Story Secrets - A Conversation With Noldor Elves

Story Secrets - A Conversation With Noldor Elves

Author: Fr. Roderick Vonhögen January 22, 2025 Duration: 11:29

As I work on my new fantasy novel, I’ve been diving deep into the genre to figure out where my story fits. Is it epic fantasy like Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, or does it lean more toward historical fiction? Right now, it’s shaping up to be a blend: a story set in a fantasy version of early medieval Ireland, infused with its rich mythology and magical traditions.

I’ve been inspired by my travels through Ireland, like the time I stumbled upon a garden full of fairies and gnomes near Glendalough. The woman who created it told me, “A lot of us still believe these fairies are real.” It made me realize how seamlessly history and fantasy can intertwine.

Of course, I can’t ignore the influence of Tolkien. Recently, I interviewed two cosplayers portraying ancient Noldor elves from The Lord of the Rings. Hearing their passion for Tolkien’s world—and the stories behind their handcrafted costumes—reminded me why this genre resonates so deeply. Fantasy isn’t just about magic or adventure; it’s about exploring timeless themes like courage, belonging, and the power of storytelling.

If you’re curious about how Ireland’s myths, Tolkien’s legacy, and my own imagination are shaping this novel, check out my updates on my books YouTube channel. I share daily video journals documenting my writing journey and behind-the-scenes moments that inspire my story.

👉 Visit youtube.com/fatherroderick-books to explore more.


Ever notice how a great film or television show can linger in your mind long after the credits roll? There’s often something more happening beneath the surface, a resonance that feels almost spiritual. Story Secrets is where we pull on those threads. Hosted by Fr. Roderick Vonhögen, this podcast sits at a unique crossroads, weaving together discussions on faith, popular culture, and pure entertainment. Each episode takes a familiar story-whether from a beloved movie, a gripping TV series, or even a timeless tale-and gently uncovers the themes of meaning, purpose, and humanity hidden within. You won’t find dry lectures here; instead, Fr. Roderick brings a conversational and insightful perspective, revealing how narratives we enjoy in our leisure time can unexpectedly illuminate deeper questions about life, virtue, and connection. It’s for anyone who loves a good story and has ever wondered why it sticks with them. Tuning into this podcast feels like joining a thoughtful friend for a coffee after seeing a fantastic film, where the conversation naturally drifts from plot points to the profound. You’ll come away with a richer appreciation for the craft of storytelling and, perhaps, a new lens through which to view your own journey.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Story Secrets
Podcast Episodes
Story Secrets - "We Needed Children’s Books To Recover" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:19
Some stories stay with you long after you close the book. Some characters feel so real that their struggles, triumphs, and losses affect you deeply—even if they’re entirely fictional. I recently spoke with authors Anaïd…
Story Secrets - The Cat Who Saved Books [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:36
Books do more than entertain. They challenge us, change us, and shape the way we see the world. That’s why I loved The Cat Who Saved Books by Sosuke Natsukawa—a story about a boy, a talking cat, and the deeper meaning of…
Story Secrets - From Sacristans To Storytellers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:29
What if your church’s sacristans—quietly setting up for Mass on Sunday morning—were also an elf and a bard at a fantasy festival the day before? That’s the real-life story of Ruby and Joost, two amazing cosplayers I met…
Story Secrets - My Least Favorite Star Wars Movie [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:07
I love Star Wars. I really do. But even as a lifelong fan, I have to admit—some movies are better than others. And if I had to pick my least favorite? Attack of the Clones. It’s not about the idea. The story of Anakin’s…
Story Secrets - Heaven, Hell and Groundhog Day [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:44
We’ve all had days that feel like they’re on repeat—wake up, work, eat, sleep, repeat. But what if you were actually stuck in the same day, over and over again? That’s exactly what happens to Phil Connors in Groundhog Da…
Story Secrets - Every Choice Leads to Adventure [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:45
What if the story you were reading wasn’t just about someone else’s journey, but yours? That’s the magic of Choose Your Own Adventure-style books. I recently discovered a Dutch fantasy author, Dianne Arentsen, who’s keep…
Story Secrets - Discovering the World of Warrior Cats [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:27
What if your next favorite fantasy series wasn’t about knights or wizards but... cats? That’s right—Warrior Cats is a massive book series following feline clans battling for survival, and I had no idea how deep and belov…
Story Secrets - Why We’re Still Snapping for the Addams Family [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:23
🎵 Da-da-da-dum (snap, snap)... Admit it, you just snapped your fingers! That iconic tune is part of what makes the Addams Family unforgettable. This quirky, creepy, and mysteriously lovable family has been a staple of po…
Story Secrets - Fullmetal Alchemist [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:33
What would you give to bring back a loved one from the dead? Your arm? Your leg? Your soul? That’s the heart-wrenching premise of Fullmetal Alchemist, an anime that dives deep into themes of sacrifice, brotherhood, and t…
Story Secrets - My Favorite Star Wars Movie [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:42
When people ask me, "What’s your favorite Star Wars movie?" my answer is always The Empire Strikes Back. For me, it’s the perfect balance of storytelling, emotional depth, and surprises that shaped not only Star Wars but…