Juliet E. McKenna Interview: Fantasy Writing Process, Arthurian Retellings and Craft Tips

Learn the fantasy writing process from acclaimed author Juliet E. McKenna, including character creation, worldbuilding, and insights into modern publishing.

What can writers learn from over 20 years in the fantasy publishing world?

In this episode, I’m joined by legendary fantasy author Juliet E. McKenna to explore her approach to storytelling, her writing process, and the lessons she’s learned across a long and successful career.

We dive into both craft and industry insight, including:

• Juliet E. McKenna’s fantasy writing process from idea to finished novel
• Writing The Cleaving and reimagining Arthurian legend from a female perspective
• Techniques for character creation, worldbuilding, and theme
• Approaches to plotting and structuring fantasy stories
• How the publishing industry has changed over the past two decades
• Practical advice for writers looking to improve and grow

This is a thoughtful, experience-rich conversation packed with insights from a seasoned professional.

If you want to better understand the fantasy writing process—and learn from an author with decades of experience—this episode delivers clear, actionable guidance.

OUR GUEST

Juliet E. McKenna - https://www.julietemckenna.com/ | Buy The Cleaving - https://amzn.to/3FWVCgd

JOIN OUR WRITING COMMUNITY

https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠

LEARN MORE ABOUT FANTASY WRITING

To join our writing community, access exclusive interviews, discussions, fantasy writing classes, books and more, head over to our ⁠Patreon⁠ page - ⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed⁠