Curio Fiction: A Fantasy Subgenre
Ever heard of curio fiction? Coined by author Diane Callahan, this term defines a unique fantasy genre. Here are its defining features and tropes.
Genres
Reflections on ProWritingAid's 2024 Fantasy Writers’ Week
ProWritingAid's “Fantasy Writers' Week” welcomed both familiar faces and fresh presenters. I had a good time and learned a lot, but wish they had more author interviews.
"The Sunset Sovereign" by E.M. McConnell - Book Review
E.M. McConnell’s “The Sunset Sovereign” is an enjoyable fantasy/sci-fi hybrid set in a dystopian world.
Shadows of Justice: Vigilantes in modern television
These contemporary series' take the age-old trope of vigilante justice and infuse it with moral dilemmas and the relentless quest for revenge.
One Piece — Review Season One
With its blend of action, humor, and heart, Netflix's live-action adaptation of the anime “One Piece” promises an extraordinary voyage filled with friendship, loyalty, and unexpected twists.
Crime-fighters after hours: classic TV vigilantes
Vigilantes not only play a significant role in movies but are also a staple on the small screen. In the 1980s and 90s, vigilantes took center stage in various television shows.
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power - Review Season One
“The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” offers another journey into Middle-earth. Unfortunately, the series tries too hard and ends up being pompous and boring.
Vigilantes in movies: modern quests for vengeance
For decades, characters who pursue their own forms of justice or retribution have captivated audiences around the world. These films and franchises portray the journeys of modern-day avengers.
The allure of vigilantes in classic movies
The appeal of morally ambiguous vigilantes has long entranced audiences. These classic narratives follow vigilantes who pursue their unique paths of vengeance and justice.
The Gryphon – Review Season One
The Gryphon is the German adaption of Wolfgang Hohlbein’s young adult fantasy novel. The show’s stereotypical characters and poor storytelling overshadowed any excitement.
“Ashes, Ashes” by Jessica Goeken - Book Review
Jessica Goeken’s “Ashes, Ashes” is a young adult supernatural fiction that gives off Buffy the Vampire Slayer vibes.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves — Review
Paramount Pictures' Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves brings the iconic tabletop game to life on the big screen.
House of the Dragon – Review Season One
The grandeur and scale of Game of Thrones revolutionized long-form storytelling. While comparisons to the original are inevitable, I evaluated House of the Dragon on its own merit.
“Hunter’s Fated Wait” by W.A. Edwards - Book Review
W.A. Edwards’ “Hunter’s Fated Wait” is a shifter tale with a slow-building romance.
Empathy in fiction: portrayals in movies and television
Empaths often become a powerful force that can change the trajectory of conflicts or transform the dynamics of relationships.
Empathy in fiction: portrayals in literature and comics
While paranormal abilities like telepathy, telekinesis, and clairvoyance often receive the most attention, empathy still is a mainstay in fiction.
“Eternum” by Callan J Mulligan - Book Review
With Eternum, the second book of “The World Settlers” duology, Callan J Mulligan crafted a fast-paced, page-turning political thriller in space, with a dash of romance.
“Astraeus” by Callan J Mulligan - Book Review
With Astraeus, the first book of “The World Settlers” duology, Callan J Mulligan crafted a thrilling murder mystery in outer space.
Extraordinary on the screen: 5 modern paranormal shows
Being born with special abilities sounds thrilling. Who wouldn’t like to read the minds of others or have visions of the future? Thus, I enjoy watching television shows that feature “gifted” protagonists.
No surprise: Andy Weir loves science
During ProWritingAid’s “Science Fiction Writers’ Week”, Andy Weir, author of “The Martian”, reflected on his research process and the accuracy of his science.
7 classic paranormal TV series with gifted characters
People's fascination with the paranormal is clear in the continued success of movies and television shows that explore this subject.
Halo - Review Season One
Halo, the science-fiction military media franchise, has been a behemoth in the video game industry for decades. Unfortunately, season one fails to capitalize on its rich material.
Unveiling the beyond: paranormal, supernatural, or urban fantasy
People frequently use the terms “paranormal” and “supernatural” interchangeably. However, the terms are fluid, and their usage can vary based on context and personal interpretation.