June 2008
My short story, "Justice is an Old Woman's Business," has been accepted
by editor Carol Hightshoe of Lorelei Signal. Its expected publication date
is Oct. 2008. Thanks, Carol!
***
I received another invitation to submit, so we'll see how that goes...
On the Bookshelf: Richard Matheson's collection I am Legend (1995),
Black Gate #9, and magazines, magazines, magazines.
Site News: Nuttin' much, I expect.
May 2008
Another review of "The Dawn Tree," appearing in Return of the Sword, is
available at Grasping for the Wind. Here's what reviewer John Ottinger
had to say:
“The Dawn Tree” by S.C. Bryce is another story about betrayal, but this time
about a hero being tricked into betraying himself. This was an excellent story,
and Bryce’s concept of the Dawn Tree ushering in the new epoch is creative.
***
A review of "The Dawn Tree," appearing in Return of the Sword, is
available at The Fix. Here's what reviewer Janice Clark had to say:
“The Dawn Tree” by S. C. Bryce offers some fine food for thought. Are we
responsible for the results of our actions, whatever our intentions and
understanding? Does one self-appointed man have the right, much less the
mandate, to make decisions that will affect countless other people? Do the ends
justify the means, and who gets to choose either means or end?
The elf Dermanassian has taken on a quest on behalf of his foster brother,
Desmarais. All he has to do is sneak into a desert stronghold, get the attention of
Pae, the spirit of the Dawn Tree that grows there, and convince her to move or
replant the tree. Desmarais conveniently omits most of the details of how this is
to be accomplished and what the results might be. Dermanassian knows his
brother is engaged in a war against Fate, whatever that might mean, but doesn’
t stop to consider just what that involves. He also doesn’t expect to fall in love
with the tree-spirit.
When Pae leaves the Dawn Tree, it becomes the Dusk Tree, signaling that an
epoch of history is ending, as a new one will begin with the planting of the seed
she carries away. So it has been from one age to another. But this time is
different. The Elemental Spirits seem to have combined forces to destroy the old
tree and to try to prevent the planting of the new one. After an arduous journey
and a near-fatal battle, Dermanassian finally accomplishes his objective—or so
he thinks.
Be sure to check out the reviews of the other stories as well!
On the Bookshelf: Black Gate #7 and 8.
Site News: Nuttin' much.
April 2008
A review of "Shadows on My Mind" (in the current issues of Farrago's
Wainscot) is available at The Fix. Here's what reviewer Chris Butler had to
say:
“Shadows in My Mind” by S.C Bryce attempts to convey the decaying state of
mind of an old woman. Various friends and relatives come to visit Claire, but
she frequently has no idea who they are. As readers, we piece together a picture
of her life, which Claire herself is increasingly unable to grasp. The gradual
reveal of Claire’s situation provides a narrative arc of sorts, but there isn’t
much of a story here in any traditional sense. Perhaps it doesn’t matter, and
certainly, the writing is effective.
***
Another review of "The Dawn Tree" is available, this time on The Star
Road, blog of writer Wesley Lambert:
“The Dawn Tree,” by S.C. Bryce: That settles it; I must delve into the Flashing
Swords archives and read some other Dermanassian tales. This was an
unusual story written with style.
Be sure to check out his reviews of the rest of Return of the Sword.
***
My short story "Shadows on My Mind" is now available at Farrago's
Wainscot. Thanks got to editor Darin Bradley!
***
Return of the Sword, featuring my story "The Dawn Tree" is out. Here's
the review from Scriptorus Rex:
"A well told, powerful story that reads like mythic fable. Perhaps a little
out of place in a sword and sorcery anthology but it is good enough to hold its
own and the two main characters have some outstanding scenes with each
other. Our intrepid hero, Dermanassian the desert elf, takes up the quest of
replanting the Dawn Tree by escorting the tree’s guardian to a suitable
location. There’s one problem though; the four Elementals have joined forces in
order to destroy the Tree before it is planted. This leads to a battle royale at the
end but of course everything winds up happy. Or does it?..."
On the Bookshelf: Continuing with Lemony Snicket's A Series of
Unfortunate Events: The Austere Academy (2000), The Ersatz Elevator
(2001), The Vile Village (2001), The Hostile Hospital (2001), The
Carnivorous Carnival (2002), The Slippery Slope (2003), The Grim
Grotto (2004), The Penultimate Peril (2005), and The End (2006). Also
reading Benjamin Hoff's The Tao of Pooh ( 1983), and Graham Roumiu's
In Me Own Words: The Autobiography of Bigfoot (2003) and Me Write
Book: It Bigfoot Memoir (2005).
Site News: Probably not much this month. Just enhancing the fiction
excerpts.
March 2008
Return of the Sword: An Anthology of Heroic Adventure, edited by Jason
M. Waltz, is now available! From the promotional materials:
Pre-orders: $14.00. FREE shipping
After March 15:
$16.50 plus shipping
Return of the Sword is a brand new anthology of blood-pounding, spine-tingling
stories by some of fantasy's most critically acclaimed Sword and Sorcery
authors.
Stacey Berg, Bill Ward, Phil Emery, Jeff Draper, Nicholas Ian Hawkins, David
Pitchford, Ty Johnston, Jeff Stewart, Angeline Hawkes, Robert Rhodes, E.E.
Knight, James Enge, Michael Ehart, Thomas M. MacKay, Christopher Heath,
Nathan Meyer, S.C. Bryce, Allen B. Lloyd, William Clunie, Steve Goble, Bruce
Durham, and Harold Lamb present you with enough fast paced adventure to
keep you reading for hours.
A hand painted, wrap around cover by fantasy artist Johnney Perkins ensures
that Return of the Sword will not only be enjoyable to read, but also look good on
your coffee table or bookshelf.
My story is "The Dawn Tree."
***
I'm receiving some inquires about joining the critique group. Our next
session will start in July (probably). So please get your inquires in before
then or you'll have to wait until the next session.
On the Bookshelf: Tony DiFerlizzi & Holly Black's The Spiderwick
Chronicles (2003) and the first 4 books of Lemony Snicket's A Series of
Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning (1999), The Reptile Room
(1999), The Wide Window (2000), and The Miserable Mill (2000).
Always with the magazines!
Site News: Updates to many pages, including some Resources. But many
more updates left to do...
February 2008
My story "127 Fears" from Staffs & Starships finished tied for 3rd in the
Preditors & Editors 2007 readers' poll "short story science fiction
fantasy" category! Thanks everybody!
***
Under the new editor CrystalWizard (taking over from PitchBlack)
Flashing Swords #9 is out. This completes the publication of my four-part
Dermanassian novella, Rise of a Necromancer, with the publication of The
Shores of Limbo. Here's a blog review (click through the read the review
of the whole issue) by Dan Nelson:
"Part four of SC Bryce's series about Dermanassian the desert elf, "The shores
[sic] of Limbo", is the best episode yet. Unexpected danger, or rather danger in
an unexpected form, is overcome not by brawn or swordplay but by
psychological reasoning as Derma[na]ssian achieves freedom for his people.
I love the whole "downstream" concept of the world of Derma[na]ssian. The
power of a river current fits so well with the power held by "the Boatman". The
current of the river and the boatman look calm and unthreatening at the
surface but looks can be deceiving. Indeed, this theme of power and danger
below the surface is in the conversation Dermanassian has with Gana about the
rite Derma[na]ssian desires to perform. Gana is not sure Derma[na]ssian really
understands the dangers.
The story starts with some exposition that could be brought out along the way
but once Dermanassian goes to Gana to talk about his plan the story flows very
nicely."
Also in this issue are stories by old friends Steve Goble and Bruce Durham.
There's also an interview of Bruce, in which he sings the praises of our
little critique group. Thanks, Bruce!
***
Due out soon (March 15) from CyberWizard Productions (the good folks
behind the new Flashing Swords) is sword & sorcery anthology, Return of
the Sword. My featured short story will be The Dawn Tree. This anthology
will also feature Bruce Durham, Michael Ehart, James Enge, Steve Goble,
Christopher Heath, EE Knight, Harold Lamb, Nathan Meyer, and many
others. The editor is Jason Waltz.
On the Bookshelf: As always, lots of magazines. Including Flashing
Swords #9.
Site News: Finally got around to updating a few pages here and there,
including the Bibliography page. Still need to update the Resources one
day...
January 2008
I received another positive review by Deven at Blogtide Rising, this time
for "127 Fears," published in Staffs & Starships. Here's the review:
"The opening line caught my attention immediately. The rest of the
story held it. Fears are something we all have, and SC Bryce uses that to allow
the reader to understand the motivation behind the main character. I have had
to reword this review several times because I keep giving away the ending. I
guess I will have to conclude by simply stating that this is a fantastic story
and should be read without some silly reviewer spoiling it."
Thanks, Deven!
***
My book review of Michael Moorcock's The Quest for Tanelorn is
available at SFReader.com.
***
A new session of the critique group has started.
On the Bookshelf: As always, lots of magazines.
My short story, "Justice is an Old Woman's Business," has been accepted
by editor Carol Hightshoe of Lorelei Signal. Its expected publication date
is Oct. 2008. Thanks, Carol!
***
I received another invitation to submit, so we'll see how that goes...
On the Bookshelf: Richard Matheson's collection I am Legend (1995),
Black Gate #9, and magazines, magazines, magazines.
Site News: Nuttin' much, I expect.
May 2008
Another review of "The Dawn Tree," appearing in Return of the Sword, is
available at Grasping for the Wind. Here's what reviewer John Ottinger
had to say:
“The Dawn Tree” by S.C. Bryce is another story about betrayal, but this time
about a hero being tricked into betraying himself. This was an excellent story,
and Bryce’s concept of the Dawn Tree ushering in the new epoch is creative.
***
A review of "The Dawn Tree," appearing in Return of the Sword, is
available at The Fix. Here's what reviewer Janice Clark had to say:
“The Dawn Tree” by S. C. Bryce offers some fine food for thought. Are we
responsible for the results of our actions, whatever our intentions and
understanding? Does one self-appointed man have the right, much less the
mandate, to make decisions that will affect countless other people? Do the ends
justify the means, and who gets to choose either means or end?
The elf Dermanassian has taken on a quest on behalf of his foster brother,
Desmarais. All he has to do is sneak into a desert stronghold, get the attention of
Pae, the spirit of the Dawn Tree that grows there, and convince her to move or
replant the tree. Desmarais conveniently omits most of the details of how this is
to be accomplished and what the results might be. Dermanassian knows his
brother is engaged in a war against Fate, whatever that might mean, but doesn’
t stop to consider just what that involves. He also doesn’t expect to fall in love
with the tree-spirit.
When Pae leaves the Dawn Tree, it becomes the Dusk Tree, signaling that an
epoch of history is ending, as a new one will begin with the planting of the seed
she carries away. So it has been from one age to another. But this time is
different. The Elemental Spirits seem to have combined forces to destroy the old
tree and to try to prevent the planting of the new one. After an arduous journey
and a near-fatal battle, Dermanassian finally accomplishes his objective—or so
he thinks.
Be sure to check out the reviews of the other stories as well!
On the Bookshelf: Black Gate #7 and 8.
Site News: Nuttin' much.
April 2008
A review of "Shadows on My Mind" (in the current issues of Farrago's
Wainscot) is available at The Fix. Here's what reviewer Chris Butler had to
say:
“Shadows in My Mind” by S.C Bryce attempts to convey the decaying state of
mind of an old woman. Various friends and relatives come to visit Claire, but
she frequently has no idea who they are. As readers, we piece together a picture
of her life, which Claire herself is increasingly unable to grasp. The gradual
reveal of Claire’s situation provides a narrative arc of sorts, but there isn’t
much of a story here in any traditional sense. Perhaps it doesn’t matter, and
certainly, the writing is effective.
***
Another review of "The Dawn Tree" is available, this time on The Star
Road, blog of writer Wesley Lambert:
“The Dawn Tree,” by S.C. Bryce: That settles it; I must delve into the Flashing
Swords archives and read some other Dermanassian tales. This was an
unusual story written with style.
Be sure to check out his reviews of the rest of Return of the Sword.
***
My short story "Shadows on My Mind" is now available at Farrago's
Wainscot. Thanks got to editor Darin Bradley!
***
Return of the Sword, featuring my story "The Dawn Tree" is out. Here's
the review from Scriptorus Rex:
"A well told, powerful story that reads like mythic fable. Perhaps a little
out of place in a sword and sorcery anthology but it is good enough to hold its
own and the two main characters have some outstanding scenes with each
other. Our intrepid hero, Dermanassian the desert elf, takes up the quest of
replanting the Dawn Tree by escorting the tree’s guardian to a suitable
location. There’s one problem though; the four Elementals have joined forces in
order to destroy the Tree before it is planted. This leads to a battle royale at the
end but of course everything winds up happy. Or does it?..."
On the Bookshelf: Continuing with Lemony Snicket's A Series of
Unfortunate Events: The Austere Academy (2000), The Ersatz Elevator
(2001), The Vile Village (2001), The Hostile Hospital (2001), The
Carnivorous Carnival (2002), The Slippery Slope (2003), The Grim
Grotto (2004), The Penultimate Peril (2005), and The End (2006). Also
reading Benjamin Hoff's The Tao of Pooh ( 1983), and Graham Roumiu's
In Me Own Words: The Autobiography of Bigfoot (2003) and Me Write
Book: It Bigfoot Memoir (2005).
Site News: Probably not much this month. Just enhancing the fiction
excerpts.
March 2008
Return of the Sword: An Anthology of Heroic Adventure, edited by Jason
M. Waltz, is now available! From the promotional materials:
Pre-orders: $14.00. FREE shipping
After March 15:
$16.50 plus shipping
Return of the Sword is a brand new anthology of blood-pounding, spine-tingling
stories by some of fantasy's most critically acclaimed Sword and Sorcery
authors.
Stacey Berg, Bill Ward, Phil Emery, Jeff Draper, Nicholas Ian Hawkins, David
Pitchford, Ty Johnston, Jeff Stewart, Angeline Hawkes, Robert Rhodes, E.E.
Knight, James Enge, Michael Ehart, Thomas M. MacKay, Christopher Heath,
Nathan Meyer, S.C. Bryce, Allen B. Lloyd, William Clunie, Steve Goble, Bruce
Durham, and Harold Lamb present you with enough fast paced adventure to
keep you reading for hours.
A hand painted, wrap around cover by fantasy artist Johnney Perkins ensures
that Return of the Sword will not only be enjoyable to read, but also look good on
your coffee table or bookshelf.
My story is "The Dawn Tree."
***
I'm receiving some inquires about joining the critique group. Our next
session will start in July (probably). So please get your inquires in before
then or you'll have to wait until the next session.
On the Bookshelf: Tony DiFerlizzi & Holly Black's The Spiderwick
Chronicles (2003) and the first 4 books of Lemony Snicket's A Series of
Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning (1999), The Reptile Room
(1999), The Wide Window (2000), and The Miserable Mill (2000).
Always with the magazines!
Site News: Updates to many pages, including some Resources. But many
more updates left to do...
February 2008
My story "127 Fears" from Staffs & Starships finished tied for 3rd in the
Preditors & Editors 2007 readers' poll "short story science fiction
fantasy" category! Thanks everybody!
***
Under the new editor CrystalWizard (taking over from PitchBlack)
Flashing Swords #9 is out. This completes the publication of my four-part
Dermanassian novella, Rise of a Necromancer, with the publication of The
Shores of Limbo. Here's a blog review (click through the read the review
of the whole issue) by Dan Nelson:
"Part four of SC Bryce's series about Dermanassian the desert elf, "The shores
[sic] of Limbo", is the best episode yet. Unexpected danger, or rather danger in
an unexpected form, is overcome not by brawn or swordplay but by
psychological reasoning as Derma[na]ssian achieves freedom for his people.
I love the whole "downstream" concept of the world of Derma[na]ssian. The
power of a river current fits so well with the power held by "the Boatman". The
current of the river and the boatman look calm and unthreatening at the
surface but looks can be deceiving. Indeed, this theme of power and danger
below the surface is in the conversation Dermanassian has with Gana about the
rite Derma[na]ssian desires to perform. Gana is not sure Derma[na]ssian really
understands the dangers.
The story starts with some exposition that could be brought out along the way
but once Dermanassian goes to Gana to talk about his plan the story flows very
nicely."
Also in this issue are stories by old friends Steve Goble and Bruce Durham.
There's also an interview of Bruce, in which he sings the praises of our
little critique group. Thanks, Bruce!
***
Due out soon (March 15) from CyberWizard Productions (the good folks
behind the new Flashing Swords) is sword & sorcery anthology, Return of
the Sword. My featured short story will be The Dawn Tree. This anthology
will also feature Bruce Durham, Michael Ehart, James Enge, Steve Goble,
Christopher Heath, EE Knight, Harold Lamb, Nathan Meyer, and many
others. The editor is Jason Waltz.
On the Bookshelf: As always, lots of magazines. Including Flashing
Swords #9.
Site News: Finally got around to updating a few pages here and there,
including the Bibliography page. Still need to update the Resources one
day...
January 2008
I received another positive review by Deven at Blogtide Rising, this time
for "127 Fears," published in Staffs & Starships. Here's the review:
"The opening line caught my attention immediately. The rest of the
story held it. Fears are something we all have, and SC Bryce uses that to allow
the reader to understand the motivation behind the main character. I have had
to reword this review several times because I keep giving away the ending. I
guess I will have to conclude by simply stating that this is a fantastic story
and should be read without some silly reviewer spoiling it."
Thanks, Deven!
***
My book review of Michael Moorcock's The Quest for Tanelorn is
available at SFReader.com.
***
A new session of the critique group has started.
On the Bookshelf: As always, lots of magazines.
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Reviews |
| "A careful crafter with a vivid imagination. Bryce seamlessly blends old and new concepts to create something original, and knows how to deliver a good action tale..." Howard Andrew Jones, Managing Editor of Black Gate. |
Old News...
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Reviews |
"Vying for a position as the best story of the group with [Harold] Lamb's [classic reprint] offering is S. C. Bryce's "The Dragon's Scale." This first of a two-part story is about another recurring character, Dermanassian, a desert elf of considerable brains, weapon skill, and magic. Charged by a god to recover a scale from the white dragon, Dermanassian uses stealth to observe and enter the dragon's lair, eventually being discovered. Dragon and elf strike up both conversation and bargain, with the inevitable combat ensuing. The dialog is quick and clever, the action more so. Even though this story could be considered well ended here, I relish the next issue of Flashing Swords to see part two." Robert J. Santa, Firebrand Fiction Review, on The Dragon's Scale, Rise of a Necromancer Part 1. |
| "Dermanassian, the desert elf, has proven to be one of the most popular characters featured at Flashing Swords, and that shouldn't come as a surprise, for S.C. Bryce is a careful crafter with a vivid imagination. Bryce seamlessly blends old and new concepts to create something original, and knows how to deliver a good action tale..." Howard Andrew Jones, managing editor of Black Gate, editor in chief, SwordandSorcery.org, and former editor of Flashing Swords. |
| "A wonderful, dream-like story — glad I picked it to read first in the premiere issue. I made that call based on A) the intriguing title, and B) experience reading Bryce’s stuff. It was a good decision... '127 Fears' rocks." Steve Goble, Swords Against Boredom, editor of Carnivah House, on 127 Fears. |
| "S.C. Bryce is a real talent. Stirring characters, sharp dialogue, fascinating scenery -- Bryce has them all, and a unique spin on fantasy tropes. Don't walk into a Bryce story expecting the ordinary, but expect a rousing adventure every time..." Howard Andrew Jones, Managing Editor Black Gate, and Editor in Chief of www.SwordandSorcery.org, and former editor of Flashing Swords on The Demon War. |
| "It's a tale full of wonder and strangeness, charm and mystery, and absolutely fascinating..." Richard K. Lyon, co-author of novels Demon in the Mirror, The Eyes of Sarsis, The Web of the Spider, and Rails Across the Galaxy and author of numerous short stories, on The Dawn Tree. |
| "This story was so vividly imaginative, so smoothly written and so engrossing that it was over before I knew it..." Bruce Durham, award-winning speculative fiction author and Contributing Editor to www.SwordandSorcery.org, on The Demon War. |
| "Enough fast-paced, high energy adventure for the most action-starved reader... exotic and well-detailed..." Tangent Short Fiction Review, on The Demon War. |
| Old News |