Jon Cronshaw's Blog, page 40
December 27, 2023
Free and discounted fantasy and sci-fi books – December 27, 2023 #sff
In this special blog post, we’re thrilled to guide you on a journey through the most captivating realms of fantasy and science fiction.
Here, you’ll find an array of free and discounted books, each a gateway to adventures untold.
Simply click on the book fair images to discover your next favourite story.
The post Free and discounted fantasy and sci-fi books – December 27, 2023 #sff first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
December 24, 2023
Lord Sidebottom and the Christmas Caper: A Steampunk Holiday Adventure! | Free Audiobook
Story Synopsis:
Join the quirky British inventor Lord Sidebottom as he embarks on a delightful adventure in New York City during Christmas. Teaming up with the astute and resourceful Florence, they pursue the notorious “Wet Bandits,” thieves intent on disrupting the city’s cherished holiday celebrations.
What to Expect:
Eccentric Steampunk Adventures: Immerse yourself in a world where fantastical inventions and humorous contraptions come to life.
Charming Characters: Meet Lord Sidebottom, the eccentric inventor, and Florence, his clever partner, as they use wit and innovation to solve the mystery.
Holiday Cheer: Experience the joy and warmth of a Christmas setting, intertwined with thrilling adventure.
Family-Friendly Fun: Enjoy a story filled with light-hearted humor and engaging plot twists, suitable for viewers of all ages.
Picturesque Settings: Visualize the vibrant streets of New York during the festive season, adorned with steampunk flair.
Witty Dialogues and Parodies: Laugh along with clever dialogues and light parodies that add a unique charm to the story.
Why Watch?
For Fans of Steampunk: If you love the imaginative world of steampunk, this story is a must-watch, blending Victorian-era aesthetics with futuristic innovations.
Holiday Entertainment: Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit, this story offers an enjoyable break from traditional Christmas tales.
All-Age Appeal: With its upbeat and humorous tone, “Lord Sidebottom and the Christmas Caper” is a delightful watch for both children and adults.
Dive into this enchanting steampunk adventure and join Lord Sidebottom and Florence as they outsmart the Wet Bandits and save Christmas in a most unconventional way!
Don’t forget to subscribe for more fun and imaginative stories, and share your thoughts on this festive caper in the comments below!
The post Lord Sidebottom and the Christmas Caper: A Steampunk Holiday Adventure! | Free Audiobook first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
December 22, 2023
Jon’s author diary – December 22, 2023 #amwring
Welcome to this week’s Author Diary! 
Book Launch Update: I’m thrilled to share the latest on my book launch for “The Fall of Wolfsbane,” Ravenglass Legends, Book 1. The journey is heating up as the paperback version is now live! Plus, mark your calendars – the Kindle edition releases on January 18, 2024. Get ready for a captivating read!
Christmas Special on Substack: Don’t miss out on my festive treat! “Lord Sidebottom and the Christmas Caper” will be available on my Substack on Christmas Eve. It’s a holiday story you won’t want to miss. Check it out at joncronshawauthor.substack.com.
This Week’s Reads:
Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and bookish conversations. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more author adventures!
The post Jon’s author diary – December 22, 2023 #amwring first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
December 21, 2023
The Long Night: A Fantasy Adventure of Courage & Betrayal | Free Audio Story | Audiobook
Embark on a thrilling journey with “The Long Night,” a gripping fantasy short story that combines action, suspense, and a touch of humour. Perfect for young adults and adults alike, this tale will immerse you in a Viking-inspired fantasy world where courage and loyalty are tested.
Story Overview:
“The Long Night” follows the adventures of Ragnar and Kest, young warriors-in-training, as they face their rite of passage – the daunting “Long Night” hunting ritual. Their journey takes an unexpected turn with the return of Sven, an exiled boy, who brings with him secrets and plots that threaten their village.
Key Themes:
Courage in Adversity: Witness Ragnar and Kest’s bravery as they navigate the challenges of the Long Night and confront unexpected dangers.
Loyalty and Betrayal: Explore the complex dynamics of friendship and trust, especially when Sven’s true intentions are revealed.
Rite of Passage: Follow the protagonists’ transformation from trainees to warriors in this coming-of-age saga.
Action-Packed Battles: Experience heart-pounding action as the village warriors defend against a treacherous raid.
Redemption and Honour: Delve into themes of redemption as Ragnar and Kest prove their worth, not just as hunters but as protectors of their people.
Setting:
Get lost in a beautifully crafted Viking-inspired fantasy world, where myths come to life, and ancient rituals define the path to adulthood.
Why Watch?
For Fantasy Lovers: If you’re a fan of epic fantasy fiction, “The Long Night” offers an exciting and fresh take on the genre.
Character-Driven Plot: Engage with well-developed characters whose personal journeys and decisions drive the story forward.
Perfect Blend: The story masterfully combines serious, epic tones with moments of light-hearted humour, providing a well-rounded narrative experience.
Join Us:
Dive into “The Long Night” and join Ragnar and Kest on their unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a long-time fantasy enthusiast or new to the genre, this story promises to captivate and inspire.
Don’t forget to subscribe for more fantasy stories, character analyses, and discussions about the world of fantasy literature. Share your thoughts on the story in the comments below!
The post The Long Night: A Fantasy Adventure of Courage & Betrayal | Free Audio Story | Audiobook first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
Winter in Fantasy: A Chillingly Enthralling Narrative
In the realm of fantasy literature, winter isn’t just a season; it’s a character, an antagonist, and sometimes, a stark (no pun intended) reminder that nature often has the upper hand.
From the ominous winters of “A Game of Thrones” to the eternal snows of “The Chronicles of Narnia” and the uniquely humorous yet poignant “Hogfather,” winter in fantasy books is as evocative as it is chillingly symbolic.
Let’s wrap up warm and explore how this frosty season weaves its magic in literature as is only appropriate when discussing endless nights and icy landscapes.
A Song of Ice and Fire: When Winter is Coming (Eventually)In George R.R. Martin’s “A Some of Ice and Fire,” winter is less a season and more a looming existential threat, much like the in-laws arriving for Christmas.
The Stark family’s motto, “Winter is Coming,” serves as a constant, ominous reminder of the harsh, unforgiving landscape and the even more unforgiving human nature.
In Westeros, winter symbolises the brutal struggles for survival and power.
It’s a time when the line between life and death becomes as thin as the ice upon which one might foolishly decide to dance.
The Chronicles of Narnia: Eternal Winter, No ChristmasC.S. Lewis’s Narnia, under the White Witch’s rule, is a land where it’s “always winter but never Christmas.”
Talk about adding insult to injury.
This eternal winter represents a loss of hope and joy, a spell that needs breaking. It’s a world waiting for a thaw, both literally and metaphorically. The
Pevensie children’s arrival marks the beginning of this end, much like finding a long-lost pair of warm socks just when you need them.
Hogfather: Winter with a Terry Pratchett TwistTerry Pratchett’s “Hogfather” takes the concept of winter in fantasy and turns it on its head, then gives it a gentle push down a snowy hill.
In the Discworld, the Hogfather (the equivalent of Father Christmas) is missing, and with him, the essence of the season. Here, winter is a time of belief, of the power of myths and stories.
It’s a season that balances the fine line between light-hearted celebration and the darker aspects of folklore.
Pratchett’s winter is a reminder that sometimes, even in the coldest of times, a bit of belief can go a long way in keeping the darkness at bay.
Winter in Fantasy: More Than Just a SettingIn these works, winter is more than a backdrop; it’s a catalyst for change.
It tests characters, shapes narratives, and often symbolises the hardships and challenges that must be overcome.
Winter in fantasy embodies the struggle against seemingly insurmountable odds, the fight for survival in the harshest of times, and occasionally, the dark humour in acknowledging that sometimes, life is indeed as unpredictable as a snowstorm in July.
So, as we close this frostbitten chapter, let’s acknowledge that winter in fantasy literature is as varied and deep as the snowdrifts in Narnia.
It can be a looming threat, a spell to be broken, or a time of belief and magic.
One thing is certain, though: when winter falls in these fantastical worlds, it brings with it a narrative chill that is as compelling as it is cold.
Just remember, when exploring these icy literary landscapes, it’s always wise to keep a cup of hot cocoa at hand – and perhaps a sword, just in case.
The post Winter in Fantasy: A Chillingly Enthralling Narrative first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
The Fall of Wolfsbane is now available to pre-order!
The Fall of Wolfsbane is now available for pre-order, with its release slated for January 18, 2024.
Dive into the first volume of the breathtaking Ravenglass Legends saga, an epic fantasy tale that weaves destiny, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
In the heart of a shattered realm, Ragnar, born to rule, faces the ultimate test of fate.
His world crumbles as the Empire ravages his homeland, stripping him of his birthright.
Captured and torn from his sister Maja, Ragnar is thrust into a treacherous dance of survival within the opulent but cruel walls of imperial captivity.
As they fight to reunite and reclaim their legacy, Ragnar and Maja tread a perilous path.
In the glittering halls of the Empire, each step could lead to salvation or doom.
Will they bend to the will of their captors, or will their unyielding spirit pave the way to restore their homeland?
The Fall of Wolfsbane is not just a novel—it’s a journey into a world of intrigue and resilience, where loyalty is tested, and every choice can alter the course of destiny.
Pre-order your copy today and be among the first to explore this epic tale of courage, conspiracy, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
Join Ragnar and Maja as they navigate the razor’s edge between risk and reward, duty and desire, in a high-stakes game that unfolds in the Imperial courts.
Don’t miss out. Pre-order The Fall of Wolfsbane now and immerse yourself in the world of Ravenglass Legends, because this is a book you won’t want to put down.
Click Here to pre-order.The post The Fall of Wolfsbane is now available to pre-order! first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
December 18, 2023
Understanding Nobledark: A Fresh Perspective on Fantasy
In the grand, often confusing banquet of fantasy genres, where every dish ranges from despairingly bitter to unrealistically sweet, lies a middle ground known as ‘nobledark’.
It’s a genre that acknowledges life isn’t always a fairy tale, yet doesn’t force us to lose all hope in humanity (or elves, dwarves, and the occasional dragon).
Grimdark vs Noblebright vs Nobledark: The Fantasy SpectrumTo set the stage, let’s contrast nobledark with its cousins.
On one end, there’s grimdark, a genre filled with so many horrors and evils that you might need a cup of something strong just to get through a chapter.
Think of a world where every silver lining has a cloud.
Then, there’s noblebright, the polar opposite, where the world is so positive you’d expect birds to tie ribbons in your hair.
Characters in noblebright can improve their world just by being good-hearted, like a fairy godmother on steroids.
Nobledark, however, dwells in the shadows between these two.
It acknowledges the dark themes of grimdark but also champions characters with a strong moral compass.
Averting the Cliché: The Nobledark CharacterOne of the strengths of nobledark fantasy is its ability to avoid the clichéd ‘edgy’ characters often found in grimdark worlds.
These characters have a reason to care, to strive, to effect change, even when the odds resemble climbing a mountain with a boulder strapped to your back..
Nobledark strikes a compelling balance in the fantasy spectrum.
It’s a genre that acknowledges the world can be a dark place, filled with challenges and sorrows, but it also reminds us that there are those willing to light a candle rather than curse the darkness.
It’s about finding hope in despair, light in darkness, and perhaps, the occasional dry humour in the midst of calamity.
Nobledark likely won’t disappear anytime soon, because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a story where the hero, despite being dragged through the mud, still believes in a better tomorrow?
The post Understanding Nobledark: A Fresh Perspective on Fantasy first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
December 17, 2023
Recognising Nobledark Fantasy: Signs You’re in the Shadows with a Glimmer of Hope
When you delve into the realm of fantasy literature, you’ll find yourself amidst an array of genres, each with its distinct flavour.
But how do you know when you’ve stepped into the shadowy yet hopeful world of nobledark fantasy?
This sub-genre, a curious blend of grim realities and moral resilience, is marked by certain unmistakable tropes and themes.
Here are ten tropes you might find when reading a nobledark fantasy novel:
1. The Rogue Who Dreams of RedemptionOne sure sign you’re reading nobledark fantasy is the presence of a rogue character yearning for redemption.
This isn’t your average dashing rogue, content with their morally grey lifestyle.
Instead, this character often grapples with their past misdeeds and seeks a path to make things right.
Whether it’s a smuggler turning over a new leaf or a spy looking to correct past wrongs, their journey towards redemption is fraught with challenges, reflecting the genre’s blend of darkness and hope.
2. The Loyal Thief with a Heart of GoldThe loyal thief, another classic nobledark character, is a paradox in themselves.
They may live outside the law, pilfering and sneaking around, but their loyalty and sense of justice shine through.
This character often steals not out of greed, but necessity, or for a cause they believe in.
Their moral compass, although unconventional, is unmistakably present, guiding them through the genre’s murky ethical landscape.
3. The Assassin with a ConscienceIn nobledark fantasy, assassins aren’t cold-blooded killers but complex characters burdened with conscience.
They kill, yes, but each action weighs heavily on their soul.
This inner conflict – the struggle between their lethal profession and their moral inclinations—is a hallmark of the genre.
It’s about the assassin who pauses, who questions, and who seeks meaning in a profession mired in darkness.
4. The World Weary Warrior Fighting for a Lost CauseA nobledark narrative often features a warrior who’s seen too much and yet continues to fight for what often seems like a lost cause.
This character has witnessed the horrors of their world, yet they hold onto a flicker of hope.
They fight not because they want to, but because they must, driven by a deep-seated belief in something greater than themselves.
5. The Corrupt World That Tests MoralityThe setting of a nobledark fantasy is a character in its own right—a world that’s often corrupt and unforgiving, testing the characters’ morals at every turn.
It’s a world where the right choice is often the hardest one to make, where the line between good and evil is blurred and battered.
6. Bittersweet Victories and Pyrrhic TriumphsNobledark fantasy doesn’t shy away from the cost of heroism.
Victories, when they come, are often bittersweet, and triumphs can feel Pyrrhic.
Characters may achieve their goals, but not without sacrifice and loss, underscoring the genre’s theme that even in victory, darkness lingers.
7. The Fallen Hero Seeking RedemptionIn nobledark fantasy, a common theme is the fallen hero, once revered, who has lost their way due to a tragic flaw or a past mistake.
This character’s journey towards redemption is fraught with internal and external struggles, as they seek to regain their honour and atone for their sins.
Their path is never straightforward, often filled with moral quandaries and the harsh realities of a world that may not believe in second chances.
8. The Tyrant with a ConscienceUnlike the traditional portrayal of tyrants as irredeemably evil, nobledark fantasy often presents them with a layer of complexity.
These rulers may be driven by noble intentions gone awry or trapped by the very power they wield.
Their actions, while harsh or cruel, are often shown to stem from a twisted sense of duty or a burdened conscience, adding depth to their character and creating a grey area in the moral landscape of the story.
9. Sacrifice and the Cost of PowerNobledark fantasy frequently explores the theme of sacrifice, particularly the high cost of wielding power or pursuing a greater good.
Characters are often faced with difficult choices that require them to sacrifice their personal desires, relationships, or even their ethical codes.
This theme underscores the notion that in a complex world, power and success come at a significant personal and moral cost.
10. The Blurred Lines Between Magic and MoralityMagic in nobledark fantasy is not just a tool or a weapon; it’s often intertwined with the moral fabric of the universe.
The use of magic can have far-reaching consequences, both beneficial and destructive, and characters who wield it must navigate its temptations and responsibilities.
This creates a dynamic where magic is a double-edged sword, capable of both salvaging and shattering the world’s fragile balance.
Recognising a nobledark fantasy novel is about identifying these unique elements—the flawed heroes striving for goodness, the oppressive worlds that challenge their morals, and the victories that come with their own set of losses.
It’s a genre that mirrors the complexities of real life, where the light of hope and the shadow of despair are perpetually intertwined.
So, the next time you find yourself empathising with an assassin’s plight or cheering for a thief with a cause, you might just be lost in the engrossing world of nobledark fantasy.
The post Recognising Nobledark Fantasy: Signs You’re in the Shadows with a Glimmer of Hope first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
December 15, 2023
Listen to The Little Thief for free on YouTube!
Discover the story of Hanna, a young and adept pickpocket, whose destiny changes forever when she is welcomed into a gang of skilled thieves. Under the leadership of Melita, Hanna learns the ways of the underworld – a world filled with intrigue, danger, and unexpected bonds.
The plot thickens as Fedor’s gang faces a daunting challenge. To safeguard Hanna from her past connections, they must negotiate with Gunter, her former gang leader. The cost? An immense fortune that is beyond their reach.
Immerse yourself in a tale where loyalty, cunning, and bravery intertwine. Will Hanna and her newfound allies outwit their adversaries, or will the ghosts of their pasts ensnare them in Nordturm’s dark alleys?
Hit LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to stay updated with new chapters and exclusive content. Share your thoughts and theories in the comments – we’re excited to hear what you think about Hanna’s adventures!
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Jon’s author diary – December 15, 2023 #amwriting
Welcome to this week’s Author Diary!
What’s in Store This Week:
Working on “Scoundrels”
I’ve been immersed in developing my thief fantasy novel, “Scoundrels.” This novel is a prequel to “Dawn of Assassins,” featuring the same beloved characters but set before the events of the original story.
Crafting the Book Description for “The Fall of Wolfsbane”
Condensing a 108,000-word novel into a 120-word book description is no small feat! This week, I’ve been chiselling away at the book description for “The Fall of Wolfsbane.” I’ll discuss the challenges of distilling a complex narrative into a brief yet compelling summary.
Reading Highlights
My reading list this week has been quite diverse. I’ve dived into “TerrorTome” by Garth Marenghi, a horror parody novel that’s as entertaining as it is clever, and “Mud Ride” by Steve Turner, an exploration of the grunge band Mudhoney. I’ll share my thoughts on these reads and how they’ve influenced my thinking.
Discovering Nobledark Fantasy
I’ve recently stumbled upon the fantasy sub-genre ‘nobledark.’ This discovery has been a revelation, as it perfectly encapsulates the thematic essence of my writing: flawed heroes navigating tough circumstances guided by their personal moral compasses. I’ll talk about how this genre resonates with my work and my future explorations in this realm.
The post Jon’s author diary – December 15, 2023 #amwriting first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.
