How to Write a High-Fantasy Series

Crafting a high-fantasy series is an arduous but rewarding task. This guide will walk you through the key steps and strategies to bring your high-fantasy world to life, character by character and scene by scene.

1. World-Building Basics

1.1. Map Your World

Begin by creating a detailed map. Start with a continent featuring ragged coastlines, mountains, forests, deserts, and other geographical features. This foundation will help you envision the diverse environments your characters will navigate. Once your map is set, divide the land into distinct kingdoms, territories, and regions. Don’t be confined to just one continent; imagine a world with multiple continents, each with its own magical features and cultural nuances (Figure 1).

1.2. Create Structured History

Next, write a short history of your world, including its wars, the origins of different races, and key heroes and their deeds. This will enrich your world and make it more engrossing for readers. Think of how historical events can shape the present reality of your story.

2. Character Development

2.1. Populate Your World with Unique Folks

Begin developing your characters, giving them distinct traits, histories, and personalities. Even minor characters should have a history and recognizable traits such as biting their nails or muttering to themselves. There is no set template for heroes or villains; they can be as flawed as your real-life friends and family. For instance, a character could be kind-hearted but stern on the outside, or a heroine could be unattractive but extremely intelligent (Table 1).

3. Plot and Storytelling

3.1. Introduce the Average Character

Start with an ordinary person who discovers an extraordinary element of your world. Like Eragon finding Saphira's egg or Frodo receiving Bilbo's ring. Contrast or twist expectations with your main character’s story. For example, an unassuming character could suddenly find themselves on a path where they must confront powerful foes and save the world (Figure 2).

3.2. Plot Construction

Develop your plot in stages. Begin with an expository introduction where you tell a day in the character's ordinary life, followed by the introduction of the problem. Gradually escalate the issue until the character is in a position of extreme danger. The story should then culminate in a climax where the character faces a significant challenge, such as a battle against a powerful enemy.

3.3. Use Vivid Scenes to Spark Interest

Don’t stick to a linear plot progression. Vivid, detailed scenes can help capture readers' imaginations. For example, J.R.R. Tolkien’s characters and events in Bree might not initially reveal their ultimate fates, yet these scenes are pivotal in shaping the story's outcome.

4. Character Evolution

Characters should develop over time. For instance, a character like Rand Al'Thor could start as a stubborn farm boy and transform into a staunch leader against the Shadow. Changes should be gradual, reflecting deep internal struggles rather than sudden shifts. Readers will connect more with characters who undergo realistic and meaningful transformations (Figure 3).

5. Obstacles and Dilemmas

Introduce obstacles and dilemmas to keep the narrative engaging. For example, a friend could be captured, and the character might need to choose between helping a village or continuing their quest. These complex situations not only challenge the character but also add layers to the plot (Table 2).

5.1. Keep the Series Going

Avoid the trap of having the main character defeat the villain too quickly. Instead, spread the journey across multiple volumes. This approach allows for character development and the introduction of new challenges. The end of one book serves as a cliffhanger, teasing the reader to continue (Figure 4).

Conclusion

Writing a high-fantasy series is a vast and complex undertaking. By carefully crafting your world, your characters, and your plot, you can create a story that captivates readers and leaves them eager for the next installment.

Keywords: high fantasy, fantasy series, character development, world-building, plot construction

References

Feel free to explore articles on high fantasy and related writings for further inspiration.