The Magic of C. B. Lyall’s Storytelling
Lyall’s novels challenge societal norms and inspire read
C. B. Lyall’s journey from a young girl in Northern England to an acclaimed author is a story of resilience and determination. Growing up in the sixties, Lyall defied gender norms and societal expectations, forging a path in the male-dominated field of software development. Her adventurous spirit and passion for storytelling have taken her across the globe, enriching her perspective and deepening the cultural nuances in her work.
Lyall’s debut YA novel, “The Virus of Beauty,” is a captivating exploration of gender inequality set against a fantastical backdrop. The novel challenges societal norms and encourages readers to look beyond appearances, offering a fresh and thought-provoking take on beauty and power. Lyall’s work is not only entertaining but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in a world often obsessed with superficiality. Her writing resonates with readers of all ages, making her a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Lyall’s early experiences with gender inequality have profoundly influenced the themes in her “Virus of Beauty” series. She hopes the series inspires girls and women to find constructive ways to improve the world around them. In the series, wizards strive to maintain control, even though cooperation and power-sharing would better serve the magical realm. This theme of power dynamics extends beyond gender, touching on race, class, religion, and sexuality.
The unique premise of “The Virus of Beauty,” where ugliness is power and beauty is a curse, reflects Lyall’s views on societal norms regarding beauty and power. She believes that outward appearances don’t always reflect inner beauty and that people should be judged by their actions, not by an airbrushed photo. In today’s social media-driven world, where identity is often tied to curated images, Lyall’s message is a reminder to look beyond first impressions.
Having lived and raised her family in multiple countries, including India, Belgium, and Hong Kong, Lyall’s global perspective has shaped the cultural elements in her fantasy worlds. While she hasn’t specifically incorporated aspects of these cultures, she conveys the sensation of feeling out of place and longing to belong. This theme is evident in the character of Wilf, who is from a mixed culture and experiences culture shock, mirroring Lyall’s own family’s experiences.
Wilf Gilvary, the protagonist of “The Virus of Beauty,” is a teenage wizard reluctant to use magic. His journey of self-discovery and quest for self-determination resonates with young readers today. Wilf’s struggle to fit in and his desire to be like his non-magical friends reflect the pressures teenagers face to conform to perceived norms, even when they know they are different.
Lyall is currently working on an adult historical fantasy series, “No Place for Decent Women,” which explores gender inequality in 1903 Surrey, England. The series follows Lady Cordelia (Delia) Fowler, who is determined to find her missing friend and escape an unwanted marriage. Writing historical fiction presents its own challenges, as Lyall must continuously question settings and historical facts, leading to a prolonged writing process and extensive revisions.
Throughout her writing journey, Lyall has completed several writing courses, including a Master Fantasy/Science Fiction writer’s course and an advanced novel writing course. These educational experiences have been instrumental in developing her writing style and approach to storytelling. She encourages aspiring writers to find local writers’ classes and connect with other talented writers, as the support and feedback from a writing community can be invaluable.
C. B. Lyall’s work continues to inspire and challenge readers, offering a unique blend of fantasy, cultural insight, and social commentary. Her stories remind us of the power of empathy and the importance of looking beyond the surface to understand the true essence of beauty and power.
