Category Archives: fiction

Finding a new Vernacular: the Language(s) of Fantasy

Posted on September 2, 2016 by

I have spoken to a fair number of people who say they don’t read fantasy because of all the funny names–including agents and editors who are thrown off by too many made-up words.  This is one reason I recommend authors … Continue reading →

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Review: Touch, by Claire North: a deeply human and highly satisfying thriller

Posted on July 22, 2016 by

This is one of the rare books that I finished and thought–That is what I want my books to feel like. For me, it delivered a powerful emotional impact along with the ripping story and engaging characters. It’s the kind … Continue reading →

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Anti-technology Fantasy and the Author’s War Experience

Posted on July 15, 2016 by

This past weekend, I was delighted to spend at Readercon in their new location in Quincy, Massachusetts. Here is the description of one of the panels that got me thinking: If Thor Can Hang Out with Iron Man, Why Can’t … Continue reading →

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Developing Magical Systems, with Joshua Palmatier

Posted on July 5, 2016 by

Under normal circumstances, today would be my book launch day. Alas, that was not to be–but that means I can open up the blog to celebrate someone else’s launch:  friend and fellow DAW author, Josh Palmatier. . . First off, … Continue reading →

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How do you Keep an Author in Suspense?

Posted on May 27, 2016 by

I am an avid follower of the Bulwer-Lytton contest for a truly terrible opening sentence for a book–entries are now open for 2016, if you are so inclined.  At the very least, you should click through to the 2015 winners … Continue reading →

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After “The End”

Posted on April 29, 2016 by

I have had the experience several times now of reading a book that I am very much enjoying–right up until the end.  Then the work either fizzles out, simply stops, or blatantly kicks me in the teeth (as a reader).  … Continue reading →

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Alien Intelligence, Close to Home

Posted on April 22, 2016 by

Thanks to a clever octopus in New Zealand who escaped back to the sea, there’s been a lot of talk lately about animal intelligence.  A recent book by Frans de Waal  questions whether we are even smart enough to know … Continue reading →

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