Set in early medieval Ireland, my story asks:
👉 What if the miracles attributed to saints actually happened — through a kind of sacred storytelling magic?

Instead of flashy spell systems like you find in Brandon Sanderson’s books, I’m inspired more by Tolkien’s fuzzy, mysterious magic.
In my story, monks and priests collaborate with angels to write magical stories into a sacred book — the Codex Fabulae — and when they read from it, miracles happen. Until... the book is stolen.

Here's what I’m working on now:

• Finished a full 40-chapter outline (yay!)

• Story divided into three acts, with dramatic turns and personal battles

• Focusing on a fast-paced, cinematic style like Blake Crouch’s thrillers

• Early medieval setting inspired by real Irish saints like St. Brendan and St. Brigid

The hardest part? Not stuffing every idea I have into the first book! I have to keep the story tight, exciting, and leave plenty of mysteries for the future.

May will be a writing sprint: a chapter a day!
I'll keep you posted. And trust me — this world of saints, story magic, and hidden battles for Ireland is one you’ll want to visit.

🎙 Curious about the deeper layers and all the behind-the-scenes struggles?
Listen to the full episode of Story Secrets — it’s all there!

Just like the original, Twisters is a popcorn blockbuster full of tornado chases, cheesy accents, and implausible survival scenes. But while the first movie had this raw, thrilling energy (and that unforgettable roaring sound design), the sequel felt like a safe remix — same story beats, less heart.

A few things stood out:

• The main characters felt flat, and their transformations were too convenient.

• The CGI was impressive, but somehow less terrifying than the old-school effects.

• Big-name actors popped in and out without leaving a real impact.

It was fun, sure. But Twister is still my go-to for guilty weather thrills. Also: no Lisa Loeb music this time. Major missed opportunity!

Want the full review — including my thoughts on tornado YouTubers and why nostalgia isn't enough? Check out this week's Story Secrets podcast!

It’s the moment when Cyril Karn, overwhelmed by his controlling mother, just collapses face down on the bed. Total shutdown. And yes—it has already become a meme. But what makes this scene so brilliant (and relatable) is what happens right before.

Dedra, the ruthless Imperial officer, calmly dismantles Cyril’s mother with a few sharp words—and likely a handful of well-researched family secrets. It's like watching a power play at the dinner table that feels just as terrifying as the Empire's grip on an entire planet.

But here’s the thing: this personal drama mirrors something much bigger happening elsewhere in the episode.

Director Krennic is planning to subjugate a peaceful, artistic planet—not with guns, but with manipulation. Divide the people. Fuel internal conflict. Let them destroy themselves from within. Sound familiar?

• Fake news

• Media manipulation

• Leaders sacrificing people for power and resources

The parallels with real-world politics—from Russia’s tactics in Ukraine to the Panama Canal disputes—are hard to ignore. And Andor doesn’t want you to ignore them. This is Star Wars at its best: holding up a mirror to our own world through the lens of a galaxy far, far away.

🎧 Curious how deep this rabbit hole goes? I talk about all of this (and more) in this episode of my podcast. Check it out!

What makes Andor stand out? It dares to slow down. It gives space for moments to breathe, for conversations to land, and for emotions to feel real—not rushed like in some of the movies.

This season jumps forward in time toward the events of Rogue One. We’re getting closer to that terrifying moment when the Death Star becomes fully operational. But the real power of the series lies in how it mirrors the world we live in today: the rise of totalitarian systems, power-hungry leaders without a moral compass, and the cost of standing up against evil.

One scene in particular stayed with me. Cassian is about to escape with a stolen TIE fighter. A young woman helps him—but she’s terrified of what might happen to her if the Empire finds out. Andor tells her something beautiful and heartbreaking:

“This is bigger than you. You know you have to do this. Even if it means sacrifice, this is who you are.”

This is the kind of storytelling that sticks with you. It’s not just about space battles and rebels. It’s about courage. About finding your role in the bigger picture—even when it’s hard.

If you’re not watching Andor yet, give it a try. This isn’t just Star Wars nostalgia. This is Star Wars at its most meaningful.

The kid is smart, often overwhelmed, and largely misunderstood by the adults around him. And yes, the film hints that his autism makes him special—even evolutionary. But in the end, he's reduced to a narrative device. A MacGuffin. It feels tacked on and shallow.

It made me reflect on my own writing. In my fantasy novel, there's a young deaf character named Brendan. He's the brother of my main character, Tighe. And after watching The Predator, I realized just how important it is to get his role right. Not just for the plot. But for who he is.

Here’s what I’m aiming for:

• Brendan’s deafness isn’t a gimmick.

• His difference makes him essential to the resolution.

• The story wouldn’t work without him.

• He brings a unique strength, not a weakness.

Representation matters. But only when it’s meaningful.

🎧 Curious to hear how a gory alien movie made me rethink character development in my novel? Tune in to the full episode.

The truth is, writing can be a lonely process. I spend hours at my desk, conjuring up characters and stories only I know. And while I talk about the process on my Booktube channel, I’ve realized I want to share even more of this journey.

What if instead of waiting until the book is done to share the story, I share the chapters as I write them? It sounds terrifying but exciting at the same time. And it makes the whole process feel much more manageable.

Here's the plan:

• I’ll release the audiobook version of my story chapter by chapter on my Story Secrets podcast feed.

• I’ll also share behind-the-scenes content and story walks for my supporters in the private community.

• It’s a chance for you to join me on this journey from day one, and to be part of the creative process!

I’m incredibly excited but also a little scared. Sharing an unfinished story is like giving someone a peek into my mind – flaws and all. But I believe this experiment could be something really special.

So if you want to be part of this new adventure, stay subscribed to the podcast and join the community on my Discord server at FatherRoderick.com/discord.

More updates are coming soon! And if you’re feeling generous, your prayers for this crazy, creative experiment would be much appreciated.

It’s stories like this that fascinate me. I’ve always been drawn to how movies are made—the triumphs, the disasters, and all the creative problem-solving that goes on behind the scenes. Reading books and memoirs about how classic movies were filmed has taught me so much about storytelling. And when you find out what went wrong with some of the biggest blockbusters, it gives you a whole new perspective on why some of them ultimately work and others flop.

Recently, I discovered a podcast that scratches that exact itch. It’s called What Went Wrong and it’s hosted by Chris and Lizzie, a dynamic duo with great humor and tons of research skills. They dive into famous movies like Titanic, Predator, Blade Runner, The Fifth Element, and even The Godfather—revealing all the behind-the-scenes drama that studios prefer to keep under wraps.

For example, did you know Predator was a nightmare to film because of the low budget and grueling conditions in the jungle? Or that Blade Runner was so miserable to make that Harrison Ford hated the experience, especially filming at night in the rain for months? And then there's The Fifth Element, which, despite its quirky brilliance, carries a weird undertone once you learn about its director’s personal life.

Every episode of What Went Wrong makes you want to revisit these films with fresh eyes. It’s like discovering a hidden layer to movies you thought you knew inside out.

So, if you’re a movie nerd like me and love discovering how the magic (or sometimes the disaster) happens, go check out What Went Wrong. You won’t regret it.

Link to the podcast: What Went Wrong

What makes this play so fascinating is its focus on C.S. Lewis. Yes, the same C.S. Lewis who wrote The Chronicles of Narnia. But this isn’t about Narnia’s magic and wonder. It’s about something far more personal and heartbreaking – his real-life relationship with Joy Davidman and his struggle with grief after her death. This is the story behind his book A Grief Observed.

The play starts with Lewis meeting Joy, a brash, direct, and creative American woman who is a huge fan of his work. Their cultural differences make for some hilarious and awkward moments. Lewis is this introverted, socially awkward academic, while Joy is loud, confident, and unapologetically herself. But it’s her sincerity and courage that slowly break down his walls.

But what makes this play hit so hard is when Joy becomes seriously ill. Suddenly, the fantasy Lewis created in Narnia seems powerless against real-life suffering. And that’s what this play explores so well: the tension between imagination and reality, faith and despair. It’s gut-wrenching but incredibly beautiful.

William Nicholson, who wrote this play, is an absolute master of his craft. He understands Lewis so well that the dialogue feels like you’re listening to the man himself. And Joy? She’s brought to life with such authenticity and spirit. It’s all the more impressive knowing this play was based on their real-life correspondence.

So, would I recommend it? Absolutely. If you want to explore a side of C.S. Lewis you may not know and be genuinely moved by his journey, Shadowlands is worth your time.

The book follows Cass, a young girl who, after a near-death experience, gains the ability to cross over into the realm of the dead. And her best friend? Well, he’s a ghost! The story is set in Edinburgh, a place rich with paranormal legends. And of course, her parents are TV hosts chasing ghost stories for their hit paranormal show. Talk about awkward family dynamics!

What I love about Schwab’s writing is that she’s not writing just for the market; she’s writing for the kid she used to be—someone who didn’t quite fit in, someone who felt different. Cass’s journey feels like an invitation to anyone who has ever felt out of place. It’s a charming yet eerie tale with deeper themes of life, death, and friendship.

And it’s not just all atmosphere and spooky vibes. Schwab knows how to raise the stakes and keep the tension high without feeling cheap. There’s a real sense of danger and mystery that drives the story forward. Plus, she wraps things up in a satisfying way while leaving room for more adventures. It’s a skillful balance that many writers could learn from.

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and slightly spooky read, City of Ghosts is worth checking out. And if you enjoy it, there’s a whole series waiting for you!

The franchise is known for its deep, history-inspired storytelling. From ancient Jerusalem to Renaissance Italy and even ancient Greece and Egypt, it’s always been about immersing you in another world. But this time, the immersion was at a whole new level.

You start off in the present, using this incredible technology that lets you travel back in time. Suddenly, you’re in Renaissance Venice. You look down, and you’re wearing Renaissance clothes. Your hands aren’t your hands, but they move exactly like yours. You can reach out, pick up objects, even open drawers to find historical artifacts like a miniature airplane designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

The sound, the visuals, the interaction—it all feels so real. And it's not just photorealism; it’s the sense of discovery, of being there. I’ve played my share of VR games, but nothing comes close to this. The Quest 3’s crystal-clear lenses make every detail pop.

The best part? It feels like stepping into a well-written book. You’re not just watching or reading the story. You’re in it. And it got me thinking: as a storyteller myself, what if I could create something similar? What if my fantasy novel’s story magic could also take people to other worlds, across different eras? I have a ton of ideas now, and I can’t wait to start exploring them.

But the real magic of VR is how it lingers. Even after I took off the headset, I was still partly in Venice, just like how a good book stays with you long after you’ve put it down.

Want to join me as I experiment with all these new ideas? Make sure to follow me and sign up for my mailing list at fatheroderick.com/free to be part of this new creative adventure!

At the heart of this show is the creepy and mysterious Lumon corporation, where workers undergo a procedure to "sever" their consciousness. This creates two separate identities: the "Innie" who only exists inside the company, and the "Outie" who lives life outside with no memory of their work life. But here’s where things get really fascinating: these Innies develop their own personalities, goals, and emotions—sometimes conflicting completely with their Outies.

Season 2’s finale raised some major philosophical questions: What defines a person’s worth? Are these Innies any less human just because their lives are limited to the workplace? Are people only valuable because of the work they do? The series makes you think hard about the dignity of human life and how easy it is to diminish someone’s humanity when you’re only focused on productivity.

The finale brought so much emotion and intensity, including some shocking moments of violence that felt earned rather than gratuitous. And the cinematography? Absolutely stunning. From the symmetrical framing to the retro aesthetics, it’s clear Apple is pouring serious money into making this show a work of art.

Now, we have to brace ourselves for what looks like a long wait until Season 3. But I’m willing to bet it’ll be worth it. In the meantime, I’ll be obsessing over the theories and unanswered questions left dangling at the end of this season.

What do you think about the Season 2 finale of Severance? Let me know!

Set in the emergency room of a major city hospital—nicknamed The Pit because it feels like a war zone—this show dives deep into the brutal realities of healthcare. Overcrowded waiting rooms, patients left in hallways, doctors stretched to their limits. It’s not just a case-of-the-week drama; it’s an ongoing, relentless story where one shift bleeds into the next.

One of the most interesting storytelling choices? Each season covers just one day in the ER. Every episode unfolds in real time, so you feel the exhaustion, the urgency, and the weight of the choices these doctors have to make. And just like in ER, the camera work is incredibly immersive—you’re right in the middle of the action, feeling every second of the chaos.

I’ve only seen the first episode, and already, I can tell this is going to be an emotional rollercoaster. If you’re looking for a show that pulls you in and doesn’t let go, The Pit is it.

Have you seen it? Let me know what you think!

For those unfamiliar, Wheel of Time is one of the most famous fantasy book series out there. Robert Jordan started it, crafting an epic world where history repeats itself in cycles, and where magic is woven—literally—by powerful women. It’s complex, sprawling, and honestly… a bit overwhelming. Jordan passed away before finishing the series, and Brandon Sanderson stepped in to complete it.

I made it through four books before getting lost in the sheer scale of it all. So when Amazon announced a TV adaptation, I was relieved. Finally, a more digestible version of this massive saga! The first season was decent but clearly constrained by budget. The second season improved in every way. And now? Season 3 has blown me away.

The opening scene alone is jaw-dropping: a brutal attack on the White Tower (the Vatican of magic-wielding women), filled with betrayal, action, and chaos. It’s dark, intense, and way more graphic than previous seasons. And for the first time, I have no idea what’s coming next—this part of the story goes beyond the books I’ve read, which makes it even more exciting.

If you’ve been on the fence about Wheel of Time, now is the perfect time to jump in. Let me know what you think of Season 3 so far!

It’s called Adolescence, and at first glance, it sounds like a typical crime drama. A 15-year-old boy is arrested for a brutal murder, and we follow the police as they interrogate him. Sounds like a whodunit, right? Well, not exactly.

The real magic of Adolescence isn’t just in the story—it’s in how the story is told. Every single episode is filmed in one continuous take. No cuts. No editing tricks. Just an uninterrupted, real-time experience that makes you feel like you’re actually there.

Think about it: The camera follows the action through actual houses, up staircases, into the police station, through the interrogation room. The actors—hundreds of them—stay in character for 40 minutes straight. And somehow, nothing ever goes wrong. It’s insane.

The only time I’ve seen something similar was an episode of ER that was filmed live (yes, I was addicted to that show). But this? This is on a whole new level. The cinematography is mind-blowing, and the performances—especially the young actor playing the accused teenager—are some of the best I’ve ever seen.

If you’re tired of Netflix’s overpriced, overproduced, and often underwhelming content, Adolescence is the perfect reminder of why we still subscribe.

Let me know if you’ve seen it—I need to talk about this with someone!

He wasn’t Irish. He probably didn’t chase snakes out of Ireland. And he definitely didn’t invent green beer (sorry, folks). But here’s something even more surprising: we have a firsthand account of his life, written by St. Patrick himself.

It's called The Confessio, and it’s not just an old historical text—it’s a raw, personal, and deeply human story of faith, struggle, and redemption.

📖 Patrick’s Real Story
As a teenager, Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders and sold into slavery. For six years, he worked as a shepherd, alone and afraid. But in that solitude, he found something powerful: faith.

One night, he had a dream that led him to escape captivity and return home. But instead of staying in safety, he chose to return to Ireland—this time as a missionary. He wanted to bring Christianity to the very people who had enslaved him.

💡 Why You Should Read The Confessio
Most of what we know about Patrick comes from myths, written centuries after his death. But in The Confessio, we hear his own voice. He openly shares his fears, weaknesses, and struggles. He even apologizes for his poor Latin, showing just how humble he was.

And here’s the best part: it’s free to read online (link). It’s short, accessible, and—if you ask me—one of the most inspiring reads for St. Patrick’s Day.

👉 If you’re tired of the clichés and want to discover the real St. Patrick, I challenge you: read The Confessio this year. And if you do, let me know what stood out to you the most.

This book is way smarter than it looks. And today, I want to dive into exactly why it works so well.

First off, the worldbuilding is fantastic. These aren’t just talking cats. The clans have their own hierarchies, rituals, laws, and moral codes that feel as real as any human society. And instead of dumping all this information on us at once, the story unfolds naturally as Rusty (soon to be Firepaw) learns about it. That’s immersive storytelling done right—very much like The Lord of the Rings, where we experience Middle-earth through Frodo’s eyes.

Then there’s Rusty’s hero’s journey, which hits all the right beats:

• Call to adventure: He feels drawn to the wild.

• Entering a new world: He joins ThunderClan.

• Facing resistance: Some cats don’t trust him.

• Proving himself: Through courage and loyalty.

• Transformation: He becomes Fireheart, a true warrior.

It’s Harry Potter stepping into Hogwarts. It’s Vin from Mistborn proving herself in a rigid society. It’s The Lion King, but with more battle scars.

But what really hooked me? Clan politics and betrayal.

• Tigerclaw is basically a feline Macbeth—power-hungry, ruthless, and cunning.

• The moral dilemmas hit hard. Does loyalty mean blind obedience, or is it about doing what’s right? Firepaw has to decide.

• And then there’s StarClan—the mystical ancestors guiding the living, shaping prophecy, and creating a belief system that mirrors real-world faith.

For a middle-grade book, Into the Wild goes deep. It tackles real human dilemmas, from faith to corruption to the struggle between power and justice. And that’s why this book sticks with readers for years. It’s not just about warrior cats—it’s about us.

Have you read Into the Wild? Do you think it holds up for adult readers too? Join my on my Discord server to discuss: fatherroderick.com/discord

What happened? School.

In the Netherlands, we were forced to read “real” literature for every language we studied—Dutch, English, French, German. And let me tell you, German post-war literature? Absolutely soul-crushing. When I asked my English teacher if I could read The Lord of the Rings, he frowned and said, I’m not sure if that’s literature. That moment killed something inside me.

Then came seminary. Again, reading—but only textbooks. Theology, philosophy, heavy-duty stuff. No time for fun books. Then I became a priest, and reading felt like a luxury. If I had free time, surely I should be praying or doing something “useful.”

And then, Harry Potter happened.

I was studying in Rome when I saw the first Harry Potter movie. It unlocked something in me. I devoured the books. I felt like a kid again. That led me back to The Lord of the Rings and other books I had once loved. But it wasn’t until the pandemic that my reading truly took off.

I discovered the Goodreads Reading Challenge. It gamified reading, and suddenly, my ADHD brain was hooked.

• First, I aimed for 50 books.

• Then, I thought, Why not 100?

• Then, 150? Sure, let’s go for it!

Audiobooks became my secret weapon. Running? Cleaning? Driving? That’s prime listening time. Storytel, a European audiobook service, let me consume books like never before. I figured out exactly how many hours I needed to hit my goal. And somehow, I did it.

This year? Disaster. I was so focused on writing my own novel that I didn’t read anything for six weeks. But I realized something: I need to read to write. Books feed my creativity. So now, I’m catching up—19 books behind, but I’ll make it.

I’m reading books strategically too. The Fourth Wing? Not my target audience, but I read it to understand why it’s so popular (and, let’s be honest, to roast it a little). The Way of Kings? I like Sanderson, but I also know his books draw a huge audience. Reading isn’t just a passion now—it’s part of my work.

And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What makes Severance so special?

• A Thriving Fan Community – Unlike toxic fandoms that seem to hate everything, Severance fans are excited. They analyze every shot, every line, every hidden detail, creating a shared sense of discovery.

• Incredible Cinematography – Every frame is a work of art. The way the show plays with light, angles, and color enhances its eerie, surreal atmosphere.

• A Thoughtful Narrative – The show critiques corporate culture, the dehumanization of workers, and the dangers of cult-like ideology. It’s about control, identity, and what makes us human.

• Masterful Storytelling – Like Lost, it thrives on mystery. Just when you think you have it figured out, another layer is revealed.

• A Creator Who Cares – The companion podcast, hosted by Ben Stiller and Adam Scott, reveals how much love and thought went into crafting this series.

With only two episodes left in Season 2, we’re about to get some major revelations. And with a 75-minute finale? That’s almost a feature film!

If you haven’t watched Severance yet, now’s the time. And if you have, let’s talk theories—join me on Discord: fatherroderick.com/discord.

Back then, you couldn’t just rewatch Star Wars whenever you wanted. No VHS, no streaming, no DVDs. If you were lucky, the movie might air on TV years later. So for my siblings and me, Star Wars toys were how we relived the adventure.

Some memories that stick out:

• The original action figures—Luke, Leia, Han, Vader—roughly resembling their movie counterparts but with some very questionable designs (Vader’s lightsaber looked like an antenna).

• The Princess Leia doll that my sister experimented on, only to find the iconic buns were impossible to restore.

• The landspeeder with tiny wheels underneath, creating the illusion of floating across our living room floor.

• The Millennium Falcon playset—the holy grail of Star Wars toys. I never had it, but I dreamed about it. Years later, I finally saw one in a collector’s stash, and all those childhood feelings came rushing back.

That nostalgia is why I eventually bought a second-hand LEGO Millennium Falcon. Sadly, it wasn’t as exciting as I’d hoped. The build was too technical, and the interior was almost non-existent. But the latest LEGO sets? Now those are getting closer to the magic of old-school playsets.

Looking back, I realize how lucky we are today. Star Wars fans now have immersive VR games, hyper-detailed action figures, and LEGO dioramas that let us recreate those classic scenes with incredible realism. But there’s something about those early toys—simple, sometimes clunky—that made Star Wars feel alive in a way no video game ever could.

What was your favorite childhood toy? Whether Star Wars or something else, let’s relive the nostalgia together!