Quill&Steel Blog

In this interview with Kaylie Smith, author of the paranormal romance series Wicked Games, we dive into how she builds gothic stories where romance and fantasy are deeply intertwined. She’s...

When I started writing my fantasy novel, one of the first things I focused on after the premise was creating my fantasy characters. Because I could have the coolest world,...

When I started planning out my fantasy novel, I knew one of the most important aspects would be my magic system. Aside from the rules and consequences, I first had...

What is a beat sheet? It’s a plotting tool that helps you map out the key moments in your story so you don’t end up lost in dead-end subplots and worldbuilding...

I used to think writing a villain was simple. Then I actually started plotting a novel and realized… villains are some of the hardest characters to get right.  Heroes will...

I went down the rabbit hole of fantasy writing classes when I first started. Paid ones. Free ones. Courses, workshops, masterclasses—everything. Here’s where I landed: Nothing teaches you faster than...

When I first started worldbuilding for my fantasy novel, I thought good worldbuilding meant building e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. I spent months (eight, to be precise) mapping out my world’s history, religion, politics,...

Most new authors assume they need to finish their book before they can start building an audience. I get why... it feels safer to wait until you have something “real”...

If you’re looking for a clear, beginner-friendly hero’s journey template you can fill out for your own fantasy novel, you’re in the right place. Below, you’ll find a blank hero’s journey...