This guest post is part of the 2013 Blogger Book Fair and was written by Kyra Dune. Her most recent publication is Firebrand
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Do What Works for You
I’ve read a lot of articles about writing fantasy. I’ve heard it said over and over that every writer in this genre must spend copious amounts of time creating their fantasy world, its rules and laws and histories, its races and religions and magic, before ever sitting down to actually write out a story. I’m here to tell you it isn’t true. Okay, maybe in some instances it is true, if for instance you’re writing an epic world centric story, but not in all cases. Sometimes it’s okay to just write and let everything come out organically.
Now, I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with the first method. If that’s what you need to do before you can write, then by all means do so. I’m simply saying it’s not the only way. There are no real rules when it comes to writing a fantasy novel. You can pretty much do whatever you want, so long as it makes sense within the world you’ve created. That’s one of the most appealing aspects to writing fantasy fiction, at least in my personal opinion.
So for those of you who are just setting out on the grand adventure that is fantasy writing, go on and read those articles, go on and learn what people call ‘the rules’, it can’t hurt and it might even help. But always remember one thing, in the end it comes down to what works for you. Discover what helps you to be the best writer you can be and do that. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you have to do this, or that you can’t do that. Because in the wonderful world of fantasy, anything is possible.
Guest Author Interview: Kyra Dune
CJB: What authors or books have been most influential in your writing? Why?
KD: Stephen King has greatly influenced my writing, because of his characters. He has a real gift for making them come alive on the page. I strive to do the same. Of course, my stories are nothing like King’s. As far as my stories go, I would say Margaret Weis and J.K. Rowling are my greatest influences. I think they are both brilliant ladies who tell wonderful stories.
CJB: Tell us a little about your newest book.
KD: My most recent release is Firebrand, which is the first book in the Firebrand Trilogy. It’s a YA fantasy about two young nobles who find their lives turned upside down by treachery. I don’t want to say more than that about the story itself, because I don’t want to give away any surprises. But I can say that the two main characters have the ability to create and control fire. The story has magic, danger, romance, and dragons.
CJB: How did you celebrate the release? Do you have any traditions?
KD: No traditions. I guess I’m not much of the celebrating type. Not to say that I’m not happy and excited when a new book comes out, because I am. I just don’t do anything special to celebrate it.
CJB: What future projects are you looking forward to?
KD: I plan to venture into self-publishing in the near future and I’m really excited and kind of nervous about the idea. My first self-published book will be Web of Light, another YA fantasy. Right now I’m working on the sequel and I want to finish it before I publish, that way I can release them close together. I’m also working on the final book of a five book series, which is being published by a traditional publisher, as well as four other projects which I will probably self-publish.
CJB: Where can we find you online?
KD: Connect With Me: Facebook Twitter Blog Website Goodreads Pinterest
Watch My Book Trailers: YouTube
Purchase My Books: Amazon Barnes & Noble
