An Interview with Michael John Halse
I had the opportunity this week to interview a wonderful fantasy author who is on his 6th book! Michael John Halse not only wrote fantasy books, but a guide to the world he created so that folks can get a sense of the breadth of that world, but also so that readers could learn about worldbuilding in fantasy. During our chat, Michael discusses his worldbuilding, the role of political intrigue in fantasy books, empire building, and even a little bit about cults.
Michael John Halse is a Canadian fantasy author and the creator of A Chronicle of Crowns, an epic, multi-volume fantasy series that has been in development since 2014. Drawing inspiration from stories such as The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, Michael’s work blends political intrigue, complex characters, ancient mysteries, and richly imagined worlds into one sprawling narrative.
A Chronicle of Crowns spans three distinct regions—from the medieval kingdom of Aralia, to the desert-inspired Halfmoon Empire, to the pirate-controlled waters of Tropic Cay and the Cerulean Cartel. The series is told through a large ensemble of characters and explores the ways their individual stories collide as the larger fate of the world unfolds.
Michael has independently published the first five books in the planned ten-book series and is currently writing Book Six. When he isn’t writing, he can usually be found gardening, playing golf, creating art, or getting lost in another story.
You can follow him on instagram @authormichaeljohnhalse and find A Chronicle of Crowns on Amazon in paperback and for kindle!
Interviewed by Derek Newman-Stille, PhD
