As you may have gleaned from the Science in Sci-fi, Fact in Fantasy series, I’m keenly interested in books with speculative scientific or fantastic elements. Naturally, I was quite taken when I heard about an illustrated compendium, A Natural History of the Fantastic, that seeks to combine the two. It’s the literary equivalent of what would happen […]
Epic Fantasy Articles
I love reading and writing epic fantasy. In these articles, I discuss work from both the classic authors (Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Raymond Feist, Tad Williams, etc.) and the new guard (Scott Lynch, Joe Abercrombie, Patrick Rothfuss).
Religious Fundamentalism in Fantasy
This article is part of the Science in Sci-fi, Fact in Fantasy blog series. Each week, we ask an expert to tackle some aspect of fantasy writing (cultures, weapons, horses, etc.) or a scientific / technological concept pervasive in science fiction. Please join the mailing list to be notified every time new content is posted. About the Expert Spencer Ellsworth has written four drafts, at […]
A Quick And Dirty Guide To Feudal Nobility
This article is part of the Science in Sci-fi, Fact in Fantasy blog series. Each week, we tackle one of the scientific concepts pervasive in sci-fi or cultural/historical topics relevant to fantasy, with input from a real-world expert. Please join the mailing list to be notified every time new content is posted. About the Expert Jerry Quinn is a classical actor and history buff with […]
9 Ways to Get Ready for #SFFpit
Twice a year (in June and December), sci-fi and fantasy writers will have the chance to pitch their completed manuscripts to agents & editors in the #SFFpit pitching contest. If you have a completed manuscript and are seeking representation/publication, and that manuscript has any of the following elements: Swords, bows, and possibly maces Lasers or tractor beams […]
Archon 38 Convention Highlights
This weekend I went to Archon 38, a fan-run science fiction / fantasy convention held annually near St. Louis, Missouri (hence the name). It’s my first con appearance, so I thought I’d share my impressions. Science / Writer Panels The organizers were kind enough to put me on a few panels, which got me into […]
