How to write Epic Fantasy
Secondary worlds accrete detail: magic rules, bestiary entries, dead languages and the prophecy someone has to fulfil. Track them before they contradict themselves in book three.
Includes
Epic Fantasy, High Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery, Dark Fantasy, Grimdark, Gaslamp Fantasy, Steampunk
Beats readers look for
- Quest
- Battle
- Prophecy
- Lore Drop
- Journey
- Betrayal
- Training
- Alliance
- Worldbuilding Beat
- Magic Cost
Story structures that fit
- Hero's Journey: A transformation arc. Best when the story is about who the protagonist becomes, not just what happens.
- Seven-Point Structure: You write the ending first, then work backwards. Best when you know how it finishes but not how to get there.
- Save the Cat: The most prescriptive of the set: fifteen beats with percentages attached. Best when you want to be told where things go.
Worth keeping track of
- Magic System
- Bestiary