The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed

Learn how to use and subvert fantasy tropes to create original, compelling stories while avoiding clichés and predictable storytelling.

Fantasy tropes are the backbone of the genre—but rely on them too heavily, and your story risks feeling predictable and overdone.

In this episode, I’m joined by J.M. Williams to explore how to take classic fantasy tropes and transform them into something fresh, original, and engaging.

We break down the craft of working with tropes, not against them, including:

• How to identify overused fantasy tropes that weaken your story
• Why readers love familiar conventions—and when to challenge them
• Techniques for subverting tropes without losing their appeal
• How to combine and reinvent tropes to create unique concepts
• Common mistakes when “twisting” tropes (and how to avoid them)
• Using theme, voice, and structure to add originality

We also explore examples from fantasy books and film, showing how successful writers play with expectations—and why some trope subversions fall flat.

If you want to write fantasy that feels both familiar and original, this episode will show you how to turn tropes into powerful storytelling tools instead of creative limitations.

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Are medieval settings holding fantasy back? In this episode, discover how to reinvent classic worlds and build fantasy settings that feel new and alive.

In this episode of The Fantasy Writers’ Toolshed, Richie Billing and J.M. Williams tackle one of the most hotly debated topics in the fantasy genre — the medieval setting cliché. From muddy villages and wooden houses to knights, castles, and swords, medieval Europe has long been the default backdrop for fantasy stories. But is it time to move on?

Richie and J.M. discuss why the medieval world became such a staple of the genre, why it still resonates with readers, and how modern authors can push beyond the cliché to create richer, more original worlds. They explore how to borrow the best parts of medieval inspiration while still giving your setting a unique twist.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why medieval settings dominate fantasy fiction.
• How to use historical realism without copying the past.
• Fresh worldbuilding approaches to create non-European fantasy cultures.
• How geography, technology, and culture shape a world’s tone.
• The difference between inspired by and limited by history.
• How to balance reader familiarity with creative innovation.
• Tips on writing unique societies, cities, and political systems beyond the usual castles and kings.

Whether you love knights and dragons or want to break away from them entirely, this episode gives you fantasy worldbuilding tips to make your setting stand out. Richie and J.M. also share examples of authors who’ve taken inspiration from non-Western and alternative historical models — showing that originality doesn’t mean abandoning authenticity.

Key takeaways:

• Learn how to evolve beyond the standard medieval fantasy template.
• Discover new cultural and historical inspirations for your worlds.
• Understand how to create settings that feel believable, immersive, and distinct.
• Gain fantasy writing advice that helps you balance creativity with realism.

This discussion is perfect for fantasy writers who love immersive worldbuilding but want to avoid clichés. You’ll come away inspired to rethink your setting and bring something fresh to the genre.

FANTASY WRITING BOOKS, CLASSES AND TOOLS

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Tired of hearing your story feels “too familiar”? In this episode, we explore how to spot, avoid, and reinvent common fantasy clichés to make your writing truly original.

In the debut episode of The Fantasy Writers’ Toolshed, hosts Richie Billing and JM Williams dive deep into the world of fantasy tropes and clichés. We all know them — the Chosen One, the wise old mentor, the dark lord who’s evil for the sake of it. But why do these familiar elements get such a bad reputation, and how can you use them to your advantage rather than let them drag your story down?

You’ll learn:

• What makes a cliché different from a trope — and why not all clichés are bad.
• How to identify tired fantasy conventions that weaken your story’s originality.
• Practical writing tips to subvert or reinvent classic fantasy elements.
• Creative ways to use clichés intentionally to enhance themes or character arcs.
• How to turn reader expectations on their head without losing coherence.
• Worldbuilding advice to help your fantasy setting feel unique and immersive.

Richie shares insights from years of studying and teaching fantasy writing, offering clear, actionable strategies for elevating your storytelling. Whether you’re outlining your first novel or polishing your tenth, this episode gives you the tools to recognise patterns in fantasy fiction — and transform them into strengths.

We also discuss some of the most overused fantasy tropes in modern storytelling, including:

• The Chosen One prophecy
• Elves, dwarves, and orcs lifted straight from Tolkien
• Evil villains with no real motive
• Tavern introductions and ancient prophecies
• The wise mentor who always dies

By the end, you’ll understand how to breathe new life into these familiar setups and make them your own.

Key takeaways:

• Learn how to transform clichés into original story elements.
• Discover why readers still love certain tropes — and how to use that to your advantage.
• Gain fantasy writing tips to strengthen your worldbuilding and character development.
• Understand how professional writers play with expectation to create powerful moments of surprise and satisfaction.

If you’ve ever wondered how to write fantasy stories that feel fresh, relevant, and emotionally engaging, this episode is packed with useful insights.

FANTASY WRITING BOOKS, CLASSES AND TOOLS

⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed ⁠⁠⁠

JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers⁠⁠⁠

A brand new monthly podcast looking at all things writing, fantasy fiction, and building your author platform. Hosted by Richie Billing (https://richiebilling.com) and JM Williams (https://jmwilliams.home.blog).

Please consider supporting us on Patreon! (https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed). You can join our community of writers, get access to exclusive fantasy writing workshops, and copies of acclaimed books on how to write fantasy

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