Inside the Mind of a YA Fantasy Author: My Fiction Writing Process
Hey there, fellow storytellers and aspiring fantasy authors. I'm Derek Murphy, and today, I want to give you a backstage pass into my writing process for Young Adult (YA) fantasy.
Start With the Big Idea
Like most authors, my writing process starts with a nugget of an idea. It can be a snippet of a dream, an overheard conversation, or even a random "what if" question that pops into my mind. Once I've got this idea, I let it germinate, allowing it to take root and grow in the back of my mind until it becomes a world ripe for exploration.
Developing Characters and Setting
Next, I move to the heart and soul of any story: the characters. I ask myself, who are the people living in this world? What are their dreams, their fears, their quirks? The goal is to create characters that are complex, flawed, and, most importantly, relatable.
Simultaneously, I start building the setting. In YA fantasy, the world itself can be a character. I think about the rules of the world, the magic system (if there is one), the customs, the scenery, and the history. It's like constructing a stage set where my characters will perform their drama.
The Outline
I'm a big proponent of planning, so the next step is outlining. I map out the plot, deciding on the major plot points and the emotional arcs of the characters. The outline is not set in stone; it's a guide, allowing me to weave my story with a clear destination in mind, yet flexible enough to adapt when my characters decide to go off-script.
I have a free 24 chapter novel outlining template.
The Writing
Once the planning is done, it's time to write. Here, I focus on getting the story out of my head and onto the page. It's a rough draft; it doesn't need to be perfect. The aim is to let the story unfold organically, respecting the outline but not being afraid to stray if the narrative calls for it.
Editing and Revisions
The first draft is just that – a first draft. The real magic happens in the editing process. This is where I refine the plot, flesh out the characters, and polish the language. It's a process of rewriting, reworking, and refining. I usually go through several rounds of edits until I feel the story is the best it can be.
I got a PHD in Literature and now do book editing for authors.
Feedback and Final Draft
Finally, I seek feedback from trusted beta readers or an editor. Their insights help me identify any blind spots and provide fresh perspectives. After incorporating their feedback, I put the finishing touches on the manuscript, and voila, the book is ready!
Final Thoughts
That's a glimpse into my YA fantasy writing process. Remember, every author has their unique process. What works for me might not work for you, and that's okay. The important thing is to keep writing, keep exploring, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process.
PS here's some of my fiction:
- best YA vampire books
- best YA mermaid books
Here's to the stories yet to be told. Happy writing!
-Derek Murphy
