
The Truth About Storytelling
154 episodes — Page 3 of 4

S1 Ep 52Episode 52: Fiction - The Light We Keep
In this episode, I share my struggle with perfectionism and how that impacted today's holiday fantasy story which I wrote this fall, "The Light We Keep." In the midst of my seeking perfection, I lost my main computer to a meltdown, but I pivoted and found a new way to record.So, without further ado - Enjoy! I hope you have a wonderful, light-filled Christmas season!Links:Tales of Fellowship: Amazing Friendships & Found Family in Fantasy and Science FictionTyrean's TalesThe Light We Keep Ebook

S1 Ep 51Episode 51: Fiction Friday, The Last Chapters of Champion in the Darkness
In this episode, I read the last five chapters of Champion in the Darkness, the original edition. Thank you for all of your encouragement and support! Merry Christmas!Link for the December Book Funnel for FREE books: Tales of Fellowship: Amazing Friendships & Found Family in Fantasy and Science Fiction

S1 Ep 50Episode 50: The Christmas Episode for Writers
In this episode, I discuss the main themes of Christmas stories and why I believe they are so beloved for the winter season and beyond.As I mentioned in the episode, I am taking part in the Tales of Fellowship: Amazing Friendships & Found Family in Fantasy and Science Fiction (Dec) Book Funnel. Please click the link for more than 80 free books.

S1 Ep 49Episode 49: Fiction - Champion in the Darkness, Chapters 32-35
In this episode, I read Chapters 32-35 from Champion in the Darkness, my first published novel.Thanks for listening!

S1 Ep 48Episode 48: Writing - Holidays and Fiction Writing
In this episode, I discuss how we can create fun fiction with holiday-themed stories, specifically focusing on lesser known holidays and how they can be enjoyed through different genres. I give specific tips, ask questions, and hopefully, will stir your imagination.Thanks for joining me during this busy time.I hope you are having a warm, wonderful, and encouraging holiday season this year.You can find free books (including one of mine) with the Tales of Fellowship Book Funnel all through December!Happy Holidays!

S1 Ep 47Episode 47: Fiction Episode - Champion in the Darkness, chapters 27-31
Hello! I hope you enjoy hearing this section of chapters from my first ever published novel! I will be finishing the book in the next two episodes and then sharing a few holiday-themed fiction episodes.

S1 Ep 46Episode #46: Writing Episode - 4 More Action Items from Author Nation and Thanksgiving
Welcome to The Truth About Storytelling! Today I am sharing four more Action Items (Tips) from Author Nation and some thanksgiving.If you haven't yet, be sure to download a free copy of Dark Secrets: A Prequel to Dark Blade Forged through the November Fantasy and Scifi Freebies BookfunnelThank you for joining me and being a part of the conversation!

S1 Ep 45Fiction Friday: Champion in the Darkness, Chapters 25 and 26
Welcome! In today's episode, I am sharing a reading from Champion in the Darkness.If you would like to read it as an ebook, I am giving away free ebook copies with a newsletter sign up through the November Fantasy and Scifi Book Funnel.

S1 Ep 44Episode #44 Writing Episode: Author Nation Notes, 3 Action Items (Tips?) and Upcoming Episodes
In this episode, I rave about Author Nation, share three action items (almost writing tips) out of seven that I plan to work on for next year, and discuss what's coming next in future episodes.Links: Tyrean at Substack IGMy Three Action Items/Tips I'm sharing:Author Authenticity in the age of AICelebrating Our Unique VoicesAuthor Artisan ApproachReferences: Johnny B. Truant, Katherine D. Graham, Kitty, The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron (the book I mentioned), the hiking author whose name I forgot and whose business card was never given to me, and also (but not mentioned) Joanna Penn and Kevin Smith's talk at Author Nation (more next time).

S1 Ep 43Writing Episode: Author Nation, Rave, First Book Review for Dark Blade Forged, and More
Welcome! I'll be adding the show links first with brief notes about sections after the links.Author Nation - Rave - Dark Blade Forged's First Review - Dark Blade Forged Universal LinkJemi Fraser - Joanna Penn - The Creative Penn PodcastBookfunnels: Scifi, Alien Contact & Space OperaFree Fantastic Realms - updated to have new version of Champion in the DarknessIn this episode, I discuss Author Nation, Rave, the first review of Dark Blade Forged, the importance of book reviews, new book covers, and more.

S1 Ep 42Fiction Friday Episode - Chapters 23 and 24 of Champion in the Darkness
In this episode, I read out loud Chapters 23 and 24 of Champion in the Darkness, discuss how the book lines up with my new book Dark Blade Forged, and point out three areas I noticed while reading it out loud. Please note, in the second section, I do talk about my faith, and then at the end, I round up with some book news.Dark Blade Buy Links: Books2Read Universal LinkAmazon Universal Link with Books 2 ReadBook Funnels This MonthScifi and Alien ContactFantastic Realms Free Fantasy Reads

S1 Ep 41Episode #41 Writing Episode: Celebrations, New Book Release(s), and IWSG mention
Show Notes:Celebrations are important! Do you celebrate your wins?Show Links:Dark Blade Buy Links: Books2Read Universal LinkAmazon Universal Link with Books 2 ReadSherry EllisIWSGBook Funnels This MonthScifi and Alien ContactFantastic Realms Free Fantasy Reads

S1 Ep 40Episode #40 Writing Episode: World-Building, Work, Part 3
In this episode, I continue my discussion about "work" in world-building and setting.Before I get to the questions I am considering for today's episode, I want to mention I have a book coming out next week! Dark Blade Forged is prepped and ready to go worldwide on Tuesday, October 1st! Go here for a Universal Link to the book. Book Funnels I'm in this month:Spectacular September Book Sale for Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and other Speculative FictionSTARSHIPS & CYBERPUNKS: Must Read Science Fiction - September EditionFree Books With Fall Fantasy and Sci-fi EscapesHow does the setting/world we are creating for our stories view those who cannot work - children, elderly, and disabled individuals who cannot "make a living"? How does the society handle this? Is it handled well/badly? Is this something your character has concerns about? And, also, how does the world/setting in our stories view the idea of activities outside of work, especially rest and fun? Is it required/dismissed? What does that look like? Do different individuals or societies in our stories view these areas in different ways that create conflict? Thank you for joining me for today's episode!

S1 Ep 39Writing Episode: World-building - Work, part 2
Hello and welcome to the Truth About Storytelling! Today's episode is all about "work" in the fictional worlds we create. At what age are your characters in your world/settings/culture expected to work? What does that look like? What does rest look like?References:Life Below Zero on National Geographic; The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien;Steal Fire from the Gods by Clint Hall; CinderellaBook Funnel Links:Spectacular September Book Sale for Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and other Speculative FictionSTARSHIPS & CYBERPUNKS: Must Read Science Fiction - September EditionFree Books With Fall Fantasy and Sci-fi Escapes

S1 Ep 38Episode #38: Writing Episode: Worldbuilding, Setting, and Work
Mentions and Links:The Ranger’s Apprentice by John FlanaganWriting the Shadow: Turn Your Inner Darkness Into Words by Joanna PennDark Blade Forged Launch TeamBookfunnelsIf you like sci-fi, check out the Starships and Cyberpunks Book Funnel!Spectacular September Book Sale for Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and other Speculative Fiction!

S1 Ep 37Episode #37 Writing Episode - IWSG and Writing Rules That Mess Us Up
Book FunnelsSpectacular September Book Sale for Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and other Speculative Fiction!STARSHIPS & CYBERPUNKS: Must Read Science Fiction - September Edition

S1 Ep 36Episode #36 Fiction Friday - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 22 and Lifelong Learning as a Writer
In this episode, I read Chapter 22 of Champion in the Darkness. Plus, I discuss some pesky logistics of podcasting along with some things I've learned since I wrote this book over thirteen years ago. I also mention three upcoming book releases: Dark Blade: Forged, Resonance (Date to be determined yet), and one under a pen name.I have a busy fall ahead. If you would like to make this more of a conversation or offer to help with my book launch for Dark Blade: Forged, please comment or send me an email.Links:Dark Blade Forged Street Team/Launch Team Sign up FormDark Blade Forged pre-order at AmazonChristian Reads Book FunnelUntil August 31st, I am giving away a few more free copies of a book here.

S1 Ep 35Episode #35 World-Building with Societal Structures and a Book Review
In this episode, I discuss the nuances of including small details like licensing in world-building for contemporary, fantasy, and science fiction. I also give a book review for The Immortal Abyss by Katherine Briggs.Links:The Immortal Abyss by Katherine BriggsDark Blade: Forged by Tyrean MartinsonDark Blade Launch TeamBooks mentioned: The Giver by Lois Lowry, Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, 1984 by George Orwell, Matched by Ally Condie, Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by JK Rowling,.Book Review for The Immortal Abyss by Katherine Briggs:In this stunning conclusion to The Threshold Duology, we journey with Tol into the heart of the fire-wielding empire, a place that is at odds with those that wield the light in Laijon. Tol’s integrity and courage buoy her through her struggles to accept her true purpose, control her power, and discover a way to bring life back to her home in a world filled with strange allies, unexpected enemies, and fire-breathing dragons. In this novel, I found echoes of the prophecies of Isaiah and the redemption of Christ subtly woven into a modern YA novel that stands with The Defiance Trilogy by C.J. Redwine, Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton, and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. I cried, I smiled, and I gripped this page-turner until I reached the beautiful resolution. Thanks for listening! I am working on different microphone setups and appreciate your patience with this process.

S1 Ep 34Fiction Friday: Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 21 and a Book Review
In this episode, I read Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 21, share a book review, and a giveaway.Links for this Show:Find Bloodstone here. Meet H.R. Sinclair Here. I'm giving away up to 53 copies of 25 Impossible Tales of Survivors, Flawed Heroes, and Annoyed Villains! Go to this Book Funnel Link for a Free copy, available while those copies last until August 31st.I've also reduced the price of 25 Impossible Tales of Survivors, Flawed Heroes, and Annoyed Villains until August 31st.Champion in the DarknessStoryWars ClevelandAuthor NationBloodstone Review: In this intriguing paranormal fantasy, hidden magics are unveiled as Katelyn unexpectedly discovers she’s inherited an estate, a place in a family lineage, and possibly some kind of treasure. While she thinks she’s having some kind of panic attack induced visions, the truth is far stranger as she unpacks her bags and cleans out musty corners in her Aunt’s house. With new friends, unexpected enemies, and a strange affinity for her new house, Katelyn has a short time to figure out where she fits. This paranormal fantasy has all the elements of a cozy mystery mixed with urban paranormal fantasy with attempted murders, magical objects, and an interesting community. This book contains some fun twists and excellent worldbuilding.Find Bloodstone here. Meet H.R. Sinclair Here. Thanks for joining me!

S1 Ep 33Episode #33: World-building #6 Communication and Some Book News
Hello and welcome! In today's episode, I discuss communication in world-building, both the practical aspects based on time in history, fantasy, contemporary or futuristic fiction, as well as the aspect of expectations and access to communication. I'm also sharing a bit of book news.I'm giving away up to 53 copies of 25 Impossible Tales of Survivors, Flawed Heroes, and Annoyed Villains for my 53rd birthday! Go to this Book Funnel Link for a Free copy, available while those copies last until August 31st.I've also reduced the price of 25 Impossible Tales of Survivors, Flawed Heroes, and Annoyed Villains until August 31st.For Book Funnels:Blaster Cannons, Aliens, Space Opera, and Really Big Ships ends on August 22nd.Mentioned on this podcast:Enhanced and Hybrid in The Hybrid Series by Candace Kade - great examples of how to use instantaneous communication in fiction in a way that feels seamless.Lord of the Rings by TolkienThanks for joining me!

S1 Ep 32Episode 32: Fiction Friday - Champion in the Darkness 19 and 20, plus birthday giveaways
In this episode, I am reading out loud Chapters 19 and 20 from Champion in the Darkness. In addition to that, I want to wish everyone with August birthdays a very happy birthday!I read Sean McLachlan's newsletter today and he is offering up a free book to celebrate his birthday, and I thought, what a great idea! So, I am doing the same, but only offering up 53 copies for my 53rd birthday.25 Impossible Tales of Survivors, Flawed Heroes, and Annoyed Villains - only 53 copies available for free between now and August 31st for my birthday.The Case of the Dastardly Djinn by Sean McLachlan - free on Amazon through the 18th for his birthday.I also recommend listening to The Creative Penn with Joanna Penn.Current Book Funnels:Noblebright SciFi and Fantasy Book Funnel only through August 20th.Blaster Cannons, Aliens, Space Opera, and Really Big Ships through August 22nd.

S1 Ep 31Episode 31: Pivoting as an Author, Pros, Cons, and Questions
In this one-off episode, I discuss reasons authors might want to pivot in their author business or writing, what some pros and cons are with pivoting, and questions to use when considering pivoting. I also discuss the reason for this episode - my own pivot for Dark Blade Forged's release in October.Next week, I will be back on Wednesday for more Worldbuilding.Links:Street Team Google Sign-upMy SubstackSummer Fantasy Adventures Newsletter Builderhttps://books.bookfunnel.com/summerfantasyadventures/ib03gh7jsvNoblebright Scifi And Fantasyhttps://books.bookfunnel.com/noblebrightreviews/rvxhp305iyBlaster Cannons, Aliens, Space Opera, and Really Big Shipshttps://books.bookfunnel.com/newscifilaunch/bwhohxyobi

S1 Ep 30Episode #30: Fiction Friday - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 18
In this episode, I read Chapter 18 from Champion in the Darkness, discuss favorite characters, and creating depth in a secondary character and how that led to writing a new series. I also ask a few questions:Can you tell which point of view character was my favorite character while I was writing?And, if you are a Kickstarter backer, do you expect to receive a new book months in advance of the wide release of those books?Thanks for joining me!Links: My SubstackSummer Fantasy Adventures Newsletter Builderhttps://books.bookfunnel.com/summerfantasyadventures/ib03gh7jsvNoblebright Scifi And Fantasyhttps://books.bookfunnel.com/noblebrightreviews/rvxhp305iyBlaster Cannons, Aliens, Space Opera, and Really Big Shipshttps://books.bookfunnel.com/newscifilaunch/bwhohxyobi

S1 Ep 29Writing Episode - Worldbuilding, Part 5: Technology - And IWSG: Discussion of AI
In this episode, I attempt to tackle two subjects: Technology Use in Worldbuilding and the IWSG discussion topic about AI use. IWSG is a monthly blog hop about writing for writers and the AI discussion is in regards to our optional monthly question.Links:Tyrean’s Tales WebsiteSummer Fantasy Adventures Book FunnelBlaster Cannons, Aliens, Space Opera, and Really Big Ships Book FunnelNoblebright Scifi and Fantasy Book Funnel The IWSG Question was worded as follows: Do you use AI in your writing and if so how? Do you use it for your posts? Incorporate it into your stories? Use it for research? Audio?My Overall View of AI: God is greater. Human creativity is more imaginative. Human relationships are more important. Many aspects of life are more important to me than AI. But it is a tool and we need to consider how we view it, and how we use it. Human creativity is always going to win the day. Believing that, and sticking with that, is going to help us alleviate the issues surrounding AI use. I’m not saying “let’s stick our heads in the sand,” but I am saying, let’s be positive and refocus the way we view AI - as a tool.AI use as a tool is widespread already: Unless you are currently using pen and paper, you are using AI. If you are reading this on a smartphone or a laptop or a desktop or a screen hooked to the internet, you are using AI. If you use autofill, you are using AI. If you use email, you are using AI. If you use search engines, you are using AI. If you use Amazon, you are using AI. If you are using social media, you are using AI. If you use Google translate, you are using AI.To me, AI is a tool and will always be a tool.I like being human. I’m messy. I’m quirky. I also don’t mind using AI tools. I don’t plan on it taking over my life or allowing it to whisper to my soul and suck me down into a fiery pit - partly because I don’t think either of those is possible. I have a choice, as does each person reading this.

S1 Ep 28Writing Episode - World-building, Part 4: Geography, Landscapes, Culture, and Conflict
In this episode, I dive into possible ways geography and landscape have affected our world’s cultures, trade, and worldviews, and how this can happen in our fiction world-building to affect our fictional characters and create conflict in our stories. Mentioned: Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, Star Trek, Star Wars, The Champion Trilogy, The Rayatana Series, and Dark Blade: Forged.Links:Summer Fantasy Adventures Book Funnel for 70 free books!Tyrean’s Tales WebsiteTyrean on Substack - my newsletter platform

S1 Ep 27Episode 27: Fiction Friday Episode - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 17
In this episode, I read aloud chapter 17 from my novel Champion in the Darkness, and discuss the issues with writing scary scenes in young adult novels. How much is too much detail? How much is enough? If you have thoughts, please feel free to let me know by messaging me. Is this scene PG-13 or more?Tyrean's Tales WebsiteSummer Fantasy Adventures - 70 #free books, including Champion in the Darkness

S1 Ep 26Writing Episode - World-building, Part 3: Maps, Obstacles, and Character Journeys
In this episode, I discuss four reasons to create maps for fiction narratives, whether those fiction narratives are set in imagined worlds or our contemporary world. I give examples from several books as well as some real life examples of how this exercise can help writers keep track of details, create obstacles for their characters, reveal important information about their characters, and create realistic details for their readers to enjoy.Mentions:Jemi Fraser, Romantic Suspense AuthorEC Murray, Contemporary Literary and Mystery AuthorJ.R.R. TolkienC.S. LewisIndirect references: Champion in the Darkness and LiftoffLinks:Free offer of Champion in the Darkness through Noble Bright Fantasy and Scifi Book FunnelTyrean's TalesNewsletter and Podcast on Substack

S1 Ep 25Fiction Friday Episode: Chapter 16 of Champion in the Darkness
In this episode, I read chapter 16 of Champion in the Darkness and make a few remarks about the characters and their roles in this book as well as their roles in the prequel trilogy. Thanks for listening!Links:Champion in the DarknessTyrean's TalesNewsletter and Podcast on SubstackSummer Fantasy Bookfunnel

S1 Ep 24News Episode: "Oops" and Realm Makers July 23, 2024
Last week I had a bit of an “oops” with my podcast scheduling, plus I went to Realm Makers Writing Conference. This episode is all about those two bits of news.If you are new to my newsletter, this is what you will receive most of the time: a podcast episode and a brief show summary. At some point, I may start including a transcript. I usually release two episodes a week: a writing episode on Wednesday and a fiction episode on Friday.Links:Summer Fantasy Book FunnelTyrean’s Tales WebsiteTyrean on Substack - newsletterAmazon Author Central

Fiction Friday Episode
In this episode, I read chapter 16 of Champion in the Darkness and make a few remarks about the characters and their roles in this book as well as their roles in the prequel trilogy. Thanks for listening!Links:Champion in the DarknessTyrean's TalesNewsletter and Podcast on SubstackNoble Bright Book Funnel - Champion in the Darkness ebook is free until July 20th through this.

S1 Ep 23Writing Episode - World-building and Setting, Part 2: Travel and Obstacles
In this episode, I discuss the way character is revealed through setting, and how setting can be a source of obstacles our characters face, especially in the area of travel in fantasy, science fiction, thrillers, and contemporary fiction.In this episode, I mentioned or made reference to: The Martian by Andy Weir, The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, No Bed of Roses by Jemi Fraser, and my book Champion in Flight.I also mentioned: Cutter's Point CoffeeNoble Bright Fantasy and Scifi Book Funnel - free books!My Links:Tyrean's Tales https://tyreanstales.com/

S1 Ep 22Writing Episode: Setting and World Building, Part 1
In this writing episode, I introduce why I believe understanding setting and world-building details is important for us as authors, where I begin with setting and world-building, and briefly mention methods we can use to dive into our setting and world-building. I will be speaking more on this topic in coming episodes.In addition to that topic, I mentioned the Insecure Writer's Support Group and the optional question for the July post, which is: What are your favorite writing processing (e.g. Word, Scrivener, yWriter, Dabble), writing apps, software, and tools?My answers were Word, Google Docs, Atticus, Canva, and Book Funnel. I also use RSS Feeds and Substack for this podcast. Other mentions:Chrys Fey, Editor and AuthorCarrie Butler, Formatter and Cover DesignerLiftoff, the first book in The Rayatana SeriesThe A to Z Blogging ChallengeMy links:NobleBright Scifi and Fantasy Book Funnel - 37 Free Books, including Champion in the DarknessTyrean's TalesTyrean's Writing Spot Blog Substack

S1 Ep 21Writing Episode - Talking About Being a Writer
In this episode, I talk about three different reactions I get when I tell people I am an author, how I handle those interactions - sometimes well and sometimes awkwardly, and why I tell people if it's not always easy.Links to Current Book Funnels for July:Author Help Books - 10 Books for Authors! https://books.bookfunnel.com/authorhelp/1yr6dhtndqFierce Fantasy Books - 140 Books! https://books.bookfunnel.com/fiercefantasy-jun/n0uhy094vuLinks to my usual places:Tyrean's Tales https://tyreanstales.com/My Substack/Newsletter https://tyrean.substack.com/

S1 Ep 20Fiction Episode - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 15
In this episode, I read aloud Chapter 15 from Champion in the Darkness, my overtly Christian Fantasy novel I wrote over a decade ago, and I discuss what went into this chapter and the scenes within it, as well as how it relates to my prequel trilogy, The Dark Blade Trilogy. Links:Champion in the Darkness https://books2read.com/u/bW8kJ0 Tyrean's Tales https://tyreanstales.com/

S1 Ep 19Writing Episode - Achievable Goals and Habits
In this episode, I give a brief discussion on Achievable Goals and Habits as an author. Show Links:Clear, James. “Forget About Setting Goals. Focus on This Instead.” Accessed 6/18/2024. https://jamesclear.com/goals-systemsClear, James. Atomic Habits. https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break-ebook/dp/B07D23CFGR/ eSoft Skills Team. “Sustainable Goal Setting for Personal and Professional Growth.“ESS Global Training Solutions. Accessed 6/18/2024. https://esoftskills.com/sustainable-goal-setting-for-personal-and-professional-growth/ Fox, Chris. Lifelong Writing Habit. https://www.amazon.com/Lifelong-Writing-Habit-Secret-Smarter/dp/1548183288 Forbes Coaches Council. “ 12 Creative Ways To Sustain The Energy You Need To Reach Your Goals.” July 16, 2021. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2021/07/16/12-creative-ways-to-sustain-the-energy-you-need-to-reach-your-goals/ Garcy, Pamela D., PhD. “How to Set and Accomplish Your Goal: 11 Steps To Success!” Psychology Today. Posted May 11, 2019. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fearless-you/201905/how-set-and-accomplish-your-goal-11-steps-success Kang, Shimi. “How to Set, Achieve, and Sustain Goals.” December 27, 2016. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-dolphin-way/201612/how-set-achieve-and-sustain-goals Smithsonian. The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth. National Museum of African American History and Culture. Accessed 6/19/2024. https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/historical-legacy-juneteenthAs alwaysTyrean's Tales https://tyreanstales.com/

S1 Ep 18Fiction Episode - Champion in the Darkness, Chapters 12-14
In this episode, I share a few events going on this week, read chapters 12-14 of Champion in the Darkness, and discuss the enjoyment of giving my characters troubles, and staying away from info dumps.Links for this episode:Mysteries, Monsters, and Mayhem Podcast where I'll be a guest on June 15th.Fierce Fantasy Book Funnel - over 140 books!Author Help Books - 10 books for authors by authorsPoetry Marathon EventChampion in the Darkness

S1 Ep 17Writing Episode - Sustainable Goals and Celebrations
In this episode, I discuss the need for sustainable goals in my writing life, and how rewards (planned or happenstance) motivate and inspire me to keep going. Mini Points in this episodeIntroduction (0:00) Example of a goal from my past and a question of sustainability (1:00)Rewriting Goals and Problems with a Perfectionist Attitude (2:32)SMART Goal (4:02)My reason for focusing on sustainability (4:24)Sustainable and Realistic Goals (6:57)The reason for this subject today, my goals for the summer, and The Rayatana Series (7:40)Brief mention of pitching at Realm Makers (a Christian Speculative Fiction Writing Conference in St. Louis) (10:10)Revisions for Dark Blade: Forged (11:30) as one of the goalsWriting is Work (13:20)Marketing Plans and Goals (14:30)Celebrations in Writing and Life (16:05) Happenstance Celebrations and a Mention of Village Books in Bellingham, WA (16:55)Going to the movies as a storytelling celebration (21:30)Specific celebrations for books (23:50)A simple act of celebration (29:00)Events and PromotionsMysteries, Monsters, & Mayhem - episode 169: The Unexplainable will air on June 15th.Realm Makers - July Event Fierce Fantasy Book Funnel - 140+ books of fantasy!Author Help Books - 10 Books by Author for Authors

S1 Ep 16Friday Fiction Episode - Champion in the Darkness, Chapters 9-11
Buckle up! These chapters come with a minor content warning. These chapters contain some of the most open faith-based fiction I have ever written, so if you're worldview is not the same, please prepare yourself. And if your faith worldview is similar to mine, please take a breath, and consider this is a fictional world. It's hard to juggle faith in a fictional setting, especially a fantasy fictional setting, so note that I tried to stick to basic truths about faith in a way that's true to the characters I am writing about in this fantasy world. Plus, I share a bit about how stories change, and how one of these chapters started as a short story that eventually became this novel.

S1 Ep 15Writing Episode - What is the "Truth" in Storytelling?
In this episode, I finally share the reason behind the name of this podcast The Truth About Storytelling, how it came to be, why I think it's important, and how truth in our storytelling can affect our fiction stories and our real lives.If you are interested in the last items I mention in the podcast, here are the links for those:IWSG (Insecure Writer's Support Group) Page LinkFor June 2024:Author Help BooksFierce Fantasy

S1 Ep 14Fiction Episode - Champion in the Darkness, Chapters 7 and 8
In this episode, I read out loud chapters 7 and 8 from Champion in the Darkness, and discuss projects I am currently working on, both one that relates to the Champion Trilogy and one that does not. I also mention a few promotional offers.Good through May 2nd:Magic and Mayhem - Free ebooks for Newsletter Sign UpsClean Scifi and Fantasy on KU - Books only free in KUJune 1-30:Fierce Fantasy - promotion

S1 Ep 13Writing Episode - Character Names
In this episode, I discuss character names and how they can have meaning in our writing. I did quite a bit of research for this episode, and I mention a number of links, which are listed here:6 Creative Ways to Name Your Fictional CharactersCharacter NamesCratylic NamesHarry Potter and the Mysteries of Cormoran Strike – Part 2: Cratylic NamesHow To Come Up With Book Character NamesHow to Create Character NamesHow to Name Your CharactersNote 10 on Cratylic NamesThe Name and Its SignificanceWhat Kind of Name is That?

S1 Ep 12Fiction Episode - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 6
In this episode, I read out loud chapter six from Champion in the Darkness. After that, I discuss what went into the chapter, including both interior and exterior conflict in each scene, and how I feel writing is a progressive skill we learn over time.I also mention two promotional offers for the month of May 2024.With Magic and Mayhem, you can receive a free e-copy of Champion in the Darkness.With Clean Scifi and Fantasy for Kindle Unlimited, you can receive a discounted e-copy of Champion in Flight.Thanks for listening!

S1 Ep 11Writing Episode: Some Thoughts on "Literature" and Writing What You Love
In this episode, I discuss the main definition of literature as all written work, the trouble with separating out specific works as "literary," and writing what we love.References:Brittanica on LiteratureScott Reintgen - an author I consider to be a master craftsmanMy website where you can find my work: Tyrean's TalesGo to these two links for free or discounted books with BookFunnel, including Champion in the Darkness and Champion in Flight, in May 2024 only:Magic and MayhemClean Scifi and Fantasy on KU

S1 Ep 10Fiction Friday - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 5
In this episode, I read Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 5, and then discuss what went into creating the battle scene, plus why I write multiple characters and how I write them. Find out what I learned while writing this chapter, what I have learned since, and what I think of the book ten years later. Champion in the Darkness Universal LinkPromotional links mentioned in this episode, good for May 2024 only:Magic and Mayhem Newsletter Builder - Get a free ebook copy of Champion in the Darkness for free with a newsletter sign up through this promotion.Clean Scifi/Fantasy reads on Kindle Unlimited - find the second book in the Champion Trilogy, Champion in Flight.

S1 Ep 9Writing episode: Theme
In this episode, I discuss theme.What is it?How can we discover it?How do genres work with theme?And, how can we use it to drive our stories forward and market our books?A few websites I used to firm up my thoughts on theme are (please check these out for more theme examples): https://writers.com/common-themes-in-literaturehttps://prowritingaid.com/themes-in-literature

S1 Ep 8Fiction Friday - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 4
In this episode, I read Chapter 4 of Champion in the Darkness and discuss how I named Kalidess and some of what went into building up her character in the novel. If you are interested in receiving a free ebook copy of Champion in the Darkness, it is currently a part of the Magic and Mayhem Newsletter Builder, while Book 2: Champion in Flight is part of the Clean Scifi and Fantasy KU promotion. Thank you for listening!

S1 Ep 7Writing Episode: Creating Writing Habits
In this episode, I discuss what it takes to create healthy writing habits and routines through the key elements of trigger, routine, and reward.During this episode, I reference two writing books:Lifelong Writing Habit: The Secret to Writing Every Day by Chris FoxandLetters to New Authors: 29 Encouraging Letters by Rachael HerronIf you would like to know more about me and my work, please check out my website Tyrean's Tales.

S1 Ep 6Fiction Friday - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 3
In this episode, I read chapter three from Champion in the Darkness and then discuss some of the world-building that went into the novel.

S1 Ep 5Writing Episode - Dealing with Distractions, Writing Groups, Pivots, and Promos
In this episode, I discuss how I deal with distractions through mindset and affirmation work, as well as color and visual cues. I also discuss an online writer’s group I have been a part of for over 12 years (IWSG), Pivots, and Promo Groups I have found particularly helpful in my writing career this year. References (there are many this month):The Insecure Writer’s Support Group (IWSG)Alex J. CavanaughBook FunnelStorybundleClean SciFi and Fantasy on KUMagic and Mayhem Newsletter Builder Find more of my work at my website: Tyrean’s Tales

S1 Ep 4Fiction Friday Episode - Champion in the Darkness, Chapter 2
Welcome to Fiction Friday again. Today, I will be reading Chapter 2 from Champion in the Darkness, a Christian Fantasy novel I wrote long ago. I wrote the first draft of this book in 2009, wrote the second draft in 2011 with NaNoWriMo, and I wrote a total of seven drafts before it came out in 2013/2014. I ended up having to revise it again in 2014, but I still stand by the story itself. It’s a decent read, and it’s story-worthy. I’m not saying everyone will like it, but I hope you do.