Quill&Steel Blog

Checklist for Writing a Fantasy Novel (10 Steps)

Writing a fantasy novel is one part epic adventure and one part chaotic scroll of never-ending to-dos. There’s the plot, the characters, the magic systems, the map you will obsess...

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Fantasy Writing Template for Planning Your First Novel

Let me guess: you’ve got an idea—a thief with a secret past, a crumbling kingdom, a magical blade—but every time you sit down to write, your brain screams, “Where do...

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How to Write a Fantasy Novel Outline (with Free Template!)

So you’ve got a brilliant fantasy story idea rattling around in your head, complete with epic battles, ancient prophecies, and a protagonist with just the right amount of unresolved trauma....

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9 Best Scrivener Alternatives for Writers in 2025

Looking for the best Scrivener alternatives in 2025? You’re not alone. Scrivener has been a go-to for novelists for years, especially those writing complex stories like fantasy or sci-fi. But...

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6 Best Worldbuilding Software for Fantasy Writers and DMs

Worldbuilding is half the fun of writing fantasy or running a D&D campaign—but keeping track of every kingdom, culture, and magical system? That can get messy fast.  That’s where worldbuilding...

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160+ Worldbuilding Questions Every Writer and DM Needs to Know

Worldbuilding is what makes a fantasy world feel alive. Whether you’re crafting an epic high-fantasy saga, a gritty dark fantasy setting, or planning your next DnD campaign, asking the right...

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Fantasy Writing Advice for New Writers—11 Essential Tips

If you’re here, it’s because you want to start writing fantasy. And what an EPIC decision that is. But there’s a lot to figure out and lots of mistakes to...

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The Only Worldbuilding Checklist You’ll Ever Need

Worldbuilding is the heart and soul of fantasy writing. Whether you're crafting an epic series, a one-shot D&D campaign, or a standalone novel, your world needs to feel real. But...

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How to Structure Notion for Worldbuilding and Fiction Writing

If you’re a fantasy writer, you probably have a million ideas swirling around—magic systems, ancient histories, political conflicts, and characters with names no one can pronounce on the first try. ...

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