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15 Early Fantasy Reads that Defined the Genre (Before Tolkien)

As a fantasy reader, you understand the allure of otherworldly realms, magical creatures, and grand adventures.

The genre has evolved over the years, with contemporary authors captivating us with their unique worlds and unforgettable characters.

But it’s also valuable to recognise and explore the roots of fantasy literature to appreciate the genre fully.

This blog post will take you on a journey through time, introducing you to 15 early fantasy reads that have shaped the course of the genre.

Le Morte D’Arthur by Thomas Malory

Published in 1485, Le Morte D’Arthur is a compilation of stories and legends about the legendary King Arthur, his knights, and their adventures. The stories are based on earlier legends and texts, and Thomas Malory’s retelling has become one of the most well-known and influential versions of the Arthurian tales.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

A timeless classic, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1865) tells the story of a young girl named Alice who falls down a rabbit hole and enters a strange, fantastical world. Lewis Carroll’s imaginative tale is filled with memorable characters and has captured the hearts of readers for generations.

Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift

Published in 1726, Gulliver’s Travels is a satirical adventure novel that follows the journeys of Lemuel Gulliver to various fantastical lands. While the story serves as a biting critique of the politics and society of Swift’s time, it also presents readers with an imaginative and engaging exploration of the unknown.

The Vampyre by John William Polidori

The Vampyre (1819) is a short story that is considered the first modern vampire tale. It introduces the character of Lord Ruthven, an aristocratic vampire, and has had a significant impact on the portrayal of vampires in literature and popular culture.

The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole

A groundbreaking work in the genre of Gothic fiction, The Castle of Otranto (1764) is a tale of supernatural events, romance, and suspense. This novel laid the groundwork for many elements of modern fantasy and horror stories.

The World’s Desire by H. Rider Haggard and Andrew Lang

This 1890 novel tells the story of Odysseus, a hero of Greek mythology, in a fantastical setting filled with magic, adventure, and romance. The World’s Desire combines elements of classical mythology and historical fiction to create an engaging and unique fantasy tale.

The Night Land by William Hope Hodgson

First published in 1912, The Night Land is a futuristic, dark fantasy novel set in a world where the sun has died, and humanity is on the brink of extinction. The story follows the protagonist’s journey through this nightmarish landscape, encountering terrifying creatures and supernatural occurrences.

Jurgen: A Comedy of Justice by James Branch Cabell

Jurgen (1919) is a satirical fantasy novel that explores themes of philosophy, religion, and morality. The story follows the titular character, Jurgen, as he embarks on a fantastical journey through various mythological realms.

The Wood Beyond the World by William Morris

This 1894 novel is one of the first modern fantasy works and has influenced many authors in the genre. The Wood Beyond the World tells the story of a medieval merchant who embarks on a quest to find a mysterious and magical land.

A Voyage to Arcturus by David Lindsay

Published in 1920, A Voyage to Arcturus is a philosophical science fiction novel that combines elements of fantasy and allegory. The story follows the journey of a man named Maskull, who travels to a distant planet to explore its unique cultures and landscapes.

The Worm Ouroboros by E.R. Eddison

This 1922 high fantasy novel follows the adventures of a group of heroes in a world filled with magic and intrigue. The Worm Ouroboros is known for its rich prose, complex characters, and detailed world-building.

The King of Elfland’s Daughter by Lord Dunsany

Published in 1924, The King of Elfland’s Daughter is a classic fairy tale that explores themes of love, magic, and the nature of reality. This enchanting story has inspired generations of fantasy authors and readers.

The Dream-quest of Unknown Kadath by H.P. Lovecraft

This 1927 novella is a dark fantasy tale set in H.P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos. The story follows the protagonist, Randolph Carter, as he journeys through the Dreamlands, encountering strange creatures and ancient gods in his quest to find the mysterious city of Kadath.

The Virgin and the Swine by Evangeline Walton

Originally published in 1936, The Virgin and the Swine is a retelling of the Welsh Mabinogion, a collection of ancient Celtic myths. Walton’s novel weaves together elements of history, folklore, and fantasy to create a captivating story that has inspired countless modern fantasy works.

The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald

This 1872 children’s fantasy novel tells the story of Princess Irene and the young miner Curdie, who work together to save the kingdom from the menacing goblins that dwell beneath the earth. The Princess and the Goblin is a timeless tale of courage, friendship, and the power of faith.

The Faerie Queene by Edmund Spenser

An epic poem written in the 16th century, The Faerie Queene is an allegorical work that combines elements of romance, mythology, and fantasy. The poem follows the adventures of several knights as they embark on quests in the service of the Faerie Queene, representing various virtues and ideals.

These 15 early fantasy reads offer a fascinating glimpse into the origins of the genre and the imaginative worlds that have captivated readers for centuries.

By exploring these timeless tales, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and enduring appeal of fantasy literature.

What are your favourites?

The post 15 Early Fantasy Reads that Defined the Genre (Before Tolkien) first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Tarot in the Tropes: The Influence of Tarot on Fantasy

Today, we’re braving the arcane, treading the path of mystics, and charting a course through the enigmatic world of tarot cards.

We’re going to explore their fascinating influence on the realm of fantasy fiction.

Tarot, Tea Leaves, and Telling Tales

Tarot cards, for those as yet uninitiated, are a pack of 78 playing cards, dating back to the mid-15th century in various parts of Europe.

They were initially used for games like Italian tarocchini and French tarot (a bit like bridge, but with more capes and incense).

By the 18th century, they had adopted a new mantle as tools of divination.

Fast forward to the modern day, and their mystical symbolism has been picked up and played with by many an imaginative author (including myself).

Mysterious Meanings

Each tarot card carries a wealth of symbolism, from the Fool (a happy-go-lucky chap with a penchant for cliff edges) to the Lovers (no prizes for guessing what they’re about) and Death (not as gloomy as you might think).

They’re a bit like cryptic crossword clues, but with more pictures and fewer anagrams.

Tarot in the Pages

Fantasy fiction has always been a melting pot of myth, folklore, and symbolism, so it’s no wonder tarot has found its way into this genre.

In fact, it’s as at home in fantasy as a hobbit in a hole or a dragon in a dungeon.

Take, for instance, Roger Zelazny’s “Chronicles of Amber.”

Here, tarot cards are not used merely for forecasting futures over a cuppa.

Instead, they are a means of communication and even transportation between different worlds.

In Piers Anthony’s “Tarot” trilogy, a whole planet is shaped according to the principles of the tarot, with each life form and geographical feature corresponding to a card.

It’s like someone took a pack of tarot cards, flung them into space, and said, “Let’s make this a place to live.”

 It’s as bonkers as it sounds, and it’s a cracking good read.

Then there’s “The Greater Trumps” by Charles Williams, where the tarot deck takes centre stage, possessing powers over life, death, and the weather.

It’s like your weather app, but with higher stakes and more dramatic flair.

Cards on Screen

It’s not just the written word that has been seduced by the allure of tarot.

The silver screen has also embraced these enigmatic emblems.

Remember, “Now You See Me?”

The Four Horsemen, a group of illusionists, use tarot cards as a plot device to add mystery and a splash of the occult. It’s like a magic show with a side of prophecy.

So, there you have it. From a humble pack of playing cards to a powerful plot device, tarot cards have certainly made their mark on fantasy fiction.

Intriguing, mysterious, and brimming with symbolism, they’re a gift to any writer looking to add depth and intrigue to their work.

Next time you pick up a fantasy novel or watch a fantasy film, keep a keen eye out for the tarot’s influence.

You’ll be surprised how often they pop up, usually at the most dramatic of moments.

And if you’re considering a bit of fortune telling yourself, just remember—always beware the reversed Tower.

It’s never a good sign, especially if you’re planning any DIY…

The post Tarot in the Tropes: The Influence of Tarot on Fantasy first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

To Grip the Bright White Chains – a Wasteland story

The ocean reflected a sky the colour of hung meat. Elsie coughed as a chill wind changed direction, bringing with it the stench of washed-up fish.

She turned as a boy shuffled toward her with purple-rimmed eyes. The boy looked like every other addict: dishevelled, dirty, desperate, dead. He was beyond saving.

The boy crouched on one knee then swung a grubby rucksack from his shoulder. “You got the plez?”

Elsie nodded. “Three caps. I assume you’ve got what I asked for?”

The boy looked up at her as he unfastened the rucksack. “This stuff wasn’t easy to get.”

Raising her chin, she pursed her lips and glowered at the boy. “A deal’s a deal. If you want the caps—”

“Fine, fine.” The boy scratched at his hair, and laid the items out on the mottled concrete.

A smile crept over Elsie’s face. “Real. Unopened.” She knelt down on creaking knees to touch the pair of tins. “This is good work, but I asked for a brush.”

The boy groped inside his rucksack for several seconds and then pulled out a paintbrush. “It’s not perfect. It’s the best I could find.”

He handed Elsie the paintbrush with trembling fingers. It was sticky to the touch and coated with long-dried drips of paint.

She placed the brush into her shopping trolley, tucking it between a roll of polythene and a coil of blue rope.

The boy lifted the tins into the trolley and stood before her. She dropped three plezerra capsules into the boy’s outstretched hand. He nodded, turned, and ran. She shook her head and sighed as the boy disappeared beyond the sea wall.

Pushing her trolley, Elsie looked across the water, slick with oil and algae. The trolley’s wheels squeaked and snagged on stones and discarded plastic as it clattered along the promenade. Turning left, she pushed the trolley along a street lined with boarded-up and barricaded terraced houses.

She thought about the boy and about the drugs. He would feel wonderful for a day at most and then be back on the streets, stealing and whoring; each day bringing him closer to an early death.

The demand was there—the demand was always there. She told herself it was better for the drugs to come from her than from a violent street thug.

Turning right, Elsie walked down an alleyway, and shouldered her way backwards through a gate, closing it behind her. She gripped the trolley as she regained her breath. Feeling the twinge in her back, she lifted the tins from her trolley.

She surveyed her months of work. Bees buzzed around her while she inspected a bed of chrysanthemums, red and pink blooms swaying gently with the breeze, their fragrance tickling her memories, reminding her of carefree, more playful times.

She walked over to her bench, and ran a finger along its framing of curled wrought iron, glossy and black and detailed with twists of ivy. Varnished slats creaked as they took her weight, and Elsie looked over to the strawberry plants crawling up the wall. The berries were weeks from ripening.

The tins were the finishing touch.

Rummaging through her trolley, Elsie found a flat-head screwdriver and used it to lever open the first lid. She lingered on the old, familiar smell, a fresh smell she had not experienced for many, many years. She wiped the brush with a cloth and dipped it into the white gloss paint, brilliant and gloopy. Satisfied, she watched the paint fall in slow, deliberate drips from the brush and back into the tin.

Dragging the tin over to the first pole, she set to work applying the paint, grinning as it clung skin-like to the rust. She looked up at the chains hanging from the crossbeam and painted them too. She worked until the sky went dark and the air dropped cold.

She rushed to her garden early the next morning to see the paint had dried. Her work was complete. She stepped out through her gate as the sun emerged in the hung-meat sky, and approached a pair of children begging on the corner: a boy and a girl no older than eight.

“I’ve got something to show you,” Elsie said.

The children stared up at her and scowled. “Piss off,” the girl said.

“You’ll like it. I promise.”

The children exchanged furtive glances and rose to their feet. The boy regarded Elsie for a long moment before nodding to the girl.

“Okay, but if you try anything funny.” The boy patted a blade on his belt.

Elsie led the way and the children followed. She opened her gate and welcomed the children into her garden—their garden.

“Whenever you feel sad, whenever you feel desperate, I want you to come here. If you ever feel tempted by plezerra, come here instead. This is your sanctuary.”

“This is for us?” the boy asked.

“For you, for any child who needs to feel safe.”

The children smiled. “What’s that do?” The girl gestured past Elsie.

“I’ll show you. It’s perfectly safe.” She signalled for the girl to sit on the wooden seat and to grip the bright white chains.

“Hold on.” Elsie walked behind the girl. She pushed her and the girl swung up and back, up and back. Elsie felt the girl stiffen for a moment. Then the girl laughed. Then the boy joined in.

Elsie wiped a tear.

It had been a long, long time since she had heard the laughter of children.

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The post To Grip the Bright White Chains – a Wasteland story first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

The Five Greatest Heists in Fantasy Literature: A Closer Look

Ah, there’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned heist.

The thrill of the chase, the danger of detection, the subtle art of misdirection—it’s all the fun of the fair but with a higher risk of decapitation.

So, let’s tighten our cloaks, check our hidden pockets, and stroll down the shadowy alleyways of fantasy literature’s greatest heists.

Remember, it’s not stealing if it’s for a good cause. Right?

The Salvaran Job (The Lies of Locke Lamora, Scott Lynch)

 Locke and his Gentlemen Bastards don’t just steal; they elevate theft into a sophisticated art form. The Salvaran heist was less a crime and more a meticulously choreographed dance of lies, deception, and false-bottomed wine barrels. It makes the Italian Job look like nicking penny sweets from a corner shop.

The Theft of the Orb (The Belgariad, David Eddings)

Garion and his band’s quest to steal back the Orb of Aldur was a romp across kingdoms, through sorcerous battles and into the heart of a hostile empire. It’s a lesson in why you should always keep your magical artifacts under lock and key, or at the very least, not in a place marked ‘swipe me.’

The Theft of Stormbringer (Elric of Melniboné, Michael Moorcock)

 Stealing a sentient, soul-drinking sword from a melancholic, semi-deranged prince? Just another day at the office for Elric’s treacherous cousin Yyrkoon. Makes your office politics seem rather tame, doesn’t it?

Pilfering the Precious (The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien)

 What’s a list of heists without Bilbo Baggins and his misguided quest to pickpocket a treasure-obsessed dragon? Not only does it set the gold standard for burglary, but it’s also a stark reminder: always check your insurance covers kleptomaniac hobbits.

Stealing the Allomantic Atium (Mistborn, Brandon Sanderson)

Vin and her crew didn’t just plan to rob the Lord Ruler of his precious atium, they aimed to topple an empire. When your bank robbery is also a political coup, you know you’re in deep. And people think organising a pub crawl is challenging.

And there we have it. Five magnificent, perilous, downright audacious heists that have kept us entertained, petrified, and seriously doubting our career choices.

Next time you’re planning a daring escapade, remember: do it with style, avoid dragons, and for goodness’ sake, never trust a cousin with a grudge.

Support Jon on Substack.

The post The Five Greatest Heists in Fantasy Literature: A Closer Look first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

The Greatest Heists in Fantasy Literature: A Closer Look

Ah, there’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned heist.

The thrill of the chase, the danger of detection, the subtle art of misdirection—it’s all the fun of the fair but with a higher risk of decapitation.

So, let’s tighten our cloaks, check our hidden pockets, and stroll down the shadowy alleyways of fantasy literature’s greatest heists.

Remember, it’s not stealing if it’s for a good cause. Right?

The Salvaran Job (The Lies of Locke Lamora, Scott Lynch)

 Locke and his Gentlemen Bastards don’t just steal; they elevate theft into a sophisticated art form. The Salvaran heist was less a crime and more a meticulously choreographed dance of lies, deception, and false-bottomed wine barrels. It makes the Italian Job look like nicking penny sweets from a corner shop.

The Raid on the Iron Bank (A Song of Ice and Fire, George R.R. Martin)

If you thought your local branch of NatWest was secure, you haven’t seen the Iron Bank of Braavos. This notorious financial institution is more impregnable than a vault in Gringotts, which made the audacious raid on it a heart-stopping rollercoaster of a heist. Needless to say, the phrase “bank charges” took on a whole new meaning.

The Theft of the Orb (The Belgariad, David Eddings)

Garion and his band’s quest to steal back the Orb of Aldur was a romp across kingdoms, through sorcerous battles and into the heart of a hostile empire. It’s a lesson in why you should always keep your magical artifacts under lock and key, or at the very least, not in a place marked ‘swipe me.’

Stealing Death (Discworld, Terry Pratchett)

When the Auditors of Reality decided they’d had enough of Death’s quirky ways and forced him into retirement, his granddaughter Susan had to pull off the ultimate heist – stealing Death. It’s like sneaking a horse out of Tesco, except the horse is your granddad, and he’s the anthropomorphic personification of mortality. No pressure.

The Theft of Stormbringer (Elric of Melniboné, Michael Moorcock)

 Stealing a sentient, soul-drinking sword from a melancholic, semi-deranged prince? Just another day at the office for Elric’s treacherous cousin Yyrkoon. Makes your office politics seem rather tame, doesn’t it?

Pilfering the Precious (The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien)

 What’s a list of heists without Bilbo Baggins and his misguided quest to pickpocket a treasure-obsessed dragon? Not only does it set the gold standard for burglary, but it’s also a stark reminder: always check your insurance covers kleptomaniac hobbits.

Stealing the Allomantic Atium (Mistborn, Brandon Sanderson)

Vin and her crew didn’t just plan to rob the Lord Ruler of his precious atium, they aimed to topple an empire. When your bank robbery is also a political coup, you know you’re in deep. And people think organising a pub crawl is challenging.

And there we have it. Seven magnificent, perilous, downright audacious heists that have kept us entertained, petrified, and seriously doubting our career choices.

Next time you’re planning a daring escapade, remember: do it with style, avoid dragons, and for goodness’ sake, never trust a cousin with a grudge.

Support Jon on Substack.

The post The Greatest Heists in Fantasy Literature: A Closer Look first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Jon’s Author Diary – August 18, 2023

Hello from cloudy Morecambe!

This week was truly special for me. Finally visiting Ravenglass—where I derived the name of my main series from—was a moving experience.

 Walking through the very streets that inspired so much of my writing and exploring the beauty of the surrounding area felt surreal and invigorating.

If you haven’t been there, I recommend it—the place truly resonates with creativity.

Writing update:

In writing news, there’s a fresh treat for you on my Substack—a brand new short story which serves as a prequel to the Dawn of Assassins series.

It’s my little way of saying thank you for the continued support.

I’m eager to hear what you think of it.

Visit: https://joncronshawauthor.substack.com to find out more.

I also continued work on the fourth installment in the series.

I’ve been redrafting scenes I dictated earlier in the year and hope to carry on with the full first draft in the not-too-distant-future.

Oh, and another chapter for the Guild of Assassins novel is complete!

Reading update:

I’m still on the Horus Heresy journey. After wrapping up Angel Exterminatus, I’ve moved on to Betrayer—the plot twists and turns never cease to amaze me.

A little confession:

I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the number of projects I’ve taken on.

But paradoxically, while juggling all these tasks might seem slower, it’s making me more productive.

The key, I’ve realized, is to follow where my energy leads.

Yet, there’s a nagging reminder in the back of my mind to wrap up Guild of Assassins—especially with The Fall of Wolfsbane soon returning from the editor.

If you enjoy these updates, don’t forget to follow my journey on my YouTube channel and the ‘Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary’ podcast.

Do me a favour? Hit that thumbs up, subscribe, and let’s chat in the comments.

Your thoughts, as always, are my inspiration.

So, until next time, cheerio.

Jon

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The post Jon’s Author Diary – August 18, 2023 first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

Reliving Seven Epic Moments From Our Favourite Fantasy Assassins

Knocking on death’s door has never been as fun as when assassins are at the helm, manipulating the strings of life and death like puppeteers.

As we dive into the sable sea of assassin fantasy, let’s recount seven indelibly carved moments that have made us gasp, laugh, and perhaps spurred us to take up lock-picking (just as a hobby, mind you).

A Dance with the Hound (A Game of Thrones, George R.R. Martin)

Arya Stark’s transformation from a wide-eyed, wild girl of Winterfell to a Faceless Man’s apprentice has been quite the bloody journey. But it was her jovial dance with the Hound, their offbeat banter mixed with a potpourri of mortal threats, that made us all fall in love with her deadly charm. Who knew sibling revenge could be this amusing?

The King’s Folly (The Lies of Locke Lamora, Scott Lynch)

When Locke decided to masquerade as an obscure foreign nobility and swindle the rich of Camorr, we knew it was going to be entertaining. But who thought it would end up being a cross between Ocean’s Eleven and the Grand Guignol? A truly classic “Ah, bollocks” moment if ever there was one.

The Assassin’s Wager (The Way of Shadows, Brent Weeks)

Watching Azoth’s transformation into Durzo Blint’s apprentice Kylar Stern was like observing a caterpillar morph into a butterfly, but with added knives, shadows and the occasional poisoning. It’s not a proper education unless someone almost dies, right?

The Royal Assassination (The Farseer Trilogy, Robin Hobb)

Oh, FitzChivalry, you put the ‘fun’ in dysfunctional. From assassinating regicide-plotters to becoming the kingdom’s most beloved traitor, his journey is as fun as it is tragic. Remember that time when he almost assassinated his own uncle? Classic family reunion.

The Banter of Bastards (The Blade Itself, Joe Abercrombie)

 Watching Logen Ninefingers and Sand dan Glokta quip about life, death, and the art of creative cursing was like watching a grimdark Morecambe and Wise. A bit darker than your average comedy duo, but that’s the price of admission when dealing with assassins and berserkers.

The Hidden Blade (Nevernight, Jay Kristoff)

When Mia Covere pulled off her first solo assassination and then neatly framed it as an accident, it was the happiest day of her life. Ours, too, for we were gleefully riding shotgun on her vengeance-fuelled rollercoaster. Makes your first driving test pass seem a tad dull, doesn’t it?

The One-Woman Revolution (Throne of Glass, Sarah J. Maas)

When Celaena Sardothien decided she’d had enough of being a pawn and instigated a coup, it was an act of supreme sass. And let’s face it, in the world of assassination, audacity is queen. Always.

So, there you have it. The moments that made us chuckle, grimace, and question our own morality as we cheered for killers.

Let’s raise a glass to our beloved assassins – let’s just make sure to smell for poison first, eh?

If you enjoy stories about thieves and assassins, download your free copy of Birth of Assassins as part your free Ravenglass Universe starter library.

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The post Reliving Seven Epic Moments From Our Favourite Fantasy Assassins first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.

10 Must-Watch TV Series for Epic Fantasy Fans

For epic fantasy readers, the allure of immersive worlds, epic quests, and memorable characters can be an addictive escape.

Thankfully, the small screen has embraced the realm of epic fantasy, offering visually stunning adaptations that transport viewers to fantastical realms.

In this blog post, we present ten TV series for fans of epic fantasy, providing an enchanting blend of captivating storytelling and breathtaking visuals.

So, grab your popcorn and prepare for an adventure beyond the pages.

“Game of Thrones”

Based on George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, “Game of Thrones” quickly became a global phenomenon. Set in the fictional land of Westeros, this epic saga weaves together intricate political intrigues, gripping battles, and compelling character arcs. With its sprawling cast, morally complex characters, and unexpected plot twists, “Game of Thrones” sets the standard for epic fantasy television.

“The Witcher”

“The Witcher,” adapted from Andrzej Sapkowski’s book series, follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a dark and gritty world filled with magic and mythical creatures.

With its rich lore, complex narratives, and Henry Cavill’s charismatic portrayal of Geralt, this series captures the essence of the books and brings them to life with breathtaking visuals and intense action sequences.

“His Dark Materials”

Philip Pullman’s beloved trilogy comes to life in “His Dark Materials,” a visually stunning and emotionally resonant series.

Set in parallel worlds, it follows young Lyra Belacqua on a quest to uncover the truth behind mysterious phenomena.

With its intricate world-building, powerful themes, and exceptional performances from the cast, this adaptation captures the essence of Pullman’s enchanting universe.

“The Expanse”

While technically science fiction, “The Expanse” by James S.A. Corey offers a compelling blend of epic world-building and political intrigue.

Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, the series delves into a complex web of interplanetary conflicts and conspiracies. With its well-developed characters, thought-provoking themes, and gripping plotlines,

“The Expanse” will appeal to fans of epic fantasy looking for a dose of thrilling escapism.

“The Chronicles of Narnia”

“The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis has captivated readers for generations, and the TV adaptations bring these timeless tales to life with enchanting visuals and heartfelt storytelling.

Whether you journey to Narnia through “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” or “Prince Caspian,” these adaptations capture the wonder, magic, and profound messages of Lewis’ beloved series.

“Outlander”

Based on Diana Gabaldon’s best-selling series, “Outlander” transports viewers through time, weaving historical fiction, romance, and adventure.

Follow the story of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who finds herself in 18th-century Scotland, caught in a tumultuous era of clan warfare and political intrigue.

With its captivating performances, breathtaking Scottish landscapes, and epic love story, “Outlander” offers a compelling blend of history and fantasy.

“American Gods”

Neil Gaiman’s novel “American Gods” takes readers on a journey into a modern-day America where old gods clash with new ones.

The TV adaptation expands on Gaiman’s mythological tapestry, immersing viewers in a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of faith, identity, and the power of belief.

With its stellar cast and evocative storytelling, “American Gods” offers a unique and captivating viewing experience.

“Shadow and Bone”

Based on Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse novels, “Shadow and Bone” introduces viewers to a war-torn world where darkness threatens to engulf everything.

This series weaves together multiple storylines, introducing us to complex characters with extraordinary powers and high-stakes conflicts.

With its lush visuals, gripping storytelling, and interconnected narratives, “Shadow and Bone” delivers an epic fantasy experience.

“The Wheel of Time”

Robert Jordan’s beloved fantasy series, “The Wheel of Time,” is set to captivate audiences with its upcoming TV adaptation.

The story follows a group of individuals who are destined to play crucial roles in the battle between light and darkness.

With its sprawling world, rich mythology, and intricate plotlines, “The Wheel of Time” promises to be an epic journey for fans of the books.

“The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance”

“The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance” is a visually stunning prequel to Jim Henson’s beloved film.

Set in a magical world of Thra, this series employs puppetry and cutting-edge visual effects to tell an epic tale of rebellion against dark forces.

With its intricate puppet designs, immersive world-building, and compelling storytelling, this series is a treat for fans of epic fantasy seeking a unique and visually captivating experience.

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My Pilgrimage to Ravenglass: The Real-Life Inspiration for My Fantasy Universe

Hello from sunny Ravenglass!

Join me on a special journey as I finally set foot in Ravenglass in the beautiful Lake District—the place that breathed life into my fantasy universe.

For years, the mere name “Ravenglass” has been a wellspring of inspiration, giving birth to countless stories and dreamy magic in my mind.

So, whether you’re here as a fellow lover of the Lake District, a fan of my stories, or just someone with an insatiable curiosity, buckle up! This is a trip that has been years in the making, and I’m thrilled to have you by my side.

Remember to like, comment, and subscribe.

Every bit of support inspires yet another tale.

So, until next time, cheerio.

Jon

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Top Ten Assassins in Fantasy Literature You Need to Know About

I’d hazard a guess and say we’ve all thought about hiring an assassin from time to time, especially when someone nicks the last digestive biscuit.

But alas, they don’t often pop up in the Yellow Pages, and frankly, they don’t come cheap.

If you, like me, have a morbid fascination with these masters of shadow and intrigue, you’ll likely find these ten fantasy literature assassins a delightful bunch of homicidal maniacs.

FitzChivalry Farseer from Robin Hobb’s Farseer Trilogy

Fitz is the illegitimate son of a prince who gets handed the delightful job of royal assassin. It’s all fun and games until you have to murder for a living. Even with a name that sounds like a medieval dating service, Fitz is the bloke you’d want on your side. He does have a terrible knack for getting nearly killed, but who doesn’t love a trier?

Arya Stark from George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire

Arya has a hit list and she’s not afraid to use it. Who knew ‘Stick ‘em with the pointy end’ could be such profound life advice? Atta girl, Arya. Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear the faces of other people.

Vin from Brandon Sanderson‘s Mistborn Trilogy

Vin knows her way around a knife and a secret identity. A street urchin turned assassin, she’s proof that life can turn on a penny, or in her case, a coin. If you thought your teen years were tough, try adding ‘assassin-in-training’ to the mix.

Azoth/Kylar Stern from Brent Weeks’ Night Angel Trilogy

Azoth masters the deadly art of assassination under the mentorship of Durzo Blint. Durzo, by the way, is a lad who’s seen it all, done it all, and has the emotional capacity of a rock. Azoth’s rise from gutters to greatness is a tale to behold, especially for those who love a good ol’ rag-to-riches… or perhaps rag-to-homicidal-maniac story.

Jorg Ancrath from Mark Lawrence’s Broken Empire Trilogy

Jorg, the poster boy for troubled youth, is what happens when you mix a prince, a traumatic childhood and a lawless band of outlaws. He may not be a traditional assassin, but with his moral compass lodged somewhere south of ‘chaotic evil’, he certainly gets the job done.

Celaena Sardothien from Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass Series

A badass with a taste for fashion, Celaena proves that one can indeed kill and look great doing it. Her speciality? Delivering death with a side of fabulous.

Severian from Gene Wolfe’s Book of the New Sun

 Not an assassin in the traditional sense, but as an executioner, Severian definitely has an intimate relationship with death. He’s got the melancholic brooding down to a fine art and a memory that’s sharper than his blade (or, so he would lead us to believe).

Jerek Mace from Michael Moorcock’s The Eternal Champion series

More of a warrior than a straight-up assassin, Jerek’s blighted life will have you laughing, crying, and questioning your own existential dread. Nothing like a bit of light-hearted anguish over a cuppa, right?

Locke Lamora from Scott Lynch’s Gentleman Bastard Series

He’s the cheeky chappy who could swipe the skin off a rice pudding and make it look like an accident. Less of an assassin, more of a con man, but let’s not split hairs. If there’s one thing to learn from Locke, it’s ‘why murder when you can manipulate?’

The Lady from Glen Cook’s The Black Company Series

She’s the epitome of ‘Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.’ The Lady is a formidable sorceress with a casual side gig in ruling empires and killing dissidents. It’s multi-tasking at its finest.

So, there you have it. A smorgasbord of fantasy assassins who’ve spiced up our literary lives with their unique takes on professional homicide.

Just remember, the next time you get the urge to toss a blade at your annoying flatmate, maybe just settle for a strongly worded Post-It note.

Murder, as these characters have shown us, is rather a messy business.

If you enjoy reading about thieves and assassins, download my novel Birth of Assassins as part of your free Ravenglass Universe starter library!

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