Essential Elements of a Fantasy Novel

A Checklist for First Time Authors

Dec 4, 2008 Allison McDonald

The fantasy novel genre is a phenomenon in the world of literature, appealing to readers of all ages and nationalities. So how does an author jump on the bandwagon?

It is arguable that J.R.R. Tolkien initiated the fantasy novel phenomenon, one that was elevated enough for adult readers, but not beyond the reach of a younger audience. From the time of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, literary culture has given way to a new wave—or tsunami— in the fantasy novel genre.

Learn from the Best

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series has led the brigade. Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and newcomer Christopher Paolini’s Inheritance Cycle follow in the tradition of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Most recently, the acclaimed Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer has taken center stage in the fantasy novel category, appealing to men and women both young and old. It is therefore essential that before embarking on the journey to write a fantasy novel an author reads up on these classic examples. And then...

An Author's Fantasy Novel Checklist

For an author to enter the realm of fantasy novels that appeal to a wide audience, there are certain elements to include that are found in the best books of the genre:

  • Supernatural Creatures: Elves, dragons, dwarves, enchanted plants, vampires, werewolves and talking animals. The right combination of these, alongside a few lowly humans, creates an essential dynamic between the real and the surreal.

  • Magic, or a lack thereof : Characters have to be able to perform some form of magic. Most often the hero or heroine possesses a very strong magical ability that they don’t initially have, or don’t know they have, and learn to develop.

  • Love: Although the love factor must remain on the PG-rated side, a love interest exists in order to pull at the heart strings of readers. Usually the love interest of the main character is unattainable. It helps if they are not of the same genetic make-up (i.e. Human and Vampire, Human and Elf, Werewolf and Vampire, etc.)

  • The Villain: The Villain must be extraordinary and not easily defeated. The villain is often not revealed in person until the end of the story, in order to create the most impact.

  • A Great Battle: Without an epic battle in which the hero is nearly defeated, ultimate victory would not be so sweet.

  • The Weapon: Harry Potter has his wand, Eragon has his sword and Bella has her ability to hide her mind from others. Whatever the weapon, it has to be special in not only its capabilities, but also in the reason behind its existence.

  • The Setting: From Middle-earth, to Narnia, Alagaesia, Hogwarts, and even Forks, the setting is another character in the story. It is the unique quality of the landscape that allows for most of the events in the story to take place.

  • Language: Whether it’s a fabricated language, such as the Elvish speak in Tolkien’s works, or it’s the manipulation of how an existing language is spoken, common vernacular won’t do. The inclusion of a fantasy language heightens the reader’s ability to transport themselves into a different world.
Of course, this is just a start! But these basic elements can provide a solid foundation for building your own fantasy novel.

The copyright of the article Essential Elements of a Fantasy Novel in Writing Fiction is owned by Allison McDonald. Permission to republish Essential Elements of a Fantasy Novel in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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