Geekly's own International Woman of Mystery.This episode Steph talks to author Paul Vanhoutteghem about his debut novel The Chao Portal (available now!). They discuss what it’s like to hybrid publish, collaborating in the book process, and building a world inspired by D&D.
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Paul!
Awesome book, can’t wait to read the next one!
Dear Paul,
I recently spent time with The Shadow Brand and was struck by how vividly you expand the emotional and visual scope of Cordelia’s journey. The descent into the Arachnin Mountains and the colourless Realm of Shadows feels deliberately disorienting in the best way mirroring the fractures that begin to appear within the group itself. Cordelia’s pull toward the dark tower, and the quiet tension between vision and loyalty, gives the story a psychological weight that elevates it beyond a traditional fantasy quest. The integration of illustration alongside the narrative also adds a distinct texture, reinforcing the sense that this world is meant to be felt as much as read.
What stands out about your work is its emphasis on choice, separation, and the strain friendship undergoes when fear and ambition collide. The Shadow Brand seems especially well suited for readers who enjoy fantasy that leans into atmosphere and moral uncertainty rather than straightforward heroics. At the same time, books like this can be challenging to position clearly, particularly when the visual artistry, worldbuilding, and emotional arc all compete for attention in how the story is presented to potential readers.
As a book marketer, I work closely with authors to help clarify and strengthen that outward facing narrative. For a title like The Shadow Brand, this often means sharpening how the book’s core appeal is communicated foregrounding its themes of fractured alliances, internal conflict, and shadowed worlds so it reaches readers who actively seek immersive, character-driven fantasy. I also help authors support long-term discoverability by aligning reviewer outreach, descriptive copy, and reader engagement with the book’s tone and intent, allowing interest to build steadily rather than relying solely on launch momentum.
There’s a sense of patience and confidence in how you allow the story’s darkness to unfold, trusting readers to sit with uncertainty rather than rushing toward resolution. That approach gives the book staying power, and with thoughtful positioning, it can continue to find readers who appreciate fantasy that challenges both its characters and its audience. I would be glad to continue this conversation by email and learn more about your goals for The Shadow Brand and how you hope the series will grow