how to write as sarah maas

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Channeling Your Inner Maas: A Guide to Writing Sarah J. Maas-esque Fantasy

Sarah J. Maas has captivated millions with her sweeping, emotionally resonant fantasy novels. Her signature style, a potent blend of high-stakes action, complex characters, intricate world-building, and sizzling romance, is instantly recognizable. But how does she do it? And more importantly, how can aspiring writers emulate her success, without resorting to outright imitation? This article delves into the key elements of Maas’s writing and provides practical advice on how to incorporate them into your own work.

I. Crafting Compelling Characters:

Maas’s characters are rarely one-dimensional. They are flawed, complex individuals with compelling backstories and motivations. They grapple with internal conflicts, wrestle with their identities, and undergo significant personal growth throughout the narrative. This depth is crucial to her success.

• Internal vs. External Conflict: Maas masterfully intertwines internal and external conflicts. Her characters face daunting external threats – monstrous creatures, political conspiracies, looming wars – but their internal struggles are equally, if not more, important. A character’s journey of self-discovery often mirrors the external adventure. Consider how Celaena Sardothien in Throne of Glass battles not only her enemies but also her own trauma and self-doubt.

• Growth and Change: Avoid static characters. Your protagonists and antagonists should undergo significant transformations. These changes should be believable and driven by the events of the story, their relationships, and their internal struggles. Maas’s characters often experience profound shifts in their beliefs, values, and relationships, making them compelling and relatable despite their fantastical circumstances.

• Flawed Perfection: Maas’s characters are often incredibly skilled and powerful, but they are far from perfect. They possess flaws, insecurities, and vulnerabilities that make them human and relatable. These flaws should be integral to their character arc, driving their decisions and impacting their relationships. Don’t shy away from portraying your characters’ weaknesses; they add depth and realism.

II. Weaving Intricate World-Building:

Maas’s worlds are richly detailed and immersive. They are not just backdrops for the story; they are active participants, shaping the characters’ experiences and driving the plot.

• Sensory Details: Engage all five senses. Describe the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of your world. Maas excels at creating vivid imagery that transports the reader to her fantastical realms. Instead of simply stating that a place is beautiful, describe the specific elements that contribute to its beauty – the shimmering waterfalls, the fragrant flowers, the vibrant colors of the birds.

• Consistent Internal Logic: Even in a high-fantasy setting, your world needs internal consistency. The rules of magic, the political systems, the societal structures – all should be carefully considered and consistently applied. Inconsistencies can break the reader’s immersion.

• Magic Systems: If your story involves magic, create a well-defined magic system with clear rules and limitations. This adds depth and complexity to your world and prevents the magic from becoming a deus ex machina. Maas’s magic systems, while often complex, are consistently applied, adding to the believability of her narratives.

• Cultural Nuances: Develop distinct cultures within your world. Each culture should have its own unique traditions, customs, beliefs, and social structures. This adds depth and richness to your world-building and provides opportunities for exploring diverse perspectives.

III. Masterful Pacing and Plot Structure:

Maas’s novels are known for their fast-paced action and intricate plots. She masterfully balances intense action sequences with moments of quiet reflection and character development.

• High Stakes: The stakes in Maas’s stories are always incredibly high. The characters are constantly facing life-or-death situations, which keeps the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat. Consider the consequences of failure and ensure that your characters face significant challenges.

• Cliffhangers and Twists: Maas is a master of cliffhangers and plot twists. She uses these devices to keep the reader hooked and eager to learn what happens next. However, avoid relying on cheap tricks; the twists should be earned and contribute to the overall narrative.

• Subplots and Intertwining Narratives: Weaving multiple subplots into your main plot can add complexity and depth to your story. Maas expertly intertwines various storylines, creating a rich and engaging tapestry of events. However, ensure that all subplots contribute meaningfully to the overall narrative and are not simply distractions.

IV. Romantic Relationships and Emotional Depth:

Romance is a significant element in Maas’s novels, but it’s never gratuitous. It’s interwoven with the plot, character development, and overall themes.

• Realistic Relationships: Avoid idealized romance. Maas’s characters experience both the joys and struggles of love. Their relationships are complex, fraught with conflict, and often contribute to their personal growth.

• Emotional Resonance: Maas’s writing evokes strong emotions in the reader. She portrays her characters’ feelings with depth and authenticity, creating a connection between the reader and the characters. Focus on creating emotionally resonant scenes that will stay with the reader long after they finish the book.

• Avoiding Tropes: While using familiar tropes can be helpful, strive to subvert expectations or add a unique twist to them. Maas often utilizes classic romance tropes but infuses them with her own unique style and complexity.

V. Developing Your Unique Voice:

While emulating Maas’s style is a goal, it’s crucial to develop your own unique voice. Don’t simply copy her writing; instead, analyze her techniques and adapt them to your own style and preferences. Experiment with different sentence structures, vocabulary, and narrative perspectives to find what works best for you.

Conclusion:

Writing in the style of Sarah J. Maas requires more than just mimicking her surface-level techniques. It demands a deep understanding of her storytelling approach, her character development, and her world-building. By focusing on creating complex characters, building immersive worlds, crafting compelling plots, and developing your own unique voice, you can create fantasy novels that capture the same magic and emotional resonance as Maas’s work, while still maintaining your own distinct identity as a writer. Remember, inspiration is not imitation; it’s about learning from the masters and forging your own path to success.

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