how to write your first novel (part 1)

12 tips for writing your first novel (Part 1)

                                     

You have a novel idea , but you know nothing about the world of books ? An experienced author delivers 12 tips for successful debut in this universe.

1: Analyze your motives

Ask yourself if the book you have in mind worth to be written . "Why ? " LA is only valid question at this stage. So this novel , is to leave an inheritance to your children? To tell people how you overcame the blows of fate ? To tell them how you set your family conflict ? Examples of poor reasons : in order to make money quickly, in order to vengerd'un ( e ) ex , to surf on a mode ( Until you finish your novel , it is likely that it has passed ... ) .

2: Be realistic

It is very rare - and this is an understatement - a new writer receives an advance of € 200,000 for a first novel . Rather than relying on a miracle of this type , keep right. Do not quit your job if you have one. You will need to pay the bills , the time to finish your book - which can take one, two or three years. As in advance that you will use it to hire a proofreader or someone to help you do your research.

3: Read up

What type of book you want to write? Memories ? Book a confession? A detective novel ? A love story ? A children's story ? In all cases , soak up the classics. Not to copy , but to identify the codes. Free to you, then , to follow them, or make them evolve .

Do some research as to all matters concerning the action of your novel. Research will help you achieve a level of realism that you would not otherwise available . Example: you decide that your main character is a recovering alcoholic on the road to sobriety. It is very interesting to attend a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous , to know how it works .

4: Make writing your book a priority

                                       

Your novel has become an obsession . You must not think only of your book, nothing but your book , just your book - without neglecting your life outside of writing. If you lack discipline , join a workshop he will give you a framework , will force you to set regular intervals .

5 : Write a novel, rather than a collection of short stories

Nowadays , it is almost impossible to sell a collection of stories a (large ) publisher, especially when we started in the business . Better focus the novel form , longer, but more easily salable . If you are attached to one of your stories, you can for example try to expand into a novel.

6: Finish your book before offering it to a publisher

It is rare that a publisher buys a manuscript if it has not been completely written . This is even more true , of course, when it comes from an unknown author , which seeks to publish his first novel.