I've been meaning to do this for a while. When I was younger, I started one, but I got so invested in the species and backstory that I never started the story itself thus dropping the project.
Now, I think I have the capabilities and style to actually get something done.
I'll probably run some of the stuff by all of you if you're interested. If I enjoy writing it enough, I'll make series.
[spoiler]My English teacher would be so happy right now...[/spoiler]
Edit: I'm starting to get the sense that people here like science-fiction for some reason. [i]I have no idea why.[/i]
By the way, while some of the stories may have hopefulness in theme, they will more likely than not be dark in nature.
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Write a basic story idea and then adapt it to a specific setting that you like. Like, think about a basic kidnapping story. Okay, so your hero has to get someone back, but what if it's set in a "sword and sorcery" type setting? Or what if it's set in East Berlin in the 1980s? You know, think simple first. Get a good story down, and the setting should only be used to enhance the plot or to move it along. Don't let the environment be the focus of your novel.