Of Flame And Fern
Current Project: Of Flame and Fern
Of Flame and Fern is a fantasy novel set in a world where elemental magic and ancient fae power influence the lives of twin sisters, Thera and Eiryn. As their paths diverge—Thera reconnecting with nature and her past, and Eiryn drawn further into the structured world of ambition—the balance between mortals, fae, and magic begins to shift. Thera’s growing connection to Caelin, a faerie surrounded by rumours of a troubling past, adds a romantic element to her journey of self-discovery, while Eiryn’s choices pull her deeper into the political complexities of their magical world. The novel weaves together themes of love, power, and identity, as both sisters must navigate their relationships and their roles within a world in flux.
Currently in the final stages of drafting, Of Flame and Fern explores the tension between personal desires and the larger forces at play in a richly magical world.
Art by Chelzd_art
FAQs
What is the world of ‘Of Flame and Fern’ like?
The world of Of Flame and Fern is a magical one, where fae courts and Etheriums coexist with mortals. The Etheriums are magical academies that each focus on different brands of magic, while the fae courts are ancient realms of power with their own political intrigue. The story is deeply rooted in the natural world, with a look at elemental magic—earth, fire, air, and water—and the bonds people form with the magic around them. It’s a world filled with both beauty and danger, where the balance of power can shift at any moment.
Will ‘Of Flame and Fern’ be part of a series?
Yes! Of Flame and Fern is the first book in a planned series. As the story unfolds, we’ll explore more of the Etheriums, the fae courts, and the deeper mysteries surrounding the magical world. There are larger forces at play, and Thera and Eiryn’s journey is only just beginning. There is more to their heritage than they’ve discovered just yet. I’m excited to take readers further into this world and reveal the secrets hidden beneath the surface.
Where do you get your inspiration for worldbuilding?
Much of my inspiration comes from nature. I love forests, mountains, and the quiet magic that exists in the natural world, and I try to reflect that in my writing. The fae courts and Etheriums in Of Flame and Fern are shaped by these natural elements. I also draw from mythology, folklore, and my fascination with how ancient cultures perceived magic and the natural world. Celtic mythology particularly has always captivated my imagination, and I have always felt drawn to Paganism. Combining these influences allows me to create a world that feels both timeless and full of wonder.
Who are your main characters in ‘Of Flame and Fern’?
The main characters are twin sisters, Thera and Eiryn Emberwood. Thera, the more grounded and earthy sister, has a deep connection to nature and has an affinity for earth magic, while Eiryn is ambitious, has an affinity for fire magic, and is focused on her future at the Verdant Arcanum. Another key character is Caelin Thorne, a faerie with a rough past. His journey is about healing. Mordwen Aldric struggles with the choice between what his family expects of him and what he truly wants for himself. The relationships between these characters are complex, with love, loyalty, and ambition all playing a role in their arcs.
What inspired you to write ‘Of Flame and Fern’?
This story has been in my head since 2007. I remember sitting in a lecture at university, drawing my map of the world instead of making notes for my history class. Of Flame and Fern was born out of my love for nature and the rich mythologies that explore the bond between the elements, magic, and the fae. I’ve always been fascinated by stories that deal with complex relationships and the way individuals must balance their personal desires with their responsibilities to others. Thera’s journey is particularly special to me because she embodies the connection to the earth, and her internal struggles mirror those of finding one’s place in a world full of expectations. The natural world often inspires my creativity, and this story reflects my fascination with the interplay between humanity and the magical forces of nature.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing for as long as I’ve been reading! I could read before I even started school, and creative writing tasks were always my favorite. I would often write pages beyond what was asked, crafting complex and dramatic stories where, more often than not, everyone would die. Fantasy has always been my love, and Of Flame and Fern is the culmination of years of creative exploration in a genre that has always felt like home to me.