Page 11 of Fangirl

I snort, sending him a couple of laughing emojis.

Me: I take it you haven’t read the books. Anlon’sfather was the worst traitor in history and was killed in book one.

Elijah: Nope. Not into fantasy much. And there’s what, eight books out? That’s way too much commitment.

Me: Twelve, actually. And you’d understand my concern if you read the series.

Elijah:Then tell me, Amy the accountant—what is so special about your Anlon?

I pause, fingers hovering over the keyboard.

How do I even begin to explain Anlon?

Me: He’s not just “special.” He’s one of the best-written characters in fantasy. Period.

Elijah: That’s a big claim. Humor me.

Me: Fine. First off, he’s not your standard broody, perfect prince. He’s deeply flawed. He doesn’t even want to rule at first—he thinks he’s unworthy.

Elijah: So, reluctant hero type?

Me: Sort of, but it’s deeper than that. He’s a warrior first. He’s fought in brutal battles, lost people he loves, and carries real trauma. He doesn’t just look tortured for the aesthetic—he is tortured.

Elijah: Got it. So no long stares out of windows while brooding.

Me: Exactly! Anlon isn’t soft. He doesn’t stand around looking conflicted—he’s action-driven. Even when he’s hurting, he’s doing something.

Elijah: So no brooding, and always in motion. Noted. What else?

I smile, pleased he’s actually listening.

Me: He’s layered. He can be ruthless when needed, buthe’s also deeply loyal. He doesn’t throw his emotions around, so when he does care, it matters.

Elijah: So when he loves, he loves hard.

I blink at the screen, my stomach flipping at the way he phrased it.

Me: Yeah. Exactly.

Elijah: Okay. Give me an example. What’s a scene that defines him?

I take a deep breath, my fingers flying over the keyboard.

Me: The Veil of Shadows. Book six. The enemy breaks through the walls, and Anlon is bleeding out. He’s been fighting for hours, barely standing. The city is about to fall. His generals tell him to retreat, that they can regroup.

Elijah: And he refuses.

Me: Not just refuses. He takes off his damn helmet, throws it aside, and calls his men to fight. One last stand. And they do. Because he’s not a leader by birth—he’s a leader because his people believe in him. That’s who Anlon is.

I sit back, my heart racing.

God, I love this series.

Elijah: Damn. That’s pretty badass.

Me: Right? And you want to put Jake Hollander in that role? The guy who punched a shark?

There’s a pause.