This article contains a few tips that you may want to review when writing a fantasy novel.

Tip #1 Determine which category your fantasy novel falls into

There are different fantasy subgenres. They include dark fantasy, fairy tale fantasy, contemporary fantasy or even historical fantasy; the list is long. Before you start writing your book, define clearly which category you want your book to fall into. This will help in developing a suitable plot that is targeted to a particular audience. For instance, dark fantasy can be completely different from fairy tale fantasy and a reader may want to read a book that belongs specifically to one of these subgenres and not the other. Combining aspects of different genres can also be effective when executed appropriately.

Tip #2 Be creative

Readers of fantasy novels want to be transported to a whole different world. Fresh ideas that are not too common will appeal more. Including other aspects of other genres in the book will also make it more captivating. You can consider including time travel strands in your fairy tale fantasy novel or even some science fiction aspects. Do not be afraid to deviate from beaten paths to create and cultivate your own style that will be satisfying and rewarding to your readers.

Tip #3 Include supernatural characters

The whole fantasy genre thrives on supernatural aspects that add fascinating subplots to your novel. In Stephen Kruse’s enthralling book, Squires of Rainecourt, there are many supernatural figures that make the story unpredictable. A delightful addition to the book is the inclusion of part of their history which creates a whole different world that encourages the reader to be imaginative. The supernatural characters fall on both the protagonists’ and antagonists’ sides. Depending on your storyline, you can use a supernatural character to accentuate the fearsomeness of the antagonist or reveal the strength of the protagonist. In The Weapons of Woodmyst, Robert E. Kreig includes supernatural characters on both sides. The protagonist’s role is strengthened by her being a dragon rider while the antagonist uses black magic to subdue anyone who stands against him.

Tip #4 Develop a plan for your plot

Fantasy storylines can become overwhelming since most have many characters. Apart from having both ordinary and supernatural characters, each main character - regardless of the role they are to play in the story - should be given enough space for their development in the novel. The supporting characters should also help in building a spellbinding novel, hence the need for planning before starting to work on the story. Each part should contribute to the plot; if it does not play an important role, it should be excluded. Keeping the storyline compact yet absorbing is the key to writing a great fantasy novel. Even though there are many options available to an author of fantasy books, they should edit their work and only include what will be most interesting to the reader. In a nutshell, it is a good thing to have options but you do not have to use every single idea that you have.