Get to know us...
Jules Cory
During my career as a veterinary nurse, my love of words was channelled into writing articles for professional journals and producing educational materials.
The appeal of language, however, never left and I decided to complete the task I had set myself decades before; writing a novel and submerging myself in the realms of myth and folklore.
Dragonslayer
I consider the Dragonslayer series as my journeyman piece, perfecting my writing, learning my 'voice' and exploring the process of self-publishing.
The Bard was published in May 2018, with The Seer released two years later. The final instalment of the trilogy, The Druid, was released in 2024.
Inspiration
I can find the basis for stories, characters and plot lines almost anywhere, although the main ways I find inspiration include:
Rogues' Gallery
In this chaotic world, I find being surrounded by trees or being beside water allows my mind to wander to faraway realms.
Disconnected scenarios can fall into place and concepts that move the story forward will generally surface when I'm walking in the forest.
Sometimes, with a little imagination, the head of a dragon can be found!
My pets have always provided me with elements that can be woven into my characters, and their personalities can be found throughout my books.
Sabine (centre image) definitely channelled her inner dragon!
Trees and Water
Recommended Reads
There are many authors that have forged my love of fantasy and help create my style. Notable influences include:
All Time Favourites
I happily read everything these authors have to offer and they have been a major influence in shaping my writing.
Click these links for more information.
Honourable Mentions
These authors' series are also favourites of mine and I will re-read these over and over.
Robin Hobb's Farseer books are just sublime and I love melting into that world.
Jacqueline Carey's Kushiel's Legacy trilogies are beautifully written.
Click these links for more information.
If you like your fantasy a little more subtle, the following are wonderful and have earned a place in my 'favourites' bookcase.
Arthurian Legend:
Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles is a classic and is well complemented by Giles Kristian's Lancelot/Camelot/Arthur trilogy.
Boudicca Quartet:
Manda Scott's imagery in the Boudicca series is a delight, as well as being a cracking story.
Click these links for more information.
It takes a village...
Writing a novel is often a lonely business, spending hours in your own head. The support of others is essential - not only for sanity!
Below are some of the people and resources I have used to ensure your read the best version of the story possible, and as many people as possible get to enjoy my stories.
Troubador Publishing
Without the help and support of Troubador, none of my books would have been published.
I would highly recommend them for anyone interested in self-publishing, or if you're want to know more about the process of publishing books.
The British Fantasy Society
This is the site for all things speculative fiction (fantasy, science fiction and horror).
It is such an inclusive, supportive society, who are also extremely knowledgeable about reading, writing and promoting books. I have learnt so much from these people, and my writing has improved immensely as a result.
P S Livingstone
My amazing editor!
The worth of editors cannot be understated. They are invaluable in correcting spelling, grammar, word choice, word overuse, inconsistencies, bad habits... I could go on forever. They can also provide a fresh viewpoint on your story and characters, which can be so helpful for finding those areas where: 'I know what I mean'.
I cannot recommended Pam enough as an editor - she is my sanity!
BookMatch
This site matches self-published/indie authors with reviewers.
Reviews are everything to generate visibility and guide readers on what to put on their TBR pile. Without the budget of a big publishing company, self-published/indie authors can struggle finding their audience.
This site champions the way, and I would recommend authors and reviewers take advantage of this wonderful service.
Inkarnate
Everyone loves a map, right?
This website offers the tools and templates to create your own maps. There is a basic, free package and a more advanced, subscribed option. Great for wasting hours down topography rabbit holes.
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