7 Comments

"Cut...cut...cut... ." I write very spare prose. My first novels were around 55,000 words. Too short for a debut, by the common wisdom. But longer will not be better.

Many recently published novels seem 25 pages too long to me. Your great advice is undercut by the publishing industry.

I'm gonna write how I please. Thanks for letting me rant.

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That’s helpful thx 😎

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Great post! Let me echo the other folks recommending the women in publishing summit. I went a few years ago and I’m still coasting on what I learned. It is perhaps slightly more useful for people on a self publishing path, but there are so many great sessions, any writer will find plenty of useful info.

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Hi Eva!!! My agent just went through my manuscript and I can hear her voice saying almost the exact same words. Thank you! Plus if you are looking to add resources to your list - I have a fairly comprehensive and unique list of monthly paying no fee short story calls I publish - plus I interview the editors buying for xtra insights. https://angeliquemfawns.substack.com/

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I just checked out your latest post -- fantastic! I will definitely add you to my list of resources! Thanks!

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Welcome to 2025 Eva! Good advice! I cut a lot from my last novel, but still not enough. Sometimes a technically unnecessary scene can add texture to a character or story element.

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Great advice. Makes my subscription worth the price. Happy New Year!

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