Fully Booked EP209: Crafting Fantasy Worlds and the Characters Who Live in Them

In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, author Tricia Copeland joins Craig and Roland for an in-depth look at fantasy world-building and character-driven storytelling. Tricia shares how her initial story idea evolved into a four-book series of interconnected realms, and how that experience ultimately propelled her into the realm of YA fantasy. From hybrid vampire-witches navigating identity to anxiety-stricken fairy queens thrust into leadership, Tricia’s characters are as layered as the richly imagined worlds they inhabit. By walking us through her creative process, Tricia reveals how she builds immersive fantasy realms around the emotional arcs of her characters. Rather than beginning with a map or magic system, she starts with internal conflict and personal stakes, allowing the world to take shape in response. Drawing from real-life experience and relatable struggles, she shows how moral complexity can be woven into speculative fiction through characters who break societal rules or challenge tradition. Whether you're blending genres or managing the continuity of a multi-series universe, today’s episode offers valuable insight into crafting fantasy that feels both imaginative and deeply human.   Tricia Copeland www.triciacopeland.com   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast