The first draft of a novel is just that – it’s not the finished article. It can be rather rough at first, but the edges can be smoothed down at a later stage, so it takes the shape you were aiming for.

The general conscientious is that once the first draft is finished, you take a break so that your brain can focus on the re-write with a detached mind so you have a more objective view – much like an agent. Here are some questions you could ask yourself during the revision.

– Does the opening grab your attention and get you interested?
– Does the reader get sucked into the story, or is it a slow burn?
– Is too much given away too soon?
– Are too many characters introduced too soon, hence confusing the reader?
– What is the pacing like – is it too fast, too slow or flagging badly in places?
– Are there enough twists and turns to keep the reader interested and get them to begin deducing things for themselves?
– Have the characters retained the same distinguishing features – make sure their eyes remain the same colour.
– Does the reader always know who is talking?
– Does each scene move the story forward and have a purpose?
– Do the protagonists have a journey to make?
– Is the protagonist a likable character for the reader?
– Does the ending leave the reader feeling satisfied?
– Are all the subplots neatly tied up – unless need for curiosity for the next novel in a series.

If it was easy to write a novel, everyone would be doing it. It takes hard work, time, dedication and a positive outlook to keep going and keep believing. Retaining some of the above questions may help you to read over your work with a critical eye.

Happy Word Flow One & All