Hi, I’m Will Greatwich.

I write fantasy novels set in strange and mysterious worlds.

My first novel, House of the Rain King, is releasing in February 2025. It’s the story of a young monk who comes face to face with his god amidst the rising waters of a mythic flood. If you’ve enjoyed literary fantasy novels like Piranesi and The Spear Cuts Through Water, then this book is for you.

When the Rain King comes, the floodwaters rise.

The Rain House monastery is ancient, sprawling and corrupt. It’s also the closest thing to a true home for the young novice Emwort, who dreams of finding a place among the Rain King’s worshippers.

Then, on the morning of Emwort’s initiation, the Rain King arrives in person, and Emwort comes face to face with his god.

Suddenly, the monastery is turned into a death-trap, as a senile deity wanders the halls and tramples his devotees underfoot. When Emwort begins to ask questions about the Rain King’s past, he uncovers a conspiracy among his fellow monks to erase true the history of King, land and faith.

All the while, the floodwaters are rising. In seven days’ time, the Rain King must have his prophesied Bride – or else leave the land flooded forever.

To be updated when the novel is released, you can subscribe to my author newsletter. As a subscriber you’ll also get access to an exclusive free prequel novella, Rain in the Desert (coming soon).


Paperback Picnic

Speaking of newsletters… I have another one! (Yes, it’s just a little confusing.) This one is called Paperback Picnic and it’s all about strange, obscure old books. I dig through second-hand bookshops to bring you the good, the bad and the weird of classic sci-fi and fantasy. I’ve reviewed classic authors like Michael Moorcock, Leonora Carrington, and Clark Ashton Smith. To read the archives or subscribe, click the button below.

Some of the lovely old books I’ve reviewed on Paperback Picnic.

Short Fiction

I also write fantasy short stories, which have been published in professional magazines such as Beneath Ceaseless Skies and Mysterion. You can find links to all my stories here.


About Me

I’m an Australian fantasy writer. I’ve lived all my life in Melbourne, on the lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. Much of my writing is inspired by the Australian landscape and our unique place at the far southern edge of the world.

I’m also an avid birdwatcher. At last count I’ve spotted twenty-four species within walking distance of my house, and I will list them all if you ask me to.

When I’m not writing, I work in a public library, where I get paid to read books to children, teach coding, and run Dungeons & Dragons games. I live with my partner, my young daughter, and our border collie.

If you want to get in touch, you can find me on Bluesky @gnipahellir, or send an email to hello@willgreatwich.com.

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