The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed

This episode explains how to write realistic injuries and wounds in fantasy stories, focusing on medical accuracy, trauma, and believable consequences, with insights from ER doctor and fantasy author HB Reneau. You’ll learn how different injuries affect the body, how to portray wounds, infections, and recovery realistically, and how to reflect the physical and psychological impact of trauma in your characters. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to improve realism and deepen the emotional impact of their stories.

In this episode, I'm joined by fantasy author and ER doctor, HB Reneau.

HB talks all about injuries we commonly see in fantasy worlds--usually inflicted by swords and magic--and explains how we can best portray things like wounds and infections.

We also talk about the impact of injuries and trauma and mental health too.

HB also tells us all about her new book, The Revenant, and how she's used Kickstarter to fund a pretty awesome project.

ABOUT HB RENEAU

https://hbreneau.com/

GET BOOKS AND CLASSES ON WRITING FANTASY AND JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY

⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

This episode explains how to get a literary agent, focusing on query letters, submission strategies, and what agents look for in writers. You’ll learn how to structure a compelling query letter, avoid common submission mistakes, and understand why agents reject manuscripts, with insights from literary agent assistant Brianna Summers. Ideal for writers preparing to query agents and seeking traditional publishing.

In this episode, I'm joined by Brianna Summers, literary agent assistant with Holloway Literary. Brianna also works as an editor with Of Metal and Magic Publishing.

Brianna shares her wisdom after spending several years working in the literary agency field. She tells us what it's like for agents on a day-to-day basis and the main reasons she rejects submissions.

We also take a deep dive into query letters and Brianna shares her ideal structure for what a query letter should contain.

If you're thinking about querying literary agents or want to learn more about it, this episode is a must-listen!

ABOUT BRIANNA SUMMERS

https://www.instagram.com/brianna.summers.338/

https://hollowayliterary.com/

https://ofmetalandmagicpublishing.wordpress.com/

GET BOOKS AND CLASSES ON WRITING FANTASY AND JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY

https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed

This episode explains how to write and publish fantasy short stories, focusing on structure, editing, and what editors look for in submissions. You’ll learn how to craft compelling short fiction, avoid common mistakes, improve your editing process, and increase your chances of acceptance, with insights from award-winning writer and editor Dan Coxon. Ideal for writers who want to improve their short story craft and get published in fantasy magazines, anthologies, or competitions.

Short stories are one of the most powerful ways to sharpen your craft—but writing them well (and getting them published) is a skill in itself.

In this episode, I’m joined by Dan Coxon, an award-winning short story writer and editor, to break down exactly how short fiction works from both a writer’s and editor’s perspective.

We cover everything you need to know to improve your fantasy short stories and increase your chances of publication, including:

• What defines a fantasy short story (and what doesn’t)
• Different short story structures and how to use them
• Common mistakes writers make—and how to avoid them
• How to edit short fiction for maximum impact
• What editors look for when selecting stories
• How to write a strong cover letter for submissions

If you want to write tighter, more compelling short stories—and actually get them accepted—this episode gives you the tools and insider knowledge to do it.

ABOUT DAN COXON

https://www.dancoxon.com/

https://www.instagram.com/dan.coxon.author/

GET DAN'S BOOKS

Writing The Uncanny -https://deadinkbooks.com/product/writing-the-uncanny/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B0034PDEYM

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

This episode explains how to write grimdark fantasy, focusing on morally complex characters, violence, tone, and emotional depth, with insights from acclaimed author Anna Smith Spark. You’ll learn what defines grimdark as a subgenre, how to avoid common misconceptions, build brutal yet believable worlds, and create flawed characters that feel real. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to write darker, more impactful stories with depth and authenticity.

Grimdark fantasy is one of the most compelling and misunderstood subgenres in modern fantasy—but writing it well requires far more than darkness and violence.

In this episode, I’m joined by the Queen of Grimdark, Anna Smith Spark, author of A Court of Broken Knives, A Woman of the Sword, and A Sword of Bronze and Ashes, to break down exactly what makes grimdark work.

We explore both the craft and philosophy behind the genre, including:

• What grimdark fantasy really is (and common misconceptions)
• How to write morally complex, flawed characters
• Balancing violence, tone, and emotional depth
• Anna’s writing process and approach to pantsing
• Building immersive, brutal worlds that feel real
• Overcoming common writing challenges in dark fantasy

If you want to write darker, sharper, and more emotionally powerful fantasy, this episode will show you how to capture the true essence of grimdark.

ABOUT ANNA SMITH SPARK

https://britishfantasysociety.org/meet-anna-smith-spark/

https://www.instagram.com/annasmithspark/

https://www.facebook.com/queenofgrimdark/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15935255.Anna_Smith_Spark

GET A SWORD OF BRONZE AND ASHES

https://www.flametreepublishing.com/a-sword-of-bronze-and-ashes-isbn-9781787588400.html

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

Discover the most effective writing tips to improve your craft, get published, and build a successful writing career.

Writing advice is everywhere—but what actually works in practice?

In this episode, I break down the most valuable writing tips I’ve learned, focusing on practical lessons you can apply immediately to sharpen your skills and move forward as a writer.

We cover essential areas every writer should understand, including:

• How to write and publish short stories successfully
• Key insights from legendary author Ian Rankin
• What actually helps writers improve over time
• Tools and resources to find publication opportunities
• The most important mindset shifts for long-term success

If you want clear, actionable writing advice without the fluff, this episode delivers the insights that make a real difference.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

https://thegrinder.diabolicalplots.com/

https://duotrope.com/

https://richiebilling.com/writing-tools/list-of-fantasy-magazines

Thank you as always for listening and for your fantastic support!

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

This episode explains how to make an audiobook, focusing on production, narration, and distribution using platforms like ACX. You’ll learn how to find and work with narrators, understand royalty split and paid contracts, and turn your book into a professional audiobook, with insights from audiobook producer and voice actor Ethan Fifield. Ideal for authors who want to expand their reach, create audiobooks cost-effectively, and build additional income streams from their writing.

In this episode, I'm joined by voice-over artist and audiobook producer, Ethan Fifield, for an explainer on how to make an audiobook.

Ethan offers a fantastic insight into the process of making audiobooks, explaining what it's like to be a producer and what it's like to work with publishers and authors.

Ethan also offers practical advice on how to make an audiobook, using platforms like ACX to create projects that narrators can pitch for. He also explains how different contracts can be arranged, like royalty splits, meaning you can make an audiobook with the help of a narrator today without paying a penny!

If you're keen to learn more about audiobooks, this episode is guaranteed to help.

ABOUT ETHAN FIFIELD

https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Ethan+Fifield

JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITY

https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

GET THE PARIAH'S LAMENT

https://mybook.to/PariahsLament

This episode explains how to write fantasy and queer fiction, focusing on character development, storytelling craft, and the path to publication, with insights from author Ciel Pierlot. You’ll learn how to create engaging and authentic characters, approach inclusive storytelling, develop your writing process, and navigate the journey to finding a literary agent. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to strengthen their craft and write more diverse, character-driven stories.

In this episode, award-nominated author Ciel Pierlot joins me in the Toolshed for a fascinating chat about writing fantasy and writing queer fiction.

Ciel's new book, The Hunter's Gambit, was published by Angry Robot earlier this year. We chat all about the writing of the story, Ciel's writing process as a whole, and crafting characters who are interesting and engaging.

Ciel also discusses her experience of the query trenches and how she found a literary agent.

As always, you're bound to learn something new!

ABOUT CIEL PIERLOT

https://cielpierlot.com/

GET THE HUNTER'S GAMBIT

https://angryrobotbooks.com/books/the-hunters-gambit/

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

This episode explains how to write novellas and succeed in self-publishing, focusing on story structure, genre blending, and building a sustainable author career, with insights from bestselling author Stephen Aryan. You’ll learn how novellas differ from novels, how to craft compelling shorter stories, mix genres effectively, and navigate the self-publishing process. Ideal for fantasy writers and indie authors looking to expand their skills and publish shorter works successfully.

In this episode, I'm delighted to be joined by returning guest and bestselling author, Stephen Aryan.

Stephen has just released his latest fantasy novel, The Blood Dimmed Tide, and on 1st October, he's releasing his first-ever crime novella, New York Minute.

We chat all about New York Minute, writing novellas, mixing fantasy and other genres together, crafting characters readers love, and navigating the world of self-publishing.

It's an interview packed with advice and insights—you're bound to learn something new. And if you enjoy it, why not check out Stephen's awesome new novella? You can find the link below.

ABOUT STEPHEN ARYAN

https://stephen-aryan.com/

GET NEW YORK MINUTE

https://stephen-aryan.com/2024/08/01/new-york-minute/

https://amzn.to/3YlqP65

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

This episode explains how to improve your fantasy writing process, focusing on character creation, magic systems, and immersive worldbuilding, with insights from author Kate J. Armstrong. You’ll learn how to develop compelling characters, design magic systems readers love, find inspiration when it fades, and build worlds that feel rich and escapist. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to strengthen their craft and create more engaging stories.

In this episode I'm delighted to be joined by fantasy author, Kate J. Armstrong. Kate's new book Fyrebirds recently hit the shelves and in this episode we talk all about it.

We also dive into Kate's journey through the world of writing, how she found inspiration when it left her, and the crafty questions we love so much, such as how to create characters, magic systems readers love, and worlds people want to escape into.

ABOUT KATE J. ARMSTRONG

https://www.katejarmstrong.com/

https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/pub-dates/id1589892622

https://www.theexploresspodcast.com/

GET FYREBIRDS

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/697069/fyrebirds-by-kate-j-armstrong/

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

This episode explains how to write compelling fantasy fiction, focusing on worldbuilding, character development, and series storytelling, with insights from #1 bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout. You’ll learn how to build immersive worlds, create emotionally engaging characters, structure long-running series, and bring major story arcs to a satisfying conclusion. Ideal for fantasy writers who want to improve their craft and understand how bestselling authors create successful books.

What can fantasy writers learn from one of the most successful authors in the world?

In this episode, I’m joined by #1 New York Times and international bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout, whose books have captivated millions of readers across multiple genres. With over 70 novels published, Jennifer shares a rare, behind-the-scenes look at her writing process, career journey, and the craft decisions that power her stories.

We take a deep dive into Born of Blood and Ash, the epic conclusion to the Flesh and Fire series, exploring how Jennifer approaches final books, resolves complex story arcs, and delivers emotionally satisfying endings.

This episode covers both the creative and professional side of writing, including:

• How to build immersive fantasy worlds that feel rich and believable
• Creating compelling, emotionally driven characters that readers connect with
• Structuring and sustaining long-running fantasy series
• Jennifer’s writing process and how it has evolved over time
• Balancing productivity with quality across a large body of work
• Key lessons from writing and publishing over 70 books

We also explore the realities of being a full-time author at the highest level, offering insight into what it takes to build and sustain a globally successful writing career.

If you want to improve your fantasy writing, understand how bestselling authors think, and learn how to craft stories that resonate with readers, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately.

ABOUT JENNIFER L. ARMENTROUT

⁠https://jenniferlarmentrout.com/

GET BORN OF BLOOD AND ASH

Get exclusive editions and signed copies here - https://jenniferlarmentrout.com/books/born-of-blood-and-ash/

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