Today I have the lovely Phillipa Ashley giving her top tips for writing a novel.

Now just to make you aware this is a two parter post – and you can find the first part over at Annie’s Book Corner, so go check it out!!

My  Top Tips for Writing a Novel

I can hardly believe that Spring on the Little Cornish Isles: the Flower Farm is my 16^th published novel. I well remember the days when I was struggling to write my debut, Decent Exposure in 2005/6 and couldn’t imagine how authors wrote more than one book!

Now I know. Eventually, experience and practice does pay off. You hone your skills, gain confidence in your writing voice and learn which techniques help you to complete a book and fix any issues. I was very lucky that my debut was eventually completed and published by Hachette. It went on to win the Romantic Novelists’ Association Joan Hessayon prize for Debut Authors and was made into a TV movie.

I’ve now been an author for over 13 years and I’m still on a journey, rather than at my destination. So, for what it’s worth, here are a few tips for getting started and finishing your novel.

1. Watch the TV too. Many readers expect fast-paced, exciting stories with complex, memorable characters and fresh plotting. I certainly do. I recommend high quality drama such as Line of Duty, anything by Sally Wainwright or Jed Mercurio, The Missing, Poldark, Spiral (it’s French) – they’re just my personal favourites. Ask yourself why a series keeps you gripped and desperate for more.
2. Finish the damn book. It’s a discipline you’ll have to get used to, both to get your first deal and to continue being published – whether traditionally or independently.
3. Find a few trusted writer friends for feedback and to bounce ideas off. The key word is trusted – if you’re new, join a writer’s group or forum but be very careful that your writer friends understand your aims and have constructive suggestions to offer.
4. Trust your instincts – as you grow in confidence and write more, you’ll learn to listen to your inner voice.
5. Never give up: writing, enjoying the process or learning your craft.

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