Category: Posts for readers
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The secret language of maps in fantasy books
Discover the secret language of fantasy maps. Learn how to decode the hidden plot clues in your favorite science fiction and fantasy books by analyzing the geography, mountain ranges, and hidden terrains before you read the first chapter.
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Bringing my book universe to life with AI image generation (part 1)
Discover how author Kristen Pham uses AI image generation to visualize characters and world building for her upcoming superhero spoof novel Super Santa. Learn tips for creating consistent and hyperrealistic AI character models to inspire your own fiction writing process.
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Decoding fiction age categories from middle grade to adult
Confused about the exact differences between Middle Grade, Young Adult, New Adult, and Adult fiction? Whether you are a reader searching for the perfect sci-fi or fantasy adventure, or a writer figuring out where your manuscript belongs, this guide breaks down the age categories, themes, word counts, and content guidelines you need to know.
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The 5 best YA science fiction and fantasy books with top-tier romantic banter
Looking for the best YA science fiction and fantasy books with amazing romantic banter? Author Kristen Pham breaks down what makes dialogue sparkle and shares her top 5 favorite snarky, swoon-worthy reads.
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SIDE QUEST: From the journal of Lord Malakor the Unforgiving
Welcome to Side Quest, a series of posts I share on my blog from time to time that give you a peek into the weird ‘what if’ scenarios and playful thought experiments I use to keep my imagination fired up when I’m taking a break from my latest novel. Day 482 of the Eternal Gloom I am…
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Sidekicks with main character energy
As a writer, there’s a secret, terrifying, and exhilarating thing that can happen while you’re drafting: a character you intended for a minor role walks into a scene and refuses to leave. They show up with a fully-formed voice, a riveting backstory you never planned, and a perspective so compelling it threatens to derail your…
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Build your own, real life fantasy world
Every time you open a book, you step through a portal. You’ve dined in great halls, crept through whispering forests, and studied arcane secrets in candlelit towers. But the portal always closes when you read the last page, leaving you behind. What if you could keep a piece of that magic with you? What if…
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SIDE QUEST: So you’re the chosen one. Here’s how to procrastinate responsibly.
Welcome to Side Quest, a new series of posts I’ll share on my blog from time to time that give you a peek into the weird ‘what if’ scenarios and playful thought experiments I use to keep my imagination fired up when I’m taking a break from my latest novel.This is the very first one,…