Writing Paranormal -- Consequences of Magic

I Called this, The Basic Rule of Magic You Must Not Break -- to keep your readers.

If you use magic, or psi, or paranormal powers or futuristic technology that seems like magic, you MUST be consistent in your worldbuilding and in your own rules of magic. If you aren't consistent you will alienate the reader. That is, if everyone can teleport only in the city, if suddenly everyone can teleport outside the city in long distances, you have betrayed your reader.

With that basic rule follows two others. Magic MUST have a price. Whether it's the depletion of physical or mental energy, or the sacrifice of anything else, magic can't be free and easy.

Finally, magic can't solve the hero/heroine's problem. Whatever climax you have, whatever emotional black moment you set up, you can't use a magic wand to wave it away. The characters have to pay a price or change deeply to solve their problems. They have to grow – just like in any book.

So if you love paranormal, think outrageous thoughts, jot down ideas, feel the magic and reach for the stars – write the story that only you can tell.

May all your writing dreams come true.

Robin