On the surface, you may think it’s all about dungeons and dragons. When, in fact, it is much more complicated than that. If you’re a reader of the fantasy genre you might know what I’m probably talking about. You can’t get enough of how the story unfolds, how the character suffers and thrives within each conquest, and how the story can take you to a completely different world. It’s mesmerizing, it’s inspiring, and it’s fantasy!
However, if you’re new to the concept of the world of fantasy. That’s just one of the many reasons why you should start reading fantasy novels. The Shadow of the Staff: A Wizard’s Revenge by M.A. Haddad is a great place to start if you’re new to fantasy books. This is the first novel in a series based on a story of magic, grandiose adventure, eons-old lineages, and self-discovery. This book would undoubtedly entice you to read more and pique your interest in reading even further. Here are only a few of the many reasons why fantasy literature is so popular:
It’s unique
The fantasy genre has always been a diverse literary piece that has captivated it’s readers. And we’re not talking about the traditional tropes like elves, dwarves, wizards, or dragons here! We’re talking about broader elements– general concepts where the story can be creative and innovative as the author wants. With fantasy, it’s always something different, something extraordinary, and something more than we can possibly imagine. And fantasy authors like M.A Haddad always have a way of putting everything together, including genres with romance, sorcery, magic and etc.
They’re extraordinary ability to handcraft stories of characters and settings is incredible that we can’t help but ask for more.
It has contrasting characters
In fantasy fiction, or in any other genre, it’s the character that often gets readers invested in the story. Over the years, the fantasy genre has created some of the most memorable characters (e.g., sorcerers, witches, war-beasts, and etc.) each one charming and dynamic enough to make you fall in love with. Fantasy characters that can accomplish great feats are impossible in the real world, but only improbable in their own.
I’m sure while reading this you probably thought of your favorite character just now. And he or she may be of a different race or species, have different height and weight, and may appear to be eye-candy in your imagination. Nothing is impossible in the fantasy world, and diversity is what makes it so unique.
It has an exceptional character background
What makes a good story is the character’s back story. Whether it may be the protagonist, antagonist, or the auxiliary character’s back story, a three dimensional character with depth, personality, and clear motivation (e.g., such as ambition or dream) is essential in every story. This may sound like a cliché back story, but most fantasy characters start with the most surprising encounters. Like finding a mystical sword in the forest, a hidden family secret where they could use magic, or finding out that he was actually the illegitimate son of a royal. You don’t want to admit it, but you know we like these kinds of back stories.
It has a well-developed setting
The fantasy genre’s realms are unambiguous in nature. Fantasy realms defy the laws of physics while retaining some resemblance to the real world. Any inconsistency in the laws that rule the world has a compelling rationale. This explains the changes in terms that the human mind can comprehend. By design, this makes the fantasy genre the sole owner of this unique world building. The level of detail and complexity used to construct the fictional universe is unrivaled. Everything from language to social traditions to history and mythology is explored to create the author’s fantasy world.
And who in their right mind wouldn’t want to read something out of the ordinary.
It has one of the most amazing character developments
A novel is composed primarily of the character’s interactions with events over a period of time. Character and plot are strongly intertwined since a person is defined by their experiences. In fantasy novels, there is always that unexpected journey for the hero where he battles evil. Shortly after he has accomplished his conquest, he will come home a different person. And these kinds of stories help us reflect on how we should battle our own demons, and win the fight!
A central conflict
Whether it may be a fairytale or a series of novels, conflict is essential in creating a good story. No matter how small or large the conflict may be. And, M.A Haddad’s The Shadow of the Staff fits the bill— pillaging, war, mystery, magic and monsters are some of the factors that sparks conflict.
An unexpected plot twist
Is there anything more satisfying than a great plot twist? Twists, turns, major surprises, and unexpected endings that keep you up all night, astonished by the events that begin with plot twists like how the hero’s father was actually the villain. With fantasy, this kind of plot twists is commonly used in the adventure, and magic story.
If you love fantasy, the story’s plot twists are virtually endless. It may be a cliche, but it also has some of the aspects of a great story; even if it’s just a brief revelation, it may have a greater impact on the readers. And who wouldn’t want to be part of that. If you look closely, the fantasy genre is very insightful. Despite its diversity, you’ll find that everybody has more influence on their lives than those who don’t. Regardless of the genre, nonfiction or fiction, you can always count on them to entertain you while also providing you with valuable information and knowledge on a variety of subjects.
So don’t wait, and be sure to give the fantasy genre a shot; you’ll be hooked.
Oliver’s Twist 