Finishing Romantasy First Draft

The world of 'romantasy' has truly exploded lately, and if you're wondering, 'is romantasy a word?' – absolutely it is! It's a fantastic blend of romance and fantasy, offering readers thrilling adventures, intricate magic systems, and passionate love stories. What I personally love about it is how it transports you to another realm while still delivering those deep, emotional connections we crave in a good romance. It's a genre that allows for incredible creativity, pushing the boundaries of traditional fantasy tropes. Within this vibrant genre, sub-genres like Viking/shapeshifter romantasy are carving out their own loyal following. Imagine fierce warriors, often with a mysterious, wild side, intertwined with the rich mythology and breathtaking landscapes of the Viking age. From what I've seen, authors often use elements like powerful wolves, formidable warriors wielding axes, and expansive fantasy landscapes to build truly immersive worlds. The idea of a character who can shift between human and animal form adds such a unique layer of conflict and intimacy. Creating a compelling mood board is key here, featuring images of these elements alongside strong female figures, helps visualize the story and stay true to its spirit. It’s all about balancing the historical grit with magical realism and, of course, that undeniable romantic tension. Now, let's talk about the monumental task of hitting a word count like 37,000 words, especially under a tight deadline, say, 17 days. For many, 37,000 words sits comfortably in the novella range, often feeling like a mini-novel. Achieving this requires serious dedication, averaging around 2,200 words a day. I've found that breaking down the huge goal into manageable daily targets is essential. One strategy I swear by is setting a timer for focused writing sprints – maybe 45 minutes of pure writing, then a 15-minute break. It helps fight procrastination and keeps the momentum going. If you've been putting off your writing goals, remember that every word adds up! Don't let the sheer number overwhelm you; just focus on that daily word count. Another tip for tackling a first draft with speed is to embrace the 'shitty first draft' philosophy. The goal isn't perfection, it's completion. You can always refine and polish later. For a genre as rich as Viking/shapeshifter romantasy, having a loose outline can be a lifesaver. Knowing your major plot points, character arcs, and where your shapeshifters' powers will truly shine can prevent you from getting stuck. And speaking of getting stuck, don't underestimate the power of a good writing community or accountability partner. Sharing your progress, even just the daily word count, can be incredibly motivating. Seeing that 37,000 words remaining can be daunting, but with consistent effort and smart strategies, it's absolutely achievable. Keep your inspiration close, whether it's your mood board of fantasy landscapes or the thought of your characters' epic journey!