| If you're anything like me, you're seeking advice | | | | Your words are not written in stone. Anything |
| on novel writing. It's an ongoing process, because | | | | you create can--and perhaps should be--revised at |
| no author, no matter how much they've | | | | least once. |
| published, does everything perfectly. All of us | | | | How much revision is enough? A good rule of |
| have areas of strengths, and weaknesses. | | | | thumb is to revise every story you've written at |
| In this article, I'll share some advice on novel | | | | least three times. Some authors go far beyond |
| writing that I've picked up in the process of | | | | this, but be careful about excessive rewriting. |
| publishing over a dozen books. These three fiction | | | | Sooner or later, you need to say, "this is the best |
| writing tips are not organized in any particular | | | | I can do, it's time to move on," and send that |
| hierarchy. All of them are equally important. | | | | manuscript out and start on another one. |
| 1) Always open your story with conflict. | | | | 3) Dare to be original. |
| Lack of story conflict from the outset is one of | | | | While it's probably impossible to write a novel that |
| the top reasons why editors reject manuscripts, | | | | is thoroughly unique in every way, if you unleash |
| and a common newbie mistake. The good news is | | | | your creativity, you can create unique spins on |
| that you can easily correct this issue. | | | | familiar concepts and conventions. The key thing |
| All you must do is begin your story with the | | | | is to give yourself permission to do this. |
| pivotal scene that will kick everything into gear. | | | | Don't try to copy your favorite author. Create |
| Don't start out with a description of the weather | | | | stories that reflect your personal experiences, |
| (unless that is the critical scene), or with | | | | interests, and worldview. That is the secret to |
| characters engaged in boring activities. Lead in | | | | completing a book that has an original voice. |
| with important drama. | | | | Want more advice on novel writing? Visit my web |
| 2) Be open to revision. | | | | site now. |