Self-publishing is exciting, but it can also feel like a maze of decisions and unexpected costs. Do you really need to spend on editing? Can you DIY your cover? What’s actually worth the money? Should I just outsource the marketing of my book? And a plethora of never-ending questions and doubts… 

If you’ve ever wanted to write a love story that makes readers ache for the moment two characters finally fall into each other’s arms, you're in the right place. Let’s break down how to build that kind of tension, why slow burns work, and how to pull it off—using examples from some of the most beloved fantasy romances on our bookshelves.

If you're a fan of Sarah J. Maas, you've probably already devoured the first four books in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series. From the thrill of Feyre's journey in A Court of Thorns and Roses to the intense emotional battles in A Court of Mist and Fury, each book has taken us deeper into the enchanting and treacherous world of Prythian. And while I've loved every moment spent in this world, A Court of Silver Flames has undeniably become my favorite in the series. Let’s chat about why this book, with all its emotional depth and fierce characters, stands out so much.

If you’ve ever read a book and instantly recognized the author—before even glancing at the cover—you’ve encountered the magic of writing style. It’s that unmistakable voice, the rhythm of the sentences, the way certain words feel handpicked just for that story. And here’s the good news: you already have a writing style too. Even if it’s still taking shape.

Like all good series, we need a Christmas episode, and A Court of Frost and Starlight is just that. Sarah J. Maas gifts us this novella, a cozy little package wrapped in festive ribbons, nestled perfectly between the intensity of A Court of Wings and Ruin and the upcoming journey in A Court of Silver Flames. It’s the literary equivalent of snuggling up with a hot chocolate by the fire, surrounded by friends after a long, tumultuous journey.

As an editor who works with first-time and self-published authors, I’ve walked beside many writers at this stage. And if I could sit across from you with a cup of something warm and reassuring, this is what I’d tell you before you type that first sentence.

If you've made it through the first two books in Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses series, you know by now that this is a journey that just keeps escalating. A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACOWAR) is no exception—if anything, it's the fastest-paced, most intense installment yet. Maas has a way of pulling you into her world and making you feel every twist and turn, and ACOWAR delivers on that in spades.

Writing your story might feel like the biggest quest, but the real struggle begins once you finish it. You’re probably reading this article because you’ve realized that. Now, you want to hire an editor, but you’re not quite sure if your manuscript is ready for this next big step.

If you’re a fan of fantasy, romance, and a hefty dose of emotional turmoil, then you’ve probably heard of Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series. If not, let me introduce you to one of the most captivating and swoon-worthy worlds. Today, I want to chat with you about the second book in the series, A Court of Mist and Fury (ACOMAF), which is where the series really takes off.

If you spend any time on booktok or in fantasy book communities then you’ve probably heard whispers—or enthusiastic shouts—about this one. So, grab a cozy blanket, maybe a cup of tea, and don’t worry I’ll get to the good stuff faster than Maas does.

If you are staring at your manuscript, wondering what to do next, it might feel like you are stuck. Trust me, you are not. Let’s break down all you need to do after you are done with your first draft. 

When I read the news about Audible’s latest move to expand AI-narrated audiobooks, I can’t shout “no” loud enough. It hit like a spell gone wrong—sudden, disorienting, and not quite what I wished for. And yet… I’m conflicted.

You may or may not be familiar with developmental editors. Here is what they are, what they are not, what they can actually do for you - and the signs that you might need one.

Writing a good romance arc is a quest in itself. When writing romance in fantasy, it becomes a dragon to slay. The spark. The tension. The banter. The stakes. The emotional shift. And the final confession. It all needs to be perfect. So,  here’s your guide on writing chemistry that jumps off the page. 

As a beginner author, you just need a little nudge to take that first step. Amidst the scary storm of editing, this article will be your umbrella - a guide on how to self-edit your novel.

Some books pull you in so deeply that even the greatest adaptation cannot replicate their magic. The secret to make your writing just as immersive? Show, don’t tell. Here is what you need to do to bring your scenes to life by mastering the art of showing. 

Draw some lines on the map, give random names to places, add some elves, owls, and magic - boom, you’ve got a fantasy novel. That is what everyone thinks until they actually start writing a fantasy. And if you are reading this, you probably know worldbuilding is much more than that.

Writing fantasy can feel like the most magical experience you’ll ever have - until you hit a wall. Maybe you are getting confused when switching among multiple POVs, maybe your villain lacks a compelling motive, or maybe the characters feel too flat. The best part? You are not alone. Every fantasy writer has been there - judging their story and plot.