Tips for writing a first novel.
Fifteen years ago I decided to shift gears and write a novel. My writing background up to that point consisted of investigative reports, regulations, rulings, press releases, plus an untold plethora of correspondence. I had proven I knew the rules of grammar and structure. Right? What I didn’t know were the vast differences between my past experience and the nuances of writing a book. I needed advice and tips for writing a first novel.
As anyone who has started this trek can attest, the marketplace is flooded with books and websites on how to plan and write a novel. I weeded through those resources and started reading … and learning. I joined a critique group. For months, I sat silent at the meetings and listened to others’ attempts to pen books and the constructive criticism shared by more seasoned writers. I took a writing course offered by an adult education center. I soaked up as many tips for writing a first novel as my brain could digest. Several consistent pointers emerged for writing a first novel:
— Show Don’t Tell
— Avoid (as much as possible) words ending in “-ly” (adverbs) and “-ing”
— Be Your Reader (unless writing a technical book, keep the language simple)
— Start With a Good Hook
Of course there are other consistent “rules” of writing: format, word count, grammar and punctuation. A beginning novelist should seek expert resources for find those tips for writing a first novel.
I decided to start small with short stories. Rather than tackle the task of weaving at least 60,000 words into a book, the novice writer would be wise to hone the craft with fewer words. Flash fiction has 500 to 1,000 words. Other short stories run from 1,500 to 5,000 words. Think big, start small.
Writing is hard. Unless you are gifted with a genius for putting words together in a way that captivates an audience at first effort, you will blast head-on into setbacks. Push through the rough times and you will find the reward. When a scene comes together with the perfect imagery, or you’ve brought your protagonist through struggles to emerge victorious, you will take pride in the journey you created. Want to write a novel? Writing is worth the effort.
About the author Susan Boyd: Her first novel, “Secrets of the Charles“, was a first-place winner of the 2010 Royal Palm Literary Awards. Her third novel, “Grey to Black“, won two Royal Palm Literary Awards. She is also the author of “Secrets Hid Lies“.Susan resides in central Florida. She is currently working on a new novel set to release soon.