Jon Cronshaw's Blog, page 31

Exploring the Complex World of Robin Hobb’s Assassin’s Apprentice

In the often bright and valiant world of fantasy literature, Robin Hobb‘s “Assassin’s Apprentice” arrived like a shadow in the night.

With this book, Hobb didn’t just introduce readers to a new story; she introduced us to FitzChivalry Farseer – a hero as unlikely as finding a courteous goblin.

This tale of an assassin’s apprentice was a sharp turn from the usual path of swords and sorcery, taking the road less travelled – and considerably darker.

An Assassin with a Heart: Shaking Up the Hero Mold

Fitz wasn’t your typical fantasy protagonist.

He was no noble knight on a gleaming steed nor a wise wizard with a long beard and a penchant for riddles.

Instead, he was a boy with a knack for killing and a complicated moral compass.

Hobb crafted a character that was as complex as he was conflicted, bringing a depth to Fitz that went beyond the traditional good versus evil narrative.

He was a walking contradiction, a hero in a role usually reserved for villains.

Magic and Mind: A Different Kind of Power

In “Assassin’s Apprentice”, magic wasn’t just about throwing fireballs or summoning storms.

Hobb introduced the Wit and the Skill – two forms of magic that were as nuanced as they were powerful.

The Wit, a bond with animals, was considered a lowly, almost taboo form of magic, while the Skill was a prestigious, mind-influencing ability.

This reimagining of magic systems injected a fresh dose of intrigue into the fantasy genre, turning magic into a source of inner turmoil as much as external power.

Narrative Grit: The Nitty-Gritty of Royal Politics

Hobb’s narrative delved deep into the murky waters of court intrigue and politics, with all the backstabbing and power plays one might expect in a den of vipers rather than a royal court.

This focus on the political, often from the perspective of someone usually left in the shadows, gave the fantasy genre a grittier, more realistic edge.

It was like lifting a rock to see the unsightly creatures writhing underneath – fascinating, if somewhat unsettling.

Influence on Modern Fantasy: The Echoes of Fitz’s Blade

The influence of “Assassin’s Apprentice” on modern fantasy is as clear as the scars on Fitz’s soul.

The series paved the way for a more nuanced approach to character development, where heroes were allowed to be flawed, and villains occasionally sympathetic.

Hobb’s blend of personal struggle, political intrigue, and a less conventional approach to magic has left an indelible mark on the genre, inspiring authors to explore the grey areas of their characters and worlds.

The Enduring Legacy of a Reluctant Assassin

“Assassin’s Apprentice” was more than just a fantasy novel; it was a masterclass in character-driven storytelling.

Robin Hobb created a world where the line between hero and villain was as thin as a knife’s edge, and just as sharp.

In the annals of fantasy literature, FitzChivalry Farseer remains a testament to the genre’s ability to evolve, to push boundaries, and to redefine what it means to be a hero.

The echoes of Fitz’s blade, and the choices he made with it, continue to resonate in the modern fantasy landscape.

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A Wizard of Earthsea: Its Impact and Influence

Once upon a time, in the hallowed halls of fantasy literature, there was a little book that could – and it did.

Ursula Le Guin’s “The Wizard of Earthsea” not only waved its magical staff over the genre but also turned it on its head, gave it a cheeky slap, and sent it off in a completely new direction.

This wasn’t just a story about a wizard; it was a tale that redefined what a wizard could be.

Gone were the days of white-bearded men in starry robes muttering incantations over cauldrons; enter Ged, a young, brash wizard with more ambition than sense – a character trait we can all uncomfortably relate to.

The School of Hard Knocks: A Wizard’s Education

Before Hogwarts became the go-to institution for all your witching and wizarding needs, there was the School of Roke – a place where the curriculum was as likely to kill you as educate you.

Le Guin didn’t just create a school; she created a crucible where boys were broken down and remade into mages.

In Ged’s journey, we see the painful, often hilarious, process of learning that power without wisdom is like trying to eat soup with a fork – messy, frustrating, and ultimately, unfulfilling.

Shadows, Egos, and Other Personal Demons

Le Guin, in her infinite wisdom, decided that the greatest enemy a wizard could face wasn’t a dark lord with an army of minions, but his own shadow – literally.

In a stroke of darkly humorous genius, she made Ged’s own arrogance and overconfidence his nemesis.

The resulting cat-and-mouse (or wizard-and-shadow) chase across the islands of Earthsea is a masterclass in how to fight an enemy who knows all your worst thoughts because, well, he is your worst thoughts.

Magic: More Than Just Waving a Wand

In Earthsea, magic isn’t just about shouting Latin words louder than your opponent.

It’s a subtle art, where knowing the true name of a thing gives you power over it.

This was revolutionary; magic became a thing of beauty and complexity, rather than a convenient plot device.

Le Guin showed us that magic, like language, has power and depth, and that with great power comes great responsibility – and the occasional catastrophic backfire.

The Ripple Effect: Earthsea’s Legacy

The influence of “The Wizard of Earthsea” is as vast as the archipelago of Earthsea itself.

From the way magic is portrayed in modern fantasy to the introduction of fully realized, non-European cultures in a fantasy setting, Le Guin didn’t just raise the bar; she threw it into the stratosphere.

Authors who followed in her footsteps had to up their game.

Fantasy worlds became richer, more diverse; magic systems more intricate.

Ged’s shadow looms large over the genre, a reminder that true power lies not in dominion over others, but in mastery of oneself.

A Wizard’s Gift to Fantasy

In “The Wizard of Earthsea”, Ursula Le Guin didn’t just give us a story; she gave us a new way of seeing.

Her legacy is a genre that dares to dream bigger, think deeper, and challenge the status quo.

And all this from a book that, at first glance, is about a boy who screws up a spell.

That’s the magic of Le Guin – she takes the simple, weaves it with wit and wisdom, and creates something that endures, something that challenges us to look at the shadows within ourselves.

In Earthsea, as in life, the greatest adventures often start with a little self-reflection – and perhaps a healthy dose of humility.

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The Fall of Wolfsbane is just 99c/99p this weekend!

When the Ostreich Empire shatters his world and enslaves his people, Ragnar Wolfsbane vows to fight back.

Thrust into a dangerous game of imperial intrigue, Ragnar must learn to navigate a world of forbidden magic and hidden agendas.

But as the true power of ravenglass emerges, Ragnar’s choices could lead to salvation or ruin for those he holds dear.

Immerse yourself in a vivid fantasy realm where the lines between hero and villain blur.

Will Ragnar rise to become the leader his clan needs, or will the Empire’s machinations crush his resolve?

Find out in “The Fall of Wolfsbane“, the breathtaking new series perfect for fans of Vikings and The Last Kingdom.

Grab your copy on Kindle for just 99c/99p, or read for free on Kindle Unlimited!

order now.

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📚 Milestone Achievements & New Beginnings | Author Diary March 29, 2024 – Writing Updates & Reading Ventures 📖✨

Completing “The Wolf and the Wyvern” Redraft:

I’ve hit a significant milestone this week – the redraft of “The Wolf and the Wyvern” is finally complete! It’s a momentous occasion in the journey of the Ravenglass Legends series, and I’m thrilled to have reached this stage.

Starting Book 3:

With “The Wolf and the Wyvern” now in its next phase, I’ve begun drafting the third book in the series. It’s always exciting to start a new chapter in this evolving saga, and I can’t wait to see where this next instalment takes us.

“Punks Versus Zombies”:

In addition to starting book 3, I’ve also drafted a new episode of “Punks Versus Zombies.” It’s been great to continue weaving this post-apocalyptic tale, and I look forward to sharing more of it with you.

Current Reading List:

– “Unruly” by David Mitchell: This book provides a comedic twist on the history of Britain’s first kings and queens. It’s been an entertaining and humorous read, offering a unique perspective on historical events.

– “Cults, Conspiracy Theories, and Secret Societies”: Delving into this book has been an intriguing experience, exploring the mysterious and often misunderstood world of cults, conspiracies, and secret societies.

As I continue on my writing journey and delve into these fascinating reads, I look forward to sharing more insights and updates with you.

Feel free to share your thoughts on drafting new books, writing serials, or any interesting reads you’ve come across recently. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates from my author’s life!

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Fantasy Writing Insights from the Comedy ‘Peep Show’

In the boundless world of fantasy literature, unexpected sources like the British TV comedy “Peep Show” offer fresh lessons.

Its first-person view, sharp wit, and imperfect characters provide a treasure trove of ideas for fantasy writers seeking innovation and depth.

Let’s dive into Mark and Jez’s absurdly funny world to see what it offers the realm of fantasy writing.

Mastering First-Person Narration

“Peep Show” excels with its intimate first-person perspective.

Fantasy writers can take a leaf from this book, adopting a similar narrative style for a closer connection between readers and characters, adding immediacy to their fantastical worlds.

Developing Flawed and Relatable Characters

Mark and Jez’s shortcomings make them feel genuine.

Fantasy characters, too, benefit from such realism – their flaws and quirks lend authenticity, even amid magical settings.

Balancing Humor with Character Development

The show skillfully uses humour to flesh out characters.

Fantasy writers can use this approach to add layers to their characters, using humour to reveal, build, and deepen relationships.

The Importance of Realistic Dialogue

“Peep Show” is renowned for its realistic and witty dialogue.

Effective dialogue in fantasy can bring characters to life, anchoring the fantastical in the relatable.

Exploring the Mundane in the Fantastic

The show finds humour in the everyday.

Fantasy narratives can similarly ground the extraordinary in the ordinary, making the world more tangible and relatable.

Tackling Social Commentary

“Peep Show” often delves into social and cultural themes.

Fantasy worlds offer a canvas for similar commentary, reflecting and critiquing real-world issues through a fantastical lens.

Keeping the Narrative Fresh

The show’s ever-evolving scenarios keep viewers hooked.

Fantasy writers should similarly aim for dynamism, continually developing their worlds and characters.

“Peep Show,” with its distinctive storytelling, relatable humour, and societal insights, is a goldmine for fantasy writers.

Integrating these elements can add the same depth and originality to fantasy stories as seen in this comedic gem.

Fantasy authors, are you ready to weave “Peep Show’s” awkward hilarity into your epic tales?

Share your ideas, and let’s explore how this comedy can enhance fantasy storytelling.

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“Dragonlance”: Bridging Tabletop Gaming and Epic Narratives

In the grand, often solemn halls of fantasy literature, the arrival of the “Dragonlance” series was akin to a group of rowdy adventurers kicking in the door, armed with dice and character sheets.

Conceived by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman and born from the world of Dungeons & Dragons, “Dragonlance” not only introduced a generation to the wonders of fantasy but also proved that the leap from tabletop to novel could land with the grace of a gold dragon.

Rolling the Dice on Fantasy Tropes

“Dragonlance” didn’t just borrow from the established tropes of fantasy; it embraced them with the gusto of a kender encountering a shiny object.

The series was a smorgasbord of dragons, wizards, knights, and, of course, the all-important quest.

But there was a twist in this tale: the characters felt like they’d leapt straight out of a D&D campaign, complete with their quirks, flaws, and dice-determined destinies.

In doing so, “Dragonlance” offered a refreshing take on familiar archetypes, breathing new life into the old bones of the genre.

Character Ensemble: A Party, Not a Solo

One of “Dragonlance’s” most significant contributions to fantasy was its focus on the ensemble cast.

This wasn’t a story of a lone hero’s journey; it was a party’s journey.

Characters like Tanis Half-Elven, Raistlin Majere, and Tasslehoff Burrfoot each brought their unique flavours to the narrative stew, creating a dynamic that was as unpredictable as it was engaging.

This focus on group dynamics paved the way for future authors to explore the complexities and camaraderie of ensemble casts.

The Dark Art of Subverting Expectations

At its heart, “Dragonlance” was a masterclass in the art of subversion.

It took established tropes and gave them a good shake.

The noble knight was as flawed and uncertain as the next man; the wizard, as much a danger to himself as to others.

This penchant for turning expectations on their head resonated with readers and influenced a wave of fantasy literature that delighted in doing the unexpected.

Legacy: A New Kind of Fantasy Epic

The legacy of “Dragonlance” in modern fantasy is as vast as the Plains of Dust.

It showed that the leap from game to novel could not only be successful but could also offer a new perspective on the epic fantasy tale.

The series’ impact is evident in the way contemporary fantasy often blends elements of gaming, ensemble casts, and a willingness to play with traditional tropes.

The Continuing Adventure

The “Dragonlance” series, with its blend of adventure, camaraderie, and a healthy dose of dragonfire, left an indelible mark on the fantasy genre.

It was a reminder that at the heart of every great fantasy story is a great adventure, and sometimes, that adventure starts with a simple roll of the dice.

In the world of fantasy literature, “Dragonlance” continues to stand as a testament to the power of imagination and the enduring appeal of gathering your friends, both real and fictional, and embarking on a quest.

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10 Signs You’re in a Zombie Apocalypse: A Survivor’s Checklist

As a devotee of zombie fiction, you’re doubtless well-versed in the signs of an impending apocalypse.

However, in the unlikely event that you’re caught unawares, here are ten definitive signs that you’re living through a zombie apocalypse.

After all, forewarned is forearmed – quite literally in this scenario.

The Sudden Lack of Morning Traffic: You wake up to find the streets eerily empty.

The usual symphony of honking cars is replaced by an unsettling silence, broken only by the distant, forlorn groans.

It’s like Bank Holiday Monday, but every day, and with more cannibalism.

Your Neighbour’s New Diet: Speaking of cannibalism, Mrs. Higgins next door no longer waves cheerily over the fence.

Instead, she’s developed an alarming new diet that seems to consist exclusively of passersby.

It’s one way to address the issue of noisy tourists, I suppose.

Unorthodox Fashion Choices: The living dead aren’t known for their sartorial elegance.

If you see more and more people shambling about in torn, blood-stained clothes, it might not be a new fashion trend.

It’s either the zombie apocalypse or an extremely avant-garde runway show.

Mobile Networks Down: Unable to update your social media status or call for a pizza, you realise that mobile networks are down.

In the zombie apocalypse, the only ‘tweets’ you’ll hear are the ominous cawing of crows over desolate streets.

The 24/7 News Cycle Becomes the 24/7 ‘We’re All Doomed’ Cycle: News channels switch from their regular programming to a constant stream of distressing reports from around the globe.

It’s like election coverage, but somehow even more apocalyptic.

Unexplained Power Outages: As if to add insult to injury, the power grid fails.

Now you can’t even binge-watch your favourite zombie series for tips.

You’re left in the dark, both literally and figuratively.

The Sudden Relevance of Your ‘Zombie Survival Guide’: That book you bought as a joke is now your most prized possession.

You find yourself consulting it for tips on barricading your home – practical DIY at its most extreme.

Gardening Tools Become Weapons of Choice: Suddenly, your garden shed is an armoury.

That spade you once used for planting petunias is now a means of survival.

Who knew gardening could be so… intense?

Supermarkets Turn into Scenes from a Dystopian Movie: The weekly grocery run becomes a fight for survival.

Supermarkets are either deserted or overrun by zombies perusing the aisles for fresh produce, and by fresh produce, I mean you.

The Sheer Number of Walking Dead Jokes: Despite the grim circumstances, you can’t help but notice that everyone’s become a comedian, cracking jokes about ‘legless’ and ‘armless’ zombies.

It seems dark humour is a coping mechanism in the end times.

So there you have it, ten signs that the zombie apocalypse is upon us.

Keep your wits about you, your garden tools sharp, and perhaps most importantly, maintain a sense of humour – you’re going to need it.

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The Enduring Influence of Jack Vance’s Dying Earth on Modern Fantasy

In the labyrinthine annals of fantasy literature, few works have cast as long and as quirky a shadow as Jack Vance’s ‘Dying Earth‘ series.

Its influence percolates through modern fantasy much like a fine, yet slightly unnerving, wine.

The series, set in a far, far future where the sun is a mere flicker on the brink of eternal night, blends sorcery and super-science in a way that makes you question whether Vance was writing fantasy, sci-fi, or inventing a new genre entirely.

And let’s not forget the magic system, where spells are so mind-bogglingly complex, they would give even the most astute Hogwarts graduate a migraine.

Indeed, the echoes of Vance’s work can be seen in the spellcasting of Dungeons & Dragons, where wizards must memorize spells and then forget them upon casting, much like trying to remember the lyrics to Bohemian Rhapsody after a few pints.

This idiosyncratic approach to magic, where one must essentially cram for a supernatural exam, has been adopted, adapted, and applauded by fantasy enthusiasts worldwide.

Furthermore, the ‘Dying Earth’ presents a peculiar mélange of high-falutin language and low-brow shenanigans.

Characters converse in a manner so florid and verbose that it makes Shakespeare seem like he’s writing in text-speak.

Yet, these same eloquent characters are as likely to pick your pocket as quote a sonnet, blending the grandiose with the gutter in a dance of the sublime and the ridiculous.

This narrative style, simultaneously grand and sly, has inspired a generation of fantasy writers to be bold with their prose and sneaky with their plot twists.

Vance’s work is also a masterclass in world-building, painting a universe so rich and textured that it feels like a tapestry woven by a slightly deranged, yet highly skilled, medieval monk.

His vision of a far-future Earth, teetering on the brink of entropy, sets the stage for tales that are as much about the peculiarities of human (and non-human) nature as they are about grand adventures.

It’s a setting where you’re as likely to encounter a melancholy robot as a sorcerer lamenting the loss of a particularly potent spell, like someone mourning the discontinuation of their favourite brand of tea.

The ‘Dying Earth’ series has, in its own peculiar way, expanded the horizons of fantasy literature.

It has shown that the genre can be more than just dragons and knights, but a space where the imagination can run wild in a playground of the bizarre and the brilliant.

Vance’s ‘Dying Earth’ series has not just left an impact on modern fantasy; it’s given it a good, hard, albeit loving, kick in the behind.

It’s a reminder that fantasy can be as deep as it is whimsical, and that sometimes, to find the truly extraordinary, one must be willing to take a stroll through the absurd.

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The Trope of the Underdog in Fantasy Literature

In the grand arena of fantasy literature, where heroes are often as muscular and shiny as a knight’s armour, the underdog stands out like a sore thumb – albeit a determined, plucky sore thumb.

The trope of the underdog is as prevalent in fantasy as misplaced magic wands, offering a narrative arc as satisfying as finding a secret room in a haunted castle.

A Hero Unlikely to Win, But Tries Anyway

The underdog is typically as well-equipped for their journey as a knight heading into battle armed with a teaspoon.

They’re the farm boy who’s more familiar with pigs than dragons, the scrawny apprentice who can barely lift a sword, or the unassuming hobbit who’s never ventured beyond their front garden.

These characters embark on quests that seem about as well-advised as a stroll through a dragon’s den wearing armour made of gold.

Why We Root for the Underdog

There’s something inherently appealing about cheering on someone who’s about as likely to succeed as a snowball in a furnace.

Perhaps it’s their tenacity in the face of insurmountable odds, or maybe it’s just human nature to support the little guy.

After all, who hasn’t felt like an underdog at some point, battling the metaphorical dragons of our everyday lives?

Notable Underdogs in Fantasy

Frodo Baggins in ‘The Lord of the Rings‘: A hobbit who’d much rather be at home but ends up carrying the most dangerous item in the world.

Neville Longbottom in ‘Harry Potter‘: The boy who was almost the Chosen One, but turned out to be a hero in his own right, proving that bravery comes in different forms.

Vin in ‘Mistborn‘: A street urchin who discovers she has powers that could change the world, despite her initial disbelief in her own abilities.

The Underdog’s Journey: A Reflection of Real Life

The underdog’s journey often mirrors our own struggles.

They don’t just face external foes; they battle self-doubt, fear, and the disbelief of those around them.

Their victories are as much about overcoming their inner demons as they are about defeating the dark lord or evil empire.

The Impact on Fantasy Literature

The underdog trope has nudged fantasy literature away from the omnipotent, flawless hero towards more relatable, flawed characters.

It’s introduced a level of humanity and vulnerability to fantasy that allows readers to see a bit of themselves in the characters.

It reminds us that sometimes, the greatest power lies not in strength or magic, but in resilience and the courage to keep going, even when the odds are about as favourable as a picnic in a troll’s cave.

The Lasting Appeal of the Underdog

In the world of fantasy literature, the underdog continues to reign supreme, a testament to the enduring appeal of seeing the least likely amongst us rise to the challenge.

They remind us that heroism comes in all shapes and sizes, often emerging from the most unlikely of places.

In celebrating the underdog, fantasy literature doesn’t just tell us a story; it gives us hope – hope that even the smallest among us can change the world, armed with nothing but courage and a teaspoon.

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Lost Civilisations and Fantasy: Graham Hancock as Story Fuel

In the labyrinthine library of modern fantasy literature, ancient myths and forgotten histories mingle with tales of magic and wonder.

One name stands out as an unlikely yet fascinating muse: Graham Hancock.

Hancock is known for his controversial theories on ancient civilisations and lost worlds.

His work has rippled through the fantasy genre.

It inspires authors to look beyond the known and into the realms of what-if.

Let’s embark on a journey, not to uncover lost civilisations, but to discover how Hancock’s unconventional ideas have left their mark on the fantastical worlds we escape to.

Ancient Mysteries: Hancock’s Historical Concoction

Before we dive into the fantastical, a quick detour into the real (or unreal, depending on whom you ask).

Graham Hancock’s work, such as “Fingerprints of the Gods,” posits theories of advanced ancient civilisations and cataclysmic events that have shaped human history.

While mainstream archaeology might raise an eyebrow (or two) at his hypotheses, there’s no denying their allure for storytellers.

Lost Worlds and Hidden Knowledge: Fuel for Fantasy

Hancock’s portrayal of lost worlds and forgotten advanced civilisations has provided a treasure trove of inspiration for fantasy literature.

Authors have long been drawn to the idea of ancient, hidden knowledge and civilisations that have achieved wonders beyond our current understanding.

In weaving these elements into their narratives, fantasy writers create worlds where the line between the possible and the impossible is tantalisingly blurred.

The Appeal of the Outlandish: Stretching Imagination’s Limits

One might argue that Hancock’s theories themselves read like fantasy.

This blurring of history and imagination challenges authors to stretch the limits of their creativity.

In a genre where readers are always hungry for originality, Hancock’s work serves as a reminder that sometimes the most engaging stories are those that dare to venture into the realm of the ‘unbelievably true.’

Cataclysms and Apocalypses: Echoes of Ancient Disasters

Hancock’s emphasis on global cataclysms and their impact on human history resonates deeply within the fantasy genre.

The concept of world-altering disasters, whether through natural or magical means, is a common trope in fantasy literature.

Hancock’s work inspires authors to explore the implications of such cataclysms on societies, cultures, and the very landscape of their fictional worlds.

Mysteries Uncovered: The Quest for Lost Truth

At the heart of Hancock’s work is the quest for lost truth, an idea that is inherently compelling in storytelling.

This notion has inspired fantasy narratives centred around uncovering hidden histories and unravelling the secrets of ancient powers.

It’s the literary equivalent of finding a hidden tomb, except the mummies might just be metaphorical (or not).

The Hancock Effect in Fantasy Literature

Graham Hancock’s work, with its blend of history, mystery, and a dash of the controversial, has undoubtedly left its mark on modern fantasy literature.

His exploration of ancient civilisations, lost knowledge, and cataclysmic events has provided a rich source of inspiration for authors seeking to craft narratives that captivate and intrigue.

In the world of fantasy, where the past is often as magical as the future, Hancock’s theories remind us that sometimes the most fantastic stories are buried not in the pages of a book, but in the sands of time.

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