If you're writing a fantasy romance — or maybe just a fantasy with some romance — then at some point you're probably going to wonder if your love interest is compelling enough. Readers typically bemoan one-dimensional love interests who don't really have their own character arcs. When they're just props in the story or merely an extension of the main character instead of their own character.

So in this episode of Fantasy Writing for Barbarians, I discuss ways you can create "round" love interests who make readers swoon as much as the main character. I take a look at a specific prompt from a fantasy writer and provide direct feedback on their question. While also offering some examples from popular TV shows and books to help illustrate the contrast between a well-written romance and a weak one.

Email your show feedback and/or advice prompts to fantasywritingforbarbarians@gmail.com or join our Discord. You can find the discussion prompt we referenced on the show right here.

Fantasy Writing for Barbarians‘ host is Jon Negroni, author of The Pixar Theory, Killerjoy, and more. Our producers are Natalia Emmons and Bridget Serdock. You can find all our episodes and various podcast app options here.

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