September’s What We’re Enjoying comes from Gwen Frazer, Social Media wrangler.
In the world of fantasy and science fiction, where I reside, every convention feels like a portal to another dimension. I’m based in the enchanting city of Galway, and my passion for these conventions has led me to various corners of Ireland, UK, Sweden, Finland, Spain and to Chicago in the US. It’s at these gatherings that I find myself among kindred spirits, discussing everything from books to films, and forging connections that transcend the boundaries of mere fandom.
My convention journey has been a whirlwind of excitement, and I’ve had the privilege of attending events on both sides of the Atlantic. For me, conventions are a haven where I can meet fellow fans, trade stories, and, of course, discover new books to add to my ever-growing collection.
Earlier this year, I had an unexpected encounter with fantasy author David Green at a tabletop/D&D convention in Athenry. His books, part of the “Empire of Ruin” series, beckoned to me, and I couldn’t resist. During the summer, I delved into the first book of the series, “In Solitude’s Shadow.” It was a slow burn, gently setting the stage for what was to come in “Path of War.” Looking back, I appreciate the patience it demanded of me as a reader, for it enriched my experience of book two immensely.
As I write this, I’m currently lost within the pages of “Path of War,” and what an adventure it has been! The book’s blurb, a tantalizing promise of epic conflict and intrigue, had me hooked from the start:
‘Reeling from the events at Solitude, Calene Alpenwood embarks on a journey to find meaning in all that she’s seen, and discover the answers she so desperately seeks…’
I find myself enthralled by the characters and their mysteries. Who are the banished? Why do they flee? These questions, along with many others, propel me deeper into this dark fantasy realm, hungry for answers. With each page I turn, my curiosity grows. Will Calene and Brina acknowledge their feelings? Can Kade Besem reunite with his son? Will the truth about Emperor Locke be revealed? Can Calene defeat the Shadow Sparkers? The tapestry of questions and expectations that “Path of War” weaves keeps me on the edge of my seat.
In conclusion, my journey into “Path of War” is far from over, and I relish every moment spent in this intricate and enthralling world. It’s a reminder that in the realm of fantasy literature, there are always new horizons to explore, new stories to unravel, and new friends to meet at conventions. Speaking of conventions, I’m excited to extend an invitation. If you’re as passionate about science fiction, fantasy, or any captivating topic as I am, I’d be thrilled to meet you at Octocon.
Let’s delve deeper into the worlds of our favorite authors, share our thoughts on the latest releases, and, most importantly, forge connections that make our convention experiences even more memorable.