This week we’ll be introducing our editors, and offering the chance to see a bit more about what they’re looking for in submissions. Next up is our Dream Artisan, Suz!
Are there any tropes you go feral for?
I love for my heart to be ripped out and thrown against a wall.
There’s just something so captivating about seeing characters evolve and break away from their initial roles. Whether it’s a villain finding redemption through unexpected circumstances or a former enemy joining forces with the protagonists against a greater threat, this trope adds layers of complexity to the story. The journey from antagonist to ally often involves internal struggles, moral dilemmas, and eventual growth, making for compelling character arcs.
Secrets and legacies shrouded in mystery can add intrigue and suspense to any narrative. Whether it’s a long-lost family secret, a hidden power waiting to be unlocked, or an unexpected inheritance that changes the course of a character’s life, uncovering the truth becomes a driving force for the plot. The revelation of hidden truths can lead to profound revelations, conflicts, and character development as characters grapple with the consequences of newfound knowledge.
The reluctant hero is a timeless archetype that resonates with many audiences. These are characters thrust into extraordinary circumstances or called upon to fulfill a destiny they never sought. Their initial reluctance adds tension and depth to the story as they grapple with self-doubt, fear, and the weight of responsibility. Watching them overcome their hesitations and rise to the challenge can be both inspiring and emotionally resonant.
The “all hope lost” trope plunges characters into the depths of despair and challenges them to find resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity. This narrative device raises the stakes and tests the resolve of protagonists as they confront seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Whether it’s a crushing defeat, a devastating betrayal, or a seemingly hopeless situation, the journey back from despair can be a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.
The convergence of these tropes in a story can create a gripping narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. From the redemption of former foes to the revelation of long-buried secrets, from the reluctant hero’s journey to the darkest moments of despair, these storytelling elements evoke a range of emotions and leave a lasting impact on audiences. If you write on any of these topics, be sure to deliver the emotional gut punches that I crave.
Do you have a preference for action?
YES. Action-packed stories have a unique allure that a blend of adrenaline-fueled excitement, intense confrontations, and high-stakes challenges that keep me engaged from start to finish.
Action empowers both characters and audiences alike, allowing them to confront challenges head-on and emerge victorious against all odds. The triumph of good over evil, the perseverance of the underdog, and the resilience of the human spirit are recurring themes in action narratives that resonate with viewers on a deep level. Watching characters push their limits, defy expectations, and achieve the seemingly impossible instills a sense of hope and inspiration in audiences, reminding them of their own capacity for greatness.
How’s your sense of humor?
My sense of humor? Well, it’s like a good dad joke – cheesy, punny, and guaranteed to elicit a groan and a chuckle at the same time.
Wordplay is a cornerstone of my humor, and I enjoy crafting and sharing puns that playfully twist language for comedic effect. Whether it’s a clever play on words, a witty double entendre, or a humorous pun based on everyday situations, I excel at finding humor in the nuances of language.
I want you to have the uncanny ability to elicit both groans and chuckles simultaneously.
Make. Me. Laugh.
How much setting detail do you need to “see” a story?
Give me a few clues, and I’ll paint the picture in my mind.
Are you a genre purist?
I want stories that defy categorization and embrace a wide range of influences. Whether it’s mixing elements of science fiction with fantasy, blending romance with mystery, or infusing comedy into drama, I appreciate the versatility and creativity that comes from blending different genres.
By combining elements from multiple genres, storytellers can create rich tapestries of plot, character, and theme that transcend the limitations of any single genre. This approach fosters innovation and experimentation, encouraging writers and filmmakers to push the boundaries of storytelling in exciting and unexpected ways.
What kind of characters do you like?
I do have a preferences for characters that fall within the LGBTQIA+ community. As someone who is apart of the community, I love seeing queer characters as more than just a sidekick, but also the hero of their story.
I’m also drawn to underdog characters—those who start from disadvantaged positions or face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. These characters often lack natural talent, resources, or societal advantages, but what sets them apart is their unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Watching them struggle and persevere against the odds can be incredibly inspiring and emotionally resonant.
Squawk! When it comes to pacing, do you enjoy books that take off like a bolt of lightning or ones that meander along at a leisurely pace, allowing you to savor every moment?
In the realm of fantasy, I prefer books that catapult me into the heart of the action with breakneck speed. Whether it’s epic battles, magical discoveries, or journeys across fantastical landscapes, I crave a pacing that propels me forward with a sense of urgency and excitement. The rapid-fire pacing immerses me in the richly imagined world of the story, igniting my imagination and leaving me breathless with anticipation for what comes next.
Conversely, when it comes to mysteries and thrillers, I appreciate a slower, more deliberate pacing that allows me to savor every moment of tension and suspense. I prefer narratives that unfold at a leisurely pace, ratcheting up the tension with each carefully crafted twist and turn. This slower pacing draws me deeper into the intricate web of clues and intrigue, keeping me on the edge of my seat as I anticipate the next revelation or plot twist.