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How to Write Dark Fantasy

Caitlin Gawa

What makes a dark fantasy novel?


When writing a dark fantasy novel, it is important to consider tone and themes. Also well as to include morally gray issues, supernatural elements, high stakes, unsettling themes and tragedy.


A dark fantasy novel are often ominous, mysterious, or even macabre. It explores the shadowy side of human nature and moral ambiguity.

The tone and atmosphere:

  • a pervasive sense of dread, mystery, or unease.

  • a moody atmosphere

  • gothic or eerie landscapes.

  • decay, despair, or the supernatural


It is important to include the following in Dark Fantasy Novels:


  • Complex Characters

    • Morally gray protagonists or anti-heroes.

    • Villains who are multifaceted or sympathetic.

    • Internal conflict

    • Psychological depth and character flaws


  • Themes of Corruption and Ambiguity

    • Exploration of moral dilemmas, corruption, and the cost of power.

    • A blurred line between good and evil.

    • Themes of sacrifice, loss, and forbidden knowledge.


  • Violence and Horror

    • Graphic or psychological horror elements (unsettling creatures, dark magic, or intense battles)

    • Explore death, suffering, or betrayal.


  • Fantastical Elements

    • Dark magic, curses, forbidden rituals, or ancient prophecies.

    • Fantastical creatures or settings that are eerie or monstrous rather than whimsical.

    • A blend of myth, folklore, or legend with a sinister twist.


  • Philosophical Depth

    • Thought-provoking themes about life, death, existence, or the human condition.

    • Existential dread or questions about destiny, choice, or fate.

    • Exploring themes that challenge readers to think critically about life, morality, existence, and the human condition. T


Reader Expectations:

Immersive, Gritty World building

  • A richly detailed world that feels alive with shadows, secrets, and danger.

  • Environments that are darkly enchanting, such as haunted forests, decaying kingdoms, or underground cities.

Tension and Suspense

  • Foreboding danger and uncertainty

Unpredictable Story lines

  • Unexpected twists, character deaths, or betrayals that maintain a high emotional stake.

  • Uncomfortable truths or endings that are bittersweet, tragic, or unresolved.

Psychological Engagement

  • Questionable characters’ motivations, choices, or reliability.

  • Internal struggles

A Balance of Fantasy and Horror

  • Fantastical elements to be tinged with fear, danger, or unease.


When readers pick up a dark fantasy novel, they are seeking an intense and thought-provoking journey into worlds where the light may exist, but it’s often overshadowed by the lurking darkness. They expect a tale that challenges their perception of good and evil, keeps them on edge, and immerses them in a world that is both beautiful and terrifying.


Watch the video below for more about the Dark Fantasy genre.


dark fantasy

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Giving back to charitable causes continues to be an important part of Caitlin’s work. A percentage of her sales are donated on a yearly basis to non-profit organizations that advocate for the rights of animals and animal welfare. In the past she has donated to WWF (worldwildlife.org), The Urban Safari Rescue Society (urbansafari.ca) and this year plans to donate to the Animal Welfare Foundation of Canada (awfc.ca)

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For additional magick, all paintings are created
with water charged by the moon and canvas charged by crystals.

 BC Canada

© 2022 by Caitlin Gawa.

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