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How to Write Romantic Fantasy: A Magical Guide

Writer: DanielDaniel


Remember that the first word in “fantasy romance” is “fantasy.” Begin by deciding which elements of this genre you want to include. Here are some subgenres to consider:


1. Choose Your Fantasy Subgenre

  • High Fantasy Romance: Set in entirely fictional worlds with epic quests and battles between good and evil. Romance blooms amidst grand adventures.

  • Urban Fantasy Romance: Takes place in contemporary, urban settings where magical elements blend seamlessly into everyday life.

  • Historical Fantasy Romance: Combines historical fiction with magical or supernatural aspects. The romance is often influenced by the historical context.

  • Paranormal Romance: Focuses on romantic relationships involving supernatural beings like vampires, werewolves, and ghosts.

  • Fairy Tale Retellings: Reimagine classic fairy tales with new romantic subplots and fantasy twists.

2. Create Your Magical World

Before diving into the romance, build your fantasy world. Consider the following:

  • Rules and Dynamics: Your world can have its own rules of magic, mythical creatures, and supernatural phenomena. Draw inspiration from folklore, myth, or your imagination.

  • Setting: Describe the landscapes, cities, and hidden realms. Make them vivid and enchanting.

  • History: Develop a rich backstory for your world. What wars were fought? What legends persist?

3. Multidimensional Characters

Your protagonists should be more than cardboard cutouts. Give them depth:

  • Flaws and Strengths: Explore their vulnerabilities, fears, and strengths. What motivates them?

  • Backstories: Unearth their pasts. What shaped them into who they are?

  • Chemistry: Create sparks between characters. Their interactions should sizzle with tension and longing.

4. Intertwine Emotional Journeys

The heart of romantic fantasy lies in emotional journeys. As your characters fall in love, consider:

  • Obstacles: What challenges prevent their union? Is it a forbidden love? A curse? A war?

  • Growth: Show how love changes them. Does it heal old wounds or reveal hidden powers?

  • Shared Goals: Align their desires. Perhaps they both seek to save the world or uncover ancient secrets.

5. Balance Adventure and Intimacy

Romantic fantasy isn’t all about swooning gazes. Mix adventure with intimate moments:

  • Quests and Battles: Send your characters on epic quests. Let them battle dragons, unravel mysteries, and face danger together.

  • Quiet Moments: Amidst chaos, give them stolen kisses, whispered confessions, and moonlit rendezvous.

6. Use Magic to Shape Relationships

Magic isn’t just sparkles and wands—it influences relationships:

  • Love Spells: Explore magical bonds, enchanted objects, or mystical rituals that bind hearts.

  • Curses and Blessings: A curse could keep lovers apart, while a blessing might strengthen their love.

7. Resolve with Hope

Endings matter. Romantic fantasy thrives on hope:

  • Happy Endings: Readers crave satisfaction. Let love triumph, but not without sacrifice.

  • Bittersweet Endings: Sometimes love defies fate, but at a cost. Leave a lingering ache.


Remember, the magic lies not only in the spells but in the beating hearts of your characters. So, wield your pen like a sorcerer’s wand, and conjure a love story that spans realms and etches itself into readers’ souls

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