Men Among Gods: Bringing true Stakes and Shock to Epic Fantasy

In the realm of books and movies, there are often two predictable outcomes: the bad guy will lose, and the good guy will emerge victorious. As an avid fan of epic fantasy novels, one franchise that has captured my imagination from childhood to adulthood is Marvel (Comics and Infinity Saga). While these movies have been visually stunning and entertaining, they often lack real stakes, leaving viewers craving more depth and consequences. This blog post aims to address the need for darker, more realistic situations, and the desire for genuine surprises in storytelling. I will also introduce my own epic fantasy novel, "Men Among Gods: The God Hunter," which seeks to reignite the sense of shock and investment for readers.

The Marvel Dilemma:

Marvel movies have undoubtedly been a cinematic marvel, leaving audiences in awe of their visual brilliance. However, one recurring flaw has been the lack of genuine stakes. Despite the chaotic battles and momentary losses, viewers are fully aware that most characters will emerge unharmed, with no lasting consequences. Even the ambitious attempt in "Infinity War" to introduce true concern for the characters was undermined by the subsequent movie, where every single character returned unscathed. While these movies were undeniably enjoyable, they failed to deliver the weight and impact that stories truly need. As fans, we long for the uncertainty of our favorite characters' fates.

Longevity and Lack of Consequences:

It is understandable why certain characters like Iron Man and Captain America remained in the franchise for so long. Their presence attracted both financial success and a dedicated fan base. However, amidst the chaos and turmoil they endured, it was rare for any significant characters to face harm or truly grave consequences. This predictability diminishes the emotional investment we have in the story. The Marvel formula, while entertaining, has begun to wear thin for many viewers.

The Rise of Darker and Realistic Narratives:

In response to this growing desire for more substantial storytelling, audiences are now seeking darker and more realistic situations. We crave narratives where the outcome is uncertain, where the possibility of loss is real, and where characters we care about face genuine peril. Yet, striking a balance between darkness and appropriateness for different audiences remains a challenge for movies, shows, and books alike.

Embracing Shock and Stakes in "Men Among Gods: The God Hunter":

In my own epic fantasy novel, "Men Among Gods: The God Hunter," I sought to revive the sense of shock and stakes that audiences crave. While I cannot claim to match the brilliance of George R.R. Martin's shocking character deaths, I can promise a similar level of surprise and investment. Throughout the series, a variety of characters play vital roles, with their lives hanging in the balance. No reader can confidently predict who will survive and who won't. This uncertainty adds a layer of darkness and concern that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Introducing the Unlikable Hero:

Taking inspiration from Stan Lee's approach, I aimed to create a character akin to Tony Stark, who represents everything everybody hates but evolves into someone readers love. In "Men Among Gods," this character is Axle, a frost elf with a complex personality. Initially unlikable, Axle's journey will challenge readers' perceptions, possibly making him their favorite character. With his flawed nature, Axle offers a fresh and compelling perspective, showcasing the evolution of a character from worse to better.

In the realm of epic fantasy, the need for genuine stakes and shocking twists cannot be overlooked. Marvel and other franchises have captivated us with their visual spectacles, but true investment and emotional impact come from uncertain outcomes and consequences that leave us stunned. This is something audiences have lacked for some time now. In "Men Among Gods: The God Hunter" I seek to find a great balance of uncertainty and shock, which will leave you wanting more.