PHOTO: Award-winning fantasy author Chriss Bury embodies the art of storytelling, crafting rich worlds filled with magic and adventure.
A Magical Journey Of Self-Discovery, Courage, And Adventure
Chriss Bury, author of the award-winning Dragon Twins: The Awakening, discusses their inspirations, themes of courage and friendship, and the importance of crafting immersive worlds for young readers.
Chriss Bury is a promising talent in the world of middle grade fantasy, captivating readers with tales that whisk them away to realms where magic and adventure intertwine. As the author of Dragon Twins: The Awakening, Bury has earned widespread acclaim for their vivid storytelling and ability to create narratives that thrill the imagination while resonating with the heart. With a natural gift for weaving fantasy and action into compelling page-turners, their work has already left a lasting mark within the genre.
Inspired by literary icons such as R.L. Stine and J.K. Rowling, Bury’s writing reflects the suspense-filled excitement of Stine’s unforgettable stories, interwoven with Rowling’s rich world-building and emphasis on themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. Their debut novel, which has earned multiple awards, is a testament to their talent for crafting tales that simultaneously enthral younger audiences and ignite emotional connections. Ambrose, the relatable and imperfect protagonist of Dragon Twins: The Awakening, embodies bravery and transformation, capturing the essence of what it means to believe in oneself.
What makes Bury’s work particularly striking is their ability to balance vibrant action with moments of reflection, ensuring a narrative that thrills without losing its emotional depth. Whether through the humorous companionship of Simon the gecko or the fantastical landscapes of magical realms, Bury invites readers of all ages to join Ambrose’s quest and discover the extraordinary possibilities that lie within us all. Their passion for storytelling and adventure promises even greater journeys ahead in the expanding Dragon Twins series and future projects.
What inspired you to write a fantasy novel about dragons and what do you hope readers take away from the story?
I was inspired by my godsons to write my first fantasy novel. I wanted to create a story that would excite them and inspire their active imaginations, something they’d pick up and not be able to put down. I wanted young readers to experience the thrill of adventure while connecting with characters who are finding their own strength. I hope readers take away the message that even when you feel ordinary, you have extraordinary potential within you. The story is about believing in yourself and discovering that the biggest adventures often start when we’re brave enough to step into the unknown.
How did your interest in fantasy and action influence the creation of the Dragon Twins series?
My love for both fantasy and mystery genres helped me create a story that moves quickly and keeps readers turning pages, while building a rich magical world created by their own imagination. I wanted that R.L. Stine page-turning quality combined with the magical depth of world-building you find in Harry Potter. The result is a fast-paced adventure that doesn’t sacrifice character development or emotional depth.
Can you tell us more about your main character Ambrose and what motivates him on his journey?
Ambrose is someone readers can relate to. He’s not the chosen one at first glance, and he doesn’t think there’s anything particularly special about him. What motivates him is discovering a connection to something much bigger than himself and finding the courage to protect a family he never knew he had. Throughout his journey, he learns that heroism isn’t about being fearless, but about acting in spite of your fears. His growth from an ordinary kid to someone who embraces his destiny is at the heart of the story.
How do you think your debut novel Dragon Twins, The Awakening will appeal to fans of authors such as R.L. Stine and J.K. Rowling?
Like R.L. Stine’s work, Dragon Twins has that edge-of-your-seat pacing that keeps readers engaged. There’s always something happening, always a new twist or challenge. Like J.K. Rowling, I’ve focused on creating a magical world with depth, memorable characters, and themes of friendship, bravery, and discovering who you’re meant to be. Readers who love the suspense and accessibility of Stine combined with Rowling’s rich world-building and character development will find those same elements in Dragon Twins. It’s an adventure that respects young readers’ intelligence while delivering the excitement they crave.
What role does the character of Simon, the pet gecko, play in the story and why was he included?
Simon brings both heart and humour to the story. Every great adventure needs moments of levity, and Simon provides that while also serving as a loyal companion and connection to normalcy as Ambrose’s world changes dramatically. He’s a reminder that even in the midst of magical chaos, the relationships and bonds we form, even with a small gecko, matter deeply. Plus, middle grade readers love animal companions, and Simon has definitely become a fan favourite!
How do you balance action and fantasy elements in your writing to create an engaging narrative?
It’s all about pacing and purpose. Every action sequence needs to advance either the plot or character development. I make sure the fantasy elements are grounded in clear rules so readers understand the stakes, which makes the action more meaningful. I also vary the intensity, moments of high action are balanced with quieter scenes where characters can reflect, bond, and grow. This rhythm keeps readers engaged without overwhelming them and ensures that when big moments happen, they have maximum impact.
What can readers expect from future instalments of the Dragon Twins series and are you working on any new projects?
Without giving too much away, readers can expect to meet new characters and learn more about Ambrose’s origins. We’ll also venture to new worlds as the story expands. Of course, there will be new allies and threats, and Ambrose will face even greater challenges that test everything he’s learned. The stakes get higher, the magic gets deeper, and the twins’ connection becomes stronger. I’m currently working on the next book in the series and developing a new series that I’m really excited about. There are so many stories I want to tell!
What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are looking to publish their first novel and establish themselves in the fantasy genre?
Write the story that excites you. If you’re passionate about your world and characters, that energy will translate to the page. Don’t try to chase trends, focus on creating something authentic. Also, read other books in your genre to understand what works and what doesn’t, but find your own voice. The publishing journey requires persistence. Rejections are part of the process, not a reflection of your value as a writer so don’t take it personal. Build your community through social media and connect with other authors and readers. Most importantly, finish your book. You can’t edit a blank page, and you can’t publish what you haven’t written. Keep going, even when it’s hard.
