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...
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...
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....
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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. ...