This week I continue with my writing fantasy fiction series where I explore writing this genre in twelve steps. Check out my previous blog on RESEARCH.
Learn from the greatest fantasy novelists.
Oh wow! I totally did this BUT did I learn from the greatest fantasy romance novelists? No!
My inspirations were Tolkien, Robert Jordan, Raymond Fiest, Terry Brooks and David Eddings. They all wrote epic fantasy sagas and I ate them up. Nowadays I can’t tell you the last book I read that was written by a man!
Additionally that influence led me to write in series and I’m unlikely to read a book in any genre if it’s a standalone.
From those fantasy novelists I learned world building, grammar, tropes, characterization and plot without even realizing it.
Define the setting of your novel.
Easy. I had already existed in those worlds for decades. But I didn’t want to overdo the description. So, I dropped in elements to allow the reader to paint their own picture ie, the cobblestones, taverns, rushes underfoot, metallic stench of blood, etc
I’m impatient and don’t enjoy reading paragraphs of description so I don’t make my readers do that either. However, I need to concentrate on keeping the senses engaged so my stories completely immerse the reader in the world – they are living the story.
At the start of a scene, it’s a great tip to announce (either by telling or showing) where the scene is taking place, so your reader is right there with you.
Please return next week for part 3 of writing fantasy fiction, when I’ll discuss the use of short stories and creating rules for your kingdom.
