Fantasy-Faction Crowns "Of Mages and Makers" as SPFBO 11 Finalist, Advancing to Grand Showcase

Main Facts: A Culmination of Literary Excellence

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 2026 – The highly anticipated conclusion of Round One for the Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO) 11 has arrived, with Fantasy-Faction proudly announcing Of Mages and Makers by Rel Carroll as its chosen finalist. After an exhaustive journey through thirty exceptional self-published fantasy titles, and a fiercely competitive semi-final round featuring four standout contenders, Carroll’s enchanting gaslamp romp emerged triumphant, securing its place to represent Fantasy-Faction in the grand second round of the prestigious competition. This announcement marks a significant milestone for both the author and the blog, signaling the culmination of months of dedicated reading, critical evaluation, and passionate debate by the judging panel.

Chronology: The Rigorous Path Through Round One

The SPFBO 11 contest, initiated by acclaimed author Mark Lawrence, is designed to shine a spotlight on the burgeoning talent within the self-published fantasy genre. For Fantasy-Faction, the journey began with an initial pool of thirty diverse and promising entries. This first round demanded an immense commitment from the judging team, requiring them to delve into each manuscript, assessing everything from prose quality and character development to world-building and narrative pacing. The goal was singular: to identify books that not only demonstrated professional polish but also delivered compelling, original, and unforgettable fantasy experiences.

The Grueling Initial Selection

Over several months, the judges meticulously sifted through the entries. Each book underwent an initial evaluation, with feedback and scores contributing to a growing internal consensus. This initial phase is often the most demanding, as the sheer volume of submissions requires a structured yet flexible approach to ensure every author receives a fair and thorough review. The objective was not merely to find good books, but to identify those with that indefinable spark that elevates them above the rest – stories that captivate, innovate, and resonate deeply.

Elevating the Elite: The Semi-Finalists Emerge

From the initial thirty, a consensus slowly formed around four particular titles that consistently garnered high praise and sparked lively discussions among the judges. These four books distinguished themselves through their unique voices, masterful storytelling, and undeniable potential, earning them the coveted semi-finalist spots. This stage represents a significant achievement for any self-published author, as it places their work among the very best reviewed by a dedicated and knowledgeable blog team. For Fantasy-Faction, the selection of these four was a testament to the rich and varied landscape of contemporary self-published fantasy. Each semi-finalist received its own dedicated review post, offering readers a deeper dive into what made these books exceptional and celebrating their well-earned moment in the literary spotlight.

Supporting Data: A Deep Dive into the Semi-Finalist Contenders

The semi-final round was a testament to the incredible depth of talent within the SPFBO 11 cohort. Each of the four books brought something unique and compelling to the table, making the final decision an arduous one. Let’s revisit these exceptional titles and the qualities that earned them their esteemed positions:

The Artificer’s Knot by Eric Lewis

Eric Lewis’s The Artificer’s Knot captivated the Fantasy-Faction judges with its sophisticated blend of genres and its meticulously crafted world. The prose was consistently lauded for its sharpness and precision, creating an immersive reading experience from the very first page. What truly set this novel apart was its ambitious fusion of gaslamp fantasy with elements of crime and political intrigue, a combination that felt fresh and unpredictable. Readers were particularly drawn to its cast of characters, described as feeling authentically alive, with their motivations and relationships adding layers of depth to the narrative. The quiet brilliance of the character Nebb, in particular, left a lasting impression, embodying the nuanced character development present throughout the book. While some judges noted an unevenness in pacing, the overall quality of the writing and the innovative world-building were never in question, establishing The Artificer’s Knot as a powerful contender. Its ability to surprise and engage with complex themes marked it as a truly memorable entry.

City of Stone by K. T. Holder

City of Stone by K. T. Holder resonated deeply with the judging panel due to its profound emotional core and its focus on themes of community and resilience. The novel excelled in its portrayal of a "found family" – a group of young survivors who forge unbreakable bonds in the face of adversity. This warmth permeated the storytelling, creating a genuinely caring and empathetic narrative that stuck with the judges long after they turned the final page. The characters were universally praised for their relatability and the authentic way their relationships developed, making readers genuinely care about their fates. While discussions around the book’s pacing yielded varied opinions, the inherent heart of City of Stone remained undeniable. It presented a compelling vision of hope and humanity amidst hardship, leaving judges eager to follow these characters into future adventures, a strong indicator of its enduring appeal.

Of Mages and Makers by Rel Carroll

Rel Carroll’s Of Mages and Makers proved to be an absolute delight for the Fantasy-Faction team, eliciting genuine smiles and enthusiastic post-reading discussions. It was championed as a genuine, breezy, and warm-hearted gaslamp romp that simply "worked." The novel’s infectious charm stemmed from its witty and sharp banter, which kept judges grinning throughout. The two lead characters were highlighted as an "absolute delight together," their dynamic chemistry driving much of the narrative’s appeal. Beyond the engaging character interactions, Carroll constructed a world brimming with charm and inventive details, ensuring that pages were turned well past bedtime. This book’s ability to provide pure, unadulterated enjoyment, combined with its skillful execution of beloved fantasy tropes, positioned it as a truly strong contender, hinting at its eventual success. Its consistent ability to entertain and transport readers into a vividly imagined world made it a standout.

Physical Magic by William C. Tracy

Physical Magic by William C. Tracy carved out its own unique space within the semi-finalist lineup, distinguishing itself from the very first pages. The novel was lauded for its distinctive setting, built upon inspirations that deviated from the usual fantasy fare, offering readers something fresh and unexpected. At its heart was a protagonist whose journey felt incredibly honest and earned, resonating with themes of worth, belonging, and the universal human quest to find one’s place in the world. Tracy’s storytelling was described as "quietly special," a testament to its subtle yet profound impact. It eschewed bombastic action for a more introspective and character-driven narrative, exploring complex emotional landscapes with grace and depth. This thoughtful approach and unique perspective ensured Physical Magic left a lasting impression, showcasing the vast narrative possibilities within self-published fantasy.

Official Responses: The Final Verdict and Celebrations

The decision process for selecting the single finalist from these four stellar semi-finalists was anything but easy. The Fantasy-Faction judges engaged in intense deliberations, meticulously comparing notes, revisiting their ratings, and discussing the nuances of each book’s strengths and weaknesses. The internal spreadsheet, tracking scores and individual feedback, became a battlefield where opinions jostled for supremacy.

"We watched the numbers. Ratings trickled in, the order shifted, books jostled for position on the spreadsheet as more of our team weighed in," stated a representative for the Fantasy-Faction judging panel. "The quality of all four books was incredibly high, making this one of the toughest decisions we’ve faced. Each book had passionate advocates among our team, highlighting the subjective yet deeply personal nature of literary appreciation."

However, as the final scores were tallied and the comprehensive discussions concluded, one title slowly but surely pulled ahead, maintaining a consistent lead. The blog team is thrilled to formally announce:

The Fantasy-Faction SPFBO 11 finalist is… Of Mages and Makers!

This announcement was met with widespread enthusiasm from the entire Fantasy-Faction team. "We are absolutely delighted to send Of Mages and Makers into Round Two," the team expressed. "Rel Carroll has crafted a truly remarkable story that encapsulates so much of what we love about fantasy – vibrant characters, witty dialogue, and a world you just want to get lost in. It’s a book that brings genuine joy, and we are incredibly excited to see how it fares against the best of the other blogs!"

Implications: The Road Ahead for Rel Carroll and SPFBO

The selection of Of Mages and Makers as Fantasy-Faction’s SPFBO 11 finalist carries significant implications for Rel Carroll and the book itself. For a self-published author, reaching this stage of SPFBO is a monumental achievement. It grants immense visibility within the fantasy community, often leading to a substantial increase in readership, reviews, and sales. It validates years of hard work, dedication, and the courage to independently bring a story to life.

For Of Mages and Makers, this means stepping onto a much larger stage. In Round Two, Rel Carroll’s novel will compete against the finalists chosen by the other participating blogs. This next phase of the competition will see each of the ten finalists reviewed by all ten blogs, culminating in the selection of a single overall SPFBO 11 winner. This cross-blog review process ensures a comprehensive evaluation and introduces the book to an even wider audience of discerning readers and critics.

Rel Carroll’s journey exemplifies the power of self-publishing to bring diverse and engaging stories to readers. Of Mages and Makers, with its blend of charming characters, sharp wit, and inventive world, is poised to capture the attention of a broader fantasy readership. Its success so far underscores the vibrant health of the self-published fantasy genre and its capacity to produce works of truly exceptional quality.

Readers interested in following Of Mages and Makers‘ journey and keeping up with the entire SPFBO 11 contest are encouraged to visit the official SPFBO website (https://www.marklawrence.buzz/2026/04/the-finalists-for-spfbo-11.html). For those new to the contest, further information about SPFBO 11 and its mission can be found on Fantasy-Faction’s introductory post (https://fantasy-faction.com/2026/the-11th-annual-spfbo-11-introductions-book-list).

A Broader Look at SPFBO’s Impact

The Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off, conceived by Mark Lawrence, has become a cornerstone event in the fantasy literary calendar. Its primary mission is to unearth hidden gems within the vast landscape of self-published fantasy, providing a platform for talented authors who might otherwise struggle to gain recognition. Over the years, SPFBO has launched the careers of numerous authors, bringing their imaginative worlds and compelling narratives to a global audience. The competition not only offers invaluable exposure but also fosters a supportive community among self-published authors and the blogs dedicated to reviewing their work. It stands as a testament to the belief that exceptional storytelling can originate from any publishing path, and that quality should be the ultimate arbiter of success.

A Heartfelt Thank You to All Authors and Judges

Fantasy-Faction extends its deepest gratitude to every author who submitted their work to SPFBO 11. "Putting your work forward for a competition takes real courage," the team acknowledged, "and we appreciate each and every one of you for it. The talent showcased in this year’s entries was truly inspiring, making our job both challenging and incredibly rewarding." The self-published community thrives on this bravery and the willingness of authors to share their creations with the world.

The blog also wishes to acknowledge the tireless efforts of its dedicated judging panel for SPFBO 11. Their commitment to reading, reviewing, and thoughtfully discussing each entry was instrumental in navigating the immense task of selecting a finalist. The judges, each bringing their unique perspectives and literary insights, included Adawia Asad, Eva Geraghty, Evelyn Grimald “E.G.” Stone, Julia Kitvaria Sarene, Karen Lucia, Kerry Smith, Kit Caelsto, Maureen Neuman, Robert Max Freeman, Sara Rosevear, Sherry Cammer, Stacey Markle, Tianna Twyman, and Yaniv Rosenfeld Cohen. Their collective passion for fantasy literature and their meticulous attention to detail ensured a fair and comprehensive evaluation process. More information about the individual judges, including their specific literary preferences, can be found on the SPFBO 11 introductions page.

For any queries regarding Fantasy-Faction’s SPFBO involvement or the judging process, interested parties are invited to direct their inquiries to the editor, Jennie Ivins, via direct message on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/fantasyfaction.bsky.social) or Threads (https://www.threads.com/@therealfantasyfaction).

The journey through SPFBO 11 has been a remarkable one, filled with discovery, debate, and the celebration of exceptional storytelling. Fantasy-Faction eagerly anticipates the next phase of the competition, rooting for Of Mages and Makers as it contends for the ultimate SPFBO crown.

Featured image by Mohamed Marey.