The Truth About Storytelling

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, Tyrean Martinson reflects on faith, Easter, and the steady truth of God’s love in a noisy world. She briefly touches on current AI conversations, and the importance of approaching them with decency and respect. Then she reads Chapters 35–36 of Dark Blade Forged, where Dan takes up the Dark Blade in one of the story’s most intense moments. The episode closes with a heartfelt Kickstarter thank you and an invitation to explore more at Tyreanstales.com

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I share a real look at a messy writing day—editing struggles, creative frustration, and the ongoing journey of developing your craft as a writer. I also read Chapters 33-34 from Dark Blade Forged and discuss plot pacing, purpose, and how characters begin to find their place in the world.Plus, a quick update on the Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter and the progress behind the scenes.

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I share how author community has shaped this season of writing, read Chapters 30–32 of Dark Blade Forged, and talk about a small mistake I discovered—and how it will be corrected in the second edition. I also mention my Kickstarter campaign for The Dark Blade Trilogy and the Kickstarter campaign for a writing friend, DL Fowler aka Larry the Lincoln Guy. The Dark Blade Trilogy KickstarterDL Fowler's Lincoln's Best Friend Kickstarter

I share a behind-the-scenes update on the Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter, which has reached its initial funding goal and is moving into stretch goals like character cards and a bonus story. I discuss preparing a new edition of Dark Blade Forged, ordering proof copies through BookVault, thoughtful use of AI tools, and read Chapters 28 and 29 from the novel.

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I read Chapters 26-27 from Dark Blade Forged, the first novel in the Dark Blade Trilogy.These chapters shift into the perspectives of two powerful secondary characters: Theran, a royal sword guard uncovering dangerous secrets alongside Lady Leandra, and Stelia, an enslaved mercenary risking everything to help captives escape the brutal Drinaii.As tension builds across the kingdom, loyalties are tested and acts of courage begin to shape the fate of Aramatir.I also share an update on the Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter, which has already reached full funding!

In Episode 146 of The Truth About Storytelling, Tyrean Martinson reads Chapters 24–25 of Dark Blade Forged, an epic fantasy novel featuring a cursed sword, faith-driven themes, and a powerful redemption arc.She also shares an update on the upcoming Kickstarter for The Dark Blade Trilogy, including new hardcover editions, revised content, and how readers can be part of bringing the full trilogy to life. (Kickstarter Link)Perfect for fans of epic fantasy, Christian fantasy, and immersive storytelling with themes of light vs. darkness, courage, and redemption.

In this podcast, I share a bit of news about my poetry collection To Speak and The Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter Campaign, but my main purpose is the reading of Chapters 22 and 23 of Dark Blade Forged.

In this episode, I read Chapters 20-21 of Dark Blade Forged and explore why I love secondary characters in epic fantasy storytelling. Plus: I mention my poetry collection To Speak and a super short update on my upcoming Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter. Faith-driven fantasy, craft talk, and creative life are all found here. Tyrean's Tales

Today’s episode blends life updates, poetry, and creative conversation. I celebrate the ebook release of To Speak, read a poem aloud, reflect on revisiting earlier work, and share an interview with Stephanie Shackelford, plus a look at where the podcast is headed this spring.Stephanie ShackelfordTo Speak

A brief episode sharing a personal update, a reading from a recent social media post, and a pause in the podcast schedule. Tyrean speaks about caregiving, boundaries, faith, and why rest and quiet matter, especially when life doesn’t go to plan.

In this episode, I reflect on sound and silence in poetry — how rhythm, repetition, and even quiet shape meaning on the page and in the voice. From consonance and cadence to visual spacing and the experience of listening differently, I explore how poems can be heard, seen, and felt in more than one way. This is a gentle invitation to notice sound as part of poetic practice, whether you read aloud, write visually, or linger in the spaces between words.Links: Tyrean's Tales WebsiteDark Blade Forged ebook for 99centsSpeculative Fiction BookfunnelChristian Fiction Bookfunnel

How do you choose what to work on when you have more ideas than time? In this behind-the-scenes episode, I share how I plan my creative work month by month, week by week, and day by day—honoring my strengths while staying grounded in reality and season of life.Tyrean's Tales WebsiteDark Blade Forged ebook for 99centsSpeculative Fiction BookfunnelChristian Fiction BookfunnelSpace Napped Bookfunnel - I have the only no-spice book in there

In this episode, I continue reading my novel Dark Blade Forged, chapters 15 through 19. This epic fantasy novel is out now, in its original format. For more information about this book and all of my others, please head to my website: tyreanstales.com

In this episode I reflect on poetry as an open page — a place of possibility, curiosity, and invitation. I explore how poems invite us into moments of wonder, how they hold meaning in small spaces, and how they often begin before the words ever arrive. From the space between seasons to the way language carries emotion, this episode is an invitation to slow down, listen, and consider how poetry meets us exactly where we are.Tyrean's TalesLight Reflections

This New Year’s episode focuses on choosing Thrive as a word for the year and setting goals that support growth. I share what I’m excited about creatively in 2026 and how I’m holding space for possibility alongside commitment. Join me for a reflective, encouraging start to the year.Tyrean's Tales

In this brief update, I share why this week’s Dark Blade Forged reading is on pause (hello, sore throat), reflect on a full and meaningful year of writing, travel, faith, and family, and look ahead to what’s coming in 2026—including To Speak and The Dark Blade Trilogy. A gentle check-in about creativity, calling, and giving ourselves grace.Tyrean's Tales WebsiteLight ReflectionsThe Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter

Winter in the Pacific Northwest carries its own storytelling language—salt air and tide lines, ferry crossings, evergreen rain, storm winds, and the cozy glow of small-town community. In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, host Tyrean Martinson talks with Susanne Bacon, author of the Wycliffe novels, about writing sense of place so vividly readers feel like they can visit tomorrow.Susanne shares how she builds her fictional Puget Sound town of Wycliffe (between Olympia and Seattle) using real regional textures—Olympic Mountain views, island silhouettes, waterfront parks, ferry terminals, and the changing smell of high tide vs. low tide. We also dig into how her journalism background shaped her as an observer of people and community, and how listening to real stories helps her craft believable characters without writing one-to-one from life.This episode also arrives in the tender beauty of Christmas—Tyrean reflects on Christmas Eve worship, carols, and singing “Silent Night” by candlelight, remembering that Jesus is the Light of the World—our Emmanuel—God’s light shining in the darkness. Find Susanne Bacon HERETyrean's Tales

In this solo episode, Tyrean Martinson shares seven fiction and reflection writing prompts inspired by the worldbuilding philosophy of Irish science fiction and fantasy author Damien Larkin. Drawing on themes of layered realism, military-influenced settings, terrain-driven storytelling, and organic world growth, these prompts invite writers to create believable, lived-in speculative worlds. Released during Christmas week, the episode also reflects on Immanuel—God with us—and the quiet presence of hope in the creative process.Find the prompts from this episode at Tyrean's Tales

Irish author Damien Larkin joins me to discuss gritty worldbuilding, military-influenced science fiction and fantasy, and writing stories that grow organically over time. From dinosaurs instead of dragons to societies shaped by centuries of war, this conversation explores realism, layered storytelling, and the craft of building believable worlds. Damien Larkin's WebsiteDancing Lemur Press for DamienTyrean's Tales

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I share a cozy fireside reading from my epic fantasy novel Dark Blade Forged.Dark Blade Forged follows a young swordsman whose encounter with a cursed blade sets him on a path of sacrifice, justice, and difficult choices—where light must be chosen again and again.These readings are part of a limited series of podcast episodes featuring chapters from Dark Blade Forged, Book One of The Dark Blade Trilogy. The ebook is currently available for 99 cents, with the full trilogy launching on Kickstarter in March 2026.Tyrean also shares updates on her upcoming poetry releases, including a second edition of Light Reflections and her new poetry collection To Speak, releasing in January 2026.Perfect for fans of epic fantasy, Christian fantasy, reflective storytelling, and listeners who enjoy stories told by the firelight during the Christmas season and New Year.Tyrean's Website99 cent Dark Blade Forged ebookThe Dark Blade Trilogy Prelaunch Page on Kickstarter

In this writing prompt episode of The Truth About Storytelling, Tyrean Martinson shares a set of creative writing prompts inspired by her recent conversation with author and editor Jemi Fraser.These prompts explore practical storytelling tools and techniques, including story bibles and spreadsheets, visual mapping, intentional character naming, research that lives alongside the draft, and using pop culture references to reveal character. The episode also includes a fiction prompt inspired by romantic suspense, focusing on trust, tension, and emotional stakes.Listeners will also hear updates on Tyrean’s upcoming poetry collection To Speak (releasing in January), Friday fiction readings from Dark Blade Forged, a limited-time 99¢ deal on Dark Blade Forged, and a preview of upcoming podcast interviews with Damien Larkin and Susanne Bacon.This episode is perfect for writers seeking gentle, practical prompts, sustainable creative systems, and encouragement for telling honest, engaging stories.

In this episode, Author Jemi Fraser joins Tyrean Martinson for a craft-focused conversation on small-town storytelling and sense of place. Jemi shares how her fictional towns Fail and Blue Moose evolved into central story elements, how she maintains continuity across interconnected series, and how to introduce realistic suspense without losing a cozy tone. The episode also covers writing habits, research, recurring character Easter eggs, and Jemi’s latest series, Pick Your Spot, set on an apple farm and rooted in themes of community, stewardship, and belonging.Jemi Fraser

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I read Chapters 8-11 of Dark Blade Forged, and give some author notes at the end about the characters and about sword-fighting experience as a one-time collegiate fencer.99cent ebook of Dark Blade ForgedThe Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter prelaunch pageTyrean's Tales my website

Writing thrives in conversation.In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I share five original writing prompts inspired by the creative encouragement, mindset wisdom, and storytelling conversations offered by five podcasters and creators I deeply respect.Drawing on themes like curiosity, sustainability, discipline, gentleness, play, and permission, these prompts are designed to help fiction writers re-enter their stories with fresh energy—whether you’re writing fantasy, romance, thrillers, or speculative fiction.You’ll find prompts inspired by:* Joanna Penn – creative legacy, curiosity, and the long view* Craig Martelle – clarity, momentum, and forward motion* Colleen M. Story – hope, persistence, and the inner life of writers* Elisabeth Wheatley – curiosity, humor, and the joy of research* Becca Syme – permission, process, and writing in a way that fits youThese prompts are not summaries or reproductions of their work, but original exercises shaped by the encouragement their creative voices offer to the writing community.Whether you’re stuck, tired, or simply looking for a new angle into your story, this episode invites you to write—curiously, courageously, and with care.At the end of the episode, I mentioned my Kickstarter. Any support would be awesome, even in the prelaunch phase. The Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter.

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I’m sharing five podcasters and YouTubers whose voices have consistently shaped my thinking about writing, creativity, publishing, and mindset.From industry expertise and indie publishing strategy to creativity, productivity, and encouragement, these creators offer insights that help writers build sustainable, joyful writing lives.You’ll hear why I recommend:Joanna Penn (The Creative Penn, Books and Travel)Craig Martelle (Successful Indie Author)Colleen M. Story (Colleen M. Storyteller, The Next Story Project)Elisabeth Wheatley (YouTube)Becca Syme (QuitCast)Quick note: I’m skipping an interview episode this week, but great conversations are coming soon—Jemi Fraser joins me next week, followed by Damien Larkin the week after.Whether you’re looking for practical publishing advice, mindset shifts, or simply encouragement to keep going, this episode offers voices worth adding to your creative rotation.

In this episode, I give a little intro and read chapters three through seven of Dark Blade Forged. After, I give some brief notes of thoughts I had on marking time in fantasy worlds and the dangers of using consonance in prose. Links:99cent original ebook edition of Dark Blade ForgedThe Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter Prelaunch Page

In this episode, I talk about how much I love the conversational interviews I'm doing with authors on Monday, share two writing prompts about time and place, and reflect on reframing goals for the end of the year and in to the new year. Links:Tyrean's TalesThe Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter99cent Dark Blade Forged original ebook

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, Tyrean Martinson reflects on Advent and speaks with award-winning children’s and middle-grade author Sherry Ellis about writing adventurous stories rooted in real places, history, and culture.Sherry shares how her experiences as a musician and scuba diving instructor shape the way she builds authentic settings for her stories—especially in her Bubba and Squirt sibling adventure series, where each book unfolds within a 12-hour window in a different country. The conversation explores blending folklore and mythology with modern storytelling, using sensory detail to immerse young readers, and creating classroom-friendly extras like recipes, language notes, and historical context.They also discuss writing rituals, research accuracy, critique feedback, and Sherry’s upcoming children’s book, Happy Birthday to Us, releasing in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.This episode is ideal for writers, educators, parents, and readers who love meaningful children’s stories, travel-inspired fiction, and thoughtful conversations about craft.Sherry Ellis WebsiteTyrean's Website99cent deal for Dark Blade Forged original ebook

In this episode, I share some thoughts about Thanksgiving and Black Friday, a writing prompt, and a reading from Dark Blade Forged, Volume 1 of The Dark Blade Trilogy.Tyrean's TalesThe Dark Blade KickstarterOriginal ebook edition of Dark Blade Forged for 99 cents!

In this episode, I share some thoughts on storytelling in books and movies, share a few writing prompts, and give thanks.Yes, it's eclectic, but I look forward to coming back to these ideas in the future. Tyrean's Tales

Links:Tara Tyler Talks (her website)Tara Tyler on AmazonTyrean's Tales (my website)The Dark Blade KickstarterNotes: In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, author and educator Tara Tyler joins the show for a lively conversation about imagination, craft, and creating worlds that feel both inventive and relatable. From futuristic teleportation hubs to fantasy communities filled with goblins, ogres, pixies, and centaurs, Tara shares how she builds settings rooted in real emotions, lived experiences, and thoughtful world structure.The discussion explores:worldbuilding across fantasy and sci-fihow real-world places inspire fictional landscapeswhy rules, culture, and technology matter in speculative storiesblending humor, adventure, and meaningful themeswriting for middle-grade and adult audiencesWhether you’re a writer, reader, teacher, or worldbuilding enthusiast, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look into Tara Tyler’s creative process.

In this episode, I talk about having courage, why I write about swords, and how courage affects our writing.Links:Tyrean's TalesKickstarter

In this episode, I discuss how real landscapes shape fiction and share a writing prompt. Links: Tyrean's TalesKickstarter

In this episode, I discuss a few writing fears and how I combat them, plus share a writing prompt and an update for my Kickstarter. Links:My WebsiteThe Dark Blade Trilogy

In this episode, I share some thoughts on character perspectives and how they shape our writing. Links:From Archeology to Authorship Podcast EpisodeTyrean's Tales Website

This eclectic episode is a recap episode, inviting listeners to the interview with Sean McLachlan I had on Monday and the interview of Donn King on the Creative Penn podcast by Joanna Penn. It also discusses the way authors might know each other for years online and how meeting people is wonderful, but also challenging.Links:Sean McLachlan on The Truth About StorytellingDonn King on the Creative Penn podcastwww.tyreanstales.comThe Dark Blade Prelaunch

In this episode, author and adventurer Sean McLachlan joins me to explore how travel, research, and history shape authentic storytelling, from Cairo’s streets to the world's wide horizons.Links:Sean McLachlanThe Berlin Murders by Sean McLachlanTyrean's TalesThe Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter Prelaunch

In this episode, I discuss the Grimm's Fairy Tale Hansel and Gretal, writing ideas, a bit about Kickstarter, and Author Nation.The Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter

Today, I'm sharing The Fisherman and His Wife fairy tale, seeking information about the lesser known fairy tale "She Wants Things," some costume ideas, and a writing prompt.Tyrean's Tales

In this episode, I discuss why I commissioned Annika Crum as my map-maker, what went into the process, and why I love the map she created. I also offer up a costume and a writing prompt idea.

In this episode, I discuss what I love about October and Halloween, plus share a writing prompt about holidays. Tyrean's Tales

In this episode, I discuss preparing imagery for Kickstarter and book covers, maps and how they can be useful for writers, and attending Author Nation.Author NationTyrean's Tales

This episode is a "Between Episode" between banked and scheduled episodes in which I share what's coming next, what I'm excited about, my "October mood," and a writing prompt. https://tyreanstales.com/

Have you ever given one of your characters a quirky, unexpected talent? Could it help them in the story in a key moment, or provide levity? If you like this episode and this podcast, please subscribe for more content.And, you can visit me at tyreanstales.com

Why are hidden strengths important in fiction and life?If you like this episode, please subscribe for more content. You can also visit me at tyreanstales.com

In this episode, I talk about how I rediscovered creativity through a tough time, and ideas for how to do that - not prescriptions or "musts" but ideas.If you like this episode, please subscribe for more content.Visit me at tyreanstales.com

How prepared are your characters for contingencies, a quest, a trip to the coffee shop, or the zombie apocalypse?In this episode, I invite you to consider your characters and how they prepare for life, and how that might be a source of conflict for several characters with different styles.If you like this episode, please subscribe for more content.Visit me at tyreanstales.com

In this episode, I share a writing prompt: From Exhaustion to Joy.If you like it, please subscribe! Or, visit me at tyreanstales.com

In this episode, I describe some changes in life and writing I experienced after my trip to Mongolia, and how I held on when times got tough. Plus, I share a few writing prompts.

I invite you to delve into writing with all five senses in this episode, or even take a small moment to celebrate one of the five senses in a short writing moment. Enjoy!