Where the Dark Stands Still by AB Poranek

If you're a fan of Slavic-style myths and legends flavouring your YA fantasy fiction, then Where the Dark Stands Still by AB Poranek is a book that I'll wholeheartedly recommend. In terms of themes, it recalls quite strongly Noami Novik's Uprooted, which I adored. I've seen folks compare it to Howl's Moving Castle, so yeah, I'll agree with that, but add that I got some serious Beauty and the Beast vibes, too.

We follow the story of Liska, who for reasons, finds herself in the service of the mysterious Leszy of the forest – a magical being who lives in his somewhat sentient mansion in the heart of the forest. This is a world that is vastly different from the village where she grew up, and I love stories like this where someone who, up until this point, had a *relatively* normal existence has their entire world view upended with magic and mystery. She might not be one of those kicka** heroines that we often encounter in fantasy, but her goodness of spirit and bravery make her relatable. Added to that are the support characters, who are all wonderful. I don't want to spoil – go meet them within the pages. And yes, I must warn you there is some tragedy and heartache, but it is oh so sweet. 

The story itself unspools slowly, with well-realised tension between Liska and the Leszy as they gain each other's measure. I know this might frustrate readers who prefer a much more fast-paced novel, but honestly, this was exactly what I needed at the time. Poranek effortlessly sculpts a highly detailed world, that feels tangible and engages the senses – and I really do love books that make me feel as if I'm present in the space. Authors who have this skill of description are treasures.

This is one of those books that when I do see it on a shelf at a bookstore, I point it out to friends and tell them they *need* to pick it up – so yeah, it's one of those. And I suspect it's one I'll enjoy revisiting again in the future.

The Week in Review – February 22, 2025

Jislaaik it, 2025 is fucking difficult, on so many levels. But this is not going to be me adding to the noise. I will be upfront and say that I'm having to work extra hard to manage my mental wellbeing, and for the most, that involves avoiding doomscrolling. Because I'm struggling to believe that people can truly be so callous and hateful. But anyhoo, this is your reminder that a little kindness is so important. And also, you don't need to engage with randos on the internet who annoy you. You don't owe them anything. Don't feed the monkeys.

FREE yourself from the hustle

So, part of the reason why I've started blogging again, even if it's old school, is that I'm sick unto death of this hustle culture that's gripped social media users. We've got all these influencers and super-users and what-not who're throwing terms like 'leverage your social media footprint' and 'boost your reach' and all that twaddle. I'm going to blunt.

Fuck that.

Now, with the enshittification of generative AI in the creative and media industry overall, the signal-to-noise ratio has whooshed past the abilities of mere mortals to keep up. You're going to keep getting al those AI bros telling you to adopt or lose out, banking on your FOMO. And I'll say it again.

Fuck that.

I know this makes me a fucking William Morris wannabe, but honestly, if we're not making art, music, or words with love and soul, then why the fuck are we doing this? I've seen so many movements pushing authors to put out a gazillion books in a short a possible time to maximise their profits that we're sitting with a shit avalanche of even shittier books that not only flood our retailers with dross but also erode readers' trust.

For those of us who're not hustling, we're not going to make all this apparent money that some of those schnaaiing scamsters promise in their advertisements. Ebooks are not some cash-cow renewable 'commodity' that will rake in piles of passive income. Anyone who says so is smoking their fucking socks. Plus the fact that they're likely trying to sell you some sort of skeezy get-rich scheme.

So this is me telling you to give yourself permission to take however long you want to write that novel, paint that picture, or record that album, for however long you want to take to do it. It's not about pooping the 'content' (and fuck me I hate that word – content) out as fast as possible. It's about process. About taking the time to create, to understand, to revise until you are happy with it, and then possibly still go onto collaborating with other creatives... until you can make something beautiful.

Don't get me wrong. It's great to hold a final work in your hands. But it's equally important to have that journey to reach that point. Giving in to the hustle will rob you of that very important part in the act of being creative.

Mini review – The First Murder on Mars by Sam Wilson

I will admit that this is the first Sam Wilson book I've read, and for a long time I've aways brushed shoulders with him at local bookish events and have admired his wit whenever we've had the opportunity to talk. He's done extensive work in the film industry, which most certainly shows in how The First Murder on Mars is structured. This is a really well thought out story, and has some relatable characters whom he really puts through the wringer. Mars as a setting provides a challenging environment, and humans are ... well... As a species, I get the distinct impression that we never learn, and Sam does an excellent job with his social commentary. The pacing is fast, and boy oh boy does shit go sideways, however I did feel there were three instances where characters withheld crucial information in a way that felt too contrived to heighten tension – which is something I've seen a fair bit in writers who come from a film background. That being said, this was not a deal breaker for me, but it did poke my buttons somewhat, and I can't help but feeling that this book would do really well if it was developed as a film or series where these sorts of withholding of information would not be an issue since we'd be outside a deep point of view. This is the one niggle I had with regards to an overall fantastic and highly engaging read. And for those of us who function in a daily routine that doesn't allow much time for reading – the short chapters were cherry.

Libraries of Ancient Egypt lecture

A bastion of knowledge, The Bibliotheca Alexandrina was founded in 2001 and is dedicated to recapturing the spirit of openness and scholarship of the original great library of Alexandria. Joseph Koetsier will start his lecture with an overview of ancient libraries around the world before sharing his impressions of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The Egyptian Society of South Africa invites you to attend this lecture at St George’s Grammar School in Richmond Street Mowbray on February 25, at 7.30pm. Parking is available on the premises. Lectures are free for TESSA members; visitors pay R30. Refreshments cost R10.

We're launching, baybeeeeeeeee

Anyhoo, I'm super stoked that The Company of Birds will be launching at the Exclusive Books in the V&A Waterfront on March 8 at 4pm. I have specifically requested that there are chocolate cupcakes, so please join me for a sugar rush and all things bookish on the day. The Company of Birds is currently only available to South African readers, so this is like totes super exclusive. I chat briefly with Marius about the book here, but do come on the day where I'll be in discussion with fellow SFF author Masha du Toit. And yeah, please RSVP so we can have just the right amount of nice things for folks. And bums on seats and all that. See you there!

The Week in Review – February 15, 2025

I know I've been preaching my five-point plan for surviving and (hopefully) thriving in current climes. I look at what our world leaders are doing and I feel as if my head is going to implode. I'm also painfully reminded of what's termed the false consensus effect where a person suffers the cognitive bias where they overestimate how many people might share their beliefs. Working from home like I do, often the only people I speak to are my husband, one or two friends online, and a business partner. Most of my clients and fellow creatives are also very similarly aligned ideologically speaking, so it's always somewhat of a shock when I encounter people whose thoughts are ... let's put it simply: vastly different from mine.

Now this is not going to turn into a rant about who's right and who's wrong. As the old saying goes: I don't have to explain myself to idiots. I'm not the fuckface whisperer. 

But I am going to talk briefly about kindness. It costs very little. It can be as simple as giving the domestic worker on the side of the road a ride or taking food to your neighbour who's just broken their arm. Finding opportunities to practise a little good, old-fashioned ubuntu goes a long way to make things a little better in the world. One small act of kindness a day is not only good for others, but also cracks a little light into your heart.

And that's it. That's all I'm going to say.

Mini Book Review

I realise I'm woefully behind on all my book reviews, but I recently finished reading In the City by the Lake by Taylor Saracen, which is one of those slow-burn books that creep under your skin and linger there. Set during the Prohibition in Chicago, we see the life and times of Russian mobster Viktor as he navigates the city's underbelly. Viktor can't be open with his family about who he really is, and he certainly doesn't expect the depth of his fascination with Cal. This is a sensitively crafted tale of queer love during turbulent times that rewards patient readers. Don't expect fireworks, but rather slowly unfolding revelations. 

Mirari Call for Submissions

I'm so excited to see my publisher Mirari Press has a new, exciting submissions call for Cyberpunk and Solarpunk short stories out in their UTOPIA/HAVOC anthology. I've enjoyed my collaboration with Mirari Press immensely – not only as author but also editor, and I've got a story I want to tell, so I'm definitely going to get crafting. Submissions close June 30, so there's plenty of time to get writing! 

Drabble

This week's drabble is once again from the Dragon Age universe, and features two of my favourite characters – Emmrich Volkarin and Dorian Pavus. There's been some debate of possible lore inconsistencies between Dragon Age: Inquisition and The Veilguard, but I'm totally headcanoning that Dorian would have been sent to study at Nevarra for at least a term and that he would have encountered a youthful Emmrich as one of his professors. Timeline-wise there is possibly a 10-15-year age difference between the two (yes, I've checked because I'm a bit OCD that way).

A Term in Nevarra

The apprentice slunk from Emmrich’s study as if he expected a lightning bolt to bite his backside. Emmrich sighed. That would not be the last he saw of the precocious Tevinter lad before his term in Nevarra was up. Such a brilliant young mind, if one looked past his propensity for involving himself in drama.

“Oh, one more thing,” Emmrich called, trying not to smile.

The lad froze, shoulders hunched.

“I anticipate great things from you, young Pavus. Now, get out of here, and for the love of Andraste, not every apprentice is as gifted at tugging the dragon’s tail.”

 

The Company of Birds

We're *so* close to release. Marius over at Mirari was gloating over the delivery of an entire box of The Company of Birds and sent me this wonderful photo. My own copies are arriving some time next week, so for now all I can do is salivate over this photo. I am so grateful that I have this opportunity to bring The Company of Birds to my South Africa readers, and looking at the novel now, I realise its message is even more important now than it was when I wrote it a decade ago.

I think we can agree that the amazeballs Stephen Embleton outdid himself on the cover design for this very beautiful book. Now, excuse me, I think I'm getting all choked up again.

I will always be grateful to my editor Storm Constantine who worked with me on the first edition. May she forever walk in graciousness in the Field of Reeds.

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The Week in Review – February 8, 2025

What a long year it's been, and it's only the first week of February! I make no apologies for my spiciness on my social media platforms. But anyhoo, I'm going to rather focus on the good things in this blog post, because if you're reading this, now, you're no doubt looking for a little haven of distractions.

While I've not been *very* vocal about it, I have not-so-secretly been working on a new WiP. The so-far untitled manuscript is a MG fantasy novel that features an owlcat as support cast and discusses important topics such as displacement of people from land and the importance of solidarity in fighting against injustice. (See my note below about writing as an act of resistance.) I'm about halfway through, with a target of around 50k words, after which I'll be translating this document into Afrikaans for a local youth literature competition. I did start writing in Afrikaans a few years ago, but ended up stalling – so this year I'm changing tactics and doing my first draft in English. So far, so good. And my alpha readers, whom include two thirteen-year-old girls, have responded favourably. So it's all systems go.

Helpers Helping Writers

Which brings me to the importance of collaboration. With this stupid-blind, headlong into LLM and generative AI, we're losing sight of what writers and other creatives did before all this techno-industrial horror. We collaborated. Create a community. Help each other. Pool your skills and resources and focus on human-first, human-centred creativity. We're in for a bumpy next few years, and creativity is so important – not only does it help foster understanding and empathy, it's a very valid way for you to find ways to express yourself and connect authentically with others. It's not so much the end result, but the journey that matters, and that is something I feel we've lost along the way. Too much emphasis is placed on More! Faster! And this has largely contributed to what I feel is the wholesale enshittification of the publishing industry. So I'm likely to be going full William Morris on y'all over the next while. It's likely not going to make me rich, but I'll be proud of what I create and put out into the world.

Drabble

So, I'm totally ovary-to-the-wall at the moment in terms of work, but I decided to take time out to celebrate the Dragon Age community by writing a drabble. Ladygelfling over at Threads suggested 'distracted by elfroot' as a prompt, so here we have my drabble, in all its glory. (And sans the glaring typo in the title that went out with my post during the week, DERP.)

But staying with the enshittification, I'm kinda bummed because EA (the holding company that owns Bioware, the publishers of Dragon Age) have basically killed the IP because of its "underperformance". (And for that, we've got the culture wars and late-stage capitalism to blame). One of the Dragon Age writers, Sheryl Chee posted on BlueSky:

And I'm going to hold onto that. So expect more Dragon Age fics from me in the future, and, time allowing, possibly some awful art. Because I suck at one of the things I really love doing – namely art. Which is kinda sad considering I majored in illustration at university. But who cares. Rather bad art than AI-generated slop, imo.

Writing as an Act of Resistance

I had some words to say earlier this week about writing as an act of resistance. And I'm going to stick to this opinion. I wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for the writers who shaped me when I was young – Anne McCaffrey, Kate Elliott, Robin Hobb, Ursula K Le Guin, Storm Constantine, Katharine Kerr, Poppy Z Brite, Mercedes Lackey, and yes, even Anne Rice. (Other than Tolkien, and He Who I Will No Longer Name, cis male authors don't really feature. Funny, that.) Theirs were the books that I gobbled up during my teens that, when I look at from the distance of years, made the hugest impact on me. Not only on my decision to become a writer, but also to celebrate the fight against injustice, to celebrate diversity, the queer and the weird. Which is why I encourage you to write the stories that speak to your truth and your lived experience. You never know when your words will reach someone. I've had readers write me letters to tell me how much my stories have meant to them while they've been in their darkest times. One person said that they loved my Wraeththu mythos stories in Storm Constantine's Para anthologies as they brought them comfort while they were undergoing chemo. I admit that this moved me to tears and is worth far more to me than the few pounds I earned from selling the story to Immanion Press. This is why I write, folks. This is also why I am a firm believer in equality, solidarity, and sustainability. Just FYI...

Important The Company of Birds update

I'm happy to report that the Kindle buy link for the South African edition of The Company of Birds is now live for the preorder. If print isn't quite your jam, or if you're one of those people who like to *look* at your print edition on your shelf but read your kindle version, then head over to Amazon and preorder your kindle version, asseblief, baie dankie. Foreign readers, I'm sorry you're all going to have to sit this round out. Y'all had your chance when the book was wide, and we're focusing on South African readers for this round. If my lovely agent happens to sell reprint rights for the second edition overseas, then hey, that's cherry.

 

Guest Post: 6 Purr-fect Cat Movies Based on Books by Vanessa Morgan

Do you think cats rule the internet? Wait until you see how they dominate the silver screen—especially when their movies are inspired by books. 

To celebrate the release of my book Meow! Cats in Horror, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy Movies, I'm diving into six unforgettable feline flicks that started as books.

Meow! dives much further into these six films and many others, with many behind-the-scenes insights, fun facts, and plenty of feline flair. It's the ultimate guide to all things cat cinema.

6 Purr-fect Cat Movies Based on Books

By Vanessa Morgan

1) Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

Based on the novel by Eiko Kadono, Kiki's Delivery Service is a charming coming-of-age tale about a young witch navigating independence. Kiki’s black cat, Jiji, is her constant companion, offering sarcastic quips, loyal support, and comic relief throughout her delivery adventures. Jiji isn’t just a sidekick; he represents Kiki’s inner voice, grappling with doubts and confidence as she grows. Studio Ghibli’s adaptation perfectly captures the heart of this story, with Jiji stealing the spotlight as one of cinema’s most lovable feline characters.

 2) Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End (2024)

This recent horror film, adapted from the novel by Manel Loureiro, takes the zombie apocalypse genre to a chilling new level—and a cat plays a surprisingly pivotal role. In a world overrun by the undead, the protagonist’s tabby is a loyal companion that offers comfort and a sense of normalcy in a world descending into chaos. The cat’s presence in Apocalypse Z highlights the human need for connection and hope, even in the darkest times.

 3) The Three Lives of Thomasina (1963)

Based on Paul Gallico’s heartwarming novel, this Disney classic tells the story of a little girl, her veterinarian father, and their beloved cat, Thomasina. Narrated by the cat herself, the film explores her three “lives” as she connects the fractured family and helps them rediscover love and compassion. Thomasina’s role is both magical and deeply emotional, embodying themes of forgiveness and healing.

 

4) Morgiana (1972)

Adapted from Alexander Grin’s gothic novel Jessie and Morgiana, this Czech psychological thriller is a tale of envy and deception, where a mysterious feline plays a hauntingly symbolic role. The feline is a representation of guilt and justice (much like in Edgar Allan Poe's short story “The Black Cat”), mirroring the sinister undertones of a sibling rivalry that spirals into murder.

5) Felidae (1994)

Based on Akif Pirinçci’s novel, this German animated neo-noir film is anything but your typical cartoon. Francis, the feline protagonist, is a detective who uncovers a sinister conspiracy while investigating gruesome cat murders. Intelligent, gritty, and surprisingly philosophical, Felidae explores themes of morality, power, and survival, all through the eyes of its feline characters. 

6) The Cat (1992)

This Hong Kong cult classic, adapted from Ni Kuang’s book series, blends sci-fi, horror, and martial arts into a bizarre yet entertaining cinematic experience. The story centers on an alien cat and its human allies as they fight a malevolent extraterrestrial force. The Cat is without a doubt the craziest cat movie ever made.

Final Thoughts

Cats have captured our hearts in books, movies, and just about everything else! Luckily, these six cat movies based on books are just the beginning of what’s out there. Whether you’re a fan of spooky stories, sci-fi escapades, or charming magical journeys, there’s no shortage of feline-inspired entertainment. Plus, you’ll find all of these films—and over 200 other cat-centric tales—in Meow! Cats in Horror, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy Movies, your ultimate guide to the world of feline cinema.

Now it’s your turn—what’s your favorite cat movie or book? Is there a feline hero or literary kitty with a special place in your heart? Share your pick in the comments!

About Vanessa Morgan

VANESSA MORGAN is the editor of When Animals Attack: The 70 Best Horror Movies with Killer Animals, Strange Blood: 71 Essays on Offbeat and Underrated Vampires Movies, Evil Seeds: The Ultimate Movie Guide to Villainous Children, and Meow! Cats in Horror, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy Movies. She also published one cat memoir (Avalon) and four supernatural thrillers (Drowned Sorrow, The Strangers Outside, A Good Man, and Clowders). Three of her stories became movies. She also introduces movie screenings at several European cinemas and film festivals and is a programmer for the Offscreen Film Festival in Brussels. When she is not writing, you will probably find her eating out or taking photos of felines for her website, Traveling Cats.

 

The Greeks by Diane Harris Cline

If you're looking for a very light introduction to the immense body of history attached to ancient Greece, then The Greeks by Diane Harris Cline will be a good introduction. This audiobook is a companion to an illustrated book and a series, which I'm sure would have enhanced the experience for me, but since I traditionally listen to audiobooks while doing arb stuff like housework or driving, I wasn't in a position to look at any images.

I'd peg this as a general overview and a crash course into a highly complex culture, at best. And at the time I was looking for a bit of a refresher, so in that regard, it did its job. It also didn't hurt that at the time the book was included in my Audible subscription. I'd likely not have purchased it otherwise. I'd definitely want more meat on the bones, so to speak, otherwise.

I really don't have much more to say about this title that I've not summarised. It's easy enough to understand for folks who're not of a historical bent, so I'd recommend it for complete noobs, but as someone who's studied ancient Greek art and mythology at a tertiary level, it left me wanting.

The Week in Review – February 1, 2025

It's very much been a case of inoculating myself against the urge to doomscroll during the day by getting my whiff of 'What the fuck now, Murica' before I get up every morning. This week has offered in bucket-loads, and then some. But this morning was totally different when I discovered that the volume that has my essay about post-colonial themes in my writing in it – Afro-Centered Futurism in Our Speculative Fiction (Bloomsbury 2024) – is longlisted for a BSFA Award. I cannot underscore what an important read this is for African speculative fiction, and as an African author I'm both thrilled and honoured that I was invited to contribute.

Further news is that I've finally carried through on my vow to have a Little Free Library installed for my hood. I'm grateful to my handyman Johan van Zyl who took two days to construct the tiniest library for me, which I'm glad to report has already been supported by my community. As in 'no shit, Sherlock' I'm passionate about reading, and about accessibility for folks. Not everyone has the opportunity to visit a library (we are relative isolated on the urban fringe in a secluded valley). Not everyone can afford new (or even second hand) books. It is my hope that this Little Free Library will become a valuable resource to my community. If you've thought about doing something similar, a cursory Google will offer numerous ideas. Email me at nerinedorman@gmail.com if you're a local author who may wish to donate books.

Staying with books, I've just finished reading a little gem by Cristina Jurado translated by Sue Burke. ChloroPhilia is a novella that sits firmly at the crossroads of environmental horror and science fiction. We follow Kirmen's story, growing up beneath the domes of a settlement of humans trying to survive an environmental apocalypse. Intertwined with the story is the uncomfortable relationship Kirmen has with the doctor who is responsible for the biological engineering that sets the boy apart from his fellows. Plainly put, humanity is doomed (likely by its own actions) and Kirmen is their last hope against the all-consuming storm outside their protective outer shell. This is definitely a story that left me scratchy behind the eyes, but I enjoyed it. It's layered and lyrical, slowly unfolding, and steeped in self-reflection as Kirmen discovers who he truly is.

Our Little Tuxedo-Wearing Friends

Picture: Bl1zz4rd-editor
(Wiki Commons)

I'm currently doing QA on a book about the great auk, a bird few of you may have heard of. Which is hardly surprising as it's been extinct since the 1850s. I'm on the verge of tears while working on this book, which reminds me that our friend the African penguin is rapidly heading the same direction. These birds are dear to my heart, and we have a breeding colony right on our doorstep in Simon's Town, so I've decided this year that one of my causes will be to support the conservation efforts for these little chaps.

In 2000 during the disastrous Treasure oil spill, I had the incredibly privilege of spending a week helping to clean and feed penguins, an unforgettable experience. As a consequence, I can still wrangle penguins in my sleep. So although I no longer have the time to spend an entire day getting covered in fish entrails, scales and guano, I will do what I can to help these wonderful birds.

Fewer than 10,000 breeding pairs remain, and the bird has plunged to 97% of its previous population. If this is not a dire cause for alarm, then I don't know. This bird could be extinct within the next decade if we don't do something drastic, and soon.

SANCOBB has been doing incredible work with the penguins (and other seabirds) for decades, and I'd like to encourage you to adopt a penguin this year (or contribute to the hatching of an egg). 

More on Birds

So, this week I signed off on the print proofs for The Company of Birds. It's such an amazing feeling to know that this wonderful book will be winging its way out to South African readers who may have missed out on a print copy the first time around back in 2019. 

My friend and fellow author Cat Hellisen was so kind as to say these wonderful words about the story:

A lush, dark fantasy of academics and magic that interrogates class, gender, and culture divides, where forbidden powers and uncovered secrets will right a centuries-old wrong. A Company of Birds is a book of hard truths in soft plumage, set in a mesmerising and all-too-real world.

You will be able to order a copy from your local Exclusive Books or Wordsworth or, even better, order directly from Mirari Press.