How to Become a Fantasy Novel Writer (Dream Big, Write Bigger!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of crafting a captivating fantasy world or wondered what it takes to become a fantasy novel writer, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as a fantasy novel writer. We’ll discuss:

• The skills you need.
• The education that can enhance your writing ability.
• How to get your first fantasy novel published.

So, whether you’re a budding writer or an experienced author looking to dive into a new genre, stay tuned.

We’re about to reveal the roadmap to become a successful fantasy novel writer.

Let’s begin the journey!

Steps to Become a Fantasy Novel Writer

 

Step 1: Develop a Passion for Reading Fantasy Novels

The first step towards becoming a Fantasy Novel Writer is to develop a passion for reading fantasy novels.

Immerse yourself in the fantasy genre and start reading widely and voraciously.

This will allow you to understand the elements that make up a good fantasy novel, including world-building, character development, plot structure, and the use of magic and other fantasy elements.

Understanding different styles of fantasy writing and how various authors construct their narrative will also help you to develop your unique voice as a writer.

Additionally, reading a variety of fantasy novels can inspire your own creativity and spark ideas for your own stories.

Try to delve into both classic and contemporary works to get a broad perspective on the genre.

Taking notes, highlighting sections that strike you, or keeping a journal of your thoughts and ideas as you read can also be beneficial.

Remember, the more you read, the more you learn about the craft of writing in your genre.

This step is crucial as it lays the foundation for your writing journey.

 

Step 2: Improve Your Writing Skills

In order to excel as a Fantasy Novel Writer, you need to hone your writing skills.

You can do this through various methods such as taking writing classes or workshops, joining a writing group for peer feedback, and reading widely and critically to understand different writing styles.

This will help you acquire the necessary skills to create engaging characters, plot compelling storylines, and build your own unique writing style.

You can also consider getting a degree in Creative Writing, English, Literature, or a related field.

These programs often provide extensive training and education in writing, which can be beneficial for your career.

However, a degree isn’t necessary to become a successful writer.

Practice and dedication are what truly matters.

Another important aspect of improving your writing skills is to write regularly.

Whether you’re writing short stories, blog posts, or working on your novel, the act of writing consistently will help you improve over time.

It can also be helpful to revise and edit your work, as this allows you to spot areas of improvement and refine your writing skills.

Remember, writing is a craft that needs to be nurtured.

The more you practice, the better you become.

 

Step 3: Complete a Writing Course or Workshop

To enhance your writing skills and gain a deeper understanding of the craft, it’s advisable to complete a writing course or workshop.

There are many writing courses available, both online and offline, that can equip you with the skills needed to write a fantasy novel.

Some courses are specifically tailored to fantasy writing, offering modules on world-building, character development, and plot construction, which are essential skills for a fantasy writer.

These courses can also offer valuable feedback and critique on your writing.

This can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and help you improve as a writer.

Workshops, on the other hand, provide you with an opportunity to interact with other aspiring writers, share ideas, and learn from each other.

While a writing course or workshop is not mandatory, it can give you the guidance and practice you need to develop a compelling fantasy novel.

It can also provide you with a community of writers who can support you and offer insight throughout your writing journey.

 

Step 4: Create Unique and Interesting Characters

Creating unique and interesting characters is a fundamental step in writing a fantasy novel.

Characters are the heart of every story, and your reader’s ability to connect with them can define the success of your book.

Begin by sketching out your characters in broad strokes.

What do they look like?

What are their strengths, weaknesses, and quirks?

What motivates them?

Then, delve deeper, exploring their past, their relationships, and their secrets.

Remember, even villains need to have relatable or understandable motivations.

Ensure to diversify your characters.

A great fantasy novel often has a rich cast of varied characters, each bringing a different perspective to the tale.

This could range from the wise old sage, the brave hero, the cunning villain, to the comic relief.

However, avoid cliches and strive for originality in your characters’ identities and development.

Characters in fantasy novels often have special abilities or traits.

If this is the case, be sure to define the limitations and rules of these abilities.

This not only makes your world more believable but also creates interesting opportunities for conflicts and challenges.

Remember, your characters need to grow and evolve throughout the story.

Character development is a powerful tool for drawing in your readers and keeping them invested in your narrative.

Make your characters face difficulties and make choices that affect their journey, and ultimately, lead to their growth.

Characters should also interact naturally with each other and the world you’ve created.

Their dialogue, thoughts, and actions should be consistent with their personalities and the cultural and societal norms of your fantasy world.

Lastly, don’t forget to show, not tell.

Instead of explicitly describing your characters’ traits or emotions, let your readers infer them through their actions and interactions.

This makes for a more engaging reading experience.

 

Step 5: Build a Detailed and Engaging Fantasy World

Creating a captivating and detailed fantasy world is critical to the success of a fantasy novel writer.

This process includes world-building, which is the development of an imaginary setting with its own rules, characters, landscapes, history, and lore.

This world needs to be immersive, consistent, and unique enough to capture the reader’s imagination and hold their attention throughout the story.

Start by outlining the broad strokes such as the type of world (medieval, futuristic, alternate universe), its geography, culture, social structure, economy, politics, and magic system if applicable.

Then, dive into the specifics like the species or races that inhabit this world, their languages, customs, religions, and conflicts.

Remember, the world you’re building serves as the backdrop against which your characters will play out their story.

It should, therefore, be dynamic and interactive, influencing character development and plot progression.

It may be useful to draw maps or diagrams and write extensive notes to keep track of all the details.

This step may take a considerable amount of time and research, but it is an integral part of the fantasy writing process.

Finally, your world needs to feel realistic to the reader, despite its fantastical elements.

This can be achieved by making sure there are clear rules and limitations in your world, and maintaining consistency in how these rules are applied.

 

Step 6: Construct a Compelling Plot

Creating a compelling plot is an integral step in the process of becoming a fantasy novel writer.

The success of your novel largely depends on how intriguing and engaging your plot is.

To achieve this, you must first conceptualize the main ideas and events that will drive your narrative forward.

Your fantasy world must have its own rules and systems, with plot points that challenge them and characters that interact with them.

Start by outlining the major events of your story.

Use your imagination to create elements that are unique to your fantasy world, such as magical systems, mythical creatures, or a different set of physical laws.

Your protagonist should have a clear objective, and the plot should follow their journey towards achieving it.

Consider creating unexpected twists and turns to keep your readers engaged.

How can you surprise them?

How can you create suspense and tension?

These elements can enhance the reader’s interest and keep them hooked till the end.

While creating your plot, make sure to keep the scope of your novel manageable.

While it may be tempting to explore every corner of your fantasy world, focusing on a few key settings and plot lines can make your story more coherent and compelling.

Lastly, remember that a compelling plot not only entertains but also conveys a deeper message or explores a major theme.

What will readers learn from your story?

What philosophical questions does it raise?

By incorporating these elements, you can create a fantasy novel that is both exciting and thought-provoking.

 

Step 7: Write Regularly and Consistently

As a Fantasy Novel Writer, one of the most important things you need to do is cultivate a habit of writing regularly and consistently.

This step is crucial not only to improve your writing skills but also to manage your time effectively.

Writing a novel is a long-term commitment, and consistency is the key to finish it.

Start by setting a writing schedule that works for you.

Some writers choose to write every day, while others prefer to write several times a week.

Choose a time of day when you’re most productive and least likely to be distracted.

This could be early in the morning before everyone else is awake, during your lunch break, or late at night.

Moreover, set realistic goals for yourself.

This could be writing a certain number of words or pages each day or week.

Remember, the goal here is not to write perfect prose, but to get your ideas down on paper.

You can always revise and improve upon what you’ve written later on.

In addition to writing your novel, you should also spend time reading fantasy novels.

Reading will expose you to different writing styles, inspire new ideas, and help you understand what works and what doesn’t in a fantasy novel.

Also, consider joining a writing group or online forum.

These platforms can provide valuable feedback, support, and motivation to keep you writing consistently.

You’ll also have the opportunity to learn from other writers and gain insight into their writing processes.

Finally, remember that writing is a skill that improves with practice.

The more you write, the better you will become.

So don’t get discouraged if your first draft isn’t perfect.

Keep writing and improving, and eventually, you’ll have a finished novel to be proud of.

 

Step 8: Seek Feedback and Constructive Criticism

As you continue to develop your story, it’s important to seek out feedback and constructive criticism.

This can come from a variety of sources, such as writing groups, online forums, or professional editors.

Remember, as a fantasy novel writer, your work needs to not only be engaging but also have a coherent and believable world.

Finding a writing group with a focus on fantasy can be immensely helpful.

They can offer specific insights regarding world-building, character development, and plot progression.

Online forums and communities can also provide a wider range of opinions and perspectives, helping you see your work from different angles.

Hiring a professional editor, though costly, can provide invaluable feedback.

They can help you spot inconsistencies, improve pacing, and enhance your narrative style.

Remember, criticism is part of the writing process.

Use it to improve your work, hone your skills, and refine your story.

Critiques are not personal attacks but tools to make your writing the best it can be.

Also, consider seeking out beta readers when your manuscript is in its final stages.

They can provide fresh perspectives and identify any last-minute errors or inconsistencies that might have been missed.

 

Step 9: Rewrite, Edit and Proofread Your Work

Once you have your initial draft of your fantasy novel, the next crucial step is to rewrite, edit, and proofread your work.

This process involves revising your text to improve its structure, clarity, and overall storytelling.

It also includes checking for any grammatical, punctuation, or spelling errors.

Rewriting involves reading through your work and making significant changes to improve the story.

You might need to add more detail in some areas, remove unnecessary parts, or change plot points to make the story more engaging.

Editing is a more detailed process.

It involves reviewing each line of your work to make sure the language is clear, concise, and engaging.

You should also check for consistency in characters and plot.

For instance, if a character has blue eyes in one chapter and green in another, or if a subplot disappears without resolution, these are inconsistencies that need to be fixed.

Proofreading is the final step in this process.

It involves checking your work for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

A good tip is to read your work out loud or backward; this can help you spot errors you might miss otherwise.

This process can be time-consuming but is absolutely essential.

A polished, well-edited novel will be more engaging to readers and more attractive to literary agents or publishers if you decide to go that route.

You might also consider hiring professional editors and proofreaders to help with this process.

 

Step 10: Network with Other Writers and Industry Professionals

As a Fantasy Novel Writer, it’s important to connect and build relationships with other writers, agents, editors, and various industry professionals.

This can be done through attending writing workshops, joining online communities, or becoming part of a local writing group.

These platforms can provide you with valuable insights, feedback, and opportunities to learn from more experienced writers.

Networking can also open doors for you in the publishing world.

Publishers, literary agents and editors often attend industry events and these can be perfect opportunities to pitch your work or gain insider knowledge about the current market trends in fantasy writing.

You can also meet other writers who may be open to co-authorship opportunities, or who can provide referrals and recommendations.

In addition, networking with industry professionals can help you stay updated on the latest in writing resources, tools, and services.

It may also provide opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, or mentorship.

Remember, the writing community is often a supportive and collaborative space, and being an active participant can be a significant step in your career as a Fantasy Novel Writer.

 

Step 11: Learn About the Publishing Industry

Understanding the publishing industry is crucial when you want to make a living as a Fantasy Novel Writer.

You should familiarize yourself with the types of publishers and the process of traditional publishing, self-publishing, and e-publishing.

In traditional publishing, a writer submits their manuscript to a literary agent who then presents it to publishers.

If accepted, the publisher will handle the production, marketing, and distribution of your book.

This route can be quite competitive and time-consuming, but the reward can be a wider distribution and professional editing and design services.

Self-publishing, on the other hand, means you are in control of the entire process from the manuscript editing to the cover design and the book distribution.

This route requires a greater upfront investment, but you retain complete creative control and higher royalties.

E-publishing is a popular alternative and involves publishing a digital version of your book online.

This method often involves less upfront cost and can reach a global audience quickly.

However, it requires digital marketing skills to promote your book effectively.

Additionally, join a writers’ association to network with other authors, agents, and publishers.

Attend webinars, writers’ workshops, and book fairs to understand the market trends, the preferences of the audience, and to gain insights into the business side of writing.

Remember, each publishing route has its pros and cons, so choose the one that best fits your career goals and personal preferences.

 

Step 12: Prepare a Query Letter and Submit to Agents or Publishers

After you’ve completed your fantasy novel, the next step is to get it published.

To do this, you will need to prepare a query letter and submit it to literary agents or publishers.

A query letter is a one-page letter that gives a brief description of your novel.

It should include the title, genre, word count, and a summary of the story, as well as a bit about your writing background and any other relevant qualifications.

Remember, your query letter is the first impression a potential agent or publisher will have of you and your work, so make sure it is well-crafted, concise, and engaging.

Before sending, thoroughly research each agent or publisher you’re interested in to make sure they are a good fit for your work.

Some agents or publishers may ask you to include a few pages or chapters of your novel with your query letter.

If this is the case, be sure to send your very best work.

If an agent or publisher is interested in your novel, they will request to read more or ask for the full manuscript.

This is why having a fully polished novel is crucial before this step.

Be patient, as this process can take several weeks or even months.

If your book is accepted, the agent or publisher will then guide you through the process of getting your novel to the market.

Remember that rejection is a common part of this process, so don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts are not successful.

Keep refining your letter and trying with different agents or publishers until you find the right one for your work.

 

Step 13: Consider Self-Publishing

If the traditional publishing route seems too daunting or restrictive, you may want to consider self-publishing your fantasy novel.

This allows you to have complete control over your work, from the writing and editing process to the cover design and marketing strategy.

In self-publishing, you are in charge of everything, so it’s essential to educate yourself about the process.

This includes understanding the costs involved, from the initial expenses of hiring a professional editor and cover designer, to the ongoing costs of promoting and marketing your book.

You’ll also need to decide where to self-publish your book.

There are numerous online platforms available, each with their pros and cons.

The most popular option is Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), which provides access to the largest audience.

Other platforms include Smashwords and Lulu, which offer distribution to various retailers.

Lastly, it’s important to set realistic expectations when self-publishing.

Although it offers more control and potentially higher royalty rates, the responsibility of marketing your book effectively falls entirely on your shoulders.

This can be a significant challenge, especially for first-time authors.

Remember, whether you choose to self-publish or go through a traditional publisher, the most important thing is to create a story that you’re proud of and that readers will enjoy.

 

Step 14: Promote Your Book and Build Your Author Platform

Building an author platform is a critical step in the career of a fantasy novel writer.

This means creating a personal brand and a fan base that can help you promote your work, get feedback, and interact with readers.

Begin by creating a website or a blog that showcases your work, your process, and your ideas.

You can use this platform to share excerpts from your book, discuss your writing process, and engage with your readers.

Additionally, it can be used to provide updates about upcoming releases, book signings, and other events.

Social media is another powerful tool for building an author platform.

Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram allow you to reach a broad audience and engage with fans in real time.

Consider creating profiles specifically for your writing career where you can share updates, post behind-the-scenes content, and interact with your followers.

Email newsletters can also be an effective way to keep your readers updated.

You can share exclusive content, news about upcoming books or events, and personal anecdotes about your writing journey.

Don’t forget to network within the industry.

Attend conferences, participate in writing workshops, and join online communities for fantasy writers.

Not only will this help you learn and improve your craft, but it can also connect you with industry professionals who can help promote your work.

Finally, consider seeking opportunities for public speaking engagements or guest appearances on podcasts or radio shows to further promote your book and your brand.

These platforms can allow you to reach new audiences and gain more visibility in the industry.

Remember, building an author platform takes time and consistency.

It’s about creating a community and establishing meaningful connections with your readers.

This can go a long way in promoting your book and advancing your career as a fantasy novel writer.

 

Step 15: Stay Updated with Fantasy Genre Trends and Popular Themes

In order to succeed as a Fantasy Novel Writer, you need to keep your finger on the pulse of the fantasy genre.

This means staying up-to-date with current trends, popular themes, and successful books or series in the market.

Understanding and analyzing what is popular among readers can help you craft a story that appeals to a wide audience, increasing your chances of success.

There are a number of ways to do this.

You can read widely within the genre, not just for enjoyment but critically, analyzing what works and what doesn’t in each story.

Online forums and communities, such as Goodreads or Reddit’s r/fantasy, can provide insights into what readers are currently enjoying.

Additionally, attending fantasy literary conferences or conventions can provide invaluable insights into market trends and reader preferences.

Here, you can interact with other authors, publishers, and fans of the genre.

Finally, subscribing to industry publications like Publisher’s Weekly, or joining professional organizations like the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, can also provide valuable resources and updates on the trends in the fantasy genre.

Remember, while it is important to understand and work with current trends, it is also crucial to maintain your unique voice and creativity.

This balance can result in a novel that is both marketable and true to your vision.

 

Step 16: Continue Writing and Start Your Next Project.

After you have completed your first novel, take some time to celebrate your accomplishment but don’t get too comfortable.

To establish a career as a fantasy novel writer, you must demonstrate consistency and productivity.

This is where you start planning your next project.

Begin by brainstorming ideas for your next novel.

It could be a sequel to your first book, another standalone novel or even the start of a new series.

As you did with your first project, take time to develop the world, plot, characters, and conflicts.

In the meantime, continue to hone your craft.

Writing is a skill that improves with practice, so write every day if possible, even if it’s just a few hundred words.

Experiment with different styles, tones, and perspectives to broaden your range as a writer.

Remember that not every project you start will end up as a published novel, and that’s okay.

The goal is to keep writing, learning, and growing as an author.

Also, maintain your online presence and continue engaging with your readers.

Their feedback can offer valuable insights for your next project, and their support can provide the motivation to keep going.

You might also consider attending writers’ conferences or workshops, to network with other authors and learn from their experiences.

In all, the journey of a fantasy novel writer is a continuous one.

The key to success lies in persistence, creativity and a passion for storytelling.

 

Fantasy Novel Writer Roles and Responsibilities

Fantasy Novel Writers use their creativity, writing skills, and extensive knowledge of the fantasy genre to craft engaging and immersive stories.

They often create complex fictional worlds, develop intricate plots, and design unique characters.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Story Creation

• Create original and compelling storylines for fantasy novels.
• Develop rich and detailed worlds, including setting, culture, and history.
• Invent unique characters, their backstories, and their character arcs.

 

Research

• Conduct research to ensure the accuracy of details in the novel.
• Research and understand the conventions and trends in the fantasy genre.
• Keep abreast of new and emerging trends in the fantasy literary world.

 

Writing

• Write engaging, clear, and grammatically correct content.
• Ensure the tone, style, and voice of the novel is consistent.
• Use dramatic and narrative techniques to enhance the story.

 

Revising

• Revise and edit the novel for clarity, coherence, and consistency.
• Review and incorporate feedback from beta readers, editors, and literary agents.

 

Collaboration

• Work closely with editors, literary agents, and publishers.
• Collaborate with cover artists and book designers.

 

Marketing and Promotion

• Participate in book tours, signings, and other promotional events.
• Engage with fans and readers through social media and author websites.
• Conduct interviews and write guest posts for blogs and magazines.

 

Networking

• Attend literary conferences, workshops, and networking events.
• Join and participate in writer’s groups and online writing communities.

 

Reader Engagement

• Respond to reader feedback and reviews.
• Engage with readers through author websites, blogs, and social media.

 

Continuous Learning

• Maintain and improve writing skills and knowledge.
• Read extensively within and outside the fantasy genre.
• Learn and adapt to changes in the publishing industry.

 

What Does a Fantasy Novel Writer Do?

Fantasy Novel Writers are creative professionals who create works of fiction set in imaginary worlds or realities.

They may work independently or with a team of editors, illustrators, and other creative professionals.

They can also work with literary agents or publishing companies.

They create complex plots, develop characters, and build new worlds, often involving elements of magic, mythical creatures, or supernatural phenomena.

They use their imagination and storytelling skills to captivate their readers and transport them to these fictional realities.

A large part of their work involves research to ensure continuity, accuracy, and depth within their created universe.

This can involve the creation of detailed maps, histories, languages, cultures, and rules that govern their fantasy world.

They are also responsible for revising and editing their work, often with the help of professional editors, to ensure it is free from errors, maintains a steady flow, and meets the desired quality standards.

Fantasy Novel Writers might also be involved in the marketing and promotion of their books.

This could involve book signings, public readings, and social media promotion.

Being able to accept feedback, handle rejection, and persist in spite of setbacks are also important aspects of a Fantasy Novel Writer’s role, as the path to publication can often be long and challenging.

 

Essential Fantasy Novel Writer Skills

• Creativity: A fantasy novel writer needs to have a highly creative mind to be able to conceive and develop unique, imaginative settings, characters, and situations.
• Storytelling: An understanding of narrative structure and story arcs is essential. The writer must be able to engage the reader and convey the story effectively.
• Character Development: Creating compelling, multi-dimensional characters that resonate with readers is a crucial skill. The writer must understand how to portray character growth and change over time.
• World Building: Fantasy writers need to excel in world building, crafting detailed and immersive settings that serve as the backdrop for their stories.
• Research Skills: Although fantasy is a genre of the imagination, elements of historical, cultural, or scientific research can lend authenticity to the created world and its characters.
• Writing Skills: Superior writing skills, including excellent grammar, syntax, and a rich vocabulary, are vital. Writers need to be able to write clearly and evocatively to bring their stories to life.
• Originality: With the multitude of fantasy novels out there, originality is key. A writer needs to bring something new and fresh to the genre to stand out.
• Patience and Persistence: Writing a novel is a long process that requires dedication, patience, and persistence. The ability to take and incorporate feedback is also important.
• Editing: A writer must have strong self-editing skills to revise and polish their work before publication. This includes proofreading for errors and improving clarity, pacing, and plot.
• Genre Knowledge: An understanding of the fantasy genre, including its conventions and reader expectations, is crucial. Reading widely in the genre can help with this.
• Planning and Organization: Writing a novel requires a significant amount of planning and organization, from outlining the plot to keeping track of character development and world details.
• Empathy: The ability to understand and convey characters’ emotions, motivations, and conflicts is essential for creating engaging, relatable stories.
• Conflict Creation: Writers need to understand how to create and escalate conflict to drive the plot and engage readers.
• Dialogue: Writing natural, character-specific dialogue is essential for character development and plot advancement.
• Focus: Writing a novel is a long-term commitment. The ability to maintain focus and motivation throughout the process is crucial.

 

Fantasy Novel Writer Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Aspiring Writer

The journey typically begins with you as an Aspiring Writer.

At this stage, you’re eager to tell your stories and share your unique perspective.

Your responsibilities may include writing short stories, reading extensively in your genre, and experimenting with writing styles.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

1. Read Extensively: Familiarize yourself with the genre, the classics, and contemporary works to learn different storytelling techniques.
2. Write Regularly: Hone your writing skills by writing regularly, even if it’s just a few lines a day.
3. Seek Feedback: Share your work with others to gain insights and improve your writing.

 

The Ascent: Emerging Writer

As your writing skills improve and your stories take shape, you’ll transition into the role of an Emerging Writer.

You’ll start to submit your work to literary magazines, enter contests, and maybe even start your novel.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

1. Building a Portfolio: Begin to accumulate a body of work, from short stories to novellas.
2. Networking: Attend writers’ workshops and conferences to meet other writers and industry professionals.
3. Perseverance: Don’t be discouraged by rejections. Persistence is key in the writing world.

 

Reaching New Heights: Published Author

The next step in your career path is becoming a Published Author.

At this stage, you’ve successfully sold a novel to a publisher, or self-published your work.

This is a huge achievement that validates your writing skills.

To excel as a Published Author:

1. Book Promotion: Learn how to market your book and engage with your readers.
2. Consistency: Continue writing new books and stories. Your readers want to hear more from you.
3. Engage With Fans: Connect with your readers through social media, book signings, and writer’s conferences.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Bestselling Author

As your career progresses, you may rise to the ranks of Bestselling Author.

This status brings a new set of responsibilities and opportunities, such as speaking engagements, mentorship roles, and influence within the publishing industry.

Here’s what to focus on:

1. Leadership: Use your success to advocate for other writers and to contribute to the literary community.
2. Mentorship: Share your experience and wisdom with emerging writers.
3. Innovation: Continue to challenge yourself with new genres, settings, and characters to keep your writing fresh.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Renowned Fantasy Writer

At the highest level of the writing career ladder, you might become a Renowned Fantasy Writer.

Your works are considered classics in the genre, and your name is a brand in itself.

You influence the trends in fantasy literature and inspire new generations of writers.

In this role, you’ll be shaping the world of fantasy literature and leaving your unique mark on it.

 

Fantasy Novel Writer Salary

Entry-Level Fantasy Novel Writer

• Median Salary: $0 – $20,000 per year
• Entry-level fantasy novel writers are typically in the early stages of their career, publishing their first or second novel. Their income largely depends on sales, royalties, and any advances provided by publishers.

 

Mid-Level Fantasy Novel Writer

• Median Salary: $20,000 – $60,000 per year
• Mid-level fantasy writers have a few published works to their name, a growing readership, and a better understanding of the publishing market. They generate revenue through consistent book sales, advances, and sometimes speaking engagements or writing workshops.

 

Senior Fantasy Novel Writer

• Median Salary: $60,000 – $100,000 per year
• Senior fantasy writers have an established presence in the industry, with several popular titles. They often earn through book sales, large advances, movie or TV adaptations, and other licensing deals.

 

Famous/Best-Selling Fantasy Novel Writer

• Median Salary: $100,000 – $1,000,000+ per year
• Famous or best-selling fantasy writers have achieved commercial success with a broad audience. They earn high revenues through book sales, large advances, licensing deals, merchandise, adaptations, and more. Their income can vary significantly depending on the global popularity and longevity of their works.

 

Fantasy Novel Writer Work Environment

Fantasy Novel Writers typically work in a self-structured environment, which can range from home offices to local libraries, coffee shops, or even outdoor spaces if they prefer a natural setting.

Their work schedules are highly flexible and self-determined, allowing them to decide their own hours of work.

However, this flexibility often requires high levels of self-discipline and time management skills as they have to meet their writing and publishing deadlines.

As a Fantasy Novel Writer, one might work independently or collaborate with editors, illustrators and publishers.

While some choose traditional publishing routes, others may prefer self-publishing which gives them more control over their work.

Many Fantasy Novel Writers are freelancers, which means they need to actively seek opportunities to sell their work.

This can include submitting manuscripts to literary agents or publishers, entering writing contests, or self-publishing and marketing their work.

Although they primarily work alone, networking is also a significant aspect of their work environment.

They may attend writers’ conferences, workshops and book festivals to connect with other writers, publishers, and potential readers.

 

FAQs About Becoming a Fantasy Novel Writer

What is needed to become a fantasy novel writer?

To become a fantasy novel writer, you primarily need a vivid imagination, creativity, and a passion for the fantasy genre.

Excellent written communication skills are crucial, as well as the ability to build engaging and unique narratives.

Reading widely within the genre can help you understand its conventions and possibilities.

While a degree in English, Creative Writing, or a related field can be beneficial, many successful fantasy authors are self-taught.

Dedication and persistence are key, as writing a novel is a long-term commitment and the publishing process can be challenging.

 

How long does it take to write a fantasy novel?

The time it takes to write a fantasy novel varies greatly depending on factors such as the complexity of the plot, the length of the book, the author’s writing speed, and how much time they can dedicate to writing each day.

It can take anywhere from a few months to several years to complete a draft.

After the initial draft is written, additional time will be needed for revising, editing, and the publishing process.

 

Do I need to have my fantasy novel completed before finding a publisher?

Typically, yes.

Most publishers and literary agents prefer to review a completed manuscript, especially from new authors.

Having a completed novel shows that you can finish what you started, which is a significant accomplishment in itself.

It also allows potential publishers to assess the entire story, rather than just an idea or a partial manuscript.

 

Is writing a fantasy novel a profitable career?

Writing a fantasy novel can be profitable, but it varies widely.

Some authors achieve great commercial success, while others may not see large profits.

It’s worth noting that it often takes time and multiple books to build a readership and earn a living solely from writing.

Many authors supplement their income with related activities like speaking engagements, freelance writing, teaching writing workshops, or other jobs.

 

What are the prospects for fantasy novel writers in the future?

The demand for fresh and unique fantasy novels remains strong, fueled by avid readers of the genre and the success of fantasy books in other media, like film and television.

With the rise of self-publishing and e-books, there are more avenues than ever for authors to get their work in front of readers.

However, it’s a competitive field, and success often depends on writing skill, creativity, determination, and a bit of luck.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Embarking on a journey to become a fantasy novel writer is no small feat, but it’s unquestionably exhilarating.

Equipped with the right skills, imagination, and persistence, you’re well on your way to making a significant mark in the realm of literature.

Remember, the path may be challenging, but the possibilities are endless. Your stories could give birth to the next legendary world that changes how we perceive, dream, and imagine.

So, take that first step. Delve deep into creativity. Connect with fellow writers. And most importantly, never stop writing.

Because the world is awaiting the magic you can weave.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in fantasy novel writing, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

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