When I first started to write my novel, Sea Weaver, and created entire worlds beneath the seas, I didn’t consider whether it was possible for forests and cities to exist within the ocean depths. Hey, it’s fantasy, right? So out of curiosity, I researched this concept to see if it’s at all probable for forests…
Imagining Other Worlds: How Art Inspires Fantasy Worldbuilding
Art has the power to transport us to other worlds, to ignite our imaginations, and inspire us to create fantastical worlds in our own writing. Whether it’s a painting, a sculpture, a photograph, a tapestry, or even a piece of music, art can provide the inspiration we need to bring our own fantasy worlds to…
Unearthing the Past: Cave Dwellings in Ancient Armenia Inspiring My Fantasy Novel’s Enchanting Setting
Photo by Ani Adigyozalyan on Unsplash Cave dwellings have been an enduring feature throughout human history, and ancient Armenia holds a rich tapestry of these remarkable habitations. Inspired by the cave dwellings that once adorned the landscapes of ancient Armenia and its neighboring regions, I felt compelled to breathe life into a cave village within…
Ayg, the Goddess of Dawn: Exploring Armenian Mythology
Armenian mythology is rich with stories of gods and goddesses. I’ve always been fascinated by the legends and lore of the lesser-known gods of various pantheons. Ayg (or Arshaluys), the goddess of dawn in Armenian mythology, is a figure about whom little is known. When I discovered Ayg, I was immediately drawn to her role…
From Crossroads to Fantasy: How Armenian Mythology Inspired My Writing
As writers, it’s often said that we draw from our own experiences and cultures to create unique and captivating stories. For me, being of Armenian descent has heavily influenced my writing, particularly in the realm of young adult fantasy. One of the most fascinating aspects of Armenian culture is its mythology. As a child, I…
Semi-Finalist, Writers of the Future Contest
I’m honored to announce that I’m a semi-finalist in the 2022 second quarter of the Writers of the Future Contest. Out of so many talented entries from all over the world, to be placed toward the top is humbling.
SCBWI Orlando Conference
#reunited22 This past weekend I attended my first conference in four years – the SCBWI Florida Regional Conference in Orlando. All I have to say is, wow. Just wow. I’ve attended various writing conferences before, including the SCBWI ones in the northeast. But this one was different. Smaller. Personal. Supportive. Rob Sanders and Becky Herzog,…
Tribute to David Wolverton (writing as David Farland)
I met Dave in 2016, when he was offering online and in-person writing workshops. I signed up for one of his online classes, then had a one-on-one coaching session with him about my work. In 2018 I wound up traveling to Texas for his in-person workshop, Writers Peak, which he ran with his son, Forrest….
YARWA Finalist!
I’m very excited that my novel, Seabreather, made finals in this year’s YARWA contest – in the speculative fiction category.