London, UK – After weeks of intense deliberation, immersive reading, and spirited debate, Fantasy-Faction, one of the esteemed judging blogs for the 11th annual Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO 11), has officially announced its chosen finalist: Rel Carroll’s captivating gaslamp romp, Of Mages and Makers. This vibrant tale now carries th
SPFBO 11 Enters Pivotal Round Two: A Deep Dive into the Quest for Self-Published Fantasy Excellence
London, UK – The eleventh annual Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO), a beacon for independent fantasy authors and a vital discovery platform for readers, has officially moved into its highly anticipated Round Two. This phase marks a critical juncture where ten finalists, painstakingly selected from an initial pool of 300 diverse entries, now f
"Of Mages and Makers" Charms Its Way Through SPFBO: A Deep Dive into a Gaslamp Romantasy Gem
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE In the bustling, competitive arena of the Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO), where countless narratives vie for attention, a particular gem has emerged, captivating judges with its unique blend of wit, charm, and intricate world-building. Of Mages and Makers, a debut described as a "pure delight" and a "ga
"Physical Magic" Charms SPFBO Judges with Fresh Vision and Deep Humanity
A captivating blend of Pacific Island-inspired fantasy, a compelling disabled protagonist, and nuanced magical systems, "Physical Magic" has emerged as a standout contender in the rigorous Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO) competition, earning high praise from judges for its innovative worldbuilding and profound emotional depth. As
"The Artificer’s Knot" Electrifies SPFBO Semi-Finals with a Gritty Tale of Power, Oil, and Moral Compromise
LONDON, UK – In a literary landscape often dominated by epic sagas and high fantasy, The Artificer’s Knot has carved out a distinctive niche, earning its place as a semi-finalist in this year’s highly competitive Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO). This gaslamp crime story, praised for its sharp prose, distinctive characters, and uncomfo
SPFBO 11: Round Two Kicks Off, Elevating Self-Published Fantasy to the Global Stage
[Date of Publication] – The literary world of speculative fiction is abuzz as the 11th Annual Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO 11) officially enters its highly anticipated Round Two. This pivotal stage sees the ten chosen finalists, each a testament to the vibrant and innovative landscape of self-published fantasy, embarking on their final jo
"City of Stone" Ignites Debate Among SPFBO Judges: A Deep Dive into a Semifinalist’s Strengths and Contentions
LONDON, UK – As the eleventh annual Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO) approaches the culmination of its demanding Round One, one semi-finalist, "City of Stone," has emerged as a focal point of discussion, eliciting a spectrum of passionate responses from the judging panel. This ambitious fantasy novel, steeped in magic, political in
"Of Mages and Makers" Charms Judges: A Gaslamp Romantasy Gem Shines Bright in SPFBO 11
Diadem, Parure – June 2026 – As the eleventh annual Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO) approaches the climax of its initial round, one title has unequivocally captured the hearts and minds of the judging panel: Of Mages and Makers. Hailed as a "pure delight" and a "gaslamp romp" by critics, this novel by [Author’s Nam
Fantasy-Faction Announces Of Mages and Makers as SPFBO 11 Finalist
The culmination of an arduous first round in the Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO) 11 has seen Fantasy-Faction declare Rel Carroll’s Of Mages and Makers as its official finalist. After a rigorous evaluation of thirty diverse fantasy novels, the decision marks a significant milestone for both the winning author and the broader independen
"The Artificer’s Knot" Weaves a Complex Tale of Ambition and Corruption, Securing SPFBO Semi-Finalist Status
A riveting blend of gaslamp fantasy, gritty crime, and sharp political intrigue, The Artificer’s Knot has captivated judges in the prestigious Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO), earning its place among the competition’s semi-finalists. The novel, lauded for its compelling narrative, distinctive characters, and unsettlingly relevan
