Reflections on ProWritingAid’s Crime Writers’ Week 2024
ProWritingAid holds a special place in my heart because one of their virtual events in 2021 jumpstarted my author journey. Thus, I knew what to expect from 2024's "Crime Writers' Week".
Worldbuilding
Puzzling Phenomena: A guide to paranormal fiction
Psychic powers, odd occurrences, and cryptic creatures—paranormal fiction transcends the confines of the known and delves into the unexplained.
“My name is Bless” by Laris Aiwin - Book Review
Laris Aiwin's "My Name is Bless: My Number is T-214", a science fiction romance with a touch of political thriller.
Reflections on ProWritingAid's 2024 Fantasy Writers’ Week
ProWritingAid's “Fantasy Writers' Week” 2024 welcomed both familiar faces and fresh presenters. Overall, it was an enjoyable and enlightening experience, but I missed the author interviews.
Characters First: my approach to writing
As an author of speculative fiction, SK Alexander follows the principle of "characters first".
"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
Vigilantism not only plays a significant role in movies, but is 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, boasting unparalleled scale and scope for television. 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 antiheroes who pursue their unique paths of vengeance and justice.
“Fire in the Mind” by Arjay Lewis - Book Review
Arjay Lewis’s “Fire in the Mind” is an enjoyable murder mystery with plausible paranormal elements.
"Wicked Seduction" awaits polishing
With a mixture of elation and relief, SK Alexander announces the completion of the paranormal suspense thriller Wicked Seduction, the last book in “The Empath Series”.
The Gryphon – Review Season One
“The Gryphon” is the German adaption of Wolfgang Hohlbein’s young adult fantasy novel. Instead of being captivated by the wonders of magic, the unknown, and thrilling escapades, the show’s stereotypes and weak storytelling disappointed me.
Vigilantes in fiction: The (anti)hero in comics
Since their inception, both DC Comics and Marvel Comics have introduced a vast array of superheroes. A significant number of them are vigilantes.
Vigilantes captivate the literature world
Whether they fight for truth, protect the innocent, or seek revenge against injustice, vigilantes are a mainstay in literature.
“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
"Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" brings the iconic tabletop game to life on the big screen. Directors John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein deliver a different take on high fantasy, showing that it can be both light-hearted and thrilling.
House of the Dragon – Review Season One
“Game of Thrones” revolutionized long-form entertainment, setting new standards with its grandeur and scale. While comparing "House of the Dragon" to its predecessor is inevitable, I strive to assess the series on its own merits.
“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.
Curio Fiction—a fantasy subgenre
Ever heard of curio fiction? Coined by author Diane Callahan, this term defines a unique genre. Here are the defining features and tropes that shape curio fiction.
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.
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.
Exploring empathy in Wicked Hunt
SK Alexander explores how Nathaniel Colt’s empathy shapes the narrative within his paranormal suspense thriller, Wicked Hunt, Book One in “The Empath Series”.
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.