They say everyone has at least one book in them. But is it true? Could we all turn our hands to writing best sellers for a living?
The first thing you need to do is research your market. If chick lit is your thing, devour every bit you can get your hands on -- and don't just jump on the bandwagon. You will need to have a new angle. Think about what will sell, what's marketable, what will grab the publisher's attention and stand out of the crowd.
If you really want to do it, just start writing. Even if you're not sure what the plot is going to be or what comes next, just get something written down. The plot doesn't have to be clever. If you can just write good scenarios and interesting relationships, you're well on your way.
Try to make your opening lines special. If people aren't grabbed by the first page, they won't go any further.
You should also plan your book Some people don't -- Stephen King for one -- but many novelists find it very useful to know in advance what's going to happen in each chapter.
Try to write something every day, even if it's just three lines. It helps you keep in touch with the characters and the plot.
Don't underestimate the power of the title. Try to think of something original and think hard about it. Don't do it as an afterthought.
Don't be inhibited, particularly when writing sex or drug-taking scenes. Just tell yourself that no one is ever going to read it and you won't feel as if you have to hold back.'
You should really target your agent. Look in the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook for brief explanations of specialities. Also, try to find a book that you like or feel is similar to yours. Many writers thank their agents so you can find relevant agents that way. There's no point in targeting your crime book at an agent who specialises in romantic fiction.
Finally, expect rejection. The most brilliant people were rejected before they found success. Lisa Jewell, author of Ralph's Party, went through nine agents before the tenth saw her potential. Harry Potter writer JK Rowling was turned down by two publishers before Bloomsbury snapped her up. If you expect it, you won't be disappointed. Just keep trying.
