The End Isn’t What It Seems
Local Fantasy Author Self Publishes Her First Book
Meet the Artist: Caitlan Honer
By Dennis McNabb, Staff Writer
There is a common conception that “everyone has at least one book in them,” that we all have a story to tell, it’s just a matter of putting pen to paper. But if that was the case, we’d all be authors. The truth is, writing a novel takes time — a lot of time — plus patience, discipline, and resolve, and the vast majority of us just don’t possess that kind of determination. Even for those who do, there is the issue of developing that seed of an idea into a logical and compelling narrative that might resonate with others. It’s really quite a remarkable accomplishment when anyone succeeds in doing so, and it is an event worthy of recognition, praise and support.
Caitlan “C.G.” Honer, who resides right here in Canby, just released her first novel, “These Gilded Bones May Bloom,” in 2023, and fans of the Fantasy Genre should take note! While this short story anthology is blooming with an eclectic mix of comedy, dark academia, gothic literature, and horror, it’s primarily a fantasy novel. Taken directly from her write-up on Amazon, the book is described this way: “29 short stories. Three unique worlds. One navigates battlefields of countryside and cobblestone. Another ensnares lost souls and sweethearts. And the last is tormented by deities better left forgotten.”
“These Gilded Bones May Bloom” [is] a collection of enemies and lovers, sprawling cities and hungry seas, stretching from the hidden magic of our own world to the far reaches of your wildest dreams and nightmares. Journey through the Ash Woods, a dangerous forest guarding the body of a long-dead soldier. Follow a thief as he steals into an extravagant garden party. Study the siren of Berkshire University, and the student hell-bent on setting her free. Brought to life through sweeping prose and lush illustrations, lose yourself in tales where the morally gray is king, fate doesn’t play fair, and “The End” isn’t always what it seems.
I had the pleasure of speaking with C.G. and found her to be both incredibly humble and passionately engaging with regard to her work. She has been writing for over a decade, honing her craft while establishing a vast and magical realm populated with a recurring cast of characters. Inspired to become a published author on her “golden birthday” (she turned 29 on the 29th of January), this book of 29 stories was released on that day to rave reviews, but it’s only the tip of the iceberg. For those who enjoy these stories and wish to delve deeper, she has a collection of manuscripts (in various stages of completion) which she is currently developing and they are all centered around many of the same characters developed in her first book.
Influenced by the likes of Leigh Bardugo and Holly Black, C.G.’s brand of YA Fantasy is beautifully crafted with unforgettable characters and genuine emotional depth. The book cover art is gorgeous, and the currently-available edition includes illustrations! Order your copy on Amazon today and catch this talented young writer on the rise! You can also follow her on Instagram: @cghonerwrites.
