The Christmas Wrap
Reading, Writing and the Future
Hello Everyone,
It’s that time of year again when we reflect on the past 12 months and plan for the next ones.
This year has been quite the whirlwind for me. I’ve made plenty of posts on my writing journey, so I’m not going to re-tread old ground. But one thing I haven’t mentioned as a side effect of writing is that I’ve rediscovered my passion for reading.
When it comes to writing, one of the best ways to learn is to see how the best do it! So, here are the books I’ve read in 2023. These are some of the writers who have inspired and influenced me as a writer. I admire their skills and talents, and I aspire to emulate their strengths and learn from their weaknesses. I hope, one day, to be able to write books that are as enjoyable and impactful as theirs.
Steven Erikson
The master of epic fantasy, with his 10-volume series The Malazan Book of the Fallen. He has created a vast and complex world, with rich history, culture, magic, and mythology. His characters are diverse and memorable, with their own personalities, motivations, and arcs. He also writes with a poetic and philosophical style, exploring themes like war, mortality, compassion, and justice. Reading his books has taught me how to build a believable and immersive world, how to create compelling and realistic characters, and how to weave an intricate and satisfying plot.
Brandon Sanderson
You know who he is! He is known for his hard magic systems, where the rules and limitations of magic are clearly defined and consistent. He also writes with a clear and engaging style, with a balance of action, dialogue, and description. He keeps his readers hooked with his twists, surprises, and revelations. Reading his books has taught me how to design a logical and original magic system, how to write with clarity and flair, and how to keep my readers interested and invested.
H.P Lovecraft
The father of cosmic horror. He has created a universe of ancient and alien gods, who are indifferent or hostile to humanity. His protagonists are often curious and doomed scholars, who uncover the secrets and horrors of the unknown. He writes with a Gothic and archaic style, with complex vocabulary, long sentences, and obscure references. Reading his stories has taught me how to create a sense of dread and awe, how to write a mysterious and intriguing story, and how to write with elegance and sophistication.
Cormac McCarthy
With his books like Blood Meridian and The Road, he has created a bleak and brutal vision of the world, where violence, survival, and redemption are the main themes. His stories are set in different historical and post-apocalyptic settings, where the characters face the harshness and cruelty of nature and humanity. He writes with a minimalist and poetic style, with sparse punctuation, vivid imagery, and lyrical dialogue. Reading his books has taught me how to create a powerful and profound story, how to write beautiful and haunting prose, and how to write with simplicity and clarity.
Brian McClellan
The Powder Mage guy. He has created a world where magic and gunpowder coexist, and where revolutions and wars shape the fate of nations. His characters are diverse and flawed, with their own abilities, goals, and conflicts. He writes with a gritty and realistic style, with a balance of violence, humour, and romance. He keeps his readers engaged with his action-packed scenes, clever twists, and moral dilemmas. Reading his books has taught me how to create a unique and dynamic magic system, how to write a complex and compelling character, and how to write with excitement and emotion.
What’s doing in 2024?
I'm excited to share my writing plans for the future. The first goal: GenreCon in Brisbane at the end of February. I want to have a rough draft done by then. I also want to meet and connect with other writers there. I've submitted a sample of my story to pitch it to publishers and editors. I hope they pick me, but if they don't, I'll keep trying. I'm going to GenreCon to connect with other writers, learn and improve as a writer.
After GenreCon? I'll think about the indie route. I'll finish my story and find a good editor and cover artist.
Then there’s the business of the business: marketing, branding, sales, and all that. The plan is to get a better understanding to set myself up for the best chance of success. It sounds scary, but I'm ready for the challenge.
I can't wait to see what 2024 has in store. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year.
Great goals.. achievable!!