The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed

The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed

by Richie Billing
BooksHow To
Season 2

Book Marketing for Authors: How to Sell More Books and Build Your Author Brand

Learn how to market your book effectively, build your author brand, and sell more copies with practical strategies from a professional book marketer. Book marketing is one of the biggest challenges writers face—but understanding the fundamentals can make all the difference between obscurity and consistent sales. In this episode, I’m joined by marketing expert Nicky Pecone, founder of Iron Age Marketing, to break down what book marketing really is—and what actually works for authors today. We cover the core principles every writer needs to understand, including: What book marketing involves (and what it doesn’t) How to start building your author brand from scratch Practical ways to promote your book effectively Common marketing mistakes authors make How to think long-term about sales and visibility The key foundations for growing an audience If you want to sell more books without wasting time on ineffective strategies, this episode will give you a clear, practical approach to marketing that actually works. ABOUT NICKY AND IRON AGE MARKETING https://nickpecone.com/iron-age-media-marketing/ 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
S2 · E43
Sep 13, 2023
46:21

How to Create and Develop Characters: A Fantasy Writing Panel with Karen Heuler

How do you create characters readers truly believe in — and grow them across a story? In this community panel episode of The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed, award-winning author Karen Heuler joins Richie Billing and the writing community for a deep dive into character creation and development. The whole conversation centres on characters: creating them, getting to know them, and growing them. Karen and the panel work through specific strategies for building characters from scratch, how to understand what your characters actually want, the often-overlooked role of side characters, and different approaches for developing and evolving your fictional people over the course of a story. This episode explores questions like: How do you create a compelling character from scratch? How do you figure out what your character truly wants — and why it matters? What role do side characters play, and how do you use them well? How do you grow and develop a character across a narrative? Whether you're writing a sprawling cast for an epic fantasy or a single protagonist, this panel gives you practical, experience-tested approaches to character creation and development. In this episode you'll learn: Concrete strategies for creating characters from the ground up How to uncover and use character motivation and desire How side characters strengthen a story Approaches to developing and evolving characters over time About Karen Heuler: Karen Heuler is an award-winning author of literary and speculative fiction, including the novel The Splendid City (Angry Robot Books). Thanks also to community members Joshua Parker and Isa Ottoni, who joined the panel. 📝 What is characterization?: https://richiebilling.com/welcome/the-writers-toolshed/writing-tips/what-is-characterization 🔗 Character & plotting: https://richiebilling.com/writing-tips/character-plotting 🌱 Character development: https://richiebilling.com/writing-tips/character-development 💬 Join our writing community (and our Panels): https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed
S2 · E42
Aug 27, 2023
1:01:45

How to Edit Your Novel Like a Pro: Types of Editing, Costs and What Actually Matters

Learn how to edit your writing effectively, understand the different types of editing, and work with professional editors to improve your manuscript. Editing is one of the most important—and most challenging—parts of writing. Done well, it transforms a rough draft into something sharp, compelling, and ready for readers. In this episode, I’m joined by professional editor Jennia D'Lima to break down the editing process and give you clear, practical guidance on how to improve your work. We cover everything writers need to know about editing, including: The different types of editing (developmental, line editing, copyediting, proofreading) How to self-edit your work more effectively What professional editors actually do—and when you need one How to find a trustworthy editor What a fair price looks like (and what to avoid) Common editing mistakes writers make If you want to take your writing to a professional level and avoid costly editing mistakes, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to do it right. ABOUT JENNIA D'LIMA https://jenniaedits.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
S2 · E41
Aug 13, 2023
40:47

How to Create Fantasy Religions Readers Actually Believe In (With Norse Shaman Mark Weisman)

Learn how to create realistic fantasy religions with insights from a Norse shaman, covering belief systems, character psychology, and worldbuilding techniques. Creating believable religions in fantasy is one of the hardest parts of worldbuilding. In this episode, we explore how to build faith systems, gods, and belief structures that feel real, lived-in, and emotionally powerful. I’m joined by Mark Weisman, a Norse and Celtic shaman and former Christian pastor, whose real-world experience of faith brings a rare depth to this conversation. We dive into both the philosophical and practical sides of religion in fantasy, including: How to create fantasy religions that feel authentic Why belief systems shape character behaviour and conflict The psychology of devotion and faith in storytelling How gods, rituals, and culture intertwine in worldbuilding Common mistakes writers make when building religions Whether you're writing epic fantasy, grimdark, or character-driven stories, this episode will help you create belief systems that resonate with readers and add real weight to your world. ABOUT MARK WEISMAN https://akulfhednar.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
S2 · E40
Jul 27, 2023
45:49

Daniel Polansky Interview: Fantasy Writing Process, Worldbuilding and Character Conflict

Learn the fantasy writing process from Daniel Polansky, including how to build unique worlds, craft conflict, and develop compelling characters. What does it take to write gripping fantasy with strong characters and immersive worlds? In this episode, I’m joined by Hugo-nominated author Daniel Polansky to explore his approach to storytelling and the fantasy writing process behind his work, including March’s End. We dive into both craft and mindset, including: Daniel Polansky’s fantasy writing process from idea to finished novel How he built the world and central conflict in March’s End Techniques for creating tension and character-driven storytelling Where ideas come from—and how to develop them Handling the challenges and setbacks of writing Practical advice to improve your craft and finish your work This is an honest and engaging conversation packed with insights from an experienced fantasy author. If you want to sharpen your storytelling and better understand the fantasy writing process, this episode offers clear, practical guidance you can apply straight away. ABOUT DANIEL POLANSKY Website: http://www.danielpolansky.com/ March's End: https://amzn.to/3D9n4VU 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
S2 · E39
Jul 13, 2023
31:41

How To Get a Literary Agent: Query Letters, Synopses and Traditional Publishing Explained

Learn how to write a query letter, craft a strong synopsis, and find a literary agent with practical advice from industry experts. Getting a literary agent is one of the biggest hurdles in traditional publishing—but with the right approach, it’s absolutely achievable. In this panel episode, we’re joined by Laura Bennett to break down exactly what agents are looking for and how to give your submission the best chance of success. We answer real questions from writers and cover the key steps to securing representation, including: How to write a compelling query letter that stands out What agents look for in a synopsis (and common mistakes) How to craft a blurb that hooks attention Where and how to find the right literary agents Red flags and pitfalls to avoid when querying What to expect from the traditional publishing process If you’re serious about getting published traditionally, this episode gives you the clarity, strategy, and insider knowledge to approach agents with confidence. FOLLOW LAURA https://twitter.com/Losbennett ABOUT THE LIVERPOOL LITERARY AGENCY https://www.liverpool-literary.agency/ RESOURCES ON FINDING LITERARY AGENTS Cover letters - https://www.liverpool-literary.agency/news/guide-to-query-letters / https://www.mushens-entertainment.com/blog/the-perfect-cover-letter Publisher's Marketplace: https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/ The Bookseller: https://www.thebookseller.com/home R/Pubtips: https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/ Jericho Writers: https://jerichowriters.com/ I AM in Print: https://www.iaminprint.co.uk/ 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
S2 · E38
Jun 27, 2023
52:35

Writing Literary Fantasy And Pantsing With Karen Heuler

Award-winning literary fantasy author Karen Heuler stops by the Toolshed to talk about pantsing and writing in the literary style. Karen's new book, The Splendid City, published by Angry Robot, offers a fantastic example of the style and approach, and we dive into it to understand how to write literary fantasy fiction. Karen is also a massive pantser and we discuss the benefits of taking this approach and how you can give pantsing a go yourself. If you have any questions or requests, please write to us at thefantasywriterstoolshed@gmail.com JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITY https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITING To join our writing community and access our Panels feature, as well as join a weekly writing group, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more head over to our Patreon page - https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed OUR GUESTS Karen Heuler - The Splendid City - https://angryrobotbooks.com/books/the-splendid-city/ | More about Karen - https://www.karenheuler.com/ Sounds and editing by 3D Sound Studio - https://www.youtube.com/@3DSoundStudio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E37
Jun 13, 2023
46:33

Worldbuilding for Fantasy Writers: How to Build Immersive Worlds (With Stephen Aryan)

Learn how to build rich, immersive fantasy worlds with practical advice, common pitfalls, and expert insights from a bestselling author. Worldbuilding is one of the most exciting parts of writing fantasy—but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. In this panel episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Stephen Aryan, along with writers Isa Ottoni, Joshua Parker, and Jonny Altair, to tackle the biggest challenges writers face when building worlds. We dive into both the fundamentals and the real struggles of worldbuilding, including: How to create immersive, believable fantasy settings Common worldbuilding mistakes—and how to avoid them Balancing detail with storytelling and pacing Building cultures, histories, and environments that feel real Practical techniques to overcome worldbuilding blocks Insights from Stephen Aryan’s approach to crafting The Judas Blossom Drawing on real questions from the writing community, this episode delivers honest, practical advice you can apply straight to your own work. If you want to build fantasy worlds that feel alive, coherent, and engaging, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to do it right. THE JUDAS BLOSSOM https://angryrobotbooks.com/books/judas-blossom/ OUR GUESTS Stephen Aryan - https://stephen-aryan.com/ | Stephen's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZlaVQ9rks4GaN-x3Jkos0A RESOURCES Get a free worldbuilding template - https://richiebilling.com/worldbuilding Learn how to start worldbuilding - https://richiebilling.com/worldbuilding/how-to-start-worldbuilding Check out the best books on worldbuilding - https://richiebilling.com/worldbuilding/books-on-worldbuilding 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
S2 · E36
May 27, 2023
1:07:39

The Power Of Writing Groups

In this episode, I welcome three members from our writing community, Isa, Josh and Jonny, for a chat about our community writing groups. Not so long ago, Josh approached me about setting up some writing groups through our Discord community. These small groups of around 5 or 6 people meet regularly and are matched by genre, time zone and how regularly you can meet. We have about 6 or 7 groups running at present and you can join one too. Just click below to join our Discord community and head to #writing-groups. In this episode, we discuss the benefits being in a group has given us. We explain how they work, how to join one, and how to approach editing and taking feedback. JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITY (DISCORD) https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITING To join our writing community and access our Panels feature, as well as join a weekly writing group, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more head over to our Patreon page - https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed OUR GUESTS Jonny Altair - Twitter - @JonnyLeeAltair Isa Ottoni - https://www.instagram.com/isa.ottoni.writes/ Josh Parker - Ontheedgebusiness.wordpress.com Sounds and editing by 3D Sound Studio (ASMR Specialists) - https://www.youtube.com/c/Odysyx NEW RESOURCES Worldbuilding tips and advice - https://richiebilling.com/worldbuilding Sensory language examples - https://richiebilling.com/welcome/the-writers-toolshed/writing-tips/sensory-language-examples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E35
May 13, 2023
50:20

How to Create a Magic System for Your Fantasy World (With D&D and Witchcraft Examples)

Learn how to build a compelling fantasy magic system from scratch, using real examples like Dungeons & Dragons and witchcraft to inspire your worldbuilding. Creating a magic system that feels original, balanced, and believable is one of the biggest challenges in fantasy writing. In this episode, I’m joined by Janina Arndt and Lucy Atkinson from The Fey Fellows Podcast to explore how some of the most influential magic systems have developed—and how you can use them to inspire your own. We break down both the theory and practical side of magic system design, including: What makes a strong and believable magic system Lessons from Dungeons & Dragons and real-world witchcraft traditions How magic systems evolve over time Balancing rules, limitations, and creativity Common mistakes when designing magic systems Practical steps to create your own from scratch If you want to build a magic system that enhances your story rather than overwhelms it, this episode will give you the structure, insight, and inspiration to do it right. OUR GUESTS Janina Arndt and Lucy Atkinson - The Fey Fellows Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/feyfellowspodcast/ / https://anchor.fm/fey-fellows-podcast 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
S2 · E34
Apr 27, 2023
32:39
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