Author Blog
The Frazzled Mind
I’ve written a novel I’ve submitted to agents and publishers. Now what?
D.M. De Alwis
Author of fantasy fiction, poetry and more.
Author Blog
2025 — A new charge
A recap of the achievements of 2024 and what I would like to improve in the coming year.
ISLE OF DEMONS
IOD (3) The Conception of Sanni
This backstory is complicated. Devas in Lanka also act as guardians and may interfere in personal lives on request. We also have a Gandhara, which roughly translates to Western society as a cherub or sprite. These beings may act like muses, but they are also spirits waiting to be born.
ISLE OF DEMONS
IOD (2) Curse of the Black Leopard
IOD features the Kalu Kumaraya (Black Prince), a vampire-like creature native to Sri Lanka. I imagined this as his origin story. This one is not PG-13, but the perspective told in IOD is. This backstory may or may not feature in the final cut of IOD.
Author Blog
What was life like 10,000 years ago?
What was life like in the past? Humans weren't just surviving—they had intricate societies and complex social landscapes. History contains stories of adaptation and resilience. The past is a mirror reflecting our complexities. Who were we? Who are we still?
Author Blog
Writing the Synopsis
No MFA is required. I fumbled and bumbled into what made sense for my novel.
Anecdotal Evidence
What works for you fails for me
The odds are stacked against me. But I am not a statistic.
36-hour fasting following injury
I lost 10 lbs after uncovering an impingement in my right shoulder.
Author Blog
Goal setting September
Back to the grind after time away from my novel.
The privilege of experience — explained with cake.
Generation X knows how to work hard. At least, that’s a phrase thrown about from time to time. It’s not that we work hard. Time in the…
Nuance with Context vs. Absolutes
Both Republicans and Democrats are correct. Both sides are wrong. How to broker that conversation. Here’s a generalized centric view to…
Author Blog
The Revision Check-List
Struggling with revisions? This checklist covers key elements to refine your manuscript—from historical accuracy to tightening passive POV. Read more on how to revise with objectivity.