Ever lost yourself completely in a world of dragons, magic, and epic quests? That feeling, when a story transports you to another realm, is pure magic. But what happens when you need a writer to conjure that magic for you? Finding the perfect fantasy writer can feel like searching for a rare artifact in a giant dungeon.
The sheer number of talented authors out there can be overwhelming. You want someone who understands world-building, compelling characters, and plots that keep you turning pages long past midnight. Sifting through portfolios and styles takes serious time and energy, and a wrong choice means your story might fall flat.
This post cuts through the noise. We break down what makes a truly great fantasy writer. You will learn the key questions to ask and the signs of a true storytelling professional. Get ready to discover the expert who can finally bring your fantastical vision to life.
Top Fantasy Writers Recommendations
- Holladay, T.M. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 162 Pages - 04/05/2020 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Writer's Complete Fantasy Reference
- Writer's Digest Books
- ABIS BOOK
- Writers Digest (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- Amazon Kindle Edition
- Billing, Richie (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 372 Pages - 06/12/2019 (Publication Date)
- Blumenthal, Erica (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 67 Pages - 03/31/2020 (Publication Date) - Erica Blumenthal (Publisher)
- Holladay, T.M. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 162 Pages - 04/14/2020 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Hardcover Book
- English (Publication Language)
- 256 Pages - 10/11/2018 (Publication Date) - University of Chicago Press (Publisher)
- Cody, Paige (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 200 Pages - 08/18/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Card, Orson Scott (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 416 Pages - 09/30/2013 (Publication Date) - Writer's Digest Books (Publisher)
The Essential Buying Guide for Fantasy Writers: Crafting Worlds with the Right Tools
Fantasy writers build incredible worlds. They need tools that keep up with their imagination. This guide helps you choose the perfect writing supplies, whether you favor digital screens or classic paper.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop, look closely at specific features. These details make writing easier and more enjoyable.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Your hands will do a lot of work. Choose a pen or keyboard that feels good after hours of use. A heavy mouse or a cramped keyboard causes strain.
- Durability: Fantasy epics take time to write. Your tools must last. Look for sturdy construction in notebooks and reliable components in laptops.
- Portability: Inspiration strikes anywhere! Can you easily carry your notebook to a coffee shop or your tablet on a long journey?
- Screen Clarity (For Digital Writers): You spend hours staring at the screen. A high-resolution, anti-glare display reduces eye fatigue.
2. Important Materials Matter
The materials used directly affect the quality and feel of your writing experience.
For Physical Writing (Notebooks and Pens):
- Paper Quality: Good paper resists ink bleed-through. Look for high GSM (grams per square meter) paper. Thick paper feels luxurious and handles fountain pens well.
- Binding Strength: A spiral binding lets the book lay flat easily. A sewn binding offers a more traditional, durable feel.
For Digital Writing (Laptops and Tablets):
- Keyboard Feel: Mechanical keyboards offer satisfying clicks. Membrane keyboards are quieter. Test the key travel—how far the key presses down.
- Battery Life: Long battery life lets you write through power outages or long camping trips without hunting for an outlet.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain elements boost your creative flow, while others interrupt it.
Factors that Improve Quality:
- Smooth Writing Instruments: A pen that glides effortlessly across the page speeds up your drafting.
- Powerful Processing (Digital): A fast processor prevents lag when you use complex editing software or manage large manuscript files.
- Distraction-Free Modes: Many writing apps offer “full-screen” modes that hide toolbars and notifications. This keeps your focus sharp.
Factors that Reduce Quality:
- Flimsy Construction: Cheap plastic breaks easily. A weak laptop hinge will eventually fail.
- Poor Lighting: Working in dim light strains your eyes, slowing down your reading and editing process.
- Unreliable Software: Writing software that frequently crashes loses your work. Always check user reviews regarding stability.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you write your fantasy stories.
World-Building Sessions:
You might need a large, open notebook or a spacious monitor setup. You need room to map out timelines, draw creature sketches, and track magic systems. Flexibility is key here.
First Draft Speed Writing:
When speed is the goal, comfort rules. Use a lightweight keyboard or a device with excellent battery life. You must minimize physical barriers between your brain and the page.
Editing and Revising:
For editing, screen quality and powerful search functions become very important. You need to see your text clearly for long stretches of time. Backlighting on a keyboard helps when reviewing late at night.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Fantasy Writers
Q: Should I choose digital or physical writing tools first?
A: This depends on your process. Many writers use physical notebooks for initial brainstorming and then switch to a computer for the main draft.
Q: What is the best screen size for writing novels?
A: Most writers prefer 13-inch to 15-inch screens. This size balances portability with enough screen real estate to view large chunks of text comfortably.
Q: How important is keyboard noise for collaboration?
A: If you write in shared spaces like libraries or coffee shops, quieter keyboards (like scissor-switch or silent mechanical keys) are highly appreciated by others.
Q: Do I need special software for fantasy world-building?
A: While standard word processors work, dedicated software offers features like character relationship tracking and timeline management, which greatly helps complex fantasy plots.
Q: What is the biggest mistake writers make when buying a laptop?
A: They often prioritize graphics cards over RAM and processor speed. Writing needs RAM to handle large documents, not heavy gaming power.
Q: How can I prevent my pen from skipping while writing quickly?
A: Choose higher-quality ink cartridges or switch to a gel pen, which tends to flow more consistently than basic ballpoint pens.
Q: Is an ergonomic mouse necessary for long writing sessions?
A: Yes, if you use a mouse constantly. An ergonomic mouse supports your wrist in a natural handshake position, reducing strain over many hours.
Q: What should I look for in a notebook cover?
A: Hardcovers offer better protection for your notes, especially when traveling. Softcovers feel lighter but crease more easily.
Q: How does screen glare affect my writing quality?
A: Glare forces your eyes to constantly readjust, causing fatigue and headaches. Choose a matte screen finish or use a dedicated anti-glare screen protector.
Q: Can my budget tablet replace a dedicated laptop for drafting?
A: A modern, powerful tablet with an attachable physical keyboard can handle drafting well. However, complex file management and heavy research are often easier on a full laptop operating system.