Alberto Pupo's Blog

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Congratulations on embarking on your journey as a fantasy author! Writing in the genre of fantasy can be one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences for any writer. However, it can also be intimidating and overwhelming for a novice author. In this blog post, we will offer you some writing advice that will help you as you begin your journey as a fantasy author.

Read widely in the genre

One of the most important things that you can do as a novice fantasy author is to read widely in the genre. This will not only expose you to different styles of writing, but it will also help you to develop your own writing style. By reading fantasy novels, you can learn what works and what doesn't work in the genre, and you can also gain inspiration for your own writing.

2. Develop your world-building skills

World-building is a crucial aspect of fantasy writing. You need to create a world that is believable and immersive for your readers. To do this, you need to pay attention to the details. You should consider everything from the geography of your world to the customs of its inhabitants. The more thought you put into your world-building, the more your readers will be able to connect with your story.

3. Create compelling characters

Your characters are the heart of your story. As a fantasy author, you have the freedom to create characters that are larger than life. However, it's important to remember that your characters still need to be relatable and compelling. You should create characters that your readers will care about and root for. You can do this by giving your characters flaws and vulnerabilities, and by showing their growth throughout the story.

4. Develop a strong plot

A strong plot is essential for any story, and this is especially true for fantasy novels. Your plot should be engaging and compelling, with plenty of twists and turns. You should also make sure that your plot is driven by your characters' actions and decisions. This will help to keep your readers invested in your story.

5. Edit, edit, edit

Once you've finished your first draft, it's important to edit your work. Editing is the process of refining your writing and making it the best it can be. You should look for things like plot holes, inconsistencies, and weak writing. You should also pay attention to things like pacing, dialogue, and characterization. It's a good idea to get feedback from beta readers or a writing group to help you identify areas that need improvement.

In conclusion, writing in the fantasy genre can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. By reading widely in the genre, developing your world-building skills, creating compelling characters, developing a strong plot, and editing your work, you can create a captivating fantasy novel that readers will love. Keep in mind that writing is a process, and it's important to stay patient and committed as you work towards your goal of becoming a published fantasy author. Good luck!

In my latest novel, The Search for the Guije, one of the characters that figures in the novel is a mythical creature known as the guije. But what exactly is a guije? Here is a little more background to help you better understand this mythical creature.

In Cuban folklore, there is a mythical creature known as the guije. This legendary creature is often described as a small, mischievous, and impish spirit that inhabits rivers, streams, and other bodies of water throughout the island. Although the guije is not widely known outside of Cuba, it has a significant place in the country's cultural history and traditions.

The guije is typically portrayed as a small humanoid with pointed ears, a long nose, and a mischievous grin. It is said to have green skin and glowing red eyes, and it often wears a hat or cap on its head. According to legend, the guije is a guardian of the waterways and is responsible for keeping the rivers and streams clean and healthy.

While the guije is generally seen as a benevolent spirit, it is also known to be quite mischievous. It has been known to play tricks on unsuspecting travelers, such as leading them astray or causing them to lose their way. Some legends even describe the guije as a shape-shifter, able to transform into different animals or objects to confuse or trick its victims.

Despite its playful nature, the guije is also revered in Cuban culture for its connection to the natural world. The spirit is seen as a protector of the environment and is often invoked in rituals and ceremonies to honor the rivers and streams that sustain life on the island. In some parts of Cuba, people leave offerings to the guije, such as food or flowers, as a sign of respect and gratitude.

The guije has also played a significant role in Cuban literature and art. The creature has been depicted in paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art, and it has been the subject of numerous folktales and stories. Many Cuban authors have written about the guije, including Jose Marti, who wrote a poem about the spirit, and Lydia Cabrera, who included the creature in several of her works on Afro-Cuban mythology.

In recent years, the guije has become something of a symbol of Cuban identity and culture. It represents the country's close relationship with nature, as well as its rich history and traditions. Although the guije may not be well-known outside of Cuba, it remains an important part of the island's cultural heritage, and it continues to inspire and captivate people around the world.

Fantasy novels often transport readers to other worlds with rich and complex histories, cultures, and creatures. Building a new world from scratch may seem like an overwhelming task, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it can be an incredibly rewarding and exciting process. In this blog post, we'll explore the art of worldbuilding in a fantasy novel.

Start with a Map

Creating a map is a great way to begin the worldbuilding process. It can help you visualize the geography of your world, including continents, islands, rivers, and mountains. As you create your map, consider the climate and terrain of different regions, as well as how they might affect the cultures and creatures that inhabit them.

Develop Your Magic System

Fantasy novels often feature magic, and developing a consistent and logical magic system is key to creating a believable world. Consider the source of magic in your world, whether it's tied to natural elements or comes from a divine source. Think about the rules and limitations of your magic system, and how different characters might be able to harness its power.

Create Unique Cultures

One of the most exciting aspects of worldbuilding is creating unique cultures for your characters to inhabit. Consider the history, language, beliefs, and customs of each culture, as well as their relationship with other cultures in your world. Think about how different cultures might interact and clash, and how these interactions might drive the plot of your story.

Populate Your World with Creatures

Fantasy novels often feature creatures that are unlike anything in the real world, from dragons and unicorns to elves and dwarves. When creating your own creatures, consider their biology, behavior, and relationship with other creatures in your world. Think about how different cultures might view these creatures, and how they might be used in the plot of your story.

Weave in Historical Events

Just like our world has a rich history, your fictional world should also have its own history, complete with significant events and figures. Consider the major wars, political movements, and cultural shifts that have shaped your world, and how they might still be felt by characters in the present day.

Show, Don't Tell

As you introduce readers to your world, it's important to avoid infodumping and instead show them the details of your world through the actions and perspectives of your characters. For example, instead of telling readers that a certain culture is known for its fierce warriors, show a battle scene in which these warriors are fighting for their cause.

In conclusion, worldbuilding is an essential part of creating a compelling and immersive fantasy novel. By starting with a map, developing a magic system, creating unique cultures, populating your world with creatures, weaving in historical events, and showing instead of telling, you can create a world that readers will be eager to explore. Happy worldbuilding!

My new novel, The Search for the Guije is a fantasy novel that takes place in an alternate 19th-century Cuba. The book has historical elements, but it is mainly a fantasy. In history, piracy in Cuba was very real, and these historical facts helped to add to my fantasy novel. This post will go into some of the history of piracy in Cuba.

Cuba has a rich and colorful history of piracy that dates back to the 16th century, when the Spanish began colonizing the island. However, it was during the 19th century that piracy in Cuba reached its peak, with hundreds of pirate attacks taking place in the Caribbean Sea. In this blog post, we will explore the history of piracy in Cuba during the 19th century.During the early 19th century, piracy was rampant in the Caribbean. Pirates would attack and plunder merchant ships, stealing their valuable cargo and sometimes kidnapping crew members for ransom. The British and Spanish governments both had naval forces stationed in the region to combat piracy, but their efforts were often ineffective.

Cuba was a prime target for pirates during this time, as it was a major center of trade and commerce in the Caribbean. Its location made it an ideal place for pirates to resupply and repair their ships, and its wealth made it an attractive target for plunder.One of the most notorious pirates to operate in Cuba during the 19th century was Jean Lafitte, a French pirate who had fled to the United States after being forced out of the Caribbean by British naval forces. Lafitte established a base of operations in Louisiana, and would send raiding parties to attack ships in the Caribbean. He was known to have made several trips to Cuba, where he would sell his stolen goods and recruit new crew members.

Another famous pirate who operated in Cuba during the 19th century was Diabolito Milano, who we previously discussed. Milano was known for his daring raids and refusal to surrender to naval forces. He was eventually captured and executed by Spanish authorities, but his legacy as a fierce and ruthless pirate lives on.

While piracy was a lucrative business for many, it was also a dangerous and violent one. Pirates often faced retaliation from the governments and navies of the countries whose ships they had attacked. Many pirates were captured, imprisoned, or executed for their crimes.In the mid-19th century, the growth of international trade and the increased presence of naval forces in the Caribbean helped to reduce the incidence of piracy in the region. However, piracy continued to be a problem in Cuba and other parts of the Caribbean well into the 20th century.

Today, piracy in Cuba is a thing of the past, but the island's rich history of piracy lives on in its folklore, literature, and popular culture. It is a reminder of a time when the seas were lawless and pirates roamed free, a time that continues to fascinate and intrigue people around the world.

When it comes to writing a novel, the perspective you choose to tell your story from can have a significant impact on the reader's experience. Here are some of the most common perspectives used in novel writing:

First Person Perspective - This is when the narrator is telling the story from their own point of view, using "I" and "me" to refer to themselves. This perspective allows the reader to get inside the narrator's head and experience the story through their eyes. Second Person Perspective - This is when the narrator addresses the reader directly, using "you" to refer to them. This perspective is not commonly used in novel writing, as it can be difficult to sustain for an entire book, but it can be a powerful way to engage the reader and make them feel like a part of the story. Third Person Limited Perspective - This is when the narrator tells the story from the perspective of one character, but uses "he" or "she" to refer to that character. This perspective allows the reader to get inside the character's head and experience the story through their thoughts and feelings, but also allows for some distance and objectivity. Third Person Omniscient Perspective - This is when the narrator knows everything that's happening in the story and can share the thoughts and feelings of all the characters. This perspective allows for a lot of flexibility in telling the story, but can also be overwhelming for the reader if not used carefully. Multiple Perspectives - This is when the story is told from the perspectives of multiple characters, either through alternating chapters or sections. This perspective allows the reader to see the story from different angles and can create a more complex and nuanced narrative.

Ultimately, the perspective you choose to tell your story from will depend on the story itself and what you're trying to accomplish. Each perspective has its strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in creating a compelling and engaging novel.

Orishas are featured in my urban fantasy adventure, The Guardian. Many of you must be wondering what exactly an Orisha is? Well, hold on tight as we delve deeper into the topic.

Orishas are deities or spirits that are worshipped in several religions originating from West Africa, including Yoruba, Ifa, and Santeria. These religions were brought to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade and have since evolved into their own distinct practices.

Orishas are believed to have control over different aspects of life, including nature, health, fertility, and prosperity. They are also associated with certain colors, symbols, and offerings. For example, Oshun, the goddess of love and fertility, is associated with the color yellow, the river, and honey. Offerings to Oshun might include flowers, perfume, and sweet foods.

The worship of Orishas is often accompanied by music, dance, and ritual ceremonies. These ceremonies may involve offerings, divination, and possession by the Orishas. During possession, the Orisha may speak through the possessed individual, offering guidance and advice.

One of the most well-known Orishas is Eshu, the god of crossroads and messenger between the gods and humans. Eshu is known for his mischievous nature and can be both helpful and harmful, depending on his mood. Eshu is often depicted as a trickster figure, and offerings to him may include toys or other playful items.

Another popular Orisha is Yemaya, the goddess of the ocean and protector of women. Yemaya is associated with the color blue, the moon, and motherhood. Offerings to Yemaya may include shells, sea salt, and water.

The worship of Orishas has had a significant impact on many cultures in the Americas, including Cuba, Brazil, and Trinidad and Tobago. These practices have influenced music genres such as salsa, rumba, and reggaeton and have been incorporated into various forms of art and literature.

However, the practice of Orisha worship has also faced persecution and discrimination. In some countries, it has been associated with witchcraft and has been banned or suppressed. Despite these challenges, Orisha worship continues to be an important part of many people's spiritual and cultural traditions.

In conclusion, Orishas are a fascinating and complex aspect of African diasporic religions. Their worship is characterized by colorful rituals, music, and dance, and they continue to influence cultures throughout the Americas. By learning about Orishas and their associated religions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural traditions that make up our world.

Coming up with a satisfying and impactful ending for a novel can be a daunting task for many writers. However, there are several strategies and techniques that can help you craft a strong and effective conclusion to your story.

Start with the beginning: Consider how you began your novel and think about how you can bring the story full circle. Your ending should provide a sense of resolution and closure that ties together the themes, characters, and plot points that you introduced at the beginning. Identify the story's central conflict: Your ending should address the central conflict of the story and provide a resolution for the protagonist. This can involve the protagonist overcoming their flaws, achieving their goals, or learning a valuable lesson. Consider your genre and audience: The type of novel you are writing and your target audience can influence the type of ending that will be most satisfying. For example, a romance novel might end with a happy ever after, while a mystery novel might end with the resolution of the crime. Experiment with different endings: Don't be afraid to try out different endings and see how they feel. You might find that a different ending works better than what you initially planned. Tie up loose ends: Make sure to address any loose ends or unresolved plot points in your ending. Readers should feel a sense of completion and understanding of the story. Avoid cliches: Try to avoid predictable or cliched endings, as they can leave readers feeling unsatisfied. Instead, strive for an ending that is surprising, impactful, and unique to your story. Seek feedback: Get feedback from beta readers or writing groups to see how your ending is received. This can help you identify any areas that may need improvement or clarification.

In summary, the best way to come up with an ending for a novel is to start with the beginning, address the central conflict, consider the genre and audience, experiment with different options, tie up loose ends, avoid cliches, and seek feedback. With these strategies in mind, you can create an ending that leaves a lasting impression on your readers.

Just released and now available on Amazon, my new novel The Search for the Guije, is a pirate-based historical fantasy. The story is set in a fictionalized version of 19th-century Cuba and heavily features a real-life pirate of the era known as Captain Diabolito. The book also features a creature of Cuban folklore known as the Guije, which is essentially a goblin-like creature showcased in the island's rural legend. These features give this fantasy tale some historical backing, so while it is not direct historical fiction, there are historical elements featured throughout.

The story is told from two main points of view. The first one is Juan, who, at 18, leaves his rural town to join Captain Diabolito's crew. The second one is Julia, a young woman whose father is murdered, which sets her on a course for vengeance as she seeks justice. Naturally, these two characters will intertwine their stories in a fast-paced tale of adventure, action, magic, love, and revenge.

Please take your time and check out The Search for the Guije, available on kindle, paperback, and kindle unlimited.