Welcome to the official website for F.T. McKinstry.

My name is Faith. I write fantasy, swords and sorcery, and fairy tales. I like books, forests, winter, cats, aquariums, music and computers. I live in the northwoods of New England, don’t get out much and have one foot in the Otherworld. For years, in the closets of high tech jobs, I created fantasy worlds. Now I spend most of my time there.

I’m one sparkle ball shy of being a cat lady.

I have a dark side, as all things do. Among other things, it often takes the form of a warrior, a nasty, belligerent fellow with a penchant for whisky, swords and trouble. He isn’t into considering the upshot. Other times, my dark side is primordial, feminine, but not in a nice way. She pulls weeds, mercilessly edits manuscripts, and broods for days before painting or writing something. She destroys to create; she doesn’t suffer the sun and she packs a scythe. I’ve made peace with these beings by giving them free range in my work. In return, they play nice and don’t drive me mad.

Well, mostly.

I am constantly looking for answers, and have spent my life delving into any and every esoteric thing that catches my eye. I love Northern European legend and mythology. Also woven into my stories are threads of plant and animal lore, mythical creatures, medieval warfare, shamanism, pagan themes, verse and shadows. I’ve published an epic fantasy series called the Chronicles of Ealiron; a high fantasy series called The Fylking; many short stories in various fantasy/sci fi magazines; a story collection called Wizards, Woods and Gods; and a gothic fantasy horror novella called A Northward Gaze.

Collections of galleries on Fine Art America and Deviant Art contain original paintings and drawings inspired by the natural, mysterious and imaginary.

My blog is an illustrated canvas for news, information and visions about my work, including notions about writing or existence in general. Feel free to explore, and enjoy your visit.

© F.T. McKinstry 2022. All Rights Reserved.