Spencer Lanoue
Writing a novel is a thrilling adventure, but figuring out where to begin can be tricky. Whether you're dreaming up a world of fantasy or crafting a gripping thriller, there are steps you can take that will make the process smoother. In this guide, I'll break down the essentials of novel writing so you can turn your ideas into a story worth telling.
Finding Your Story Idea
Every novel starts with an idea, but not all ideas are created equal. Think of your story as a seed. It needs to be nurtured and developed. But how do you find that seed in the first place? Sometimes, inspiration comes from the most unexpected places.
Start by looking around you. Real-life events, interesting people, or even a snippet of conversation can spark an idea. If you're stuck, try asking yourself 'what if?' questions. What if humans could fly? What if society collapsed overnight? Use these questions as springboards to launch your creativity.
Once you have a basic idea, it's time for some exploration. Jot down everything that comes to mind, no matter how random. This brainstorming session is about quantity, not quality. The goal is to find a nugget that excites you. Remember, it's easier to shape a lump of clay than an empty table.
Building Your Characters
Characters are the heart of your novel. They drive the story, and if readers care about them, they're more likely to stick around. But how do you create compelling characters that readers will root for?
Start with the basics. What does your character want? This desire will motivate their actions and propel the plot forward. Next, consider their background. How did their past shape who they are today? This backstory adds depth and makes characters feel real.
Don't forget about flaws. Perfect characters are boring. Flaws make characters relatable and provide room for growth. Maybe your hero is brave but reckless, or your villain is manipulative yet charming. These contradictions create complexity and intrigue.
Character Sketch Example:
Name: Sarah
Desire: To find her missing brother
Background: Grew up in a small town; always felt overshadowed by her older brother
Flaws: Impulsive, struggles with trust
Strengths: Resourceful, determined
Crafting a Plot That Keeps Readers Hooked
A strong plot is the backbone of your novel. It needs to be engaging, with twists and turns that keep readers on their toes. But crafting such a plot can be daunting. Where do you start?
Begin with a basic structure. Every story has a beginning, middle, and end. In the beginning, introduce your characters and their world. Set up the central conflict. The problem your protagonist must solve.
The middle is where the action heats up. Your protagonist faces obstacles and challenges, each more daunting than the last. This section should build tension and keep readers guessing.
Finally, the end is where everything comes together. The protagonist confronts the main conflict, leading to a climax. Afterward, the story winds down, tying up loose ends and answering lingering questions.
Plot Structure Example:
Beginning: Sarah discovers her brother is missing
Middle: Sarah faces numerous challenges while searching for him
End: Sarah finds her brother and resolves her internal conflicts
Setting the Scene
The setting of your novel is more than just a backdrop. It's a character in its own right. A well-developed setting can enrich your story and enhance your characters' journeys.
When creating your setting, think about how it influences your characters. A bustling city might make a character feel isolated, while a small town could be stifling. Consider how the setting impacts the plot. Does the weather create obstacles? Does the landscape provide opportunities for adventure?
Use sensory details to make your setting vivid. Describe what characters see, hear, smell, and feel. These details immerse readers in your world, making it come alive.
Setting Example:
City: New York
Vibe: Fast-paced, crowded
Weather: Cold, snowy
Details: Skyscrapers loom overhead, taxis honk incessantly, the air is crisp
Writing Dialogue That Pops
Dialogue is a powerful tool in your writing arsenal. It reveals character, advances the plot, and adds authenticity. But writing dialogue that sounds natural isn't always easy.
One trick is to read your dialogue out loud. If it sounds awkward, it likely needs tweaking. Dialogue should mimic real speech but be more focused and concise.
Avoid 'info-dumping' in dialogue. Characters shouldn't tell each other things they already know just to inform the reader. Instead, weave information subtly into the conversation.
Remember, not all communication is verbal. Characters can express emotions through body language, tone, and pauses. These non-verbal cues add depth and realism to your dialogue.
Dialogue Example:
Sarah: "I can't believe he's gone."
John: "He'll turn up. He's always been resourceful."
Sarah: "Yeah, but what if this time's different?"
(John shifts uneasily, avoiding eye contact)
Editing: Turning Rough Drafts into Polished Gems
Congratulations, you've finished your first draft. But the journey isn't over. Editing is where your novel truly takes shape. It's your chance to refine your story and elevate your writing.
Start with the big picture. Look at your plot and character arcs. Do they make sense? Are there any plot holes or inconsistencies? Address these issues before focusing on smaller details.
Once the big picture is solid, dig into the details. Analyze your prose for clarity and style. Remove unnecessary words, tighten dialogue, and ensure your descriptions are vivid.
Don't be afraid to make changes. Sometimes entire scenes need rewriting or cutting. Remember, editing is a crucial part of the process, not a failure.
For those who find editing overwhelming, consider using Spell. It can help streamline the editing process, providing suggestions and saving you time.
Getting Feedback: The Fresh Eyes Test
Feedback is invaluable. It offers new perspectives and highlights areas you might have overlooked. But receiving criticism can be tough. How do you handle it?
First, choose your beta readers wisely. Look for people who enjoy your genre and will provide honest, constructive feedback. Be clear about what you're looking for. Whether it's feedback on plot, character development, or prose.
When you receive feedback, take a deep breath. Remember, it's not a personal attack. Use it as a tool to improve your work. Consider each suggestion carefully, but trust your instincts. Ultimately, it's your story.
If you're unsure about specific changes, discuss them with your beta readers. Sometimes a conversation can clarify misunderstandings or spark new ideas.
Navigating Writer's Block
Writer's block is a common hurdle for novelists. It's frustrating, but not insurmountable. When the words won't come, try changing your routine. Write at a different time of day, or switch locations.
Sometimes, stepping away from your work is the best solution. Take a walk, read a book, or engage in a creative activity. These breaks can refresh your mind and inspire new ideas.
Set realistic goals, like writing for 20 minutes or completing one scene. Small, achievable targets can help build momentum and make the task less daunting.
Remember, you're not alone in this struggle. Even the most successful authors face writer's block. The key is perseverance and finding what works for you.
Publishing: Sharing Your Story with the World
Once your novel is polished, it's time to consider publishing. There are various routes to take, from traditional publishing to self-publishing. Each has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your goals.
Traditional publishing involves querying agents and submitting to publishers. It's competitive, but offers professional support and wider distribution. If you choose this path, prepare a strong query letter and synopsis.
Self-publishing gives you control over the process, but requires more effort in marketing and distribution. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing make it accessible for many writers.
No matter which path you choose, celebrate your achievement. Completing a novel is a significant accomplishment, and sharing your story is the icing on the cake.
Final Thoughts
Writing a novel is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, you can turn your ideas into a story worth sharing. For those looking to streamline their writing process, Spell offers a powerful tool to help draft, edit, and refine your novel efficiently. Embrace the process and enjoy the ride. Your story is worth telling.
