The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed - Fantasy Writing Craft Advice & Author Interviews

What makes the fae such enduring figures in fantasy? How do you write in the present tense without it feeling awkward? And can a fantasy story work in a confined setting instead of a vast world?In this episode, I’m joined by author Rym Kechacha to talk about her new novel The Apple and the Pearl. We dive into the strange allure of the fae in fantasy fiction, explore the craft of writing in the present tense, and discuss how powerful stories can unfold in smaller, more contained settings.Rym shares insights into her writing process, including the idea of “vibe writing” — letting the tone and atmosphere of a story guide you as you discover the narrative. We also talk about taking inspiration from artwork and paintings, and how visual sources can shape characters, mood and worldbuilding.One of the most interesting aspects of The Apple and the Pearl is its setting. Rather than a sprawling epic landscape, much of the story unfolds within the confined environment of a train. We discuss how limitations like this can actually strengthen tension, character development and narrative focus.If you’re a fantasy writer or reader, this conversation offers a fascinating look at craft, inspiration and the creative decisions behind a unique fantasy novel.In this episode, you’ll learn:How writing in the present tense can make a story feel immediate and active Why the fae remain one of the most compelling forces in fantasy fiction How to create characters readers genuinely care about The idea behind “vibe writing” and discovering your story as you write How artwork and paintings can inspire story ideas and atmosphere Why confined settings can create powerful fantasy storiesAbout The Apple and the Pearl The Apple and the Pearl blends myth, atmosphere and character-driven storytelling, drawing on fae folklore and rich visual inspiration to create a unique fantasy experience.Whether you’re interested in folklore-inspired fantasy, writing craft, or the creative process behind a novel, this episode offers plenty of insight.Subscribe to the podcast for more conversations with fantasy authors, writing advice and behind-the-scenes discussions about storytelling.Get it here > https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/800526/the-apple-and-the-pearl-by-rym-kechacha/About Rym KechachaRym Kechacha is a fantasy author and teacher whose work blends folklore, art, and literary fantasy. She is the author of Dark River, To Catch a Moon, and the new novel The Apple and the Pearl. Her debut novel Dark River was shortlisted for the British Fantasy Awards for both Best Novel and Best Newcomer.Website https://rymkechacha.squarespace.comX / Twitter https://x.com/rymkechachaInstagram https://www.instagram.com/rymkechacha/

This episode explains how to build a sustainable and profitable author business, focusing on mindset, income streams, and long-term strategy. You’ll learn how to transition from hobbyist to professional writer, market your books effectively, use AI tools to grow your income, and build a direct relationship with your readers. Ideal for fantasy writers and authors who want to turn their writing into a reliable income without burnout.What does it really mean to treat your writing as a business?In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author and entrepreneur Joanna Penn to explore how writers can build a sustainable writing business without losing their creative spark.If you want to move from hobbyist to professional author, this conversation breaks down what a real author business looks like — from mindset shifts to practical systems.We cover:What a writing business actually is (and why most authors get this wrong)How to balance writing as a business without burnout or overwhelmHow to get inside your reader’s head and clearly define your target audienceThe essential steps to kickstart your author business todayDirect book selling, special editions, and owning your customer relationshipBook marketing methods that still work — email marketing, paid advertising, and author networkingHow to use AI in your writing business (marketing content, concept images, Amazon ads optimisation, book descriptions and more)How Joanna Penn uses AI herself to support her fiction and non-fiction author incomeTime management strategies for writers building a business while improving craftIf you’re serious about turning your writing into income, this episode will help you think strategically, act intentionally, and build long-term author resilience.About Joanna PennNon-fiction for authors: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/books-for-authors/Fiction (J.F. Penn): https://jfpennauthor.com/books/The Creative Penn Podcast: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/podcasts/Socials: Website: https://www.thecreativepenn.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jfpennauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCreativePenn X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/thecreativepenn YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheCreativePenn✍️ Join Our Community and Access Writing Tools:Join The Discord Community: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠Richie's Patreon for free stories: https://www.patreon.com/cw/RichieBilling

✍️ Access The Free Class Here: Email Marketing For Writers and AuthorsThis episode explains how email marketing works for authors in 2026, focusing on audience growth, engagement, and book sales. You’ll learn how to build an email list, improve open and click rates, create effective welcome sequences, and use AI to personalise and scale your emails. Ideal for writers and indie authors who want to grow a loyal readership, increase book sales, and take full control of their audience beyond social media.Email marketing remains one of the most powerful tools available to writers and authors — and it’s about to change.In this podcast episode, we break down how email marketing works for writers right now, and where it’s heading in 2026. Using real data, platform insights, and author-specific examples, we explore why email still outperforms social media, how writers use it to sell books and grow Patreon memberships, and what separates emails that get ignored from emails that drive real engagement.We cover the fundamentals every writer needs to understand: choosing the right email platform, setting clear goals, building welcome sequences, improving open and click rates, and creating sustainable email routines. You’ll learn how subject lines, preview text, timing, frequency, and structure directly affect performance — and how to build genuine reader relationships rather than sending forgettable broadcasts.Crucially, we also look ahead to email marketing trends in 2026, including:How inbox providers are prioritising engagement quality over volumeWhy generic drip sequences are losing effectivenessThe rise of interactive emails, surveys, and community-driven contentHow AI is shaping email creation, analysis, and personalisationWhy newsletters are becoming a primary publishing platform for writersThis episode isn’t about spam tactics or quick wins. It’s about future-proofing your email strategy, owning your audience, and using email as the central hub of your writing career — not just a promotional afterthought.Ideal for:Writers and authors at any stageIndie authors selling ebooks, paperbacks, audiobooks, or subscriptionsCreators who want clarity, consistency, and long-term audience control✍️ Join Our Community and Access Writing Tools:Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠Richie's Patreon for free stories: https://www.patreon.com/cw/RichieBillingWebsite and writing classes: ⁠https://richiebilling.com/online-writing-classesFollow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fantasywriterstoolshed/

This episode explains how to improve your fantasy writing using proven techniques for character development, worldbuilding, and the writing process, based on insights from bestselling author RJ Barker. You’ll learn how to create deeper characters, build immersive fantasy worlds, develop your unique writing voice, and overcome common creative challenges. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to strengthen their storytelling and write more compelling, publishable fiction.What can writers learn from one of the most distinctive voices in modern fantasy?In this episode, I’m joined by RJ Barker, author of the Wounded Kingdom and Tide Child trilogies, to explore his approach to storytelling and the fantasy writing process.We dive into both craft and mindset, including:RJ's new book: Mortedant's Peril, book #1 in The Trials of Irody Hasp seriesRJ Barker’s fantasy writing process from idea to finished novelHow to create deep, memorable charactersBuilding unique and immersive fantasy worldsOvercoming psychological challenges in writingDeveloping your voice and honing your craftPractical advice for writers looking to improveThis is an in-depth, honest conversation packed with insights from a top-tier fantasy author.If you want to strengthen your storytelling and better understand the fantasy writing process, this episode offers clear, actionable guidance you can apply straight away.ABOUT RJ BARKERWebsite: ⁠https://www.rjbarker.com/BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/rjbarker.bsky.socialBooks: https://store.orbit-books.co.uk/collections/author-rj-barkerJOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

Are you repeating the same writing mistakes without realising it? In this episode, writing coach and author Suzy Vadori reveals the biggest errors she sees in authors, and how to avoid them.Join Richie Billing and Suzy Vadori as they explore Suzy’s journey from businesswoman to bestselling YA fantasy author and coach. We dive into her unique approach to character creation, immersive world-building, and the crucial missteps that hold writers back.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why so many authors struggle with character arcs and how to fix them.Practical world-building strategies that bring your setting to life without slowing the story.The top three mistakes authors make when switching from business mindset to creative craft.How Suzy’s coaching practice and author experience provide clarity, structure and growth.How to build your author brand and writing career from the ground up.Whether you’re working on your first novel or deep into your series, you’ll walk away with actionable advice.✍️ More from Suzy Vadori:Website: https://suzyvadori.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzyvadori/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/suzyvadoriauthor/✍️ Join our community & writing tools:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshedWebsite and writing classes: https://richiebilling.com/

This episode explains how to write a successful book series and build an author brand that drives consistent book sales. You’ll learn how to structure multi-book story arcs, create reader loyalty, plan effective book launches, and develop a recognisable author brand using proven strategies from bestselling authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett. Ideal for fantasy writers and indie authors who want to grow a loyal audience, sell more books, and build a sustainable writing career.What separates authors who build loyal readerships from those who struggle to gain traction? The answer often lies in series writing, branding, and smart book marketing.In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett to break down the strategies behind their success—and what every writer can learn from romance and cozy mystery.We explore both craft and career-building, including:How to write a book series that keeps readers coming backStructuring character arcs and emotional payoffs across multiple booksWhat romance and cozy mystery teach us about reader expectationsBuilding consistency in worldbuilding and continuityHow to plan and execute a successful book launchCreating an author brand that readers recognise and trustBook marketing strategies that actually drive salesProductivity and mindset tips for long-term writing successThis episode goes beyond genre to deliver practical, proven strategies you can apply to your own writing—whether you’re working on a fantasy epic or your first novel.If you want to build a loyal audience, sell more books, and create a sustainable writing career, this episode shows you how to do it.ABOUT JAMI ALBRIGHThttps://wishidknownforwriters.com/https://www.jamialbright.com/ABOUT SARA ROSETThttps://www.sararosett.com/JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

I'm delighted to be joined by bestselling fantasy authors Lucy Holland and Dan Coxon for an all-encompassing discussion on writing fantasy. Dan has curated and co-edited a brilliant new craft book called Writing The Magic, published by Dead Ink, and Lucy has contributed an excellent chapter on Ursula Le Guin's magic system in Earthsea.We delve into worldbuilding, creating magic systems, explore Ursula Le Guin's Earthsea series and Michael Moorcock's stories, and discuss why we all love the genre so much.You're bound to learn something new!FANTASY WRITING BOOKS, CLASSES AND TOOLS⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed ⁠⁠JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers⁠⁠ ⁠⁠BUY WRITING THE MAGIChttps://deadinkbooks.com/product/writing-the-magic/ABOUT DAN COXONhttps://www.dancoxon.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dan.coxon.author/ABOUT LUCY HOLLANDhttps://lucyhounsom.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/silvanhistorian/GET IN TOUCHthefantasywriterstoolshed@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.richiebilling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ RESOURCESDiscover more ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠writing tips⁠ and guides⁠⁠⁠⁠ hereAnd learn more about⁠⁠ writing fantasy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ here

In this episode, I'm delighted to be joined by Professor Charles Li, author of the brilliant new historical fiction novel, Lord Guan. We chat all about Professor Li's expertise in languages and linguistics, and I pick his brain for worldbuilding tips and advice to help you craft your own languages for your fantasy stories.We also dive into Chinese history and culture, looking specifically at the life story of Lord Guan and the legend surrounding him, before diving into the writing and researching of the book.And at 90 years old, Professor Li shares lots of brilliant pieces of wisdom we can all benefit and learn from. FANTASY WRITING BOOKS, CLASSES AND TOOLS⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed ⁠⁠JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ABOUT PROFESSOR CHARLES LIhttps://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Lord-Guan/Charles-N-Li/9781682452325https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk/authors/Charles-N-Li/185995596GET IN TOUCHthefantasywriterstoolshed@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.richiebilling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ RESOURCESDiscover more ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠writing tips⁠ and guides⁠⁠⁠⁠ hereAnd learn more about⁠⁠ writing fantasy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ here

This episode explains how to improve your fantasy writing by focusing on character development, short story craft, and long-term creative growth, with insights from bestselling author Jim C. Hines. You’ll learn how to write compelling characters, approach short fiction effectively, build a sustainable writing career, and stay motivated over time. Ideal for fantasy writers who want practical advice on both craft and the realities of being an author.I'm thrilled to be joined by bestselling fantasy author, Jim C. Hines for an extended interview about his two new books, Kitemaster and the relaunch of the beloved classic, Goblin Quest.Jim opens up about his writing journey, what it's like to be a writer—even down to the earnings—and shares some of his best advice for writing short stories, crafting lovable characters, and writing stories that you're passionate about.It's fantastic to learn from such a seasoned and decorated pro. I learned an awful lot, and I hope you do too!ABOUT JIM C. HINEShttps://www.jimchines.com/Goblin Quest (direct from author) - https://payhip.com/b/XBK0DKitemaster - https://bookshop.org/p/books/kitemaster/21588658?aid=25009FANTASY WRITING BOOKS, CLASSES AND TOOLS⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed ⁠JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers⁠ ⁠⁠

In this episode, I’m joined by New York Times Best Selling fantasy author, Kel Kade. Kel’s new book, Sanctum of the Soul, was published by Tor in February 2025 and completes her brilliant new trilogy. As well as discussing the new book, we also dive into the character creation process and how to create fantasy worlds, discussing techniques and methods to ensure we don’t info dump!Kel also shares her favourite and least favourite fantasy tropes, and we discuss some newer and more shocking tropes that writers should think about before including. And Kel also discusses her amazing journey through the world of writing, starting out as a popular indie author with The King's Dark Tidings, before getting snapped up by Tor.FANTASY WRITING BOOKS, CLASSES AND TOOLShttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers ⁠⁠ABOUT KEL CADEhttps://torpublishinggroup.com/sanctum-of-the-soul/?isbn=9781250293893&format=hardback https://kelkade.com/books/ ⁠⁠https://www.goodreads.com/series/172856-king-s-dark-tidings GET IN TOUCHthefantasywriterstoolshed@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠www.richiebilling.com⁠⁠⁠ RESOURCESDiscover more ⁠⁠⁠writing tips⁠ and guides⁠⁠ hereAnd learn more about ⁠⁠⁠writing fantasy⁠⁠⁠ here

Award-winning YA author Sarah Arthur returns to the Toolshed to discuss her brilliant new book, Once A Castle.Sarah also shares her experiences following the release of her debut YA novel (Once A Queen), what it was like writing book two, and how theme has played such an important role in the writing of both. We also discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI) creeping into the writing world, and Sarah provides her expert insights into what 2025 holds for the world of Young Adult fantasy fiction. JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY⁠https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers⁠ABOUT SARAH ARTHUR⁠⁠https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2216828/sarah-arthur/ ⁠⁠www.saraharthur.com ⁠ ONCE A CASTLEhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/213618161-once-a-castlehttps://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/707441/once-a-castle-by-sarah-arthur/GET IN TOUCHthefantasywriterstoolshed@gmail.com⁠⁠www.richiebilling.com⁠⁠RESOURCESDiscover more ⁠⁠writing tips⁠ and guides⁠ hereAnd learn more about ⁠⁠writing fantasy⁠⁠ here

This episode explains how to write realistic injuries and wounds in fantasy stories, focusing on medical accuracy, trauma, and believable consequences, with insights from ER doctor and fantasy author HB Reneau. You’ll learn how different injuries affect the body, how to portray wounds, infections, and recovery realistically, and how to reflect the physical and psychological impact of trauma in your characters. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to improve realism and deepen the emotional impact of their stories.In this episode, I'm joined by fantasy author and ER doctor, HB Reneau.HB talks all about injuries we commonly see in fantasy worlds--usually inflicted by swords and magic--and explains how we can best portray things like wounds and infections.We also talk about the impact of injuries and trauma and mental health too.HB also tells us all about her new book, The Revenant, and how she's used Kickstarter to fund a pretty awesome project. ABOUT HB RENEAUhttps://hbreneau.com/GET BOOKS AND CLASSES ON WRITING FANTASY AND JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

This episode explains how to get a literary agent, focusing on query letters, submission strategies, and what agents look for in writers. You’ll learn how to structure a compelling query letter, avoid common submission mistakes, and understand why agents reject manuscripts, with insights from literary agent assistant Brianna Summers. Ideal for writers preparing to query agents and seeking traditional publishing.In this episode, I'm joined by Brianna Summers, literary agent assistant with Holloway Literary. Brianna also works as an editor with Of Metal and Magic Publishing.Brianna shares her wisdom after spending several years working in the literary agency field. She tells us what it's like for agents on a day-to-day basis and the main reasons she rejects submissions.We also take a deep dive into query letters and Brianna shares her ideal structure for what a query letter should contain.If you're thinking about querying literary agents or want to learn more about it, this episode is a must-listen!ABOUT BRIANNA SUMMERShttps://www.instagram.com/brianna.summers.338/https://hollowayliterary.com/https://ofmetalandmagicpublishing.wordpress.com/GET BOOKS AND CLASSES ON WRITING FANTASY AND JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed

This episode explains how to write and publish fantasy short stories, focusing on structure, editing, and what editors look for in submissions. You’ll learn how to craft compelling short fiction, avoid common mistakes, improve your editing process, and increase your chances of acceptance, with insights from award-winning writer and editor Dan Coxon. Ideal for writers who want to improve their short story craft and get published in fantasy magazines, anthologies, or competitions.Short stories are one of the most powerful ways to sharpen your craft—but writing them well (and getting them published) is a skill in itself.In this episode, I’m joined by Dan Coxon, an award-winning short story writer and editor, to break down exactly how short fiction works from both a writer’s and editor’s perspective.We cover everything you need to know to improve your fantasy short stories and increase your chances of publication, including:What defines a fantasy short story (and what doesn’t)Different short story structures and how to use themCommon mistakes writers make—and how to avoid themHow to edit short fiction for maximum impactWhat editors look for when selecting storiesHow to write a strong cover letter for submissionsIf you want to write tighter, more compelling short stories—and actually get them accepted—this episode gives you the tools and insider knowledge to do it.ABOUT DAN COXONhttps://www.dancoxon.com/https://www.instagram.com/dan.coxon.author/GET DAN'S BOOKSWriting The Uncanny -https://deadinkbooks.com/product/writing-the-uncanny/https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B0034PDEYMJOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

This episode explains how to write grimdark fantasy, focusing on morally complex characters, violence, tone, and emotional depth, with insights from acclaimed author Anna Smith Spark. You’ll learn what defines grimdark as a subgenre, how to avoid common misconceptions, build brutal yet believable worlds, and create flawed characters that feel real. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to write darker, more impactful stories with depth and authenticity.Grimdark fantasy is one of the most compelling and misunderstood subgenres in modern fantasy—but writing it well requires far more than darkness and violence.In this episode, I’m joined by the Queen of Grimdark, Anna Smith Spark, author of A Court of Broken Knives, A Woman of the Sword, and A Sword of Bronze and Ashes, to break down exactly what makes grimdark work.We explore both the craft and philosophy behind the genre, including:What grimdark fantasy really is (and common misconceptions)How to write morally complex, flawed charactersBalancing violence, tone, and emotional depthAnna’s writing process and approach to pantsingBuilding immersive, brutal worlds that feel realOvercoming common writing challenges in dark fantasyIf you want to write darker, sharper, and more emotionally powerful fantasy, this episode will show you how to capture the true essence of grimdark.ABOUT ANNA SMITH SPARKhttps://britishfantasysociety.org/meet-anna-smith-spark/https://www.instagram.com/annasmithspark/https://www.facebook.com/queenofgrimdark/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15935255.Anna_Smith_SparkGET A SWORD OF BRONZE AND ASHEShttps://www.flametreepublishing.com/a-sword-of-bronze-and-ashes-isbn-9781787588400.htmlJOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

Discover the most effective writing tips to improve your craft, get published, and build a successful writing career.Writing advice is everywhere—but what actually works in practice?In this episode, I break down the most valuable writing tips I’ve learned, focusing on practical lessons you can apply immediately to sharpen your skills and move forward as a writer.We cover essential areas every writer should understand, including:How to write and publish short stories successfullyKey insights from legendary author Ian RankinWhat actually helps writers improve over timeTools and resources to find publication opportunitiesThe most important mindset shifts for long-term successIf you want clear, actionable writing advice without the fluff, this episode delivers the insights that make a real difference.Resources mentioned in the episode:https://thegrinder.diabolicalplots.com/https://duotrope.com/https://richiebilling.com/writing-tools/list-of-fantasy-magazinesThank you as always for listening and for your fantastic support!JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

This episode explains how to make an audiobook, focusing on production, narration, and distribution using platforms like ACX. You’ll learn how to find and work with narrators, understand royalty split and paid contracts, and turn your book into a professional audiobook, with insights from audiobook producer and voice actor Ethan Fifield. Ideal for authors who want to expand their reach, create audiobooks cost-effectively, and build additional income streams from their writing.In this episode, I'm joined by voice-over artist and audiobook producer, Ethan Fifield, for an explainer on how to make an audiobook.Ethan offers a fantastic insight into the process of making audiobooks, explaining what it's like to be a producer and what it's like to work with publishers and authors.Ethan also offers practical advice on how to make an audiobook, using platforms like ACX to create projects that narrators can pitch for. He also explains how different contracts can be arranged, like royalty splits, meaning you can make an audiobook with the help of a narrator today without paying a penny!If you're keen to learn more about audiobooks, this episode is guaranteed to help.ABOUT ETHAN FIFIELDhttps://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Ethan+FifieldJOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠GET THE PARIAH'S LAMENThttps://mybook.to/PariahsLament

This episode explains how to write fantasy and queer fiction, focusing on character development, storytelling craft, and the path to publication, with insights from author Ciel Pierlot. You’ll learn how to create engaging and authentic characters, approach inclusive storytelling, develop your writing process, and navigate the journey to finding a literary agent. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to strengthen their craft and write more diverse, character-driven stories.In this episode, award-nominated author Ciel Pierlot joins me in the Toolshed for a fascinating chat about writing fantasy and writing queer fiction.Ciel's new book, The Hunter's Gambit, was published by Angry Robot earlier this year. We chat all about the writing of the story, Ciel's writing process as a whole, and crafting characters who are interesting and engaging.Ciel also discusses her experience of the query trenches and how she found a literary agent.As always, you're bound to learn something new!ABOUT CIEL PIERLOThttps://cielpierlot.com/GET THE HUNTER'S GAMBIThttps://angryrobotbooks.com/books/the-hunters-gambit/JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

This episode explains how to write novellas and succeed in self-publishing, focusing on story structure, genre blending, and building a sustainable author career, with insights from bestselling author Stephen Aryan. You’ll learn how novellas differ from novels, how to craft compelling shorter stories, mix genres effectively, and navigate the self-publishing process. Ideal for fantasy writers and indie authors looking to expand their skills and publish shorter works successfully.In this episode, I'm delighted to be joined by returning guest and bestselling author, Stephen Aryan.Stephen has just released his latest fantasy novel, The Blood Dimmed Tide, and on 1st October, he's releasing his first-ever crime novella, New York Minute.We chat all about New York Minute, writing novellas, mixing fantasy and other genres together, crafting characters readers love, and navigating the world of self-publishing.It's an interview packed with advice and insights—you're bound to learn something new. And if you enjoy it, why not check out Stephen's awesome new novella? You can find the link below.ABOUT STEPHEN ARYANhttps://stephen-aryan.com/GET NEW YORK MINUTEhttps://stephen-aryan.com/2024/08/01/new-york-minute/https://amzn.to/3YlqP65JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

This episode explains how to improve your fantasy writing process, focusing on character creation, magic systems, and immersive worldbuilding, with insights from author Kate J. Armstrong. You’ll learn how to develop compelling characters, design magic systems readers love, find inspiration when it fades, and build worlds that feel rich and escapist. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to strengthen their craft and create more engaging stories.In this episode I'm delighted to be joined by fantasy author, Kate J. Armstrong. Kate's new book Fyrebirds recently hit the shelves and in this episode we talk all about it.We also dive into Kate's journey through the world of writing, how she found inspiration when it left her, and the crafty questions we love so much, such as how to create characters, magic systems readers love, and worlds people want to escape into.ABOUT KATE J. ARMSTRONGhttps://www.katejarmstrong.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/pub-dates/id1589892622https://www.theexploresspodcast.com/GET FYREBIRDShttps://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/697069/fyrebirds-by-kate-j-armstrong/JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITYhttps://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITINGTo join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠