novel idea

[purplerockie]

I have what I think is a pretty good idea for a novel. I have never had anything I've written published before, but I am seriously thinking of having a go.  Does anyone have any advice for me please?

[rekstout]

Don't just sit down and start writing chapter one. 

Create a full plot outline from start to finish first, build up character profiles and story concepts and then start writing.

 

I used a book called The Marshall Plan for Novel Writing and it is very good.

 

Alos try and be as disciplined as possible - set realistic targets for writing each week and try and do a little every day.  Also be prepared for lots of rejections and take criticism on the chin and learn from it - be prepared to rewrite massive chunks of you novel, even if you think they are perfect.

It has taken me two years to get something published and that was only two short stories in an anthology.  It's hard work but rewarding to see your work in print.

[ll_billym]

Not really professional advice but as an avid reader I really rate books that, every now and then, describe an object or the environment in great detail, even though it has no real bearing on the story.  This enables me to imagine myself in the story and adds realism.  For instance, someone having trouble using their new mobile phone, cloud formations, a dog in the street, etc, etc.

[uber_panda]

rekstout is absolutely right, first you should make out a story plan, it could take some years for just that (look at some of the best authors, Tolkien took 14 years to plan and right LOTR!) Also make sure that sme of your charatcers lose their "edge" fr instance like having a cruel character being kind. Be ready since a lot of publishers expect a lot out of authors and only want the best!

[Octavius]

It took everyone about the same time to READ lotr!

Let me know your idea, the story, the contents of all the chapters and the ending.  Then I can write it for you!

terry pratchett writes a little storyboard, kinda like a spider diagram with beginning middle and end, and then how you transit between each is the most creative part.

[purplerockie]

Thank you all very much for your advice.

I'll let you all have free copies in 14 years or so!