On Tuesday, May 27th, 2025, British-born Canadian author and composer Alexander Paul Burton released his highly anticipated fantasy novel, The Hollow Vale. This self-published novel combines elements of fantasy literature, classical music, and LGBTQ+ storytelling to create a unique and haunting saga.
Breaking away from the traditional publishing route, Burton has made waves with his grassroots campaign. The Hollow Vale is not just a book, but a fully immersive experience. The author has incorporated mapmaking, original soundtracks, and illustrated lore to create a captivating ecosystem. And everything has been produced by Burton himself.
Now available in both English and French, The Hollow Vale has sold over 300 copies across various formats and languages. The novel is quickly gaining a following among indie readers who are seeking emotionally rich and intellectually grounded fantasy worlds.
Burton explains his inspiration for the novel, stating, “I grew up queer in rural Somerset, obsessed with Tolkien and timelines. But I never saw myself in those stories – until I made one myself.” With themes of estrangement, identity, and belonging, The Hollow Vale follows a group of outcast characters as they reclaim their homeland’s lost history. This narrative echoes Burton’s own personal journey from familial rejection to creative rebirth in Canada.
In addition to the novel, Burton has also released companion music albums, audiobooks, and a dedicated fantasy wiki. Through these various mediums, he is challenging the traditional idea of what it means to be a fantasy author in the digital age.
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Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.