The Truman Show meets Game of Thrones in this epic tale of a studio-owned Fantasy world.
Coming May 12, 2026
Pre-order now!
The classic fantasy world of The Malicarn has been brought to life on the big screen in a series of epic movies, almost entirely populated by characters in total belief that their sham fantasy lives are real.
A fan-favorite actor finds himself doubting the studio's work, but the world of The Malicarn has an almost unstoppable momentum, and bringing freedom to a population who already believe themselves to be free won’t be as easy as he thinks.
A land filled with magic and dragons and wizards and warriors.
Thousands of people live and work within its borders — fearful of their enemies and loyal to their king.
All the world’s a stage.
Meet the players.
“Elrod’s debut novel is diabolically clever. The conceit grows more intricate and menacing chapter by chapter, decade by myth-weaving decade. The Franchise offers wonderful (and darkly hilarious) insights into the momentum of seductive stories and irresistible lucre.” —Robert V.S. Redick, author of Master Assassins
“Wonderfully fantastical yet worryingly plausible - is it satire? Is it sci-fi or fantasy? Who cares when it’s such a diverting read. So many character and plot threads are woven together to form a remarkable tapestry of ingenious deception and heartless commercialism.” —Charlotte Bond, author of The Fireborne Blade
Photo Credit: Lucas Sinkinson, Sinkinson Photography
Thomas Elrod lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and daughter. His writing has appeared in the LA Review of Books, Independent Weekly, and elsewhere. The Franchise is his first novel.
Contact
For rights and permissions queries, please contact the Ethan Ellenberg Literary Agency