Captivating Conversations with Epic High Fantasy Author Todd Fahnestock"

In Episode 332 of Storycomic Presents, hosted by Barney Smith of storycomic.com, we welcomed back Todd Fahnestock, a name synonymous with epic high fantasy. Fahnestock, an internationally acclaimed and award-winning author, delves into the nuances of crafting compelling fantasy narratives, offering invaluable insights for aspiring authors and fantasy enthusiasts.

Our conversation navigated the realms of Joseph Campbell's narrative theories, unearthing the timeless wisdom embedded in classic storytelling. We also explored the "Save the Cat" writing strategy, a tool that has shaped countless successful narratives. Fahnestock's approach as a "Pantser" - an author who writes by the seat of their pants, without rigid planning - reveals a unique perspective on creating engaging and cinematic stories.

The episode's highlight was undoubtedly Fahnestock's discussion of his latest novels, 'Slayter and the Dragon' and 'Bane of Giants’, books four and five in the Legacy of Shadow series. These novels, part of the Eldros Legacy line, showcase Fahnestock's mastery in building fantastical worlds and intricate plots.

This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration for fans and aspiring writers, drawing back the curtain on the art of high fantasy writing. To discover more about Todd Fahnestock and his work, visit his website and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of his storytelling.

Project Update: Nurturing Creativity with 'Wolf Memories'

This week has been particularly special in creative projects as I've had the opportunity to mentor and collaborate with Elizabeth on her book, 'Wolf Memories.' It's been a delightful experience to witness her enthusiasm and dedication to storytelling.

Guiding with 'Save The Cat'

One of the key aspects I've been focusing on with Elizabeth is introducing her to the 'Save The Cat' writing style. This approach, known for its effective structuring of narratives, has been instrumental in helping her refine the outline of 'Wolf Memories.' The goal was to enhance character development and ensure the story flowed seamlessly while keeping the readers engaged.

Developing the Character of Sky

The main character of 'Wolf Memories,' a young wolf named Sky, has undergone significant development through this process. Elizabeth has been reworking the outline to add depth and dimension to Sky's character. This involves exploring Sky's motivations, challenges, and growth throughout the story. It's been fascinating to see how small tweaks and changes in the character's journey can significantly impact the narrative.

A Journey of Learning and Creativity

Working with Elizabeth on 'Wolf Memories' has been more than just a project; it's been a journey of learning and creativity. Seeing her take the advice on board and apply it enthusiastically is incredibly rewarding. Her ability to adapt and enhance her story while maintaining her unique voice is a testament to her talent as a young writer.

Looking Forward

As Elizabeth continues to refine 'Wolf Memories,' I'm excited to see how the story evolves. This project is not just about creating a book; it's about nurturing a young writer's passion and skill. 'Wolf Memories' journey is a reminder of the joy and fulfillment that comes from creative collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Stay tuned for more updates on this heartwarming project as Elizabeth brings the world of Sky the Wolf to life through her imaginative storytelling.

Book Review: "The Berge Sisters Tour The Neitherswarth" by J L Durona - Elizabeth's Perspective

As a parent, there's nothing like seeing your child captivated by a good book. Recently, my daughter Elizabeth enjoyed diving into J L Durona's "The Berge Sisters Tour The Neitherswarth," a delightful middle-grade novel that masterfully blends spooky elements with heartwarming adventure.

Elizabeth was immediately drawn into the story of Lacey Berge and her stepsister, Cal, as they explored their late great uncle’s mysterious mansion. The book's engaging narrative and quirky characters kept her hooked from the first page to the last. One character that particularly stood out to her was Mr. Pizza, a monster whose unique charm added more fun to the story.

Durona's skill in crafting a suspenseful and humorous narrative is evident throughout the book. Elizabeth eagerly turned the pages, curious to discover what would happen next. The blend of funny character names and intriguing plot twists made the reading experience enjoyable and exciting.

Elizabeth appreciated the character development, especially relating to Cal and Lacey. She admired Cal for her intelligence and the fact that she always wore headphones, a trait Elizabeth found cool. Lacey's ability to make friends easily and her sense of humor also resonated with her. These well-rounded characters added depth to the story, making it relatable and engaging for young readers.

The fact that Elizabeth read the entire book in just two days is a testament to its appeal. "The Berge Sisters Tour The Neitherswarth" is not just a book; it's an adventure that captures the imagination and keeps young readers engaged throughout.

Personal Update: New Beginnings and Community Connections

Another week in the books in the story we call life. I'm excited to share some wonderful developments in both my personal and professional life. It's been a period of progress, community engagement, and balancing the demands of work and home.

The Downstairs Bedroom: A Dream Nearing Completion

Firstly, the much-anticipated downstairs bedroom project is nearing completion! After months of anticipation, we're finally on the cusp of moving into this newly transformed space. The journey of turning this area into a comfortable and functional bedroom has been both challenging and rewarding. As we approach the final touches, the excitement within our family is palpable. This new addition to our home symbolizes more than just an extra room; it represents growth, change, and the joy of creating something beautiful together.

Strengthening Community Ties

On the professional front, I've been actively involved in making more community connections and attending various events around the radio station area. These engagements have been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to immerse myself in the local culture and connect with people from all walks of life. Being over an hour from the station, these interactions are crucial in understanding the community's pulse and catering our content to resonate with our listeners.

Balancing Dual Social Obligations

I'm particularly proud of my ability to balance social obligations between my hometown and the town where I work. It's a delicate dance, managing responsibilities and maintaining a presence in both communities. However, I've found a rhythm that works, ensuring I contribute meaningfully to both areas. This balance is not just about physical presence; it's about being mentally and emotionally invested in the well-being and development of both communities.