1 of 25

Write now Article Tools

Page 3 of 3

you're going to use one, make it something that is pertinent to the main plot, but isn't necessary to read. Like, have an event happen in the past before the story starts that enriches the experience if you've read it before you start the story. Also, use it as a way to enable a reader to better understand the world. But I digress, it's not necessary for a fantasy world to be complicated. I think it's best overall to treat the prologue as a stand-alone story that is short in length, but when coupled with the main part of the novel, it adds to the entire thing.

7) Trilogies. They're not needed and writers often fall into the trap of planning one before they've even started writing their novel. If more than one book is needed, then that's fine. But do your best to complete the story in one novel, while leaving it open for a sequel. It's probably not a good idea to pitch your novel to a publisher by saying it's the first part of a trilogy either. They're taking a risk on your book and it may not work out. So, why would they want to be lumbered with an unfinished story if they can't sell it? It certainly won't bode well for the other two books in your planned series.

8) This point applies to other types of novels as one or two of the other points do. It's to do with chapters and I think it's worth mentioning because it's asked a lot. Chapters don't need to be a set length and you don't need a certain amount of them. A chapter should end when it feels right. Also, chapters can be as long or short as a word, half a page or 50+ pages. Some writers don't even bother with chapters at all.

9) You should make every effort to not make a 600,000 word epic. Try to keep your novel between 100,000-150,000 words. Publishers tend to be less keen on publishing a large/massive book if they're unsure how it will sell, especially if by a new author. Considering the chances for a novel to be published are slim, you don't want to do anything that might lower your chances even further.

10) This is the last point now and it applies to all genres. When you send your manuscript out to agents and publishers, don't get discouraged and keep trying no matter how many rejections you get. Also, never pay an agent to shop your work around. They get paid if they manage to sell your work. Also, don't pay to publish your work. Publishers should be paying you to publish your work, not the other way around. Bottom line, there are a lot of scams out there.

Learn more about this author, Dan Cartwright.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3

Add your voice

Know something about Writing tips: Creating a fantasy novel?
We want to hear your view. Write now!