If you’ve been around for a minute, you’ve probably noticed I have a problem. I love hitting science-fiction and fantasy … More
Tag: Conventions
I grew up with parents attending Science Fiction and fantasy conventions. After a decade or two off, I’m now back as a writer! And spend FAR too much time in writing themed panels, taking notes from the experts! Plus, I squeeze in a bit of cosplay.
Writing For Different Audiences
Jane Yolen has written everything from picture books for toddlers to adult fantasy to mainstream. Other authors might not be … More
Out Of Control Characters
Some authors tightly control their characters, requiring them to follow an outline. But other authors say there are things their characters won’t do. What do authors do when their characters go off script?
Do you try to regain control (and how?) or go where the characters take you?
Alternate Morality
What makes a character ‘morally grey’, why do we like them, has the line moved, and how to handle conflicting moral systems. A #Balticon57 panel
Am I a ‘Real Writer’ Now?
At what point does a writer become a “real writer”? How does a person go from having a novel or … More
Legends and Myths in Urban Fantasy
Most urban fantasy draws upon folklore and legends. How do these old mystical beliefs inform modern fantasy? What place does … More
Balticon 57 Recap
I got up to a LOT of stuff Memorial Day weekend. Here’s my Balticon 57 recap. Did you have a good weekend? Is there anything I missed?
Con Prep: All the Things!
This year’s Balticon — a four-day celebration of all things science fiction and fantasy — is almost upon us. And, surprising no one who’s ever met me, I might be a little overcommitted. But only because I like to hedge my words. I am completely overcommitted.
I’m prepping: personally, as a writer, as a panelist, and as a staff member. It’s maybe a little too much?
How are you at accepting your limits?
There’s A Reason You’re Afraid of the Dark (A RavenCon 2023 panel)
Faerie tales used to terrify and in so doing, teach valuable lessons in how not to die. One could argue that they are the original horror stories. Everything in Grimms’ Fairy Tales is particularly… grim. Over the years though, many of these nightmarish creatures became cute and cuddly (or sexy—looking at you, Shape of Water). Have these myths become permanently nerfed or is there hope they can maintain their dark allure?