# The Mechanics of Writing Fantasy Author Jesper Schmidt

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/book-chat-w-author-vivian-e-moore-437920/the-mechanics-of-writing-fantasy-author-jesper-schmidt
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/book-chat-w-author-vivian-e-moore-437920/the-mechanics-of-writing-fantasy-author-jesper-schmidt.md
Podcast: [Book Chat W/Author Vivian E. Moore](https://stenobird.com/podcast/book-chat-w-author-vivian-e-moore-437920)
Published: 2026-05-09T13:09:05+00:00
Episode link: https://bgtfn7n7gcm.podbean.com/e/the-mechanics-of-writing-fantasy-author-jesper-schmidt/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/4u5v4rwmer9bfafq/the_mechanics_of_writing_recording_draft.mp3
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Duration seconds: 1921

## Resource

Fantasy author Jesper Schmidt shares the hard lessons learned from writing his Keystone Bone trilogy, specifically the dangers of neglecting plot structure. He also discusses the evolution of his YouTube channel, 'Am Writing Fantasy,' from a world-building resource to a comprehensive guide for authors.

## Highlights
- Failure mode: Writing without a plot can lead to 'writing yourself into a corner' and necessitating massive rewrites
- Practical takeaway: Successful fantasy writing requires balancing imaginative world-building with structured storytelling and marketing
- Main idea: The transition from a hobbyist to a professional author involves mastering publishing and brand management
- Practical takeaway: Use resources like 'Am Writing Fantasy' to learn the technical aspects of the genre, such as managing magic systems and landscapes
- Main idea: The high cost of audiobook production remains a significant barrier for indie authors in the fantasy genre

## Topics

Fantasy Writing, World Building, Author Branding, Self-Publishing, Plotting and Structure, Book Marketing, Indie Publishing, Storytelling

## Chapters
- 1:00 — The Keystone Bone Trilogy: An introduction to Jesper Schmidt's work and the status of his trilogy's availability.
- 3:00 — The Perils of Unplanned Writing: Schmidt discusses how a lack of plotting forced him to rewrite half of his first book.
- 6:00 — Character and Narrative Foundation: A look at the core elements of character development and story progression.
- 10:00 — The Evolution of Am Writing Fantasy: How the YouTube channel expanded from world-building tutorials to full author coaching.
- 17:00 — Navigating the Fantasy Genre: The importance of research, fact-checking, and managing complex genre elements.
- 22:00 — The Business of Being an Author: Discussing the low success rate of authors and the necessity of a professional mindset.
- 29:00 — Audiobooks and Future Plans: The economic challenges of audiobook production and how to access Schmidt's work for free.

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## Transcript

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