Hello & welcome
I’m an Australian writer of various things. After an extended hiatus, I’m jump-starting this blog to focus on my love of fantasy books.
In the past, the blog has celebrated the fantasy genre and other aspects of the creative life — including the wonder inspired by travelling to far off places, both real and imagined.
(There’s plenty in the archives about my early writing journey, travel, books, Dungeons and Dragons and more…)
I now write fantasy as Ellen Starsmore and indie-published my debut novel, Beyond the Humming Downs, in July 2025.
Beyond the Humming Downs
Beyond the Humming Downs is a romantic fantasy adventure with a dash of hopepunk, quiet rebellion and earth magic.
A fateful meeting. A forbidden bond. A fight for the future… When Adehl meets Roh under the summer-blue sky of the Humming Downs, they’re bound by ellir, the storm of energy in the heart of the world. Their unprecedented bond sparks a quest for survival and equality that exposes unjust lore. Will they risk everything to build a more inclusive world?
“A lyrical adventure full of humanity.” (Amazon review)
My thoughts on books
Book Review: Child of Vanris
Child of Vanris is a classic coming of age and chosen one tale with found family, animal companions and spirit siblings! It’s about belonging and growing into who you’re meant to be.
Book Review: Paladin’s Grace
Paladin’s Grace is about a broken paladin whose god has died. The premise hooked me from the start. It’s a gentle, character-driven, slow-burn fantasy romance.
Book Review: The Sword-Witch’s Heart
Radiance Book 3 – A captivating MM romantic fantasy with monsters, blizzards, only one bed /sharing a tent, magic hair-beads, a demonic black stallion called Daisy…
New posts in your inbox
About Me
Hi, I’m Ellen. I live with a feline animal companion and a horde of carnivorous plants in Melbourne, Australia (Boonwurrung Country).
I’ve loved all things fantasy since my teens, especially stories set in imaginary worlds. I have a passion for adventure and exploring new places in the real world too.
I also provide writing, editing and communications services for businesses, with a particular interest in industry, technology and engineering. Visit me on LinkedIn for more information.
Ellen Gregory 