High fantasy versus low fantasy: what’s the difference?
We love fantasy in all its facets: epic fantasy, cosy fantasy, magical realism, sword-and-sorcery, dark fantasy, urban fantasy, fantasy with beasties and ghoulies and valiant heroes of all shapes and sizes. When you think about it, ‘fantasy’ is actually a huge...
How to create meaningful stakes in a story
I recently saw a movie that got me thinking about the state of stories. In particular – why aren’t all of them good? Whether it’s folklore, fairy tales, fantasy, science fiction, or literary, written, spoken, or filmed, humanity has been telling stories for millennia....
How to use humour in fantasy
Pratchett aside, fantasy isn’t a genre that immediately screams out ‘funny’. If you consider the grim-faced barbarians in Robert E. Howard’s stories, Moorcock’s tragic Elric, or indeed the epic scale of Tolkien’s work… well, it all seems a bit serious, doesn’t it?...
Cosy fantasy: what it is and how to write it
Are you getting weary of writing about political intrigue, violence, or long, complicated events that impact the lives of many people? I don’t blame you. We get enough of that in real life. But is there a market for any other kind of fantasy? Writers, take hope! An...
The power of an older protagonist
In fantasy, a youth finding their power and destiny is an archetype deeply entrenched in our storytelling. In science fiction, the young hero discovering the truth of their place in the world (and what else is out there!) is similarly harnessed. This classic...
How to bring a fresh twist to old tropes
One of the great things about fantasy writing is that it feels comfortable and familiar, while at the same time offering worlds of untapped potential. We often come across the same distinctive character archetypes and greet them like old friends. But what happens when...
30 top fantasy and science fiction literary agents
Hoping to be traditionally published? Being represented by a literary agent can greatly increase your chances. Agents use their extensive contacts to pitch your manuscript to the most suitable publishers, present it in the most appealing light, and negotiate the best...
Villainy for fun and profit: 5 keys to a ‘dark lord’ antagonist
Now, just to clarify: we’re not talking about your garden-variety bandit or some misunderstood, tragic, brooding type. We’re after genuine bastards your readers will love to hate. This article is about crafting a Villain (note the capital V) worthy of the title....