Thoughts on the process of writing epic fantasy and worldbuilding.
“Gigil” is one of those Tagalog words that doesn’t have an exact English equivalent. It’s a state of excitement on the edge of frustration, very much like the idiom “champing at the bit.” I used to talk about finishing books like I was slaying a dragon. Books were something I had to defeat. Something that …
I write epic fantasy. Not “diverse fantasy.” Even though it fits under that category for those looking to “expand their palate” or whatever. But I hate those words, and in private I never actually think that about my work. The dance I do to appeal to “diverse” readers is a systemic thing and I can’t …
One of the most interesting things I’ve learned writing epic fantasy novels is realizing just how deeply people apply their own worldview on things. So that if something doesn’t “match,” it feels off. I write from the perspective of someone who grew up, and is still surrounded, by a culture that emphasizes getting along and …
Read more “Epic Fantasy Ramblings: Culture, Tangled Relationships, and Grey Characters”
In case you missed out, Orbit Books just did a cover reveal for The Wolf of Oren-yaro. A year of waiting has finally paved way to the excitement of having a book about to be released in stores (!). I spoke about the story behind the book’s acquisition over at Shut Up, Shealea. It’s …
“Where have you been?” she cried. “Damn you, where have you been?” She took a few steps toward Schmendrick, but she was looking beyond him, at the unicorn. When she tried to get by, the magician stood in her way. “You don’t talk like that,” he told her, still uncertain that Molly had recognized the …
