Fantasy Author Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of literature, the allure of fantasy authors has never been more enchanting.

As imagination pushes the boundaries, the demand for skilled storytellers who can craft, develop, and guard our mythical narratives grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a fantasy author?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring writer seeking to understand the nature of this role,
• An editor in search of the perfect talent,
• Or simply captivated by the behind-the-scenes of fantasy literature,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable fantasy author job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or literary websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Fantasy Author Duties and Responsibilities

Fantasy Authors use their creative and writing skills to develop captivating stories that take place in imaginary worlds, filled with magic, mythical creatures, and other elements of fantasy.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop imaginative and unique ideas for fantasy stories
• Design complex, believable characters, plots, and worlds
• Perform extensive research to add depth and authenticity to their fantasy settings
• Write rough drafts and revise work based on feedback and self-evaluation
• Consult with literary agents and publishers to discuss book ideas and submit manuscripts
• Collaborate with illustrators, editors, and other professionals involved in the book publication process
• Market and promote their books through social media, author websites, book signings, and other events
• Interact with fans, respond to reader feedback, and maintain a strong public image
• Stay up-to-date with current trends in fantasy genre
• Participate in writing workshops, writers’ groups, and other professional development activities
• Revise and rewrite work as necessary to meet publisher standards and reader expectations

 

Fantasy Author Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a creative and skilled fantasy author to create engaging and imaginative stories for our publishing house.

The prospective author will be responsible for creating intriguing characters, plots, and scenarios that captivate readers and transport them into a fantastical world.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for storytelling, a vivid imagination, and a strong understanding of the fantasy genre.

The goal is to create high-quality, enthralling novels that captivate readers and contribute to our reputation as a leading publishing house.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop engaging and imaginative fantasy narratives
• Create compelling characters, plots, and scenarios
• Work closely with our editing team to refine and polish manuscripts
• Participate in book promotions and author interviews
• Adhere to deadlines and publication guidelines
• Respond to feedback and make necessary revisions
• Stay current with trends in the fantasy genre
• Conduct research to ensure accuracy and authenticity of story elements

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a published author in the fantasy genre
• Exceptional storytelling skills
• Strong understanding of the elements of the fantasy genre
• Excellent written communication and editing skills
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Commitment to research and accuracy
• Creative and vivid imagination
• Strong self-discipline and time management abilities
• Degree in Creative Writing, Literature, or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• Royalties from book sales
• Access to professional editing services
• Promotion and marketing support
• Opportunity for international exposure
• Chance to participate in book signings and author interviews

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Fantasy Author
• Work Environment: Remote work with occasional meetings for consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Editor or Publishing Manager.
• Salary: Compensation is based upon royalties from book sales and advances.
• Location: Worldwide (Remote)
• Employment Type: Contractual
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit a writing sample, your resume, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Fantasy Author Do?

Fantasy Authors create fiction stories set in a fantastical universe, often involving magical elements, mythical creatures, or extraordinary characters.

These authors can work for publishing houses, or they can choose to self-publish their works.

They are responsible for developing complex plotlines, creating unique characters, and building a detailed, believable fantasy world.

This process often involves extensive research on various subjects, such as history, mythology, or even physics, to make their stories more immersive and believable.

Fantasy Authors also spend significant time revising and refining their works, focusing on elements like sentence structure, grammar, and narrative flow.

They may work closely with editors and literary agents to improve their manuscripts and prepare them for publication.

They are also involved in the marketing of their books.

This can include giving interviews, participating in book signings, and maintaining an active online presence on social media platforms or personal websites.

In addition, some Fantasy Authors may write series or trilogies, requiring them to maintain consistency in plot, characters, and world-building over several volumes.

Whether writing standalone novels or series, Fantasy Authors must captivate their readers with imaginative storytelling, engaging characters, and compelling conflicts.

 

Fantasy Author Qualifications and Skills

A competent Fantasy Author should possess a multitude of specific skills and qualifications to effectively craft immersive and engaging fantasy narratives, such as:

• Exceptional creativity and imagination to invent new worlds, characters, and plots that captivate readers and keep them engaged throughout the story.
• Strong writing skills to effectively communicate the storyline, setting, and character development in an engaging and understandable manner.
• Excellent research skills to accurately incorporate elements of various cultures, mythologies, or historical periods to enrich the story’s universe.
• Patience and dedication to complete long-term projects, often taking several years to write a single book.
• Ability to receive and apply constructive criticism to improve their work and respond to the feedback of editors and readers.
• Understanding of literary techniques and genre conventions to craft a story that is both original and appealing to fans of fantasy literature.
• Excellent planning and organizational skills to plot out complex storylines, character arcs, and world-building elements.
• Strong understanding of the publishing process, including the ability to work with editors, literary agents, and publishers.
• Good marketing skills to promote their work and build a strong reader base.
• Resilience and self-motivation to keep writing despite rejections or setbacks.

 

Fantasy Author Experience Requirements

Becoming a successful fantasy author typically begins with a strong foundation in writing and literature.

This can be gained through a degree program in English, Literature, or Creative Writing.

However, many authors have degrees in unrelated fields or no degree at all, relying on personal study and experience instead.

Newcomers to the field often have some experience in writing, whether through school assignments, personal projects, or writing contests.

This can include short stories, poetry, or longer works of fiction or non-fiction.

Early-career fantasy authors may have written and published a novel or two, either independently or through a traditional publishing house.

They may also have experience in related fields like journalism, screenwriting, or writing for video games.

Mid-career fantasy authors typically have several published works to their name.

They may also have experience with editing, as many authors work as editors to supplement their income and refine their craft.

Additionally, they may have started to gain recognition within the genre, either through awards, favorable reviews, or a dedicated fan base.

Experienced fantasy authors usually have a substantial portfolio of published works and a solid reputation within the fantasy genre.

They may have won major awards or achieved bestseller status.

At this level, authors may also have experience with public speaking, teaching, or mentoring, as they often get invited to speak at conventions, offer workshops, or mentor less experienced authors.

 

Fantasy Author Education and Training Requirements

Fantasy Authors typically have a bachelor’s degree in creative writing, English literature, or a related field.

They require strong writing skills and a deep understanding of literary techniques, plot development, and character creation.

A knowledge of the fantasy genre and its tropes and traditions is also essential for creating engaging and original fantasy narratives.

While formal education is not necessarily required to become a fantasy author, many successful authors have pursued undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in fields that enhance their writing skills and understanding of literature.

Additionally, creative writing workshops and critique groups can offer valuable feedback and guidance for aspiring authors.

Several authors also pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, which offers intensive writing experience and mentorship from established authors.

Some fantasy authors also choose to take classes or earn certificates in related fields like mythology, history, or folklore to enhance the depth and realism of their world-building.

Having published work, whether in literary magazines or online platforms, is often beneficial for securing literary representation and book deals.

Continual reading and writing are crucial for honing the craft, as well as staying current with genre trends and reader expectations.

In addition to these, the ability to handle criticism and rejection, perseverance, and self-discipline are all important traits for a successful career as a fantasy author.

 

Fantasy Author Salary Expectations

The average income for a Fantasy Author can greatly vary as it largely depends on the success of their books.

However, as a general ballpark, a full-time author could expect to earn around $61,240 (USD) per year.

This figure can significantly increase with bestsellers or successful movie adaptations.

Factors such as book sales, royalties, advance payment from publishers, and secondary rights sales also affect the income.

It’s essential to note that these figures can fluctuate based on the author’s reputation, publishing frequency, marketing efforts, and the overall popularity of their work.

 

Fantasy Author Job Description FAQs

What skills does a fantasy author need?

A fantasy author should have a vivid imagination to create unique worlds, characters, and situations.

They should possess strong writing skills with excellent grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.

Storytelling skills are essential to engage the readers and keep them hooked to the plot.

Authors also need to have research skills, as fantasy often requires a deep understanding of mythology, history, or even science.

 

Do fantasy authors need a degree?

While having a degree in creative writing, literature, or related fields can be beneficial, it is not a requirement to be a fantasy author.

Many successful fantasy authors come from various backgrounds and may not have formal education in writing.

What is most important is their ability to tell a compelling story and create engaging characters.

 

What should you look for in a fantasy author’s portfolio?

In a fantasy author’s portfolio, look for examples of their ability to create unique and detailed world-building, compelling character development, and engaging plots.

The author’s writing style and voice should be consistent, and their work should draw the reader into the narrative.

Their portfolio should also demonstrate their ability to write across a variety of themes and moods within the fantasy genre.

 

What qualities make a good fantasy author?

A good fantasy author has a strong imagination and a knack for creating fascinating worlds and characters.

They should have a strong command of the language and a distinct writing style.

They should also be able to weave intricate plots and keep the reader engaged throughout the story.

Patience and persistence are also critical as writing a novel is a long-term commitment.

 

Is it difficult to become a published fantasy author?

Publishing a fantasy novel can be a challenging process.

It requires not only writing a quality manuscript but also finding the right publisher who is interested in your work.

It can involve numerous rejections and revisions.

Self-publishing is another route, but it requires a significant investment of time and money.

Regardless of the path chosen, it’s crucial for authors to be persistent and passionate about their work.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the whimsical world of what it truly means to be a fantasy author.

Surprised?

It’s not just about spinning tales.

It’s about creating entire universes, one word at a time.

With our handy fantasy author job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why stop at the horizon?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your magical guide to precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your manuscript to a T.

Remember:

Every word you pen is a piece of a larger narrative.

Let’s weave those narratives. Together.

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