A Fantasy Project That Could Go Disasterously Wrong

Following on from the success of the fourth Blake Langford Adventure; Wheel Of Deception in 2024, John met up with a few writing friends at The Bournemouth Writing Festival and one of them suggested writing a novel in a genre that they had never considered before.

From this meeting came the idea of The Throne Of Izelfeld. In 2020, John began writing books for children as well as his crime fiction series but had never ventured into the realm of fantasy novels.

Intrigued by the idea of stepping out of his comfort zone, John has decided to start this project in 2025 and document the progress of the project on this website.

From here, you will be able to see how the original seed of an idea is created, the initial synopsis, characterisation, plot and some pieces of the first draft that will be tied together to create the finished novel.

Make sure that you check back on this page regularly for updates as well as following John on Substack as he shares his journey in his weekly blog.

The Throne Of Izelfeld 

Back Cover Blurb

Boro  and  Skit  are  thrown  into  the  world  of  Izelfeld  after  being  involved  in  a  deadly  car  accident  in  the  market  town  of  Banbury  in  the  UK.

They  have  a  sand  timer  watch  on  their  wrists  counting  down  the  seven  days  until  their  death.

The  vicious  king  Charro  Lynptuk  has  enslaved  the  people  of  Izelfeld  to  build  his  kingdom  and  fight  those  who  oppose  him.

To  survive,  Boro  and  Skit  must  return  the   Polyranium  Crystal  to  the  Quill  Star  which  controls  Charro’s  invincibility.

As  surgeon’s  under  Charro’s  control  in  the  real  world  attempt  to  turn  off  Boro  and  Skit’s  life  support,  the  two  friends  must  work  together,  not  only  to  save  the  people  of  Izelfeld,  but  also  themselves  too.

(c) John Roberts

All Rights Reserved

The Throne Of Izelfeld Synopsis

Work In Progress - Planning The Outline Of The Novel

To understand your story's structure, you first need to create an outline of where your story is heading. To do this, I create a synopsis which highlights key pathways throughout the storyline whilst still allowing enough creative licence to go off-course and pursue other avenues along the way.

In the bustling market town of Banbury in the heart of England, Boro and Skit were two inseparable friends leading ordinary lives - until a fateful day when a deadly car accident transported them to the strange and perilous realm of Izelfeld. As they came to their senses amidst the unfamiliar surroundings, a chilling discovery awaited them: sand timer watches affixed to their wrists, ominously counting down the seven days until their impending demise.

Izelfeld, a world once vibrant and free, now found itself under the iron grip of the vicious King Charro Lynptuk. This tyrannical ruler had subjugated the realm's people, forcing them into enslavement to construct his ever-expanding kingdom and quell any resistance with brutal force. Boro and Skit soon learned that their only hope of survival, and of liberating Izelfeld from Charro's oppressive reign, lay in a legendary artifact – the Polyranium Crystal.

This ancient relic, when returned to the celestial Quill Star, possessed the power to strip Charro of his invincibility, a cursed gift that had made him an unstoppable force. However, the path to the Quill Star was fraught with dangers, for Charro's minions were ever-watchful, and the treacherous landscapes of Izelfeld harbored countless perils.

As Boro and Skit ventured forth, they encountered a ragtag band of rebels fighting against Charro's tyranny. United by a common cause, they embarked on a perilous quest to locate the Polyranium Crystal, braving treacherous terrains, battling fierce creatures, and outwitting Charro's cunning agents at every turn.

Meanwhile, in the world they had left behind, surgeons under Charro's control fought to turn off Boro and Skit's life support, their physical bodies clinging to life by a thread. The stakes were higher than ever, for failure in Izelfeld would not only doom the realm but also seal their fates in the real world.

Amidst harrowing battles and narrow escapes, Boro and Skit's bond was tested to its limits, but their unwavering friendship and determination kept them pressing forward. At last, after a climactic confrontation with Charro's forces, they succeeded in retrieving the Polyranium Crystal and racing towards the Quill Star.

In a heart-stopping finale, Boro and Skit faced Charro himself, the tyrant's fury unleashed in a desperate bid to maintain his invincibility. With the fate of Izelfeld and their own lives hanging in the balance, the friends harnessed the power of the Polyranium Crystal, shattering Charro's invulnerability and paving the way for his ultimate defeat.

As the Quill Star's radiance enveloped Izelfeld, the realm was freed from Charro's oppressive rule, and its people could once again embrace liberty and hope. For Boro and Skit, their sand timer watches ground to a halt, granting them a second chance at life – a life forever intertwined with the extraordinary world of Izelfeld and the unbreakable bonds forged in the face of adversity.

Exploring Characterisation

Creating Basic Profiles Of Key Characters Within The Storyline

Francis Boro

 

Boro is a determined and resourceful individual, driven by a strong sense of justice and loyalty to his friend Skit. Despite the dire circumstances they find themselves in, he remains calm under pressure and is quick to devise strategies to overcome challenges. His compassionate nature often shines through as he empathizes with the people of Izelfeld, fueling his resolve to defeat King Charro Lynptuk.

Before the accident, Francis Boro worked as a skilled mechanic in Banbury, where he developed a knack for solving complex problems. Growing up in a modest household, he learned early on the importance of resilience and hard work. His friendship with Skit began during their school years, bonded over shared interests in adventure stories and exploration games.

Francis Boro is of average height with a sturdy build, reflecting his years of physical work as a mechanic. His hands are calloused and strong, accustomed to handling tools and machinery. He has short-cropped brown hair and sharp blue eyes that convey both intelligence and warmth. A faint scar runs across his left eyebrow—a remnant from an adventurous childhood mishap with Skit.

Boro's dialogue style is pragmatic and straightforward, often reflecting his background as a mechanic. He tends to speak in concise, clear sentences, focusing on solutions rather than problems. His tone carries a reassuring calmness, especially when addressing Skit or the oppressed people of Izelfeld. Despite the urgency of their situation, he occasionally injects subtle humor to lighten tense moments and maintain morale.

Liam Skit

 

Skit is an inventive and quick-witted individual, always ready with a clever idea or unconventional solution to the challenges they face in Izelfeld. His playful nature often brings levity to tense situations, balancing Boro's more serious demeanor. Despite his lightheartedness, Skit possesses a deep sense of courage and loyalty, especially when it comes to protecting his friend Boro and the people they encounter on their journey.

Before the accident, Liam Skit worked as a freelance graphic designer in Banbury, known for his creative flair and ability to think outside the box. Raised in an artistic family, he was encouraged to explore various forms of expression from a young age. His friendship with Boro began in school when they collaborated on a project that combined their love for storytelling and design, solidifying their bond over shared creative endeavors.

Liam Skit is of slender build, reflecting his agile and energetic nature. He has curly auburn hair that often appears tousled, adding to his carefree demeanor. His green eyes are bright and expressive, frequently sparkling with mischief or creativity. Skit's attire is typically casual yet colorful, hinting at his artistic background and penchant for self-expression.

Skit's dialogue style is characterized by a playful and witty tone, often laced with clever quips and humorous remarks. He tends to use imaginative language, reflecting his creative background as a graphic designer. Skit's speech is lively and expressive, frequently incorporating metaphors or analogies that convey his artistic perspective on the challenges they face in Izelfeld.

Katrina Cassidy

 

Katrina Cassidy, known as Kat, is fiercely independent and possesses a sharp intellect that makes her an invaluable ally in the struggle against King Charro Lynptuk. She is perceptive and quick to adapt to new situations, often acting as a voice of reason amidst chaos. Despite her tough exterior, Kat has a compassionate side that emerges in moments of vulnerability, particularly when she sees others suffering under the king's tyranny. Her determination to help Boro and Skit stems from her deep-seated belief in justice and freedom for all people.

Before the events in Izelfeld, Katrina Cassidy worked as a journalist in Banbury, known for her investigative skills and fearless pursuit of truth. Raised by parents who were both teachers, she developed a strong sense of justice and an insatiable curiosity about the world around her. Her path crossed with Boro and Skit during one of her investigations into local corruption, where she admired their integrity and resourcefulness, leading to a lasting friendship.

Katrina Cassidy is of medium height with a lean, athletic build, reflecting her active lifestyle and adventurous spirit. Her hair is chestnut brown, often tied back in a practical ponytail that keeps it out of her sharp, observant eyes. Those eyes are an intense shade of hazel, always scanning her surroundings with keen awareness. She typically dresses in functional attire suited for quick movement and exploration, favoring muted tones that allow her to blend into any environment while she's on the move.

Katrina Cassidy's dialogue style is incisive and direct, reflecting her background as an investigative journalist. She often asks probing questions that cut to the heart of matters, encouraging others to think critically about their circumstances. Her speech is laced with a pragmatic wisdom, yet she can soften her tone when offering comfort or encouragement to those in distress.

Long term girlfriend of Francis Boro

Joanne Phillips

 

Joanne Phillips, or Jo, possesses a resilient and introspective personality shaped by her past experiences. She exhibits a quiet strength and determination to overcome challenges, often drawing from her intelligence to navigate difficult situations. Despite the scars of her previous relationship, Jo demonstrates compassion and empathy towards others, channeling her inner struggles into understanding and supporting those around her.

Had previously been in an abusive relationship before meeting Liam Skit.

Joanne Phillips has a lean, athletic build that speaks to her resilience and inner strength. Her expressive eyes often reflect the depth of her thoughts and emotions, while her wavy chestnut hair frames a face marked by subtle lines of wisdom. She carries herself with quiet confidence, her posture both open and inviting yet ready to withstand any storm.

Uses long descriptive wording, very intelligent. Quick witted, can talk her way out of most situations.

Recent girlfriend of Liam Skit.

Charro Lynptuk

Cruel, mean, relentless, will destroy anyone who stops him from getting what he wants. 

Charro Lynptuk was born into a lineage of ruthless rulers, each more power-hungry than the last. As a young prince in Izelfeld, he quickly learned to wield fear and manipulation to his advantage, ensuring loyalty through intimidation. His rise to power was marked by betrayal and cunning strategies that eliminated any rivals. Charro's obsession with invincibility led him on a relentless quest for the Polyranium Crystal, which he believes is key to securing his eternal reign over Izelfeld.

Charro Lynptuk possesses a commanding presence at 7 feet tall, with sharp, angular features that seem carved from stone. His piercing eyes are a cold, steely gray, often narrowing in suspicion or disdain. A mane of dark hair falls to his shoulders, framing a face that rarely betrays any emotion other than contempt or calculation. His tall and imposing stature is accentuated by the regal armor he wears—ornate yet functional, symbolizing both his royal status and readiness for conflict.

King Charro's dialogue is commanding and authoritative, often laced with threats or veiled insults. He speaks in a measured, deliberate tone that conveys his superiority and control. His words are sharp and calculated, designed to instill fear or manipulate those around him into submission.

King of the kingdom of Izelfeld

Tola Vazquentz

Tola Vazquentz, known as Vaz, exudes an intimidating presence with his no-nonsense attitude and unwavering loyalty to King Charro. His personality is marked by a cold pragmatism and a lack of empathy, making him an effective enforcer who prioritizes duty over personal connections. Despite his menacing exterior, there are hints of inner conflict when faced with the suffering he inflicts on others.

Tola Vazquentz, originally hailing from a small village in Izelfeld, was once known for his exceptional skills as a blacksmith. His talents caught the attention of King Charro, who coerced him into service with promises of power and security for his family. Over time, Vaz became deeply entrenched in the king's regime, sacrificing personal values to maintain his position and protect those he loved from Charro's wrath.

Tola Vazquentz is a towering figure with broad shoulders and a muscular build, reflecting his background as a blacksmith. His face is marked by sharp features and deep-set eyes that hold an intense, unwavering gaze. Scars from years of labor and battle line his hands and forearms, adding to his formidable appearance.

Vaz's dialogue is terse and direct, often laced with a commanding tone that leaves little room for argument. He chooses his words carefully, reflecting his pragmatic nature and the seriousness of his duties. Occasionally, when confronted with moral dilemmas, there may be a slight hesitation in his speech, hinting at the internal conflict he experiences.

King Charro Lynptuk's local servant. Will do whatever Charro asks of him including killing others, no matter how brutal his methods may be.

Dr Naomi Fisher

Naomi Fisher is compassionate and empathetic, driven by a strong sense of duty to save lives. Despite her limited role, she exhibits a quiet determination and resilience, often questioning the morality of actions taken at Banbury Hospital. Her internal conflict reflects a deep-seated desire to do what is right, even when faced with difficult choices.

Naomi Fisher grew up in a small village called Adderbury, near Banbury, where she was inspired by her mother, a dedicated nurse, to pursue a career in medicine. She excelled academically and earned a scholarship to study at one of the top medical schools in the UK. Her experiences working in underfunded hospitals cultivated her empathy and commitment to patient care, shaping her into a doctor who constantly questions the ethical implications of medical decisions.

Naomi Fisher is of average height with a slender build, reflecting her active lifestyle. She has warm brown eyes that convey empathy and understanding, framed by soft waves of black hair often tied back in a practical ponytail. Her gentle features are complemented by an approachable smile, which puts patients at ease.

Naomi Fisher's dialogue style is gentle and compassionate, often using soothing tones to reassure those around her. She speaks with clarity and thoughtfulness, carefully choosing words that reflect her empathy and understanding. Her conversations frequently include questions that encourage others to consider ethical perspectives, highlighting her introspective nature.

Doctor Naomi Fisher and her colleague, Doctor Richard Armstrong, are the surgeons who are trying to keep Francis Boro and Liam Skit alive in Banbury whilst their spirits are battling King Charro Lynptuk in Izelfeld. 

Doctor Naomi Fisher is assisted by Nurse Aarna Bakshi and Nurse Saanvi Jha who, unbeknown to her, are being controlled by King Charro's evil powers to kill Francis Boro and Liam Skit so they can never return to their earthly bodies in Banbury.

Dr Richard Armstrong

Doctor Rich is pragmatic and efficient, prioritizing the practical aspects of patient care over emotional connections. He approaches his work with a detached, clinical manner that can sometimes come across as cold or unfeeling. Despite his lack of empathy compared to some colleagues, he remains focused on achieving results and ensuring medical procedures are executed flawlessly.

Richard Armstrong, known as Doctor Rich, grew up in a family of medical professionals in the city of Oxford, where the emphasis was always on results and precision. His father was a renowned surgeon whose demanding standards shaped Richard's approach to medicine. This upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic but also contributed to his emotionally detached demeanor. He excelled in medical school, quickly gaining recognition for his technical skills and methodical approach to patient care.

Doctor Rich is a man of medium height with a lean, wiry build that reflects his meticulous nature. His hair is neatly trimmed and graying at the temples, giving him an air of experience and authority. He has sharp blue eyes that seem to assess everything around him with precision, and his attire is always immaculate, favoring crisp white lab coats over tailored suits when not in the hospital.

Doctor Rich's dialogue style is characterized by its precision and directness, often devoid of emotional nuance. He communicates with a clinical clarity that reflects his focus on efficiency and results, using concise language to convey instructions or observations. His tone can sometimes seem brusque, as he prioritizes factual information over empathetic exchanges.

Doctor Richard Armstrong and his colleague, Doctor Naomi Fisher, are the surgeons who are trying to keep Francis Boro and Liam Skit alive in Banbury whilst their spirits are battling King Charro Lynptuk in Izelfeld. 

Doctor Richard Armstrong is assisted by Nurse Aarna Bakshi and Nurse Saanvi Jha who, unbeknown to him, are being controlled by King Charro's evil powers to kill Francis Boro and Liam Skit so they can never return to their earthly bodies in Banbury.

Nurse Aarna Bakshi

Aarna Bakshi is a nurturing and empathetic individual, always ready to lend a listening ear and provide comfort to those in distress. Her calm demeanor helps her navigate the chaos of Izelfeld with grace, offering support and encouragement to both patients and colleagues alike. Despite the challenges she faces, Aarna remains optimistic, believing in the power of kindness and compassion to make a difference. King Charro Lynptuk sends her to Banbury to live in the real world and kill Francis Boro and Liam Skit. After escaping Izelfeld, she discovers that she does not want to return and continued to fail in her attempts to kill Boro and Skit in the hospital.

Aarna Bakshi was born and raised in a small, close-knit village on the outskirts of Izelfeld. From a young age, she displayed an innate compassion and desire to help others, which led her to pursue nursing. Despite being coerced into King Charro's service, Aarna's experiences in Banbury opened her eyes to a world beyond the king’s tyranny, igniting a longing for freedom and peace that conflicted with her assigned mission.

Aarna Bakshi has a gentle, approachable appearance that mirrors her nurturing personality. She possesses warm brown eyes that reflect her empathy and kindness, along with a soft smile that can soothe even the most anxious patients. Her hair is dark and often tied back neatly to maintain professionalism during her duties. Despite the challenges she faces, there is an air of quiet resilience about her, evident in her poised posture and steady gaze.

Aarna Bakshi's dialogue style is soothing and thoughtful, often infused with empathy and warmth. She tends to use gentle, reassuring tones that aim to ease tension and provide comfort. Her words reflect her internal conflict between duty and desire for freedom, occasionally revealing her compassionate nature even when discussing difficult topics.

Female Nurse Aarna Bakshi and her colleague Male Nurse Saanvi Jha are under King Charro Lynptuk's command in Banbury as they attempt to kill Francis Boro and Liam Skit so they can never return to their earthly bodies in Banbury.

Detective Chief Inspector Casey Loveridge and her sergeant, Tom Vowles, are suspicious of Aarna Bakshi and Saanvi Jha after six people mysteriously died in four different hospitals in the local area. Each victim had the initial C burnt into their neck.

Nurse Saanvi Jha

Saanvi Jha is a compassionate and dedicated nurse, known for his gentle approach and keen observational skills. He possesses a quiet resilience that allows him to remain calm under pressure, often serving as a stabilizing presence in chaotic situations. Despite the challenges he faces working under Charro's regime, Saanvi maintains an unwavering commitment to helping those in need, driven by an innate sense of empathy and kindness. King Charro Lynptuk sends him to Banbury to live in the real world and kill Francis Boro and Liam Skit. After escaping Izelfeld, he discovers that he does not want to return and sees killing Boro and Skit as his only chance of freedom but Aarna Bakshi kills him before he has a chance to complete his mission.

Saanvi Jha was born in a remote village in Izelfeld, where he grew up observing the hardships faced by his community under Charro's oppressive rule. His innate empathy and desire to help others led him to pursue nursing, despite the risks involved. Sent to Banbury on a mission by King Charro, Saanvi struggled with the moral conflict between his orders and his compassionate nature.

Saanvi Jha is a slender man with a gentle demeanor, his soft brown eyes reflecting the empathy and kindness that define him. His hair is dark and slightly wavy, often kept short for practicality in his nursing duties. Despite the weariness from working under Charro's regime, Saanvi maintains an upright posture that conveys both resilience and determination.

Saanvi Jha's dialogue style is gentle and empathetic, often choosing words that convey understanding and compassion. He speaks in a calm, soothing tone, which can diffuse tension in stressful situations. Even when conflicted by his mission under Charro's orders, Saanvi's speech reflects his inner turmoil with pauses and thoughtful phrasing as he grapples with moral dilemmas.

Male Nurse Saanvi Jha and his colleague Female Nurse Aarna Bakshi are under King Charro Lynptuk's command in Banbury as they attempt to kill Francis Boro and Liam Skit so they can never return to their earthly bodies in Banbury.

Detective Chief Inspector Casey Loveridge and her sergeant, Tom Vowles, are suspicious of Aarna Bakshi and Saanvi Jha after six people mysteriously died in four different hospitals in the local area. Each victim had the initial C burnt into their neck.

DCI Casey Loveridge

Casey Loveridge is astute and analytical, possessing an unwavering dedication to justice and truth. Her sharp intuition allows her to see through deception, making her a formidable investigator. Despite the pressures of her role, she remains composed and determined, with a dry wit that often surfaces in tense situations.

Casey Loveridge grew up in a small town where her father served as the local police chief, instilling in her a strong sense of justice from an early age. She pursued criminology and law at university, driven by a desire to uncover truths and protect the innocent. Her career began with challenging cases that honed her investigative skills and solidified her reputation as one of the most insightful detectives on the force.

Casey Loveridge is of average height with a lean, athletic build that speaks to her active lifestyle and dedication to her work. She has sharp, observant eyes that seem to miss nothing, often framed by glasses when she’s deep in thought or reviewing case files. Her hair is a practical shoulder-length cut, usually tied back neatly during investigations.

Casey Loveridge’s dialogue is characterized by its directness and precision, often cutting straight to the heart of matters. She employs a dry wit that can lighten tense situations but never detracts from her focus on uncovering the truth. Her speech reflects her analytical nature, frequently posing probing questions and insightful observations that reveal her keen intellect and investigative prowess.

Follows strict rules, unwilling to compromise, will do whatever it takes to get the job done. Refuses to let any male colleagues in. Has a history of abuse in childhood which gives her a determined, ruthless and relentless determination to make herself feel worthy of her position as Detective Chief Inspector in a mostly male dominated world.

Often works with her Sergeant, Tom Vowles, but is often unwilling to allow him to get close to her.

Sergeant Tom Vowles

Tom Vowles is a steadfast and disciplined individual, embodying the qualities of a reliable sergeant. He approaches his duties with a no-nonsense attitude, demonstrating unwavering loyalty to his team and superiors. Despite his stern exterior, he possesses an underlying sense of fairness and integrity that guides his actions.

Tom Vowles grew up in a small town where discipline and hard work were valued above all else, shaping his steadfast nature. His father served as a police officer, instilling in Tom a strong sense of justice and duty from an early age. Joining the military right after school, he quickly rose through the ranks due to his reliability and integrity, eventually transitioning into law enforcement as a sergeant known for his no-nonsense approach.

Tom Vowles stands tall and imposing, with a muscular build that reflects years of disciplined training. His sharp, piercing eyes convey both authority and attentiveness, while his neatly trimmed hair and clean-shaven face add to his no-nonsense demeanor. Tom's uniform is always impeccably maintained, mirroring his commitment to order and precision.

Tom Vowles communicates with a direct and authoritative tone, often using concise language that leaves little room for ambiguity. His dialogue reflects his disciplined nature, frequently employing military jargon or police terminology when addressing his team. Despite his stern approach, he occasionally reveals a dry wit, particularly in high-pressure situations where levity can ease tension.

Sergeant Tom Vowles works alongside Detective Chief Inspector Casey Loveridge at Banbury Police Station.

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