What do agents and editors look for in a fantasy or science fiction story?
No two people are the same, and that goes for fiction editors as well. Some love traditional formats, some love experimentation, others crave comedy, and many seek out twist endings. The list is really endless on what any one editor or publication is looking for. That...
The rise of literary fantasy, and how to write it
There’s a new major player in the world of speculative fiction. You’ve probably seen it on the shelves of your favourite bookshop and on the shortlists for some prestigious prizes. ‘Literary fantasy’ really is the best of all worlds, bridging highbrow character...
How folklore can inspire your next story
You know that saying ‘Everything old is new again’? Nowhere is that more true than in folklore. Ancient stories circle back with new lessons and new perspectives just when we need them most. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that nearly all fantasy novels, and a huge...
Antiheroes: How not to cut yourself on an edgy protagonist
Antiheroes are not a modern thing. They have their roots at the very core of fantasy literature, and indeed storytelling in general. Robert E. Howard’s Conan (who I will bang on more about later) is certainly an antihero. As is the wetboy Kylar Stern. As are, I would...
SFF podcasts: An easy crash course
What does ‘radio drama’ make you think of? Noir detective stories projected through a gramophone? Creepy stories under the blankets whispered from a 1950s handheld? Auditory storytelling is making a huge comeback in the form of audiobooks and podcasts – and the next...
The ultimate list of fantasy and science fiction magazines
Are you looking for somewhere to send your short story, personal essay, or poem? You’re in luck – we have THE ULTIMATE LIST of sci-fi and fantasy markets right here. Many of them even pay cold hard cash! The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association defines a...
How to start submitting to literary magazines: Everything you need to know
Did you know that some of the most successful SFF authors got their start submitting to magazines? Stephen King, Kelly Link, Gregory Maguire, and tons more have graced the pages of some prestigious literary journals (and probably some not-so-prestigious, too). Now,...
How to get started writing short speculative fiction
The short story market is booming, with fantasy and science fiction leading the pack. Not to mention, you can make some serious money if your short story is accepted by a high-ranking SFF magazine, you’ll get your name circulating in the literary world, and you’ll...