Pete and Devin sit down with fantasy, romantasy, sci-fi, and indie authors. Not for the press tour. For the real conversation. Books, movies, music, and whatever else comes up.
Episodes streamed live on the @realm_runners youtube channel then uploaded to all platforms.
Be sure to follow Pete on socials @Pete_Reviews_Books_Good and Devin @BroMantasy for the latest show updates and episode announcements!
Publisher
Pete (Pete_Reviews_Books_Good) & Devin (BroMantasy)
Behind the Shield Wall: John Gwynne on Family, Fantasy & His Writing Journey
Join us on Realm Runners as we sit down with acclaimed fantasy author John Gwynne. He shares a deeply personal look into his writing process, revealing how family is central to the heart and soul of his gripping narratives and intricate characters.
From his unique writing journey beginning as a family project, to the profound influence of films like 'Braveheart' and 'Lord of the Rings,' and even his sons' encouragement to join social media, it's fascinating to see how much authentic connections that shape his epic worlds.
Get ready for a heartfelt dive into the heart of an epic storyteller.
👍 If you appreciate the personal side of writing!
➡️ Subscribe to Realm Runners for more genuine author insights!
#JohnGwynne #FantasyAuthor #WritingInspiration #FamilyInWriting #RealmRunners #AuthorInterview #EpicFantasy #WritingJourney
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:53 Family as a Central Theme in Gwynne's Books
03:58 Influence of Personal Life and Early Writing Days
06:47 Social Media and Public Engagement
08:54 Historical and Mythological Influences in Writing
11:58 Inspiration from Films like Braveheart
14:01 Character Development and Emotional Impact
17:06 Handling Character Deaths and Emotional Scenes
21:03 Writing Process and World-Building Techniques
27:11 Series Planning and Future Projects
36:08 Battle Scenes and POV Techniques
43:55 Personal Loss and Its Influence on Writing
54:02 Mythology, History, and Research in Storytelling
01:00:00 Adaption Possibilities and Future Opportunities
01:03:04 Closing Remarks and Appreciation
14 Oct 2026
The Indie Author Playbook (Grimdark Edition): Z.B. Steele's Secrets to Publishing Success
The Crown Price of Grimdark is back!
In this episode, Z.B. Steele shares insights on indie publishing, cover art, audiobook production, and navigating the industry with a brutally honest and humorous approach.
We discuss the nuances of character development, the importance of transparency in indie publishing, and the strategic use of novellas for fan engagement and marketing.
Along with insights on world-building, marketing strategies, and the surprising reader reactions that keep authors motivated, this is a follow up episode with a fan favorite you won't want to miss!
6 Oct 2026
Marie Lu: from YA to Adult Fantasy, the Art of World-Building and what comes next!
Join us as Marie Lu discusses her transition from writing YA to adult fantasy. She shares insights into her unique world-building process, detailing how influences like alchemy and gaming shape her intricate story settings.
We also explore her approach to character development, relationships, and the careful handling of mature themes. Listen in to understand how she crafts compelling characters and immersive worlds, engaging readers across different genres.
Finally, Marie touches on her strategies for series planning and offers a glimpse into her upcoming projects.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and guest background
02:01 Marie Lu's journey from YA to adult fantasy
04:04 Themes and depth in Red City
06:57 Structure and flashbacks in storytelling
10:04 Flipping tropes: magic school and ambition
15:00 Inspiration from London and alchemy
20:09 Magic system development and alchemy's role
24:47 Character relationships and emotional depth
30:06 Series planning and future projects
34:59 Influences from films, books, and personal experiences
39:58 World-building in London and contemporary gods
45:08 Gaming influences and system design
50:01 Writing process and multitasking on projects
54:52 Closing thoughts and appreciation
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
13 ratings
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