Why are fantasy’s wisest characters so terribly serious? From Tolkien’s solemn elves to Star Trek’s logical Vulcans, we’ve come to expect entire fictional races to behave alike. But what happens when they break the rules, laugh at themselves, or refuse to act the way we expect? And are we readers ready for that?
Why Can’t Elves Laugh? (And Would We Like Them If They Did?) Read More »
When does Halloween really begin? An old Celtic way of measuring the day offers a wonderfully strange answer—and some irresistible possibilities for fantasy writers.
When Does Halloween Begin? Read More »
What would really happen if magic suddenly appeared in our world? If our experience with AI is any indication, forget tidy guilds and sensible rules. Expect workplace upheaval, regulation, witch hunts, criminals, questionable business models—and somebody levitating his swimming pool for fun.
If Magic Were Real, We’d Regulate the Hell Out of It Read More »
Fairy tales were dark long before modern fantasy came along. Behind the witches, wolves and enchanted forests were very real dangers—and some surprisingly practical survival advice. Perhaps the woods had teeth for a reason.
The Woods Have Teeth Read More »
Why do we believe a prophecy? The best ones don’t simply predict the future. They arrive carrying centuries of history, belief, argument—and consequences.
The Weight of Prophecy Read More »
My newest contemporary fantasy story, “Sigils in Snow,” is out now in Street Magic IV. This time, I brought the magic home—to the snowy streets and ordinary neighbourhoods of Edmonton.
Sigils in Snow Is Out in Street Magic IV! Read More »
I thought I wrote urban fantasy—until readers pointed out that the Alberta foothills aren’t terribly urban. So what *is* the difference between urban and contemporary fantasy? And just how far can contemporary fantasy stretch when the impossible collides with the world we know?
Once Upon A Time, I Thought I Was Writing Urban Fantasy Read More »
How many books is too many for a fantasy series? From ACOTAR’s hefty volumes to Pern, Discworld, and the long wait for George R.R. Martin, perhaps the real question isn’t how long a series gets—but whether the story ever actually ends.
How Many Books Is Too Many for a Fantasy Series? Read More »
Today is International Cat Day, which seems the perfect excuse to talk about one of fantasy’s most enduring companions: the cat. From mysterious familiars and talking felines to shape-shifters and ghost-watchers, cats have always belonged in fantasy. Join me as I celebrate nineteen-year-old Strider—our gloriously opinionated Norwegian Forest Cat—and explore why cats may have been magical long before fantasy writers ever noticed.
International Cat Day: Why Fantasy Needs Cats Read More »
Sometimes publishing throws you a delightful curveball.
A few weeks ago I mentioned that my new fantasy short story, “Sigils in Snow,” had been accepted for the Street Magic IV anthology. I expected to tell you about it later this summer.
Instead…it’s available today!
Surprise! “Sigils in Snow” Is Out Today! Read More »