The Fantasy Fiction Formula

Deborah Chester is the John Crain Presidential Professor at the University of Oklahoma, teaching Professional Writing

There's more to writing a successful fantasy story than building a unique world or inventing new magic. How exactly is a plot put together? How do you know if your idea will support an entire novel? How do you grab reader attention and keep it? How do you create dynamic, multi-dimensional characters? What is viewpoint and do you handle it differently in urban fantasy than in traditional epics? What should you do if you're lost in the middle? How do you make your plot end up where you intend it to go?
From the writing of strong, action-packed scenes to the handling of emotions, let award-winning fantasy author Deborah Chester guide you through the process of putting a book together. Convinced there's no need to shroud the writing process under a veil of mystery, Chester supplies tips that are both practical and proven. They are exactly what she uses in writing her own novels and what she teaches in her writing courses at the University of Oklahoma.

Along with explaining story construction step by step, Chester illustrates each technique with examples drawn from both traditional and urban fantasy. The technique chapters include exercises to assist novices in mastering the craft of writing fantasy as well as suggestions for avoiding or solving plot problems. More experienced writers will find tips for taking their work to the next level.

With an introduction by author Jim Butcher, The fantasy fiction formula provides the information you need to gain skill and proficiency in writing fantasy like a pro.

Foreword by Jim Butcher
Author preface
1. Formulating a story plan
2. Character design
3. Viewpoint
4. Dialogue
5. Scene structure
6. Scene conflict
7. Conflict maneuver
8. Ending scenes
9. Sequels
10. Dilemma and decision
11. Entering the dark dismal middle
12. Surviving the dark dismal middle
13. More dark dismal middle
14. Unmasking true nature
15. Pacing
16. Ending the story
17. Story climax
18. Writing the resolution
19. Revision methods
20. The road to publication
21. Final suggestions
Index