Welcome to our regular friday feature where we discuss an aspect of the fantasy genre. I’ve brought along your favorite beverage in that stunning mug up there. Help yourself!
Today I’d like your thoughts on what elements you think make a fantasy story captivating.
Is it rich worldbuilding that immerses you in new cultures or settings? Is it complex, multi-dimensional characters? Or perhaps unpredictable and unexpected plot twists, epic quests, or unique flora & fauna? Or is it emotional depth and relatable themes that grab you?
Tell me what keeps you reading fantasy stories!
Good characters, a believable setting, and an author who knows how to use their words are what matter most to me. It's hard for me to buy into any type of fantasy otherwise.
I think for me, it would be a combination of worldbuilding and goals. It doesn't matter (to me) if the goal is to retrieve the Great Egg or the Crown Jewels, if the goal has a big enough payoff, and equally big risks, I'll keep reading. And if the story is set in a world I want to live in? All the better.
Two of the most recent examples are Mercedes Lackey's "Valdemar" trilogy that takes us along on the initial exodus/flight from the Emperor, and J.C Rycroft's "The Blood Born Dragon" trilogy.