The Fantasy Writers' Toolshed Writing About Injuries and Wounds
Apr 10, 2025
HB Reneau, a fantasy author and emergency physician, shares her unique perspective on injuries in fantasy literature. She emphasizes the importance of realistic portrayals of wounds and their impact on characters, contrasting them with exaggerated Hollywood depictions. The conversation includes fascinating insights on her new book, The Revenant, and the creative journey behind it. Additionally, HB discusses the dynamics of launching a Kickstarter campaign for exclusive editions, illustrating the blend of her medical expertise and storytelling in her writing.
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Writing as a Reprieve
- H.B. Reneau rediscovered her love for writing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- She found it a reprieve from the stress of medical school and the challenges faced by healthcare workers.
Beyond Slashes and Blood
- Avoid focusing solely on visually dramatic injuries like slashes and blood.
- Explore other injury types like blunt trauma, burns, and airway issues for more variety.
Location and Accumulation of Injuries
- Consider injury location; extremities can sustain more superficial damage than the torso.
- Account for compounding effects: even minor injuries accumulate and impact fighting ability.
