Hi. I’m Kate, I write grim & grounded, a space for creatives trying to stay medium-sane under capitalism. I have always gone by Lily Hammer on the internet; it’s been my handle from the wee-early days of online gaming, so it’s stuck now. Maybe it will be my pen name one day, although everyone confuses it with the show, which is based on a place, yet they never seem to know it exists.
For the last five years, I have been working on a lengthy grimdark fantasy series that deals with oppressive governments, religious persecution, and bodily autonomy, following a group of morally grey people on their way to becoming found family. It brings me the most joy in life because I work in corporate America during the day. I’m working towards being traditionally published. I talk about all of this on this platform.
What to expect on grim & grounded.
The Grim: anything writing-related, including progress on my book, topics related to its themes, and things that have helped me stay motivated and make progress.
The Grounded: navigating the ups and downs of existing under a system that works against creativity, including ways I stay medium-sane with a corporate day job and ways I resist grind culture.
The Garden: my life as a chaotic gardener working towards sustaining at least myself with fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruit. I’m hoping to get to a point where I can donate fresh food when possible.
Writing Assistant Beans and his brother, Copy Editor Pants. Not their government names because they’re in hiding, but they help me write every morning.
Why become a paid subscriber?
As of 2025, the majority of my Substack is free with select pieces that I consider a bit more personal and/or “premium” behind a paywall, as well as much older Archival content. This may change as my Substack evolves.
It’s $5 a month, so upgrading to paid is just a simple way to show that you value my writing and is a great way to keep me and Writing Assistants, Beans & Pants, motivated to show up for you.
If you are a reader, friend, supporter, fellow writer, or stranger, welcome and thank you for being here.
You are a stranger no more.
