Jon Cronshaw's Blog, page 41

What is the Difference Between High Fantasy and Epic Fantasy?

In the grand, dragon-infested world of fantasy literature, distinguishing between high fantasy and epic fantasy can be as tricky as convincing a dragon to part with its gold.

Both genres whisk readers away to realms of magic, heroism, and the occasional inconveniently-timed apocalypse.

But fear not, intrepid reader! Let’s embark on a quest to untangle these subgenres.

High Fantasy: More Than Just Elvish Linguistics

High fantasy, also known as secondary-world fantasy, takes you to an entirely different world.

Think J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” where Middle-earth is as real as the overdue bills on your kitchen counter.

This genre features worlds with their own set of rules, races like elves and dwarves (who are notoriously bad at following any rules), and a magic system that often requires a PhD to understand.

High fantasy is like that eccentric uncle who insists on speaking in Klingon; it immerses you completely in its world.

Epic Fantasy: It’s Not Just Big, It’s Epic

Epic fantasy, on the other hand, is characterised by its scale and the stakes involved.

George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series is a prime example. Here, it’s not just a personal quest but the fate of entire kingdoms hanging in the balance, often involving a cast of characters so vast you need a family tree to keep track.

Epic fantasy is like a family reunion; you might not know everyone’s name, but you’re all in it together, usually against a tyrannical, power-hungry relative.

The Blurred Line: Where High Meets Epic

The boundary between high and epic fantasy is as blurred as your vision after reading a Brandon Sanderson novel in one sitting.

Sanderson’s “The Stormlight Archive” series exemplifies this blend.

It’s set in a meticulously crafted world (high fantasy) and revolves around grand, world-altering conflicts (epic fantasy).

It’s like a banquet where every dish is both deliciously exotic and alarmingly large.

The Magic Touch

High fantasy often presents magic as an integral part of the world.

In Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld” series, magic is as common as a rainy day in London.

Epic fantasy, like Robert Jordan’s “The Wheel of Time,” might also feature magic, but the focus is more on the epic battles, political intrigue, and the characters’ journeys, which occasionally involve less magic and more trying not to get stabbed in the back.

The Stakes Are High (And Epic)

In high fantasy, the stakes might be significant but often more personal, like Frodo Baggins’ quest to destroy the One Ring.

In epic fantasy, the stakes are, well, epic.

Think of “The Malazan Book of the Fallen” by Steven Erikson, where the fate of entire civilizations rests on the outcomes of conflicts.

While high fantasy takes you to an entirely different world, epic fantasy tells you a story of monumental scale and stakes in that world.

Both genres offer an escape from reality, much like imagining yourself as a hero with fabulous hair and a sword, rather than someone who can’t even wield a frying pan properly.

Whether you prefer the complete immersion of high fantasy or the grand tapestry of epic fantasy, one thing is certain: in these worlds, anything is possible, except perhaps a straightforward plot.

The post What is the Difference Between High Fantasy and Epic Fantasy? first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Nobledark Fantasy: A Glimmer of Hope in the Murky Mists

In the vast, sprawling landscape of fantasy genres, where every niche and crevice is filled with a different shade of dragon, elf, or apocalypse, nobledark fantasy emerges as a curious creature.

It’s like finding a rose in a wasteland—a genre where the light of hope flickers in the darkest of settings.

Nobledark is not your run-of-the-mill grimdark, where hope is as scarce as a unicorn in a city bus.

Nor is it noblebright, where heroes shine with the brilliance of a well-polished suit of armour.

Instead, it dances in the shadows, offering a nuanced narrative that’s as complex as a wizard’s spell.

The Essence of Nobledark

Nobledark fantasy hinges on its characters—flawed, morally grey individuals who cling to their moral compass like a lifeline in a stormy sea.

These characters aren’t your typical knights in shining armour; they’re more like knights in tarnished armour, trying to polish it while fending off a horde of goblins.

They know what’s right, and they strive to achieve it, but the circumstances they inhabit aren’t keen on making things easy.

It’s a world where doing the right thing is as challenging as convincing a dragon to go on a diet.

A Contrast to Grimdark

In grimdark fantasy, the world is a bleak, unforgiving place where hope is as fleeting as a dream upon waking.

The characters often reflect this despair, making choices that range from morally dubious to downright villainous.

In contrast, nobledark retains a sliver of hope.

It’s like having a single candle lit in a room engulfed in shadows—there’s darkness, yes, but there’s also light, however faint it may be.

Morality in the Murk

What sets nobledark apart is its exploration of morality within a grim setting.

The characters, while they may be morally ambiguous, have a sense of right and wrong.

They are like navigators in a storm, trying to steer their ship towards a moral harbour, even as the waves of a cruel world try to dash them against the rocks.

It’s this struggle, this balance between the grimness of their world and the flicker of morality within them, that defines nobledark fantasy.

The World Won’t Let Them Be

In nobledark, the world itself is a character—an antagonist that often seems hell-bent on quashing any attempt at righteousness.

It’s a setting where even the best intentions are tested, and characters are forced to make tough choices.

It’s not just about fighting the dark lord—it’s about fighting the darkness within and outside, often with compromised means.

Nobledark fantasy offers a unique lens through which to view the classic battle of good versus evil.

It presents a world that’s realistic in its complexity, where characters are as multifaceted as the dilemmas they face.

For those who find grimdark too despairing and noblebright too shiny, nobledark is the perfect middle ground.

It’s a genre that acknowledges the darkness of the world but whispers, ever so softly, that there is still hope, still a chance for a bit of shine on that battered armour.

After all, what is life if not a quest to find the light amidst the dark?

The post Nobledark Fantasy: A Glimmer of Hope in the Murky Mists first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Early Access: The Fall of Wolfsbane (Ravenglass Legends, Book 1)

Hello from rainy Morecambe!

You can be among the first to dive into an epic fantasy world with early access to the much-anticipated novel The Fall of Wolfsbane on the Ream subscription platform.

The Fall of Wolfsbane is not just a novel; it’s the gateway to the sprawling Ravenglass Universe.

As a privileged early reader, you will not only be able to read the full novel but also enjoy weekly updates of my current works in progress.

Visit: https://reamstories.com/joncronshawauthor

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you:

In The Fall of Wolfsbane, we follow the harrowing journey of Ragnar Wolfsbane.

Once heir to the province of Meerand, Ragnar’s life is upended when Prince Gregor’s forces destroy his homeland.

Stripped of his title, family, and freedom, he finds himself a prisoner of the Ostreich Empire.

But fate has more in store for Ragnar than just captivity.

Aboard the ship, he meets Witz, a mysterious wyvern who speaks of a shared destiny.

Is this a promise of hope or merely a wyvern’s deceitful tale?

Meanwhile, at the Imperial Palace in Ostreich, Ragnar’s sister Maja faces her own trials.

Trained for courtly life yet yearning for freedom, she must navigate a labyrinth of alliances and dangers.

Her only goal: to reunite with her brother and save their people from cultural annihilation.

Will the siblings find each other amidst the chaos?

Can Ragnar lead a rebellion to save Meerand, or is their fate already sealed?

The Fall of Wolfsbane is a story of loss, resilience, and the unyielding power of hope.

Be a part of this journey.

Start reading The Fall of Wolfsbane today on Ream and join me every week for more tales from the Ravenglass Universe.

Your adventure awaits!

Find out more at https://reamstories.com/joncronshawauthor

The post Early Access: The Fall of Wolfsbane (Ravenglass Legends, Book 1) first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Discovering Nobledark: A Revelation in the Shadows

There comes a moment in every author’s journey akin to stumbling upon a secret door in a familiar room.

For me, that moment was discovering the sub-genre of fantasy known as ‘nobledark.’

It was like turning on a light in a dimly lit library, revealing a corner I never knew existed.

My work, you see, has always teetered on a delicate tightrope, never quite plummeting into the abyss of grimdark, yet not soaring in the sunlit skies of noblebright.

It encompasses elements from both ends of the fantasy spectrum, but until now, I couldn’t quite put a label on it.

Nobledark: The Grey Area of Fantasy

Nobledark, as I learned, is the perfect blend of light and shadow.

It’s like a cup of tea that’s both sweet and bitter—a genre where flawed characters strive to maintain their moral compass amidst terrible circumstances.

It’s not about heroes shining bright against the darkness or about delving into the depths of despair.

Instead, it’s about the struggle, the journey of characters grappling with both external and internal conflicts.

A Thematic Link Across Genres

This revelation wasn’t just confined to my fantasy writings.

It shed light on a thematic link that runs through all my stories, regardless of genre.

From the desolate landscapes of my post-apocalyptic Wasteland series to the chaos of Punks Versus Zombies, the nobledark theme resonates.

My characters, whether it’s Abel, Liam, or Tommy, consistently face moral dilemmas and challenging circumstances.

And this theme is evident in my fantasy titles as well.

The Ravenglass Chronicles, Ravenglass Legends, and Dawn of Assassins are not just stories of magic and adventure; they are tales of characters making difficult choices in dire situations.

Their world is not one of unblemished heroism or unrelenting darkness; it’s a world painted in shades of grey, where decisions have weight and consequences are real.

Seven Years to a Eureka Moment

It’s taken me seven years to arrive at this understanding.

Seven years of weaving tales without fully grasping the tapestry I was creating.

Discovering nobledark has been like finding the missing piece of a puzzle I didn’t know I was assembling.

It’s a genre that not only defines my work but also resonates with my narrative voice—a voice that finds its strength in the balance between light and dark.

So, for me at least, nobledark has been more than just a literary revelation—it’s been a key to unlocking a deeper understanding of my own work.

It’s a genre where hope and despair coexist, where characters are as complex as the worlds they inhabit.

This discovery has not only given me a new perspective on my past work but also illuminated the path for my future writings.

I’m excited to explore this newly found territory, to tell stories that are as rich and nuanced as the genre itself.

After all, isn’t finding your place in the vast world of literature one of the greatest quests an author can embark on?

Follow Jon on YouTube.

The post Discovering Nobledark: A Revelation in the Shadows first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Jon’s Author Diary – December 8, 2023

Welcome to this week’s Author Diary!

It’s been another engaging and productive week in my writing life, full of new learnings, progress on current projects, and preparation for upcoming releases. Let me take you through the highlights of what I’ve been up to.

In This Episode:

Redrafting “Guild of Assassins”
I’ve been diligently working on a redraft of “Guild of Assassins.” Redrafting is always an enriching process, refining and shaping the story to its best form.

Learning About Subscriptions for Authors
I’ve started a new course focused on subscriptions for authors. This learning journey is all about exploring new ways to connect with readers and provide valuable content. I’ll talk about my experiences with the course so far and how I plan to implement these strategies in my own author business.

Reading “Going Dark” by Julia Ebner
This week’s reading has been “Going Dark” by Julia Ebner. It’s an insightful and thought-provoking book, and I’m eager to share my takeaways and how it has influenced my thinking and writing.

Formatting “The Fall of Wolfsbane”
Preparations are in full swing for the launch of “The Fall of Wolfsbane,” the first book in the Ravenglass Legends series. I’m currently in the formatting stage, ensuring everything is perfect for its release early next year.

If you’re enjoying these weekly updates, please hit the like button, share with fellow book enthusiasts, and subscribe for more author diaries!

Thank you for watching, and I can’t wait to share more of my author’s journey with you next week!

The post Jon’s Author Diary – December 8, 2023 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Heroic Fantasy Unveiled: A Journey Through Its Evolution and Distinctiveness

Heroic fantasy, a genre as time-honoured as a knight’s rusty armour, has been a cornerstone of fantasy literature for decades.

It’s the realm of bold heroes, dastardly villains, and quests that are as perilous as trying to find a decent cup of tea in a goblin’s lair.

But what exactly is heroic fantasy, and how does it stand out in the crowded tavern of fantasy sub-genres?

The Heroic Heart of Fantasy

At its core, heroic fantasy is about larger-than-life characters embarking on quests that involve a great deal of sword-swinging, spell-casting, and occasionally, moral dilemmas.

Classic examples include Robert E. Howard’s Conan the Barbarian, where the muscle-bound hero faces off against foes as varied as his collection of loincloths.

Evolution: Not Just Swords Anymore

Heroic fantasy has evolved from its early days of muscle and magic.

Initially, it was all about the brawn; today, brains hold equal footing.

Gone are the days when a sharp sword and a sharp jawline were enough.

Modern heroic fantasy, like Joe Abercrombie’s “The First Law” series, combines physical prowess with cunning, strategy, and a healthy dose of political intrigue.

It’s less about defeating the monster and more about what defeating the monster does to you.

Standing Apart from the Fantasy Crowd

Heroic fantasy differs from its cousins in the fantasy genre in several ways.

Unlike high fantasy, which often involves world-saving quests, heroic fantasy tends to focus on personal battles and smaller scale conflicts.

Think more ‘saving the village’ rather than ‘saving the world’.

In contrast to epic fantasy, which can have a sprawling cast of characters, heroic fantasy often centres on a single protagonist or a small group.

It’s less ‘Game of Thrones’ and more ‘The Witcher‘.

Heroism and Humour: A Fine Balance

One of the defining features of modern heroic fantasy is its ability to balance heroism with a touch of irony.

Our heroes are often flawed, grappling with internal demons that are as challenging as the literal demons they fight.

This adds a layer of depth and relatability to the characters, making them more human than the stoic heroes of yore.

Heroic fantasy has come a long way from its origins.

It’s adapted, evolved, and grown more complex, much like a wizard growing a beard.

This sub-genre continues to captivate readers with its blend of action, adventure, and increasingly complex characters.

Whether you’re in it for the sword fights, the sorcery, or the sardonic wit, heroic fantasy offers a realm where bravery and a sense of humour can coexist, often in the face of insurmountable odds.

After all, what’s a hero without a little quirk in their armour?

The post Heroic Fantasy Unveiled: A Journey Through Its Evolution and Distinctiveness first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Listen to Punks Versus Zombies 1-8 on YouTube for free!

asd

Welcome to Punks Versus Zombies!

Why should you immerse yourself in this riveting saga? Here’s the set list:

A unique blend of fierce punk-rock spirit and spine-tingling zombie apocalypse thrills.Gritty, authentic characters who embody the raw essence of survival in a nightmarish undead world.Storytelling so intense and immersive, it will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning each page.

Punks Versus Zombies is not just another survival story; it’s an odyssey of resilience and determination in a topsy-turvy world.

With inspirations drawn from classic zombie films and steeped in the ethos of punk-rock, this series promises a journey that resonates deep within.

Prepare yourself for a reading experience like no other. “Punks Versus Zombies” is waiting to take you on an unforgettable journey through its chaotic, thrilling landscape.

Are you ready to join this adventure and navigate through a world flipped on its head?

Embrace the chaos and check out Punks Versus Zombies today!

The post Listen to Punks Versus Zombies 1-8 on YouTube for free! first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

The Evolution of Epic Fantasy Tropes

Epic fantasy, a genre as enduring as an overambitious wizard’s beard, has long been the home of grand tales and even grander clichés.

Yet, in recent years, these tropes have undergone a transformation, much like a reluctant hero who realises he’s left the oven on in chapter one.

Let’s delve into this fantastical world to see how these changes have unfolded.

1. The Chosen One, or the Accidentally Selected

The ‘Chosen One’ – a character as traditionally predictable as rain at a British barbecue. Once, they were the heart and soul of epic fantasy, plucked from obscurity to save the world.

Think Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” or Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia”. But modern authors, like George R.R. Martin and Brandon Sanderson, have had a bit of a laugh with this trope.

Now, our ‘chosen’ ones are more likely to stumble into destiny after a wrong turn, bringing a delightful blend of incompetence and unforeseen heroics to the table.

2. Good vs. Evil, or How Everyone’s a Bit Dodgy

Gone are the days when good and evil were as clear cut as a knight’s sword through a surprisingly soft dragon. In the past, we knew where we stood – or, more accurately, who we’d cheer for.

Today, thanks to writers like Joe Abercrombie and Steven Erikson, characters inhabit moral grey areas, much like a politician’s promises.

It’s no longer about good triumphing over evil; it’s about who’s less of a scoundrel.

3. World-Building, Now with More Realism!

Tolkien’s Middle-earth set the bar for world-building, but let’s face it, it lacked a certain… what’s the word? Ah, yes, diversity.

Modern epic fantasies, such as N.K. Jemisin’s “The Broken Earth” trilogy, offer worlds with more layers than a wizard’s wardrobe, complete with cultures and languages that reflect our own world’s messy, wonderful diversity.

4. Magic Systems, or Making Sense of the Nonsense

Magic, once as mysterious as the contents of a deep, dark dungeon, has evolved.

Earlier fantasies treated magic like a secret recipe, known only to a select few. Nowadays, authors like Brandon Sanderson give us ‘hard magic systems‘, where magic is so well-defined, it could feature in a physics exam.

It’s less about waving wands and more about understanding the fine print of the universe.

5. The Role of Women: From Damsels to Destroyers

Remember when women in epic fantasy were as active as a painting on the wall?

Thankfully, those days are as gone as a dragon’s diet plan.

Now, female characters are leading the charge, armed with their own complexities and strengths.

From G.R.R. Martin’s formidable women to Robin Hobb‘s influential heroines, these characters are shattering glass ceilings with a battle axe.

Epic fantasy has certainly come a long way from its once-predictable roots, much like a hero on a quest who realises halfway that the real treasure was the friends they made along the way (or, perhaps, the enemies they gleefully thwarted).

This genre’s evolution, laced with a touch of dark humour, shows us that even in worlds filled with magic and myth, change is the only true constant.

So, let’s raise our goblets to the ever-shifting landscape of epic fantasy, where the only guarantee is a thrillingly unpredictable adventure.

Cheers!

The post The Evolution of Epic Fantasy Tropes first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Jon’s author diary – December 1, 2023 #amwriting

What’s Inside This Episode:

“Punks Versus Zombies” – New Episodes!

Exciting news for fans of “Punks Versus Zombies” – I’ve written two more episodes! The story continues to evolve, and I can’t wait to share these latest instalments with you. Get ready for more action, drama, and suspense in the world where punks clash with the undead.

“Guild of Assassins” – Responding to Feedback

Based on some valuable feedback, I’ve added an extra chapter to “Guild of Assassins.” Crafting a story that resonates with readers is a journey, and I’m dedicated to making each chapter as engaging as possible. I’ll discuss how feedback influences my writing process and the importance of staying adaptable.

Redrafting “Ravenglass Legends Book 2”

The journey continues with the redraft of “Ravenglass Legends Book 2.” Delving back into this world is always an adventure, and I’m making steady progress. Join me as I share some behind-the-scenes insights into the redrafting process and how the story is shaping up.

Podcast and Learning Insights

This week, I’ve been engrossed in the “Tales from the Rabbit Hole” podcast, exploring the fascinating world of conspiracy theories. Additionally, I’ve been listening to the Great Courses lectures on Conspiracies and Conspiracy Theories. It’s been an enlightening experience, and I’ll share how these topics have sparked new ideas and influenced my thinking.

Stay Connected and Engaged

To catch up on my stories and for more exciting content, visit https://joncronshawauthor.substack.com

If you enjoy these weekly glimpses into my author’s life, please like, share, and subscribe. Your support is invaluable!

Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to sharing more adventures with you next week in the world of writing and storytelling!

#AuthorsDiary #PunksVersusZombies #GuildOfAssassins #RavenglassLegends #WritingJourney #Podcasts #ConspiracyTheories #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife

The post Jon’s author diary – December 1, 2023 #amwriting first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Jon’s Author Diary – November 24, 2023

Welcome to Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary!

A Productive Writing Spree

I’ve had a tremendously productive week, penning down five new episodes of Punks Versus Zombies.

The story is escalating—higher stakes, intense emotions, and fraying nerves.

Embarking on “The Wheel of Time“

I’ve finally taken the plunge into Robert Jordan’s The Eye of the World, the first book in The Wheel of Time series.

It’s a world I’ve been hesitant to step into, given the sheer scale of the series, but I’m finding the journey enjoyable and intriguing so far.

New Releases and Endings

I released the ninth episode of Punks Versus Zombies on Substack this week.

Additionally, I’ve brought The Long Night, the second prequel to my forthcoming Ravenglass Legends series, to a close.

Lord Sidebottom’s New Adventure

Get ready for a treat this weekend—a brand new Lord Sidebottom story is on its way!

These tales are always a delight to write, and I can’t wait for you to see what’s in store.

To read the latest episodes and stories, visit joncronshawauthor.substack.com.

#JonCronshawsAuthorDiary #PunksVersusZombies #TheWheelOfTime #RavenglassLegends #FantasyFiction #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife

The post Jon’s Author Diary – November 24, 2023 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.