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Writing Blog Posts
This is a blog feed for everything writing-related.
You can also find specific blog feeds for my short fiction and work-in-progress novels, an Amerindian fantasy and a Norse fantasy.
My Publications are here
Summer Terrors Release
It’s summer in the northern hemisphere and today, US publisher Black Ink Fiction released their next holiday microfiction anthology Summer Terrors. Summer Terrors features my two dark tales of macabre Australian summer with the grisly “Summer at the Beach” and, inspiration from Namorroddos, terrifying winged vampire beings from Australian Aboriginal lore in “Summer Moon, Leather… Continue reading Summer Terrors Release
Bloodlust Anthology Release
I am excited to announce the vampire-themed anthology Bloodlust (Legends of Night Drabbles, #2) published by Black Ink Fiction was released on 13th July, 2021. Bloodlust (Legends of Night Drabbles, #2), is a vampire-themed microfiction collection, featuring two of my 100 word drabbles “The Hungering” and “The Burial” both inspired by vampiric folklore, legends and… Continue reading Bloodlust Anthology Release
Interview with Clare Rhoden
I had a wonderful opportunity to chat with author Clare Rhoden recently about what inspires my writing. I also shared an extract from “The Golden-Lion Monkey” published in Leo (The Zodiac Series, #8) by Deadset Press.
Australian Shadows Awards Wrap-Up
The 2020 Australian Shadows Awards by the The Australasian Association of Horror Writers is the premiere horror and dark fiction awards for Australian and New Zealand authors. For the first time I had short stories in anthologies Greed and Phantom #3 from Black Hare Press that were eligible for the Short Fiction category. I also… Continue reading Australian Shadows Awards Wrap-Up
Bones Anthology Release
I am excited to announce the supernatural anthology Bones (Five Hundred Fiction Series, #4) published by Black Hare Press was released on 29th June, 2021. Bones (Five Hundred Fiction Series, #4) is a an occult, voodoo themed anthology, features my own flash fiction story “The Bones of a Dead God”, inspired by Aztec history, ritual… Continue reading Bones Anthology Release
Infection Anthology Release
I am excited to announce the zombie-themed anthology Infection (Legends of Night Drabbles, #1) published by Black Ink Fiction was released on 29th June, 2021. Infection (Legends of Night Drabbles, #1), is a zombie-themed microfiction collection, featuring my own 100 word drabble “The Revenants”, inspired by witchcraft and revenant folklore. You can read more about… Continue reading Infection Anthology Release
Forthcoming: Gothic Legends Anthology
I am pleased to announce my short story “The Dark Horseman” will feature in forthcoming horror anthology Legends of Night to be published by Black Ink Fiction. You can read more about the research behind the legend, folklore and history of the Dullahan, or the Irish headless horseman, here. More details on preorder links, and… Continue reading Forthcoming: Gothic Legends Anthology
The Irish Headless Horseman
I have always been fascinated by the folklore of the headless horseman. I first became aware of this harbinger of death in the famous story by Washington Irving The Legend of Sleepy Hollow set in rural region in the state of New York. But the Irish legend of the Dullahan (“dark man”), the headless horseman… Continue reading The Irish Headless Horseman
Reimagining Arabian Nights
One of my recent short stories, a work-in-progress, was a reimagining of a tale recounted in the classic rendition, The Arabian Nights translated by Sir Richard Burton. The volume, also known as One Thousand and One Nights follows the sultana Scheherazade who cunningly begins a tale each night, never finishing it until the next, to… Continue reading Reimagining Arabian Nights
Reimagining Red Riding Hood
Recently I have been exploring the concepts behind the Red Riding Hood fairytale. There are two main versions I have used as inspiration for writing a new short story. The version by Charles Perrault called “Little Red Riding Hood” and the version by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm called “Little Red Cap”. Both examine a young… Continue reading Reimagining Red Riding Hood
Over the Rainbow Anthology Release
I am pleased to announce Over the Rainbow: An LGBTQ+ Fairytale Charity Anthology published by Black Ink Fiction was released on 1 June, 2021. Over the Rainbow anthology is in support of The Trevor Project, a collection of fairytale retellings with a LGBTQI+ protagonist, featuring my story “The Queen of Crows”, a retelling of a… Continue reading Over the Rainbow Anthology Release
Reimagining Trickster lore & legend
My current work-in-progress novella explores trickster lores and legends in two different cultures, Old Icelandic and Australian First Nations. I have a keen interest in Tricksters, and in this novella, I have been exploring two Trickster figures from very different cultural backgrounds: Loki from Old Norse legend and Crow, present in many Australian First Nations… Continue reading Reimagining Trickster lore & legend
Dark Legends of the Thunderbird
In writing a flash fiction story, I explored in the legendary Thunderbird, a powerful elemental being, found in many First Nations religions across North America. The Thunderbird is a being found in many First Nations legends stretching from the desert plateaus and lands, the prairies and plains to the redwood forests and the Rocky Mountains.… Continue reading Dark Legends of the Thunderbird
Candy Capers Release
I am pleased to announce the release on May 20th, 2021 of children’s and young adult fantasy anthology Candy Capers from Raven and Drake Publishing. This fantastic confectionery themed anthology is in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity and for readers aged 6 and up. I am thrilled my children’s flash fiction ‘Grace’s Kingdom’ is… Continue reading Candy Capers Release
Gothic Folklore of the Shipwreck Coast
In a recent story, I explored one of the worst shipwrecks that occurred off south-eastern Australia, a notorious stretch of coast known as the “shipwreck coast”. I have been fascinated by the history behind a treacherous, narrow bay, the Loch Ard Gorge named after the 1878 shipwreck of the Loch Ard merchant ship, one of… Continue reading Gothic Folklore of the Shipwreck Coast
Forthcoming Children’s Fantasy Anthology
I am pleased to announce my flash fiction story “Grace’s Kingdom”, a children’s and early young adult fantasy will feature in Candy Capers to be published by Raven & Drake Publishing in aid the of The Brain Tumour Charity. You can read more about my research behind my story “Grace’s Kingdom” here. More details coming… Continue reading Forthcoming Children’s Fantasy Anthology
Forthcoming: LGBTQ+ Fairytale Anthology
I am pleased to announce my short story “The Queen of Crows”, a retelling of a French Fairytale will feature in Over the Rainbow to be published by Black Ink Fiction in aid the of The Trevor Project. You can read more about my research behind my short story “The Queen of Crows” here. More… Continue reading Forthcoming: LGBTQ+ Fairytale Anthology
A World of Imagination
I recently wrote my first flash fiction piece for children and young adult readers. This was a challenge for me with my usual writing themes exploring the darker side of fiction and best suited to adult readers. In writing my flash fiction piece, I drew on some of the most influential children’s fiction to develop… Continue reading A World of Imagination
A LGBTQI Fairytale Retelling
One of the stories I have been working on recently was retelling a fairytale with an LGBTQI focus. There have been several recent explorations transposing gender roles in fairytales, but I wanted to draw attention to the inclusivity of love and also retell a fairytale that could highlight struggles for LGBTQI community both past and… Continue reading A LGBTQI Fairytale Retelling
A Dystopian History
One of my works-in-progress has been a dystopian novella. While many dystopian stories and novels explore the future, I was interested in combining a dark fiction genre with alternate history, to ask what if our present never happened? In developing my own tale, I was inspired by those classic dystopian tropes we are already familiar,… Continue reading A Dystopian History
New Tales of Old Anthology Release
I am pleased to announce the release of New Tales of Old, Volume 1 from Raven & Drake Publishing on 30th April, 2021. This anthology of short stories is inspired by fairytales and legends, reimagining with a twist. Two of my short stories are featured, “A Trail of Corpselights” inspired by Hansel and Gretel fairy… Continue reading New Tales of Old Anthology Release
Wrath Anthology Release
I am pleased to announce that the speculative fiction anthology Wrath (Seven Deadly Sins, #7) published by Black Hare Press was released on 30th April, 2021. The final instalment in the themed series based on the Seven Deadly Sins, short stories featuring in Wrath are all based on “Wrath: Manifested in the individual who spurns… Continue reading Wrath Anthology Release
Death House Anthology Release
I am pleased to announce the release of horror anthology Death House published by Raven & Drake Publishing on 20 April , 2021. The anthology is inspired by the haunted houses theme, featuring my dark microfiction “Agnes House” inspired by true crime, horror elements and psychopathy. If you are interested in purchasing a paperback, limited… Continue reading Death House Anthology Release
Watch Anthology Release
I am pleased to announce that horror flash fiction anthology Watch (Five Hundred Fiction, #3) published by Black Hare Press was released on 20th April, 2021. This anthology is inspired by stalker themes, dark fiction and horror genres featuring my dark contemporary fantasy “The Eldritch Wood”. If you are interested in purchasing an ebook, hardback… Continue reading Watch Anthology Release
Forthcoming: Vampire Anthology
I am very excited to be included in Bloodlust (Legends of Night Drabbles, #2) forthcoming in 2021 from Black Ink Fiction. This vampire Microfiction anthology will feature two of my 100 word drabbles inspired by vampiric lore, “The Hungering” and “The Burial”. You can read more about my research here. Keep a watch for more… Continue reading Forthcoming: Vampire Anthology
Reblog: 2020 Aurealis Awards Shortlist Announcement
Congratulations to all the finalists, and a huge thanks to our panelists who have read an enormous number of entered works to pare it down for these … 2020 Aurealis Awards Shortlist Announcement
Vampire Folkore
Vampires are one of the most common and popular themes in horror fiction. An enduring trope that continues to fascinate readers throughout the generation. But how do we imagine vampires? How do our ideals compare to the original vampires of folklore? The Succubi of Ancient Greece and Rome, and the haunting vampires of Slavic cultures… Continue reading Vampire Folkore
Gluttony Anthology Release
I’m excited to announce the release on 30 March, 2021 of Gluttony (Seven Deadly Sins, #6) published by Black Hare Press featuring my story “The Monster”. This dark speculative fiction anthology is inspired by the theme of gluttony, an inordinate desire to consume more than that which one requires. My short story “The Monster”, explores… Continue reading Gluttony Anthology Release
Scorpio Anthology Release
I am excited to announce the release of Scorpio (The Zodiac Series, #11) from Deadset Press that launched on 28th March, 2021. I had the great pleasure of co-editing this zodiac- themed anthology featuring short stories inspired by the Scorpio zodiac including my Gaslamp fantasy story “Serket’s Curse”. You can read more about my research… Continue reading Scorpio Anthology Release
Forthcoming: Haunted House Anthology
Haunted houses are one of my favourite horror themes and I’m very excited to feature in the forthcoming Death House anthology from Raven & Drake Publishing. Death House is an anthology combining short stories and microfiction. My drabble “Agnes House” is inspired true and fictional crimes, a dark fiction tale where the supernatural is horrifyingly… Continue reading Forthcoming: Haunted House Anthology
Avenge Anthology Release
Thrilled to announce the release of Avenge (Five Hundred Fiction, #2) on 23rd March, 2021. This flash fiction anthology published by Black Hare Press on the theme of superheroes and villains features my dark fantasy, anti-hero story, “The Hero of Silversmiths”. You can read more about that here. If you’re interested in reading this great… Continue reading Avenge Anthology Release
Lost Lore and Legends Anthology Release
Pleased to announce the release on 22nd March, 2021 of micro-fiction anthology Lost Lore and Legends published by Breaking Rules Publishing Europe and featuring five of my 100 word drabbles inspired by European folklore and mythologies. Lost Lore and Legends explores a variety of legends, mythologies and folklore from European tradition. Two of my drabbles,… Continue reading Lost Lore and Legends Anthology Release
April Horrors Anthology Release
I’m excited to announce the release on March 17, 2021 of April Horrors (A 100 Word Horror Collection) published by Raven and Drake Publishing featuring two of my micro-fiction pieces “Necropants” and “The Devil’s Fool”. April Horrors is a dark April Fools themed anthology is inspired by tricks, jokes and pranks gone awry. My Drabble… Continue reading April Horrors Anthology Release
Forthcoming: Zombie Anthology
Disclaimer: I am genuinely creeped out by zombies. Infection (Legends of Night Drabbles, #1) from Black Ink Fiction was an unlikely theme for me, but I am excited to say, I’ll be a featured author in this zombie/walking undead microfiction anthology. My 100 word drabble “The Revenants” is a dark fiction inspired by witchcraft, reanimation… Continue reading Forthcoming: Zombie Anthology
Dark Fantasy Assassins
There’s any number of great epic dark fantasy books and series that explore the darker nature of humanity from the point of mercenaries, assassins and anti-heroes. I decided to delve into some of that inspiration and an anti-hero protagonist in a flash fiction story. What motivates characters to choose a darker path? Does the morally… Continue reading Dark Fantasy Assassins
Aztec Rituals & the God of Death
One of the most interesting folklore research I did recently involved the Aztec Empire in Mesoamerica. I have always been fascinated by the Aztec Empire and the many intriguing mythologies and my latest research was into the god of Underworld, Mictlantecuhtli. The death-god is often depicted in constant combat with the opposing force, the god… Continue reading Aztec Rituals & the God of Death
Showcasing my Dark Fiction: Coming Soon
As the celebration of Women in Horror Month comes to an end, I’ve got a vampire themed dark micro-fiction coming soon in Blood Lust (Legends of the Night, #2) by Black Ink Fiction. For a final hurrah, here’s a sneak peek at one of my most recent dark fiction works, the folklore, history and vampires… Continue reading Showcasing my Dark Fiction: Coming Soon
Showcasing Horror: Dark Fiction Coming Soon
Continuing the celebration of all things women in horror, I’ve got a horror/dark fiction short story set in the Australian Alps inspired by the wendigo legend, case of a cannibalistic monster or a monstrous human? Coming soon in Gluttony (Seven Deadly Sins, #6) by Black Hare Press. Here’s a sneaky peek at my story “The… Continue reading Showcasing Horror: Dark Fiction Coming Soon
Reimaging the Pied Piper Fairytale
One of the most fascinating fairytales to me has always been the ‘The Children of Hameln’ recounted by Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm in 1816 and 1818 editions of their famous fairytale collection. But there are several legends of similar figures like the Piped Piper from surrounding region of Saschen and wider Germany. Another fairytale I… Continue reading Reimaging the Pied Piper Fairytale
Showcasing Horror: Forthcoming Microfiction
Continuing the celebration of all things women in horror, I’ve got a microfiction story set in Viking Age Iceland coming soon in April Horrors by Raven and Drake Publishing. Here’s a sneak peek at the inspiration behind my story “Necropants” and the grisly Icelandic folklore.
Women in Horror Interviews & More!
In celebrating Women in Horror Month, I have been fortunate to be interviews by Eerie River Publishing, a small press based in Ontario, Canada specialising in horror, dark fiction and dark fantasy. You can read the Author spotlight interview on Eerie River Publishing blog here. While you’re there, check out the other amazing women writers… Continue reading Women in Horror Interviews & More!
Forthcoming: Reimagined Fairytales Anthology
Pleased to announce I will be joining a wonderful lineup of authors for New Tales of Old, Volume 1 to be published in 2021 by Raven and Drake Publishing! All stories and flash fiction in this anthology were inspired by the retelling and reimagining of fairytales. My story “A Trail of Corpselights” is inspired by… Continue reading Forthcoming: Reimagined Fairytales Anthology
Reimagining Hansel and Gretel Fairytale
One of my favourite fairytales is the story of ‘Hansel and Gretel’ recounted by Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm, with two variations in the tale published in the 1812 and 1857 versions to accomodate a wider selection of similar folktales. From the fairytale and folklore indexes developed by Professor Ashlimanm , the ATU system identified at… Continue reading Reimagining Hansel and Gretel Fairytale
Showcasing my Dark Fiction
As it is Women in Horror Month, I thought I might celebrate of my own dark fiction stories and provide a “behind the scenes look” at the folklore, legends and history that inspire my writing and a few live readings from some of my work. Let’s kick this off with my paranormal story “Hunting Shadows”… Continue reading Showcasing my Dark Fiction
Forthcoming: Dark Fiction Anthology
Pleased to announce my flash fiction story “The Eldritch Wood” will feature in Watch (Five Hundred Fiction, #3) to be published in 2021 by Black Hare Press! All flash fiction in this anthology is inspired by the theme of stalking. My flash fiction story “The Eldritch Wood” is inspired by gothic folklore of forests and… Continue reading Forthcoming: Dark Fiction Anthology
Forthcoming: Paranormal Anthology
Pleased to announce my flash fiction story “The Bones of a Dead God” will feature in Bones (Five Hundred Fiction, #4) to be published in 2021 by Black Hare Press! All flash fiction in this anthology is inspired by dark pagan themes. My story “The Bones of a Dead God” is inspired by Aztec ritual… Continue reading Forthcoming: Paranormal Anthology
Forthcoming: Supernatural Anthology
Pleased to announce my flash fiction story “The Haunted Ones” will feature in Haunt (Five Hundred Fiction, #6) to be published in 2021 by Black Hare Press! All flash fiction in this anthology is inspired by the theme of hauntings. Release dates and how to purchase a copy of the Haunt (Five Hundred Fiction, #6)… Continue reading Forthcoming: Supernatural Anthology
Forthcoming: Heroes & Villains Anthology
Pleased to announce my flash fiction story “The Hero of Silversmiths” will feature in Avenge (Five Hundred Fiction, #2) to be published in 2021 by Black Hare Press! All flash fiction in this anthology is inspired by the theme of heroes, anti-heroes or villains. Release dates and how to purchase a copy of the Avenge… Continue reading Forthcoming: Heroes & Villains Anthology
Forthcoming: Horror Microfiction
Very pleased to announce the acceptance of two Horror microfictions into April Horrors anthology to be published by Raven and Drake Publishing. If you’re curious about the folklore I have researched for my microfiction pieces “Neropants”and “The Devl’s Fool.”, you can find out more here! More details will follow soon on the release date for… Continue reading Forthcoming: Horror Microfiction
Horror, History & Folklore
While it’s Women in Horror Month, I’ve been researching gothic and dark folklore themes. Here’s a few of the diverse research topics I encountered including the history of witchcraft and an Icelandic folklore sure to make your skin crawl. Witchcraft: the Devil’s Influence Accusations of witchcraft have a long history. The era of associated with… Continue reading Horror, History & Folklore
Women in Horror Month
February is Women in Horror Month! What began, and essentially still is, a movement to celebrate and highlight female creators in the horror genre. There has been a tradition of women writing horror long before Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein but female horror writers continue to remain in the shadows compared to their male counterparts. There are… Continue reading Women in Horror Month
Forthcoming: Folklore Anthology
I am very pleased to announce my microfiction pieces will feature in Lost Lore and Legends to be published by Breaking Rules Publishing Europe! Lost Lore and Legends anthology will consist of 100 word “drabbles” or microfiction pieces inspired by European folklore, legends and mythologies. Five of my microfiction pieces will be featured, including original… Continue reading Forthcoming: Folklore Anthology
European Folklore
The past several weeks, I have been exploring many different aspects of European folklore, particularly involving the Fae. Below is a series of some of my research favourites, fae beings and associated folklore. Seelie and Unseelie Fae In Scotland, the Fae are often divided into the Seelie and Unseelie courts, or the Light and Dark… Continue reading European Folklore
Forthcoming: Charity Anthology
The forthcoming charity anthology, Stories of Survival will be published by Deadset Press in support of Cancer Research after Australian speculative fiction author Aiki Flinthart announced her cancer diagnosis. As I was preparing this post this morning, I learned that Aiki lost her battle with cancer overnight. She will be remembered for her generous nature,… Continue reading Forthcoming: Charity Anthology
Impossible Tasks & the Fae
My research has been delving into the folklore of mortal dealings with the Fae. References to the performance of tasks, is common in folklore, see the Thompson Motif Index for an example of “Tests” present in folklore. In modern fantasy an traditional fairytales, three (also a commonly tool for repetition in fairytales) tasks or quests… Continue reading Impossible Tasks & the Fae
Unnatural Order Anthology Release
I’m delighted to announce the release on 31st December, 2020 of speculative fiction anthology Unnatural Order by CSFG. This is a fascinating collection of stories inspired by the monstrous, unnatural and the fantastic. Featuring my own story “The Bargain”, a tale of Fae guardians and the bargains struck to assure the equilibrium between the nature,… Continue reading Unnatural Order Anthology Release
Greed Anthology Release
I’m excited to announce the release on December 27th, 2020 of Greed (Seven Deadly Sins, #5) published by Black Hare Press featuring my story “A Handful of Dead Leaves.” This dark speculative fiction anthology on the theme of greed, a desire for material wealth or gain, ignoring the realm of the spiritual. Featuring my short… Continue reading Greed Anthology Release
Iceland’s Yule Trolls
In Icelandic tradition, the Yule lads are thirteen trolls who arrive, one one each of the 13 days before Christmas then depart in the order they arrived, on the subsequent days following Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, the troll witch Gryla, leaves the mountains to enter the city, seeking any children who had been ill-behaved… Continue reading Iceland’s Yule Trolls
Forthcoming: Horror Anthology
Pleased to announce my next psychological horror short story “The Monster” will feature in Gluttony (Seven Deadly Sins, #6) to be published in 2021 by Black Hare Press! All short fiction in the anthology is inspired by the theme of gluttony “an inordinate desire to consume more than that which one requires.” My horror story… Continue reading Forthcoming: Horror Anthology
The Wendigo & Dark Fiction
Another of my recent work-in-progress short fiction pieces, has been a dark fiction story inspired by wendigo psychosis an unusual form of ‘cultural psychosis’ specific to First Nations peoples of Canadian-North American Great Lakes regions where belief in a supernatural being, the wendigo, provides a unique cultural framework for a psychosis. This psychosis has specific… Continue reading The Wendigo & Dark Fiction
Magicians, Curses and Egyptology
I’ve become fascinated by the Gaslamp fantasy subgenre lately and decided to explore it a little further in another short fiction piece, this time set in an alternate Victorian-era Dublin. The Victorian era saw the expansion of the British Empire into more countries and with it, an expansion of the arts and sciences. Coinciding with… Continue reading Magicians, Curses and Egyptology
Tick Tock Anthology Release
I am thrilled to announce the release on December 15th, 2020 of Time Travel anthology Tick Tock (Five Hundred Fiction, #1) published by Black Hare Press. Tick Tock features 500 word flash fiction including my story “Second Chances” a desperate escape from World War II ravaged Europe into the Neolithic through a standing stone circle.… Continue reading Tick Tock Anthology Release
Reblog: Trickster Tales
A re-posting of a very thorough essay from folklorist Terri Windling on global phenomenon of the Trickster in mythology and folklore… https://www.terriwindling.com/folklore/tricksters.html
Forthcoming: Horror Anthology
I am pleased to announce my horror story “Them” will feature in Wrath (Seven Deadly Sins, #7) Anthology published by Black Hare Press. As with other stories in this anthology, Wrath is the common theme. My short story “Them” is a psychological horror, inspired by history of criminal theory and demonic possession where aberrant psychology… Continue reading Forthcoming: Horror Anthology
Horror, Dark Fiction & Demonology
I have recently finished writing a dark fiction short story inspired by the theme of wrath. My recent story focused on an unlikely suspect for a violent crime spree to explore the intersection between modern and past perspectives of criminal theory, such as aberrant psychology currently explaining what past eras accredited to demonic possession. The… Continue reading Horror, Dark Fiction & Demonology
Liminal world of Inuit folklore
I have been writing a new short fiction work inspired by the liminal folklore in some Inuit cultures. The liminal folklore I was interested to explore are closely linked to the harsh environment of northern Canada, from the permafrost and sea ice, where the risks from exposure and isolation are very real. The First Nations… Continue reading Liminal world of Inuit folklore
Dystopian Apocalyptic Fiction
Recently, I’ve finished writing a short story that was originally a novelette written for the Higher School Certificate Extension II English course when I was seventeen. Topical for 2020, the story is set in the near future, after the collapse of global nations, a Third World War and climate disasters. Speculative fiction at its core,… Continue reading Dystopian Apocalyptic Fiction
Forthcoming: Dark Fantasy Anthology
I am pleased to announce the acceptance of another flash fiction piece in a forthcoming dark fantasy anthology from Black Hare Press. My story “Poisoned Fruit, Poisoned Reign” will feature in Reign (500 Word Fiction Series, #7 inspired by poisoned apple folklore exploring betrayal and a cursed reign. You can read more about the inspiration… Continue reading Forthcoming: Dark Fantasy Anthology
Poisoned Fruit & Cursed Futures
I recently finished writing a short fiction piece inspired by poisoned apple folklore and legends, the most familiar being the story “Little Snow-White” published by Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm in Children’s’ and Household Tales (commonly known as Grimm’s Fairy Tales) between 1812-1814 . There are, of course, countless folklore and folktales surrounding betrayals and murder… Continue reading Poisoned Fruit & Cursed Futures
Discovery in Mexican Cave May Drastically Change the Known Timeline of Humans’ Arrival to the Americas
In a controversial new study, scientists cite artifacts dating the event to more than 26,000 years ago Source: Discovery in Mexican Cave May Drastically Change the Known Timeline of Humans’ Arrival to the Americas
The Enchanting Sea Monsters on Medieval Maps
Fictitious animals on 16th and early 17th century maps hint at how people’s perception of the ocean has changed over time Source: The Enchanting Sea Monsters on Medieval Maps
Standing Stones & Time
I recently finished writing a flash fiction story inspired by European Neolithic stone circles and folklore. Common to the folklore of standing stones is an aspect of temporal planes, the shifting of time connecting the Fae to disappearances, madness and re-appearances many years later. In my own short fiction, a liminal temporal plane joins Europe… Continue reading Standing Stones & Time
Fantasy novella & mythic parallels
I recently finished a novella inspired from my initial research for my latest novel draft Ragnarok Dreaming into Norse mythology but also Australian Aboriginal legends. On the surface, there might seem little in common between the Viking legends and those of the oldest continuous culture on the planet. The purpose of the novella was not… Continue reading Fantasy novella & mythic parallels
Iceland: Iceberg Lagoons & Beaches
In early September 2019, I visited Iceland as part of my writing research into Norse mythology, Viking Age history. The role of the landscape has been important in shaping the Icelandic legends and I was fortunate enough to see some of the archaeological and cultural history as well as those in the natural landscape. On… Continue reading Iceland: Iceberg Lagoons & Beaches
Iceland: Reynisfjara Beach
In early September 2019, I visited Iceland as part of my writing research into Norse mythology, Viking Age history. The role of the landscape has been important in shaping the Icelandic legends and I was fortunate enough to see some of the archaeological and cultural history as well as those in the natural landscape. On… Continue reading Iceland: Reynisfjara Beach
Reblog: Trickster’s Treats #4 Announcement!
HERE WE COME, BURIED OR NOT!We’re very pleased to announce the final ToC for Trickster’s Treats #4 – Coming, Buried or Not!, edited by Louise Zedda-… Trickster’s Treats #4 Announcement!
Gothic Fiction & Victorian Science
I recently finished writing a short story continuing my fascination with Victorian science. I focused on the anatomical sciences that inspired many gothic and urban folklore of the Victorian era. Some of the most classic Victorian era gothic tales including Frankenstein and Dracula involve the unease in Victorian society about the dead, superstition, burial practices… Continue reading Gothic Fiction & Victorian Science
Retelling & Examining Ragnarok
In a recent short story, I explored the accounts in Norse mythology about Ragnarok, the final battle fought between the giants and the gods. Similar to my recently finished draft novel Ragnarok Dreaming, this story is a retelling of battle of Ragnarok from the perspective of Loki. My research drew on the classic texts, The… Continue reading Retelling & Examining Ragnarok
Writing for Leo (Zodiac Series, #8)
In July 2020, my Gaslamp fantasy “The Golden Lion-Monkey” was published in short story anthology Leo (The Zodiac Series, #8) by Deadset Press. When not exploring myth and history, I am pursuing a PhD in human and primate evolution. When writing “The Golden Lion-Monkey”, I’ve combined my interests in history and fantasy fiction with my… Continue reading Writing for Leo (Zodiac Series, #8)
Iceland: Volcanoes and Glaciers
In early September 2019, I visited southern Iceland for a week. As part of my research into Viking Age history, the legends and mythology, landscape has been important in shaping Icelandic legends. I was fortunate enough to see some of archaeological and cultural history of National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavik, ride Icelandic horses, visit… Continue reading Iceland: Volcanoes and Glaciers
Gaslamp Fantasy & Victorian Science
I have been interested by several different stories recently in the Alternate History subgenres of Steampunk and Gaslamp Fantasy. My latest short story draws on my academic knowledge of the Victorian era expansion in science and natural history. Gaslamp Fantasy is a subgenre I really enjoy and was inspired to write an alternate history exploring… Continue reading Gaslamp Fantasy & Victorian Science
Bone Arrow: Important Update
In the coming months, I’ll be doing a significant edit on my historical fantasy Bone Arrow which was inspired by Amerindian prehistory and fables. All previous editions of Bone Arrow will no longer be available and previous research archived. I’ll be sharing my latest research and editing developments as the new edition of Bone Arrow… Continue reading Bone Arrow: Important Update
Dark Fantasy & Leprechaun Lore
I was recently fascinated by the folklore of fairy beings like leprechauns which have a long and conflicting history in Irish folklore. Far from the jovial trickster at the end of a rainbow who if caught can be forced into providing a pot of gold, the less-popularised stories of leprechauns in Irish folklore cast them… Continue reading Dark Fantasy & Leprechaun Lore
Icelandic Waterfalls Part 2
I visited Iceland in September 2019 as part of my writing research for novel-in-progress Ragnarok Dreaming. Part of my Icelandic experience was the National Museum of Iceland, riding tour outside Reykjavik on the iconic Icelandic horse, exploring glaciers, black sand beaches, glacial lakes which influenced the Viking and Icelandic culture. Gljúfurárfoss Gljúfurárfoss is also known… Continue reading Icelandic Waterfalls Part 2
Icelandic Waterfalls Part 1
I visited Iceland in September 2019 as part of my writing research for novel-in-progress Ragnarok Dreaming. Part of my Icelandic experience was the National Museum of Iceland, riding tour outside Reykjavik on the iconic Icelandic horse, exploring glaciers, black sand beaches, glacial lakes which influenced the Viking and Icelandic culture. Írárfoss (Irish River Waterfalls) The… Continue reading Icelandic Waterfalls Part 1
Ragnarok Dreaming: A First Draft!
It’s been over 12 months of writing but the first draft of Ragnarok Dreaming is finally finished. Inspired by Norse mythology, I read and studied the Prose Edda and Poetic Edda, many retellings and interpretations of the Norse myths and sagas, studied the archaeological record of prehistoric Scandinavia and history of the Viking Age. In… Continue reading Ragnarok Dreaming: A First Draft!
Prehistory, Battle and Sacrifices
I have just finished writing a new story concept I have been exploring. The story is inspired from my museum research in Europe in 2019. I was very interested by the prehistoric sections of museums. Before societies became larger civilisations, the bonds between communities were used to forge alliances. As these societies expanded under Chieftains… Continue reading Prehistory, Battle and Sacrifices
Chasing Storms of Sorrow
A little while ago I finished writing an paranormal/dark fantasy short story set in contemporary Melbourne, Australia. I was inspired by the changeable weather in Melbourne and fascinated by the strong winter storms that are drawn inland from the southern ocean. These storms can be very unpredictable and wild as the storm front meets the… Continue reading Chasing Storms of Sorrow
Historical Fantasy & Sagittarius
Very recently I finished writing a story inspired by the Zodiac sign Sagittarius. I was intrigued when learning the the astrological sign, of Sagittarius is representative of prophecy and fate, among other things. The story is a historical fantasy but set in a hypothetical Renaissance-style Italian city similar to Venice. In this world which is… Continue reading Historical Fantasy & Sagittarius
Iceland: National History Museum
In September 2019, I visited the National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavik. While in Iceland, I visited many of the wonderful major natural landmarks in the National Parks in the southern Iceland. You can read about my experiences riding Icelandic horses, exploring waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers, an iceberg lake and black sand beaches. The National… Continue reading Iceland: National History Museum
Latest: Ragnarok Dreaming
I am very pleased to announce my current work-in-progress fantasy novel, Ragnarok Dreaming is very nearing the finishing line. I have just finished writing the third Part of the novel, the draft has already expanded beyond my anticipated length with the new word count expected to be around 130,000 words. Of course, there’s a lot… Continue reading Latest: Ragnarok Dreaming
Loki and Angrboda
A few weeks ago, I finished writing a series of scenes for my work-in-progress Ragnarok Dreaming inspired by events described in the Norse Prose Edda and Poetic Edda. These involve the mysterious character of Angrboda, the “Hag of the Ironwood” who dwells in jotunheim, is alluded to as a witch and mother of many werewolves… Continue reading Loki and Angrboda
Virtual Plotting & Planning
I’ve been investigating new ways to develop my world-building for my novel-in-progress Ragnarok Dreaming, inspired by Norse mythology. I am a highly visual person and my imagination (and writing) has become increasingly taxed by trying to remember my mental images and plans for complex landscapes, cities and worlds in my latest work-in-progress. I was keen… Continue reading Virtual Plotting & Planning
Iceland: The Icelandic Horse
In early September 2019, I travelled to Iceland and visited Eldhestar Icelandic horse trekking company located less than 30 minutes drive southeast from the capital Reykjavik. The Icelandic horse was brought to the island by the Viking settlers. You can read about about Icelandic Viking history and the history of Reykjavik here. There are also… Continue reading Iceland: The Icelandic Horse
Sweden: Gotland Museum
I visited the Gotland Museum in Visby, Gotland Island, Sweden in early September 2019. You can read more about my research visit to the Uppsala Viking Age burial mounds, the History Museum in Stockholm and the medieval city of Visby on Gotland Island. Gotland Museum contains an amazing variety of prehistoric Swedish and Viking Age… Continue reading Sweden: Gotland Museum
Salvador Dali Illustrated Alice in Wonderland
I just discovered the 150th Anniversary edition of Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carol published by Princeton University Press is an illustrated version by artist Salvador Dali. Absolutely stunning illustrations that are pure magic! You can buy hardback and paperback copies of this gorgeous edition through most bookstores and online stores at affordable prices.
Australian Tawny Frogmouth Folklore
The tawny frogmouth is a species of nocturnal bird native to much of Australia. It is well known in Australian landscapes for the staring red-gold eyes, the camouflage resembling a branch or broken tree stump and it’s seemingly unworried response to human presence. I was walking in the early morning at a pine forest near… Continue reading Australian Tawny Frogmouth Folklore
Zodiac Themed Anthology Series
I’m currently reading the second volume in a 12 part series, a Zodiac themed anthology produced by Aussie Speculative Fiction. Each month, a new anthology featuring that month’s zodiac sign will be released. This January-February, I’m reading Aquarius and because it’s also my own star sign. The Aquarius anthology features many unique interpretations of the… Continue reading Zodiac Themed Anthology Series
Sweden: Viking Burial Mounds
In early September 2019, I traveled to Uppsala in Sweden to one of the most accessible archaeological sites from the early Viking Age, a series of impressive burial mounds. You can read more about Viking Age history and archaeology from my visit to Stockholm’s Historiska Museum here and Gotland Museum. The site of Gamla Uppsala… Continue reading Sweden: Viking Burial Mounds
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