The rise of literary fantasy, and how to write it

The rise of literary fantasy, and how to write it

Last updated Mar 28, 2025 | Writing Tips

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

How folklore can inspire your next story

Mar 4, 2025 | Writing Tips

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: How not to cut yourself on an edgy protagonist

Last updated Jan 20, 2025 | Writing Tips

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

SFF podcasts: An easy crash course

Last updated Dec 20, 2024 | Writing Tips

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

The ultimate list of fantasy and science fiction magazines

Last updated Nov 25, 2024 | Writing Tips

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...