Welcome to My Writerly Self
Welcome to My Writerly Self, the creative haven of Karen Eastland, a Master of Letters in Creative Writing and a storyteller at heart. Here, the stories unfold in their own time and in their own way. I don't plan everything out meticulously. Instead, I allow the magic of storytelling to flow, creating worlds and characters that take shape as they wish. I am what you would call a "pantser"—someone who writes by the seat of her pants, embracing spontaneity and the thrill of discovery.
My passion lies in urban fantasy, and I delve into it in all its forms—dark, gritty tales, twisted humour, young adult adventures, and heartfelt coming-of-age stories. Each story emerges from the depths of imagination, often starting from nothing more than a vivid image, a twist ending, or a single powerful line. Through my writing, I aim to connect with those who love mystery, magic, and the raw humanity hidden beneath fantasy's often otherworldly surface.
On this site, you will find the heart of my work—novels and stories born of the universe I first created during my Master's degree and have continued to expand ever since. From epic urban fantasy adventures to short tales infused with magic and wit, this universe has grown into something vibrant and interwoven, filled with characters that have come to life and paths that have led to unexpected destinations.
I also write poetry—snapshots of feeling, distilled moments of beauty or pain—and an episodic serial titled The Adventures of Millie and Sandra, which brings to life quirky, heartfelt journeys that dive into the strange and fantastical. Writing, for me, is more than a craft. It's a journey, one I hope you'll join me on.
My Writerly Self is a place for exploration—a place where magic and the mundane meet. It's a celebration of the power of imagination, an invitation to immerse yourself in stories that enchant and, sometimes, challenge the heart. If you share my love for urban fantasy, or simply want to get lost in stories that make you think and dream, you've come to the right place.
Dive in, explore the blog, read the stories, and make yourself at home. Whether you're here to read, to be inspired, or to join in on the creative journey, I hope My Writerly Self offers you a glimpse of magic that stays with you.