30 Days to a Stronger Novel

revision September 1st, 2007

You need tips on “how to write a novel” or “how to revise a novel.” Start here with tips on how to strengthen your novel overall. Then read the companion series, Novel Diagnosis and 30 Days to a Stronger Character.

30 tips for strengthening your novel

Titles
Subtitles
Chapter Divisions
Character Names
Stronger Settings
Stronger Setting Details
Characters That Count
Take Your Character’s Pulse
Connecting Emotional and Narrative Arcs
Unique Character Dialogue
Character Description
Begin at the Beginning
Scene Cuts
Take a Break
Power Abs for Novels
Angel Moments in Your Novel
Powerful Endings
Tie Up Loose Ends
Find Your Theme
Theme Affects Setting
Theme Affects Characters and Actions
Choosing Subplots
Knitting Subplots Together
Feedback
Stay the Course
Revise Again
The End
The New Beginning

Reader Tips
Your Tips for a Stronger Novel

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Darcy Pattison

Darcy Pattison

Reader, Writer, Teacher.

Darcy Pattison grew up in a family that both told and read stories. “Stories matter," she says, "whether you’re a reader, swept away by a story, or a writer, creating those sweeping stories. In today’s busy world–more than ever before–we all need stories that strike deep chords. I write intimate stories of personal journeys or quests; I help others write the stories they need to tell; and I help teachers teach kids how to write their stories.”

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