Lenora Bell
It doesn’t have to be perfect! Don’t let fear and self doubt hold you back. Put yourself out there. Take the plunge and finish that book!
Read widely in the genre you’re writing. It’s a great education to read a book you love first for pleasure, and then in a more analytical way, asking yourself the questions: how did the writer make me feel that way? Why do I care about the characters and their goals? How does the author keep the tension, conflict and stakes high enough to sustain a whole book?
Join writers groups and meet other authors. Find critique partners that you respect to read your work and offer feedback. Find writing craft books that work for you. One of the books that works for me is Story Genius by Lisa Cron. I love her method of really digging deep into the back story and world views of the characters before you even start writing the book.
Read widely in the genre you’re writing. It’s a great education to read a book you love first for pleasure, and then in a more analytical way, asking yourself the questions: how did the writer make me feel that way? Why do I care about the characters and their goals? How does the author keep the tension, conflict and stakes high enough to sustain a whole book?
Join writers groups and meet other authors. Find critique partners that you respect to read your work and offer feedback. Find writing craft books that work for you. One of the books that works for me is Story Genius by Lisa Cron. I love her method of really digging deep into the back story and world views of the characters before you even start writing the book.
More Answered Questions
Pamela
asked
Lenora Bell:
I just finished "What a difference a Duke Makes." I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have a feeling the story is your salute to Mary Poppins. Is that what you planned? The parrot-handled umbrella reminded me of the story followed by wild children, the syrup for homesickness, all the proverbs, and overworked father. Well done! I'm looking forward to reading India's story next!
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more