Goodreads
Goodreads asked M.J. Webb:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

M.J. Webb I would encourage any aspiring writer to read as much as possible, particularly in their chosen genre. We learn all the time and there is nobody better placed to teach than an experienced, successful author.
Beyond that, I would say, fill the page with words and let in flow. In the beginning it is all about enjoyment and developing style, prose, dialogue, learning punctuation, editing and formatting...
When the time comes to think about publishing, that is when it becomes serious. Then you need a storyline/plot to loosely base your novel around. Character development at the beginning will avoid inconsistencies. Try to make your story original but entertaining or thought-provoking, preferably both. Seek advice and counsel. Use professionals if you can. Most of all, be patient, wait until the product is as perfect as you can make it before going ahead.
Enjoy the entire process from start to finish. It's the greatest job in the world.
M.J. Webb
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