Today on Fantasy Writing for Barbarians, we’re answering a heartfelt question from a fantasy author: how do you write a slow-burn romance in fantasy that keeps readers hooked instead of tuning out? If your lovers can’t be together (yet), how do you keep the tension crackling without stalling the plot?

We dig into the alchemy of slow burns: what makes them work, what makes them drag, and why pacing isn’t the same as being slow. From Kaguya-sama: Love is War to The Witcher, Howl’s Moving Castle, and The Green Bone Saga, we unpack how romantic subtext, emotional intimacy, and narrative function turn subtle glances into story gold. Plus, we break down the do’s and don’ts of relationship development, how to avoid “convenient chemistry,” and why your romance should mess with your world, not float beside it.

Email your own advice prompt to [email protected] or join our Discord and let us know what's on your mind. You can find the discussion prompt we referenced on the show right here.

Fantasy Writing for Barbarians‘ host is Jon Negroni, author of The Pixar Theory, Killerjoy, and more. Our producers are Natalia Emmons and Bridget Serdock. You can find all our episodes and various podcast app options here.

Intro music: "Adventures in Adventureland" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
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