S.1 Ep. 10: Smoke, Scar, and Subverted Tropes: How Gretchen Powell Fox Breaks Fantasy's Mold

🎙️ Welcome back to The Mythic Mic Podcast, where myths intertwine with reality, legends come to life, and fantasy is more than just a story! In this episode, host Bethany Amanda sits down with the globetrotting, purple-haired powerhouse behind Smoke and Scar—the first book in the epic, trial-filled, banter-laced Shattered Crown series—Gretchen Powell Fox.From a childhood spent around the world to crafting a realm torn apart by gods, magic, and political tension, Gretchen takes us deep into her creative process. What began as a “what if the girl was the overpowered one?” idea became a sweeping romantasy filled with deadly trials, elemental magic, and characters you’ll want to protect (and occasionally yell at).🗝️ What if your greatest ally was raised to destroy you?🔥 What if the only way to save someone was to enter the same deadly trials that once stole the love of your life?🌑 And what if embracing your own darkness was the only path forward?We dive into the world of Smoke and Scar, explore Gretchen’s love for flipping tropes on their head, and unpack the emotional heart beneath the magic, battles, and banter. This one’s for every fantasy reader who craves lush worldbuilding, slow-burn romance, and heroines who could definitely win in a tavern brawl.🔥 IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT…✨ Growing up across continents and how it shaped Gretchen’s storytelling voice✨ The meandering path from her 2012 dystopian debut to Smoke and Scar✨ The “overpowered fey heroine saves the guy” twist that sparked the book✨ The Arcane Crucible: deadly trials designed to unite enemies✨ Why Smoke and Scar is “LOTR meets The Serpent and the Wings of Night”✨ Flipping romantasy tropes: shadow mommy + golden retriever knight energy✨ How to keep writing when the self-doubt creeps in📚 GIVEAWAY ALERT: We’re giving away a signed paperback of Smoke and Scar (U.S. only) and a paperback copy for our international listeners! We're also giving away a special edition of Smoke and Scar from Aurora Crate! Follow us on Instagram for entry details.CONNECT WITH US:📖 Follow Gretchen Powell Fox – IG: @gretchenpowellfox🎙️ Follow The Mythic Mic Podcast – IG: @MythicMicPod🎙️ Follow host Bethany Amanda – IG: @BethanyinFantasyland✨ If this episode made you want to pick up a sword, enter a deadly trial, or befriend a shadow-wielding heroine, please rate & review The Mythic Mic—it helps more listeners join our epic quest!