Five Fantasy Swordsmen I’d Never, Ever Want to Challenge

This post was originally published on Tor.com.  Reader, I am not what most would describe as “fit.” Dexterous, sure; I can play ping pong, darts, or Spikeball with the best of ‘em. I walk 10+ miles per week. I’m not particularly strong, but I’ll help you move for the right price (pizza). The biggest thing…

Welcome to the Cosmere

Welcome To The Cosmere: A Brandon Sanderson Reading Order Guide

Come one, come all to the Cosmere! That’s right folks, after years of Brandon Sanderson reviews and discussions, we’re finally laying down the law. Today, one and a half Brandon Sanderson experts (Andrew and Cole, respectively) shoulder the Herculean task of telling YOU the ideal Brandon Sanderson reading order.  A few clean-up notes before we…

Cosmere Cashmere: Finding the Best Fit for Sanderson’s Cosmere Planets

This post originally appeared on Tor.com.  Sometimes, endlessly singing the praises of your favorite fictional universes can pay off. Such was the case with Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere, when a friend who doesn’t read a whole lot finally picked up one of the books. It took some coaxing—in the form of a suggested reading order, a Please Adapt…

Your Star Chart to Science Fiction, No Not That Kind of Star Chart

Science Fiction can be as expansive as our galaxy and only aims to grow larger and more diverse as time marches inexorably forward. If you’re new to the genre, or even a veteran looking to expand your horizons, it can feel overwhelming to find the right break-in points. Do you think aliens are cool? Or…

Scythe Thought Piece Cover Photo

Neal Shusterman’s Scythe Might Signal a Fresh Direction for SFF Blockbusters

This article originally appeared on Tor.com.  Neal Shusterman’s Arc of a Scythe series has captured the hearts of many readers, mine included, since the first installment was published in 2016. I read the first novel in one sitting. I was home sick from work with the kind of cold that kept me couch-ridden but not…

Dragons, Ghost Dogs, and Doomslugs: What Are Your Favorite Fantasy Animal Companions?

This article originally appeared on Tor.com.  Warning: this post contains no deep interpretations of animal companions and their impact on story. I won’t philosophize on the essential nature of furry, fuzzy, or squishy familiars or ask why they exist in the first place. Bottom line: they’re cute as hell, and sometimes that’s enough. I’m writing…