” by Robert Kirkman

In Kirkman’s world, zombies are as common as bad Wi-Fi signals, and just as annoying.

This gripping graphic novel series tracks a band of survivors who learn the hard way that the only thing worse than a zombie with a bad attitude is pretty much any living human with power.

It’s a narrative feast of blood, guts, and the human condition, served up with a side of “who’s going to betray the group next?”

“The Road to Nowhere” by Meg Elison

After a plague has left the population thinner than a supermodel on a juice cleanse, a young woman finds herself traversing a barren America in “The Road to Nowhere.”

Armed with nothing but her wits and a pressing need to avoid becoming a disease statistic, she encounters enclaves of oddballs and outcasts who are redefining ‘strange new world.’

This journey isn’t just about survival but also about finding connection in the most disconnected of worlds.

“The Year of the Flood” by Margaret Atwood

In Atwood’s not-so-green garden of Eden, gene-spliced animals roam free, and humanity is the endangered species.

“The Year of the Flood” weaves together the lives of two women surviving in a biotechnological apocalypse, complete with cults, corporate overlords, and carnivorous rabbits.

It’s part environmental manifesto and part survival thriller, with a sprig of dark humour to remind us that, in the face of the apocalypse, you either have to laugh or cry—and crying wastes water.

“The Last Man” by Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley, not content with just birthing the science fiction genre with “Frankenstein,” decides to obliterate the human race with a plague in “The Last Man.”

Set in the late 21st century, this novel sweeps across a desolate world where our protagonist is left to pen history’s last diary entry.

As humanity coughs its way to oblivion, the narrative dives deep into solitude, despair, and the occasional existential crisis, offering a front-row seat to the end of the world show — spoiler alert, it’s not a sell-out crowd.

“The Postman” by David Brin

Imagine the post-apocalyptic world’s reliance on a hero, and you get… a postman.

David Brin’s “The Postman” revives the long-lost art of mail delivery in a future where the U.S. government has fewer members than a boy band.

Through the journey of a lone wanderer donning a postal uniform, the story delivers hope, stamped and sealed, to isolated communities.

In a world starved for communication, our postman hero proves that sometimes, all it takes to unite people is a bunch of old letters and an outdated job description.

“A Canticle for Leibowitz” by Walter M. Miller Jr

In the aftermath of a nuclear apocalypse, where society has hit the ‘reset’ button all the way back to the Dark Ages, “A Canticle for Leibowitz” stitches together a narrative over centuries.

This tale marries monks with nuclear physics in a monastery dedicated to the preservation of scientific knowledge, led by the fictional patron saint of electricians, Saint Leibowitz.

Miller crafts a sardonic look at humanity’s penchant for self-destruction and history’s annoying habit of repeating itself, proving that no matter the era, people never really get tired of making the same mistakes.

“The Day of the Triffids” by John Wyndham

Just when you thought it was safe to stop worrying about the robot uprising, John Wyndham brings you mobile, carnivorous plants.

In “The Day of the Triffids,” the world is blindsided quite literally — most of humanity loses their sight overnight, and to add insult to injury, they must now contend with sentient plants with a taste for human flesh.

This novel serves up a thrilling tale of survival, where the hierarchy of Earth’s species is questioned, and humans might not be at the top of the food chain anymore.

It’s a botanical nightmare that’ll make you reconsider keeping potted plants in your home.

“Swan Song” by Robert McCammon

Following a nuclear war that turns America into a wasteland, “Swan Song” by Robert McCammon tells the epic saga of survivors who face not only the fallout but also the rise of supernatural forces.

As society crumbles, a young girl named Swan finds herself carrying the burden of possibly reviving hope for the world.

McCammon masterfully weaves a post-apocalyptic tapestry where the battle for good and evil gets murkier by the page, and every survivor’s tale is a heavy blend of horror, heroism, and a hint of magic.

In this grim new world, the quest for survival might just depend on a child who has the power to grow plants in a land where nature has been scorched away.

While our tour through the ashes of civilisations might not be the cheeriest journey you’ll undertake, these top ten post-apocalyptic novels provide profound insights into the human spirit.

They remind us that even at the end of the world, there can be beginnings.

So, whether you’re into the chilling echoes of silent cities, the thrill of dystopian survival, or just a glimpse into what might await after the apocalypse, there’s a book here to satisfy that morbid curiosity.

Keep the lights on, stock up on canned goods, and happy reading—just in case.

read Jon’s Wasteland series.

The post Top 10 Post-Apocalyptic Books to Read in 2024: The Ultimate Reading List first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.