Resources

So, you’re writing a novel, or want to? That’s awesome!

The most important thing to understand is that though writing a novel is often a solitary process, it’s not done in isolation. At some point, you’re going to need an editor, beta readers, or even a writing coach if you hit a bumpy patch and need a little creative nurturing.

A few quick points on the above:

Beta Readers

These people are the unsung heroes of the writing world. They give up time out of their lives, to work through your manuscript and provide you with their thoughts, feelings, and insights. They can help you discover plot holes, give advice that will refine character moments, and give you a good idea of whether or not your structure is working. A great place to find Beta Readers is at one of the writers associations that are active in every state, or a genre association like the Australian Crime Writers Association, or the Romance Writers of Australia.

It does cost to join some of these, but it is worth your while!

Editing

I have met a small handful of writers who do not use professional editors, and I’m so sorry to say this – but you can tell.

Beta Readers are essential, but not enough to polish a manuscript. It’s great to have your family and friends reading your drafts, but unless they’re qualified and experienced editors, they are no substitute for a professional edit.

Yes, it costs money, but it is 100% worth it.

If I were to give any new writer a piece of advice, it would be to start a savings account just for editing, and start squirreling away money – then, once you’ve finished your novel or short story, you can go to an editor, hand over your baby, and gird your loins for their feedback. Some of it will be hard to take, but what it will do for your writing and your journey and growth as an author will be priceless.

More importantly, your readers will thank you.

Writing Coaches/Developmental Editors

These professionals are simply amazing. A good one does years of training to learn how to help aspiring authors to write – and write beautifully. They can help you overcome ‘writers block,’ they can help nurture your creativity, and more.

Jay has used a developmental editor and writing coaches, and they have moved him from stuck, with a dozen half-completed manuscripts on USB sticks all over the place, to published. All in the space of six-months.

Like editors, they cost, but they are worth their weight in gold.

If you want to be an author, INVEST in your craft. You’re worth it.

To date, there are only two coaches/developmental editors I’ve used – because I haven’t needed to find any others!

They are: Selina Shapland of Empowered Words and Sandy Vaile of Fearless Prose. Great business names, huh?!

These two women are extraordinary. Selina helped me get my writing back on track, and she has provided such incredible insight and advice on the industry, as well as amazing, nurturing, empowering feedback on my writing, and her edits… they are uplifting, respectful and a joy to read. Working with Selina as a developmental editor, is a wonderful experience. She makes me a better writer. I feel safe, gently nudged to be my best, and excited for every catch up.

Sandy is like a warm hug on a winter’s day. As a writing coach, she is encouraging, invested and thoughtful. As a coach, she pushes you to keep going, gives honest feedback on your work, and so clearly delights in helping you move forward.

To work with Selina and/or Sandy (I’ve worked with both at the same time), click their logo’s below to be taken to their websites:

If you keep scrolling down, you will also find links to a lot of the major writing associations in Australia. Have a look, join a few, and start engaging with them online.

Happy web-surfing, and the best of luck with getting your idea from ‘head to page to published.’