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How can science help you create a fantasy world that feels fresh, strange and full of possibilities? Multi-award-winning author and scientist Premee Mohamed joins Richie Billing to explore worldbuilding, character creation and the writing process behind her new novel, Wickhills. We discuss how bringing science into fantasy can inspire distinctive worlds, where Premee finds her story ideas, and how she develops the characters who inhabit them. Wickhills, a fantasy thriller involving espionage, dangerous magic and a defecting scientist, gives us plenty to dig into. Premee also draws on her experience working with short fiction publishers and supporting writers as a writer-in-residence. She shares the biggest mistakes she sees writers make, her advice for avoiding them, and how she continues to develop her own craft. You’ll discover: • How to combine science and fantasy to create more original worlds. • How Premee approaches story ideas, worldbuilding and character creation. • Common writing mistakes she encounters when editing and mentoring. • How an award-winning author develops her writing process and hones her craft. Whether you’re working on a short story or building an entire fantasy universe, this conversation offers ideas and practical advice to take back to your own writing. ABOUT PREMEE MOHAMED Premee Mohamed is an Indo-Caribbean scientist and speculative fiction author based in Edmonton, Canada. Her work has won Nebula, World Fantasy, Ignyte, Locus and Aurora awards. Her books include Beneath the Rising, The Annual Migration of Clouds, The Butcher of the Forest and Wickhills. She was Edmonton Public Library’s writer-in-residence in 2024 and an assistant editor at Escape Pod from 2020 to 2024. Her short fiction has appeared in publications including Analog, Augur and Nightmare Magazine. PREMEE’S BOOKS AND LINKS Visit Premee’s website Explore Wickhills and find buying options Browse Premee’s books MORE FROM THE FANTASY WRITERS’ TOOLSHED To learn more or get in touch To find fantasy writing books, classes, guides and courses Follow The Fantasy Writers’ Toolshed for more fantasy writing advice and author interviews.

Over 50% off my class on how to edit a novel > https://richiebilling.com/store/writing-classes/how-to-edit-a-novel-editing-class How do you know when you’ve taken a manuscript as far as you can, and how can you tell whether an editor is actually right for your book? Fantasy and cozy mystery editor Richelle Braswell joins Richie Billing to explain when professional editing becomes worthwhile, where to find reputable book editors, and the green and red flags to investigate before trusting someone with your manuscript. They discuss referrals, professional editing organisations, genre specialisation, discovery calls, sample edits, realistic rates and the importance of finding an editor whose communication style matches what you need. The conversation also ventures inside the manuscript. Richelle explains how a good editor moves beyond vague reactions such as “this character is boring” to diagnose the actual storytelling problem. Richie and Richelle explore personal motives and stakes, passive protagonists, character agency, showing emotion through behaviour and the value of constructive editorial feedback. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How to recognise when you need outside editorial help • The difference between developmental support and copy editing • Where to find reputable book editors • How to evaluate an editor’s credentials, specialism and working style • The green and red flags to look for before hiring • When a sample edit can help you make the decision • How editors preserve an author’s voice while strengthening the story • Why personal stakes and character agency matter • Which writing and editing craft books Richelle recommends CHAPTERS 00:00 Why fantasy stories contain elements of mystery 01:05 When can an editor help your manuscript? 04:27 Where to find a professional book editor 08:12 Green flags and the importance of genre specialisation 10:43 Red flags, suspiciously low rates and realistic pricing 12:22 Finding an editor whose working style suits you 14:49 Sample edits and protecting your authorial voice 16:06 Turning gut reactions into constructive feedback 18:55 Making motives and stakes personal 21:39 Character depth, decisions and agency 23:56 Showing emotion through action and body language 25:35 Recommended books on writing and editing 31:06 Where to find Richelle ABOUT RICHELLE BRASWELL Richelle is a professional editor specialising in fantasy and cozy mystery. As the self-described “fairy godeditor”, she helps writers strengthen their plots, characters and prose while preserving the voice and vision that make each story distinctive. Richelle’s website and editing services: https://www.richellebraswell.com/ Richelle’s author resources and recommended craft books: https://www.richellebraswell.com/author-resources JOIN THE TOOLSHED COMMUNITY Join our community of writers and get access to fantasy writing classes, books and early podcast episodes: https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed

In this episode, I'm delighted to be joined by author, podcaster and anthropologist Michael Kilman. Michael shares fantastic insights on what anthropology is and how it can be applied to writing fantasy books. We delve into cause-and-effect, the anthropological roots of monsters, taboos, and cross-cultural myth structures, and discuss why these are goldmines for fantasy writers. We also look at how worldbuilding through anthropology explores real-world, cross-cultural issues, and we look at a wide range of examples of approaches that humans take to structure their societies. In short, using anthropology in your world creation process can help to create more nuanced and complex characters and cultures, making tension and conflict feel more impactful, and stories more immersive. I hope you enjoy it! More About Michael Kilman Michael co-wrote Build Better Worlds: An Introduction to Anthropology for Game Designers, Fiction Writers, and Filmmakers with forensic anthropologist Kyra Wellstrom. He recently published an academic book chapter titled Worldbuilding as Pedagogy: Teaching Anthropology and Diversity in Contentious Times. He's spent 11 years teaching anthropology at university level, including a course called Anthropology Through Science Fiction, has hosted a TED Talk, and also hosts a live Ask an Anthropologist about Worldbuilding series on YouTube, which you can check out for even more on the topic. https://loridianslaboratory.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/MichaelKilmanAuthor https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBC4FaVnOAs - Michael's TED Talk https://www.instagram.com/loridianslab/ https://loridianslab.medium.com/ https://substack.com/@loridianslaboratory More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ How do you write characters that leap off the page—and keep readers hooked for 40 years? New York Times bestselling author Jayne Ann Krentz joins The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed for a career-spanning masterclass in writing romance, suspense, and gothic fiction. With over 200 books published under three names—Jayne Ann Krentz, Amanda Quick, and Jayne Castle—and more than 30 million copies in print, Jayne reveals the "core story" approach behind her extraordinary longevity, and the single best piece of advice she'd give any writer. We dig into character creation, worldbuilding readers can't resist returning to (yes, we talk dust bunnies—Harmony fans, you know), and the mechanics of romantic suspense, where every twist in the romance drives a twist in the suspense, and vice versa. Jayne also breaks down what defines gothic fiction, how publishing has transformed across her career, and where the industry is heading next. Plus: her brand-new novel Enter the Nightmare (written as Jayne Castle), the latest in the Harmony series—out now. In this episode: the core story method • creating unforgettable characters • worldbuilding • how to write romantic suspense • writing gothic novels • the future of publishing • advice for new and aspiring writers 🔗 JAYNE ANN KRENTZ Website > https://jayneannkrentz.com/ Facebook > https://www.facebook.com/JayneAnnKrentz/ Instagram > https://www.instagram.com/jayneannkrentzauthor/ Enter the Nightmare > https://jayneannkrentz.com/book/enter-the-nightmare/ UK readers > https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/jayne-castle/enter-the-nightmare/9780349449456/

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ Want to get your short stories published? In this episode of The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed, host Richie Billing sits down with Benjamin Davis, co-founder of Chill Subs, for a comprehensive, no-nonsense guide to submitting short fiction to literary magazines, navigating the submissions process, and using it as a genuine route toward landing a literary agent. Chill Subs is the platform 50,000+ writers use to discover, track and submit to literary magazines, contests and agents — so Ben sees the short-fiction publishing world from the inside. He shares the latest shifts and trends in the literary magazine market, then gives honest, insider answers to the questions writers agonise over most: Do cover letters actually matter — and what should (and shouldn't) go in them?How should you format a short story submission?Are simultaneous submissions acceptable, and how do you keep track of them?Can you submit reprints, and where will editors accept them?How do short story credits actually help you get a literary agent?Where are the best places to submit right now, and how do you find them?Whether you're submitting your first short story or trying to build a publication history that opens doors to agents and book deals, this is a practical, market-leader's view of how short fiction publishing really works in 2026. In this episode, you'll learn: How to find the right literary magazines for your work using Chill SubsWhat editors really think about cover letters and formattingThe rules (and etiquette) around simultaneous submissions and reprintsHow short-story publication credits feed into querying literary agentsThe current trends reshaping the literary magazine and submissions marketAbout Benjamin Davis: Benjamin Davis is a writer and the co-founder of Chill Subs, a submissions platform used by over 50,000 writers to discover and track literary magazines, contests and agents. He also runs Sub Club, a top-selling Substack newsletter on literary publishing opportunities, and is connected with Write or Die Magazine. His own fiction and poetry have appeared in journals including Booth, Hobart and Maudlin House, and he's the author of The King of FU and Things We Do While Waiting to Die. 🔗 Chill Subs: https://www.chillsubs.com

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ For the full video experience, please watch on YouTube > https://www.youtube.com/@fixingbadwriting In this episode of The Fantasy Writers’ Toolshed, Richie Billing takes on a terrible enemies-to-lovers romantasy story and tries to fix it in real time. Expect bad fantasy romance, stolen magic swords, awkward romantic tension, a suspiciously convenient dragon and a practical look at how to make popular tropes work on the page. This is Episode 2 of Fixing Bad Writing, a writing craft series where Richie deconstructs a weak story draft, explains why it fails, edits it live, then presents a stronger redraft. This time, he steps outside his dark fantasy comfort zone to tackle one of the biggest tropes in romantasy: enemies to lovers. Romantasy might look simple from the outside. Put two attractive enemies in danger, add forced proximity, give them sharp dialogue and surely the chemistry will take care of itself. But good fantasy romance needs more than insults, cheekbones and “kissing probably happening soon”. It needs genuine conflict, believable character motivation, emotional friction and a reason for attraction to grow. Using a deliberately awful AI-generated romantasy draft, Richie breaks down common problems such as rushed attraction, shallow conflict, cliché dialogue, weak worldbuilding and the dreaded trap of insta-love. He then works through the scene as a creative writing exercise, showing how small editing choices can create stronger romantic tension, clearer character dynamics and a more engaging fantasy story. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Build enemies-to-lovers tension that feels earnedAvoid insta-love and rushed romantic attractionCreate better conflict between romantic leadsUse dialogue to reveal character, not just flirtationMake romantasy tropes feel more believableTurn a weak scene into a stronger redraftKeep the fun of a trope while improving the craftThis episode is ideal for romantasy writers, fantasy authors, romance writers, beginner storytellers and anyone looking for practical writing exercises to improve their fiction. Can you write a better “meet-ugly” than the original draft? Listen to the episode, take the romantasy writing challenge and try your own version.

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ In this episode of The Fantasy Writers’ Toolshed, host Richie Billing interviews bestselling author Michael Chatfield about the writing process, indie publishing, Patreon, audience growth, character creation and building a sustainable author business. Learn practical ways to generate story ideas, develop compelling characters, engage readers, grow a subscription community and think more commercially about a long-term writing career. In this episode, I'm joined by bestselling indie author Michael Chatfield for a practical and revealing conversation about what it really takes to build a successful writing career. Michael is the author of major fantasy, science fiction and LitRPG series, including The Ten Realms, Emerilia, Harmony War and Restarting the Apocalypse. He's also built an engaged reader community through subscription platforms like Patreon, where fans can access early chapters, exclusive material, behind-the-scenes updates and opportunities to become more involved in the creative process. This episode explores Michael’s writing process, from finding inspiration and developing ideas to creating characters that feel active, motivated and memorable. We also discuss the business side of being an indie author, including how Michael has grown beyond writing alone and developed a publishing operation that employs multiple people. For fantasy writers, LitRPG authors, self-published novelists and anyone interested in author entrepreneurship, this interview offers a valuable look at the link between craft, consistency, reader engagement and commercial sustainability. ABOUT MICHAEL CHATFIELD https://michaelchatfield.com/ https://www.patreon.com/c/authormichaelchatfield/ https://www.facebook.com/authormichaelchatfield/ https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14055550.Michael_Chatfield

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ For the full video experience, please watch on YouTube > https://www.youtube.com/@fixingbadwriting Welcome to Fixing Bad Writing, a new series within The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed podcast, where I take a rubbish story generated by AI and try to make it good, or at least less crappy. In Episode 1, I tackle the "High Fantasy" genre. Walk through the story's analysis with me, watch as I edit, before seeing whether or not I can save this terrible story. If you’re looking for a creative writing challenge or a unique writing exercise, you’re in the right place. This series acts as a writing guide for anyone trying to spot common mistakes and improve their craft. Whether you are looking for writing exercises for beginners or more advanced story writing exercises, hopefully, this live rewrite will teach you new skills! 🏆 TAKE THE WRITING CHALLENGE Think you can do better? (You probably can). I want to see your version! And then why not join our Discord community and share it? Here's the original story: In the kingdom of Eldoria there was a man called Brin who was a knight but not a very good one, and one day he was told by the king to go and stop a dark wizard named Maldrake who lived in a tower that was quite far away and also spooky, so Brin said yes even though he was a bit tired and hadn’t eaten much, and he got on his horse which didn’t like him very much and set off slowly while thinking about how dangerous it all sounded. On the way he met a strange old woman who may have been magical but it was not very clear, and she gave him a sword that looked important but also a bit rusty, and told him something vague like “you will need this probably,” which Brin thought was helpful enough. When he got to the tower it was taller than expected and had a door that was already open which seemed suspicious, but he went in anyway and shouted for Maldrake who appeared almost immediately which saved time, and they had a fight that was not very graceful but still quite serious, and Brin mostly waved the sword around until something worked and the wizard fell over in a way that suggested he was defeated. After that Brin felt proud but also confused about how easy it was, and he went back to the kingdom where the king thanked him a lot and there was a feast, although Brin kept wondering if the wizard might not actually be fully gone which made the ending feel a bit unsure.

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ Learn how to write a query letter for literary agents, including the correct structure, paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown, submission strategy, and proven techniques to increase your chances of getting representation. Writing a query letter is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—steps in the traditional publishing process. It’s your first impression with a literary agent, and it determines whether your manuscript gets read or rejected. In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Stephen Aryan, who secured representation with literary agent Juliet Mushens, to break down exactly how to write a query letter that stands out in a competitive submissions inbox. This is a detailed, practical deconstruction of query letters, designed to give you a clear, repeatable framework. We cover every stage of the query process, including: What a query letter is and how literary agents evaluate submissionsThe standard query letter structure (opening hook, synopsis paragraph, author bio, closing)A step-by-step walkthrough of how to write each paragraphKey query letter terminology and industry expectationsHow many agents to query before revising your approachWhether you should follow up with agents—and how to do it professionallyHow to get feedback on your query letter (including services like Stephen’s Write Advice)Real-world insights from Stephen Aryan’s successful query letterThis episode combines craft, strategy, and industry knowledge to give you a complete understanding of how querying works. If you’re preparing to submit to literary agents and want to improve your chances of securing representation, this episode provides a clear, actionable guide to writing a query letter that gets results. ABOUT STEPHEN ARYAN https://stephen-aryan.com/ https://stephen-aryan.com/2014/07/31/how-i-found-an-agent-part-2/ https://fantasy-hive.co.uk/2024/06/the-write-advice-4-common-mistakes-in-query-packages/ https://www.mushens-entertainment.com/blog/the-perfect-cover-letter

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ What makes the fae such enduring figures in fantasy? How do you write in the present tense without it feeling awkward? And can a fantasy story work in a confined setting instead of a vast world? In this episode, I’m joined by author Rym Kechacha to talk about her new novel The Apple and the Pearl. We dive into the strange allure of the fae in fantasy fiction, explore the craft of writing in the present tense, and discuss how powerful stories can unfold in smaller, more contained settings. Rym shares insights into her writing process, including the idea of “vibe writing” — letting the tone and atmosphere of a story guide you as you discover the narrative. We also talk about taking inspiration from artwork and paintings, and how visual sources can shape characters, mood and worldbuilding. One of the most interesting aspects of The Apple and the Pearl is its setting. Rather than a sprawling epic landscape, much of the story unfolds within the confined environment of a train. We discuss how limitations like this can actually strengthen tension, character development and narrative focus. If you’re a fantasy writer or reader, this conversation offers a fascinating look at craft, inspiration and the creative decisions behind a unique fantasy novel. In this episode, you’ll learn: How writing in the present tense can make a story feel immediate and activeWhy the fae remain one of the most compelling forces in fantasy fictionHow to create characters readers genuinely care aboutThe idea behind “vibe writing” and discovering your story as you writeHow artwork and paintings can inspire story ideas and atmosphereWhy confined settings can create powerful fantasy stories About The Apple and the Pearl Get it here > https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/800526/the-apple-and-the-pearl-by-rym-kechacha/ About Rym Kechacha Rym Kechacha is a fantasy author and teacher whose work blends folklore, art, and literary fantasy. She is the author of Dark River, To Catch a Moon, and the new novel The Apple and the Pearl. Her debut novel Dark River was shortlisted for the British Fantasy Awards for both Best Novel and Best Newcomer. Website https://rymkechacha.squarespace.com X / Twitter https://x.com/rymkechacha Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rymkechacha/

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ This episode explains how to build a sustainable and profitable author business, focusing on mindset, income streams, and long-term strategy. You’ll learn how to transition from hobbyist to professional writer, market your books effectively, use AI tools to grow your income, and build a direct relationship with your readers. Ideal for fantasy writers and authors who want to turn their writing into a reliable income without burnout. What does it really mean to treat your writing as a business? In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author and entrepreneur Joanna Penn to explore how writers can build a sustainable writing business without losing their creative spark. If you want to move from hobbyist to professional author, this conversation breaks down what a real author business looks like — from mindset shifts to practical systems. We cover: What a writing business actually is (and why most authors get this wrong)How to balance writing as a business without burnout or overwhelmHow to get inside your reader’s head and clearly define your target audienceThe essential steps to kickstart your author business todayDirect book selling, special editions, and owning your customer relationshipBook marketing methods that still work — email marketing, paid advertising, and author networkingHow to use AI in your writing business (marketing content, concept images, Amazon ads optimisation, book descriptions and more)How Joanna Penn uses AI herself to support her fiction and non-fiction author incomeTime management strategies for writers building a business while improving craft About Joanna Penn Non-fiction for authors: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/books-for-authors/ Fiction (J.F. Penn): https://jfpennauthor.com/books/ The Creative Penn Podcast: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/podcasts/ Socials: Website: https://www.thecreativepenn.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jfpennauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCreativePenn X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/thecreativepenn YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheCreativePenn

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ ✍️ Access The Free Class Here: Email Marketing For Writers and Authors This episode explains how email marketing works for authors in 2026, focusing on audience growth, engagement, and book sales. You’ll learn how to build an email list, improve open and click rates, create effective welcome sequences, and use AI to personalise and scale your emails. Ideal for writers and indie authors who want to grow a loyal readership, increase book sales, and take full control of their audience beyond social media. Email marketing remains one of the most powerful tools available to writers and authors — and it’s about to change. In this podcast episode, we break down how email marketing works for writers right now, and where it’s heading in 2026. Using real data, platform insights, and author-specific examples, we explore why email still outperforms social media, how writers use it to sell books and grow Patreon memberships, and what separates emails that get ignored from emails that drive real engagement. We cover the fundamentals every writer needs to understand: choosing the right email platform, setting clear goals, building welcome sequences, improving open and click rates, and creating sustainable email routines. You’ll learn how subject lines, preview text, timing, frequency, and structure directly affect performance — and how to build genuine reader relationships rather than sending forgettable broadcasts. Crucially, we also look ahead to email marketing trends in 2026, including: How inbox providers are prioritising engagement quality over volumeWhy generic drip sequences are losing effectivenessThe rise of interactive emails, surveys, and community-driven contentHow AI is shaping email creation, analysis, and personalisationWhy newsletters are becoming a primary publishing platform for writersThis episode isn’t about spam tactics or quick wins. It’s about future-proofing your email strategy, owning your audience, and using email as the central hub of your writing career — not just a promotional afterthought. Ideal for: Writers and authors at any stageIndie authors selling ebooks, paperbacks, audiobooks, or subscriptionsCreators who want clarity, consistency, and long-term audience control

More From The Toolshed Get my handbook on writing fantasy > https://richiebilling.com/store/books/a-fantasy-writers-handbook-ebook Get courses and classes on creating fantasy stories, plus early access to episodes > https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed/ More resources and contact > https://richiebilling.com/ This episode explains how to improve your fantasy writing using proven techniques for character development, worldbuilding, and the writing process, based on insights from bestselling author RJ Barker. You’ll learn how to create deeper characters, build immersive fantasy worlds, develop your unique writing voice, and overcome common creative challenges. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to strengthen their storytelling and write more compelling, publishable fiction. What can writers learn from one of the most distinctive voices in modern fantasy? In this episode, I’m joined by RJ Barker, author of the Wounded Kingdom and Tide Child trilogies, to explore his approach to storytelling and the fantasy writing process. We dive into both craft and mindset, including: RJ's new book: Mortedant's Peril, book #1 in The Trials of Irody Hasp seriesRJ Barker’s fantasy writing process from idea to finished novelHow to create deep, memorable charactersBuilding unique and immersive fantasy worldsOvercoming psychological challenges in writingDeveloping your voice and honing your craftPractical advice for writers looking to improveThis is an in-depth, honest conversation packed with insights from a top-tier fantasy author. If you want to strengthen your storytelling and better understand the fantasy writing process, this episode offers clear, actionable guidance you can apply straight away. ABOUT RJ BARKER Website: ⁠https://www.rjbarker.com/ BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/rjbarker.bsky.social Books: https://store.orbit-books.co.uk/collections/author-rj-barker

Are you repeating the same writing mistakes without realising it? In this episode, writing coach and author Suzy Vadori reveals the biggest errors she sees in authors, and how to avoid them. Join Richie Billing and Suzy Vadori as they explore Suzy’s journey from businesswoman to bestselling YA fantasy author and coach. We dive into her unique approach to character creation, immersive world-building, and the crucial missteps that hold writers back. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why so many authors struggle with character arcs and how to fix them.Practical world-building strategies that bring your setting to life without slowing the story.The top three mistakes authors make when switching from business mindset to creative craft.How Suzy’s coaching practice and author experience provide clarity, structure and growth.How to build your author brand and writing career from the ground up.Whether you’re working on your first novel or deep into your series, you’ll walk away with actionable advice. ✍️ More from Suzy Vadori: Website: https://suzyvadori.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzyvadori/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suzyvadoriauthor/ ✍️ Join our community & writing tools: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed Website and writing classes: https://richiebilling.com/

This episode explains how to write a successful book series and build an author brand that drives consistent book sales. You’ll learn how to structure multi-book story arcs, create reader loyalty, plan effective book launches, and develop a recognisable author brand using proven strategies from bestselling authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett. Ideal for fantasy writers and indie authors who want to grow a loyal audience, sell more books, and build a sustainable writing career. What separates authors who build loyal readerships from those who struggle to gain traction? The answer often lies in series writing, branding, and smart book marketing. In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett to break down the strategies behind their success—and what every writer can learn from romance and cozy mystery. We explore both craft and career-building, including: How to write a book series that keeps readers coming backStructuring character arcs and emotional payoffs across multiple booksWhat romance and cozy mystery teach us about reader expectationsBuilding consistency in worldbuilding and continuityHow to plan and execute a successful book launchCreating an author brand that readers recognise and trustBook marketing strategies that actually drive salesProductivity and mindset tips for long-term writing successThis episode goes beyond genre to deliver practical, proven strategies you can apply to your own writing—whether you’re working on a fantasy epic or your first novel. If you want to build a loyal audience, sell more books, and create a sustainable writing career, this episode shows you how to do it. ABOUT JAMI ALBRIGHT https://wishidknownforwriters.com/ https://www.jamialbright.com/ ABOUT SARA ROSETT https://www.sararosett.com/ JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITY https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠ LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITING To join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠