The previous question, continued: King Lannon in TQR, Lord Endrick in the Traitor’s Game; and the two rival kingdoms: Maevana and Valenia in TQR, Norta vs. the northern Lakelands kingdom in the Red Queen books. I love how every author uses these similar th

(2/2) Okay, so this is something that I think every author thinks about at some point. Because we are also voracious readers, and we have favorites authors whose stories and styles undeniably inspire and influence us. I also think if you look at any genre, you will see familiarities between books, such as the ones you mentioned for fantasy. These tropes can be overused, and readers can certainly get weary of them (even though we sometimes find comfort in the familiar). But you’re already one step ahead by recognizing this and being aware of it as you write. 

And if I look back to when I was a teen, when I spent hours at my desk writing, I realize that I absolutely mimicked my favorite authors. I mimicked C.S. Lewis with finding a door to another world. I mimicked Bonnie Bryant with her Saddle Club books (I, no joke, created a series about girls riding horses and called it “The Bridle Club”). And it was okay that I was doing that, because I was learning from the masters. But there also came a time when I needed to discover my own style and my own story.

It never hurts to write a list of commonly used tropes. And then examine that list and say, “I do not want to play into this trope, or that trope.” Find ways to turn that trope inside out and upside down. And you might have the two opposing kingdoms and the tyrannical ruler as well in your book, but find a way to make your protagonist turn an old weary trope into shimmering gold, and readers will love it.

So my advice is to first of all write and explore through storytelling. Don’t be worried too much about mimicking. Let the words flow. As you draft and then edit, you will begin to see the shape of the work. You’ll understand your characters. You’ll know their secrets and their desires and their fears. You’ll find your own style and voice. 

But ultimately? Write the story of your heart, the story YOU want to read.