Kimberly Smith's Blog

Because your book deserves to be remembered the moment readers see it.

When readers scroll through online stores or stroll past a bookstore shelf, they make snap judgments—often in seconds. A great story gets attention, but a clear, consistent brand keeps it.

For indie authors, strong branding is more than just a pretty cover—it’s the heartbeat of your author identity.

🌟 What Is Book Branding?

Book branding is the combination of visuals, tone, and reader experience that makes your work instantly recognizable. It includes:

Your cover design and typography

Your author voice and genre tone

Your website and social media aesthetics

How you interact with readers

Think of your brand as a promise—what readers can expect every time they pick up your book.

🎨 Visual Consistency: Make It Instantly “You”

A reader should be able to spot your book across a crowded feed and think, Oh, that looks like one of hers!

Use a consistent color palette and font style across your covers.

Keep your author name placement uniform.

Carry those design elements into your website, banners, and social media.

💡 Pro tip: Series books especially benefit from cohesive branding—matching fonts, tones, and imagery help readers instantly identify what belongs together.

🗣️ Voice and Messaging: Keep It Cohesive

Your storytelling voice doesn’t end with your books. It continues in your newsletters, posts, and author bios.

Are you warm and chatty? Keep that tone in your social media captions.

Do you write dark thrillers? A playful pink website might send mixed signals.

Stay true to your tone everywhere you connect with readers—it builds trust and recognition.

🌐 The Reader Experience

Branding is about how readers feel when they engage with you.

Do your posts reflect your story worlds?

Does your newsletter sound like your characters could’ve written it?

Do readers know what emotional experience your books deliver?

The stronger and more consistent that emotional connection, the more loyal your readership becomes.

💼 Building Your Brand as an Indie Author

Define your vibe. Pick three words that describe your writing style or mood (e.g., romantic, hopeful, grounded).

Design your visuals. Match those words to colors, fonts, and imagery.

Update your author assets. Apply your brand across your website, newsletter, and promotional materials.

Be consistent. Repetition builds familiarity—and familiarity builds trust.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Branding isn’t about being flashy—it’s about being memorable. When your covers, tone, and message align, readers know what to expect, and that keeps them coming back for more.

Your stories are your art. Branding is the frame that helps them shine.

Strategies for Connecting with Readers Through Newsletters, Social Media, and Personal Engagement

For indie authors, writing the book is only half the journey. The other half? Finding readers—and keeping them. A loyal reader base isn’t built overnight, but with consistent effort and the right strategies, you can create a community that not only reads your books but champions your work.

📧 Newsletters: Your Direct Line to Readers

Social media platforms may rise and fall, but email remains one of the most reliable ways to stay connected with your audience.

Start small – even 20 subscribers are worth serving well.

Share value, not just promos – include sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes notes, or personal reflections.

Consistency is key – whether it’s once a month or once a week, readers should know when to expect you.

👉 Think of your newsletter as a conversation with a friend, not a sales pitch.

🌐 Social Media: Meet Readers Where They Are

Social media can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to be everywhere. Choose one or two platforms where your readers hang out most.

Instagram/TikTok – great for visuals, reels, and quick book updates.

Facebook – perfect for groups, discussions, and building communities.

X (Twitter) – good for networking with other authors and joining trending conversations.

💡 Tip: Use storytelling posts instead of constant “buy my book” messages. Share your writing journey, character inspiration, or even your favorite coffee mug—authenticity builds trust.

👋 Personal Engagement: The Human Touch

Readers are more likely to become fans—and fans more likely to become superfans—when they feel a genuine connection.

Reply to comments and emails – a quick “thank you” goes a long way.

Offer exclusives – bonus chapters, early access to cover reveals, or private Q&As make readers feel special.

Show up in person – local book signings, library talks, or virtual readings can create lasting bonds.

✨ When readers feel seen and appreciated, they stick around for the long haul.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Building a loyal reader base takes time, but every interaction counts. By combining the power of newsletters, social media, and personal engagement, you’re not just selling books—you’re creating a community. And a strong community will follow your stories wherever they go.

👉 Your turn: What’s your favorite way to connect with readers? Hit reply and share—I’d love to feature some of your tips in a future newsletter!

📰 Indie Author Insights

✨ Tired of Editing Overwhelm?

Indie authors juggle writing, marketing, and publishing on their own—and editing can feel like the biggest hurdle. In this issue, we’re diving into how AI editing services can save you time, money, and stress, while still helping you publish your best work.

✍️ AI Editing Services: A Game-Changer for Indie Authors

Editing can be one of the most expensive and stressful parts of publishing. As indie authors, we know every dollar (and every minute) counts. That’s where AI editing tools step in to help.

🚀 Why AI Editing Works for Writers

Catches mistakes instantly – grammar, punctuation, and clunky phrasing.

Improves flow – suggests tighter sentences and better word choices.

Flags overused words – so your writing feels fresh and dynamic.

Saves time & money – fewer hours with an editor = lower costs.

Think of AI as your first-pass editor—getting your manuscript clean and strong before you hand it off to a human professional (or before you hit “publish”).

💡 Benefits for Indie Authors

Affordable feedback, anytime you need it.

Instant results so you can revise as you write.

Builds confidence by teaching you what to watch for.

🔗 Where to Start

Want to add AI editing to your author toolkit? Visit Fiction Writers Forge—a hub for indie authors with resources, tools, and guidance to help you publish your best work.

✨ AI won’t replace your voice—it’ll help sharpen it. If you prefer having your work edited by a person contact Aria Lafayette at MuddledInk.com.

👉 Your turn: Have you tried an AI editing tool yet? Leave a comment and let me know your favorite—or what’s holding you back. And if you found this helpful, share it with another indie author who could use the boost!

Your writing has a natural, emotionally grounded style with strong pacing and authentic character dynamics. After reviewing the scenes and dialogue you've shared, here’s a breakdown of your writing voice and strengths, followed by an author comparison:

🔍 Your Writing Style:

1. Emotionally Driven Dialogue

You excel at using conversation to reveal character motivation, emotional tension, and backstory. Even when dialogue is casual, it’s layered with subtext—characters often say one thing but feel another, and you let that contradiction breathe.

"Why don’t you ever kiss me first? Don’t you like kissing me?”
“I love kissing you. I would kiss you all the time, but I have to restrain the passion…”

This kind of tension-filled vulnerability is a hallmark of intimate, romantic storytelling.

2. Strong Sense of Place

You paint visceral environments—from dusty ranches to cozy kitchens—grounding readers in a sense of community, family, and heritage. Sunset Springs feels alive with tradition, grit, and warmth.

3. Well-Rounded Characters

Your characters are not caricatures. They have flaws, make mistakes, and grow. Even secondary characters (like Tanya and Jorge) have agency and voice. Luis is especially well-drawn for a child character—curious, clever, emotionally rich.

4. Themes You Lean Into

Family secrets and reconciliation

Second chances at love

Interracial romance and societal tension

Found family and small-town community

These themes are consistent, with a lot of emotional payoff.

Your Writing Style Is Similar To:

Brenda Novak or Jodi Thomas, but most notably:

Debbie Macomber (especially her later books)

Why Debbie Macomber?

Like you, she blends romantic tension with multigenerational family dynamics.

Her characters are working-class, emotionally sincere, and often navigating past trauma or secrets.

She’s known for hopeful, heartfelt love stories set in close-knit towns, where dialogue is a driving force, and even tough issues are handled with warmth.

Macomber also features strong female leads with complex emotional journeys—just like your Mari, who is strong, technical-minded, yet torn emotionally.

📝 Summary:

Your writing blends emotional depth, sharp dialogue, and grounded, small-town realism, making it both relatable and deeply engaging. You write like a romance author who understands people—their wounds, their desires, and their capacity for healing. That puts you stylistically closest to Debbie Macomber, with shades of Brenda Novak for grit and Jodi Thomas for setting.

In a world dominated by major publishing houses and bestsellers plastered across every bookstore window, it’s easy to overlook the lifeblood of the literary world: independent authors and the creative teams who support them. These passionate storytellers, editors, cover designers, and indie publishers are crafting powerful, diverse, and innovative work - often with limited resources and little recognition.

Supporting indie creatives isn't just about boosting a single book or career - it's about nurturing a more inclusive, vibrant literary landscape.

Why Indie Creatives Deserve Your Support

1. They take creative risks.

Indie authors aren’t bound by market trends or corporate mandates. That means they write bold stories, tackle niche topics, and amplify underrepresented voices.

2. They build personal connections.

Many indie authors interact directly with their readers. When you support their work, you’re not just buying a book - you’re building a relationship.

3. They create opportunities for others.

Indie authors often collaborate with freelance editors, cover artists, and small publishers - supporting one creator helps an entire network thrive.

4. They rely on grassroots growth.

Without massive marketing budgets, indie success hinges on word-of-mouth, reviews, and reader loyalty. Your voice matters in their journey.

10 Easy and Impactful Ways to Support Indie Authors & Creatives

Whether you're a dedicated bookworm or just discovering indie fiction, here are practical ways you can make a difference:

1. Buy the book

It might seem obvious, but purchasing a book (especially from the author’s website, Bookshop.org, or other indie-friendly platforms) puts real money in the creator’s pocket.

2. Leave a review not just a rating.

Rating a book is good, but reviewing is better. Amazon, Goodreads, Apple Books - no matter where you do it, reviews help indie books get noticed by new readers and boost their visibility in algorithms.

3. Share on social media

Post a photo, quote a favorite line, or share your reading experience. Indie authors often re-share posts, creating a ripple effect of visibility.

4. Request the book at your local library or bookstore

Libraries often purchase books readers request. Indie books on shelves = more access for curious readers.

5. Join launch teams and street teams

Authors often assemble early readers to help promote their new releases. If you love an author’s work, sign up or ask if you can be a part of their team - it’s free and impactful. Some will even provide you with the book for no cost.

6. Subscribe to their newsletters

Newsletters are a lifeline for indie authors. They’re direct, algorithm-proof, and full of updates, deals, and exclusives.

7. Support their editors, designers, and publishers

Follow and hire indie editors and artists. Share their work. Recommend them to other authors. Indie publishing is a team effort.

8. Gift indie books

Introduce others to your favorite authors by gifting their work for birthdays, holidays, or just because.

9. Engage and encourage

Comment on posts, reply to newsletters, or drop a kind DM. A little encouragement goes a long way in a solitary profession.

10. Back their crowdfunding campaigns

Many indie projects launch through platforms like Kickstarter or Patreon. Your early support helps fund editing, design, and marketing.

Final Thoughts

Every time you support an indie creator, you're helping keep art, passion, and diversity alive in publishing. You're not just consuming content -you're becoming a patron of creativity, one page at a time.

So, the next time you scroll past a book you’ve never heard of by an author with just a few hundred followers, pause. That might be the next story that moves you, and your support might be the spark that helps it soar.

📚💛 Read indie. Review indie. Recommend indie.

If you are and author looking for an editor, check out my friend Aria J. She also provides other services for creatives. Tell her Kimberly sent you.

So, you've finished your novel. Congratulations! Now comes the next big decision: how do you get your story out into the world? With the publishing industry undergoing significant changes in recent years, writers have more options than ever before. Whether you want to go the traditional route, self-publish, or something in between, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each method.

In this blog, we'll explore the different ways to publish a novel, helping you figure out which path aligns best with your goals, resources, and ambitions.

1. Traditional Publishing

What It Is: Traditional publishing involves working with an established publisher (such as Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, or smaller indie presses) to get your novel into bookstores and online retailers. To pursue this path, authors typically need to secure a literary agent who will submit the manuscript to publishers on their behalf.

Steps in Traditional Publishing:

Query literary agents with your manuscript or proposal.

If an agent signs you, they submit your manuscript to publishers.

If a publisher acquires your manuscript, they’ll handle editing, cover design, marketing, and distribution.

Pros:

Professional Support: You’ll work with experienced editors, marketers, and designers, ensuring a polished and well-distributed book.

Wider Distribution: Traditional publishers can get your book into major bookstores, libraries, and retail outlets, both online and physical.

Prestige: Being traditionally published often carries a sense of legitimacy, as it’s a highly competitive process.

Cons:

Long Process: Securing an agent and a book deal can take years, and even after you’ve signed, it can take another 12-18 months before your book is published.

Lack of Control: You have less say in the cover design, title, and sometimes even the final edits.

Lower Royalties: Traditional publishers usually offer royalties of 5-15%, meaning you’ll earn less per book than with self-publishing.

Best For: Writers looking for industry validation, access to large-scale distribution, and who are willing to play the long game.

2. Self-Publishing

What It Is: In self-publishing, the author is responsible for every aspect of the publishing process, from editing and design to marketing and distribution. This path has become increasingly popular thanks to platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and Barnes & Noble Press, which allow authors to publish e-books, paperbacks, and even hardcovers independently.

Steps in Self-Publishing:

Write, edit, and format your novel.

Design or hire someone to design your book cover.

Upload your manuscript to a self-publishing platform (e.g., KDP, Smashwords).

Market and distribute your book through online retailers.

Pros:

Creative Control: You make all the decisions—from cover design to pricing—giving you full control over your book’s final form.

Higher Royalties: Depending on the platform, self-published authors can earn up to 70% in royalties on e-books.

Faster Publication: Once your book is ready, you can publish it within days or weeks, making it a quick route to getting your work into readers’ hands.

Cons:

Upfront Costs: You’ll likely need to invest in professional editing, cover design, and marketing to produce a high-quality book.

Marketing Responsibility: You are solely responsible for promoting and marketing your book, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Limited Bookstore Access: While self-published books can be available online, getting them into physical bookstores is more challenging.

Best For: Writers who prefer complete creative control, are willing to invest in their own production, and are ready to handle their own marketing and promotion.

3. Hybrid Publishing

What It Is: Hybrid publishing combines elements of both traditional and self-publishing. In this model, the author pays upfront for some services (like editing, cover design, or marketing), while the publisher takes care of the production and distribution process. In return, authors typically receive higher royalties than in traditional publishing but don’t have to shoulder all the responsibility like in self-publishing.

Steps in Hybrid Publishing:

Submit your manuscript to a hybrid publisher.

Pay for selected services (editing, design, marketing).

The publisher handles distribution and often helps with marketing.

Pros:

Professional Quality: You get the support of a professional team (editors, designers, marketers) without giving up creative control or having to navigate every detail on your own.

Higher Royalties: Since you’re covering some upfront costs, hybrid publishers usually offer higher royalty rates (sometimes up to 50%).

Faster Publication: Hybrid publishers can get your book to market faster than traditional publishing.

Cons:

Upfront Investment: While you get professional services, you’ll need to pay for them, and some hybrid publishers may have high fees.

Varying Quality: The quality of hybrid publishers can vary greatly. Some may be closer to vanity presses, charging high fees without delivering value.

Less Prestige: Hybrid publishing is still not viewed with the same level of prestige as traditional publishing, though this perception is changing.

Best For: Authors who want professional support but still want to retain some control over the process and are willing to invest upfront in their book.

4. Small Presses and Indie Publishers

What It Is: Small presses and independent publishers are traditional publishers but operate on a smaller scale than the major houses. They often focus on niche markets or genres, and while they may not offer the same reach as a big publisher, they tend to provide more personalized attention to authors.

Steps in Small Press Publishing:

Submit your manuscript directly to the small press or indie publisher (many don’t require agents).

If accepted, you’ll work with their team on editing, design, and distribution.

Pros:

Personalized Attention: Small presses usually offer a more collaborative relationship with authors, providing more input on creative decisions.

Access Without Agents: Unlike major publishers, many small presses accept direct submissions, allowing authors to bypass the need for an agent.

Support for Niche Genres: Small presses often specialize in specific genres (fantasy, literary fiction, poetry), so they may be more passionate about your work.

Cons:

Limited Reach: Small presses have fewer resources for marketing and distribution, so your book might not reach as wide an audience as it would with a larger publisher.

Lower Advances: While small presses offer royalty payments, they typically don’t offer large advances, if any.

Best For: Writers with niche genres, those looking for a more collaborative publishing experience, or those who don’t want to go through the lengthy process of securing an agent and major publisher.

5. Vanity Publishing (Avoid)

What It Is: Vanity publishing requires authors to pay a publisher to produce their book, with little or no editorial support or distribution efforts. Unlike hybrid publishers, vanity presses often charge exorbitant fees without offering professional editing, marketing, or design.

Steps in Vanity Publishing:

Pay the publisher to produce your book.

The publisher will print your book, but any marketing, promotion, and distribution are left entirely to you.

Pros:

Guaranteed Publication: If you’re willing to pay, vanity publishers will produce your book, regardless of quality.

Cons:

High Costs, Low Value: Vanity publishers often charge high fees without providing professional-quality services, resulting in poorly edited, poorly marketed books.

Negative Reputation: Vanity publishing is often viewed negatively within the industry, and many bookstores and reviewers won’t take these books seriously.

Best For: Vanity publishing is generally not recommended for authors serious about building a career in writing. It’s best to avoid this option.

How to Choose the Best Method for You

When deciding which publishing route to take, consider the following factors:

Creative Control: Do you want full control over your book’s production, or are you willing to let go of some decisions in exchange for professional support?

Budget: Are you willing to invest upfront in editing, cover design, and marketing, or would you prefer to avoid these costs?

Timeframe: Are you looking to publish quickly, or are you okay with the long timelines of traditional publishing?

Career Goals: Is this a one-time project, or do you want to build a long-term writing career? Traditional publishing can offer more career support, while self-publishing allows for more rapid releases.

Conclusion: The Right Path for Your Novel

Choosing the right publishing method depends on your individual goals as an author. Whether you seek the prestige of traditional publishing, the control of self-publishing, or a hybrid approach, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each path offers different opportunities and challenges, and the best choice for you depends on your unique situation, budget, and vision for your writing career.

Take the time to research each option carefully, weigh the pros and cons, and don’t be afraid to experiment if one path doesn’t work out as expected. After all, the ultimate goal is to share your story with the world in the best way possible!

Have you decided which publishing route you’ll take for your novel? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Before we dive in, it’s important to understand the distinction between revising and editing:

·         Revising is about making big-picture changes to your story—this includes plot structure, character development, pacing, and theme. It’s where you reimagine scenes, strengthen character arcs, and address major story issues.

·         Editing, on the other hand, focuses on the finer details—like sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and word choice. This stage is all about polishing your prose.

For most writers, it’s best to revise first, then edit. Start by focusing on the big picture, and once you’re happy with your story as a whole, move on to polishing the language and fixing technical errors.

Step 1: Take a Break

One of the most valuable things you can do after finishing your first draft is to take a break. Set the manuscript aside for a few weeks or even a month if you can. This allows you to return to your story with fresh eyes and a more objective perspective. You’ll be better equipped to spot problems and inconsistencies when you’ve had some distance from the work.

Step 2: Read the Entire Draft From Start to Finish

When you’re ready to dive into revisions, start by reading through your entire draft in one or two sittings, if possible. Resist the urge to start editing or making changes during this initial read-through. Instead, focus on absorbing the story as a whole.

Take Notes: Keep a notebook or document handy and jot down any major issues you notice, such as:

Plot holes

Inconsistent character behavior

Pacing issues (slow or rushed sections)

Unclear motivations or goals

Areas where tension drops or stakes feel low

This read-through gives you an overview of what’s working and what needs improvement, allowing you to create a roadmap for your revisions.

Step 3: Revise for Structure and Story

Once you’ve identified the major issues with your story, it’s time to start revising. This stage is where you’ll make the biggest changes, so don’t be afraid to rewrite entire scenes, cut unnecessary sections, or add new material where needed.

Here are a few key areas to focus on during the revision process:

1. Strengthen Your Story Arc

Does your novel have a clear beginning, middle, and end? Ensure that your story arc is strong and that the plot develops logically. Check for the following:

Conflict and stakes: Are they introduced early enough? Do they escalate throughout the story?

Pacing: Does the story drag in places? Are there scenes that feel rushed?

Climax and resolution: Is the climax satisfying? Does it resolve the main conflict and provide closure?

2. Deepen Character Development

Take a close look at your characters, particularly your protagonist. Do they have clear goals and motivations? How do they change over the course of the story? Make sure your characters are fully realized, with distinct personalities, strengths, flaws, and desires.

Character arcs: Ensure that your protagonist has a meaningful arc. Do they grow, learn, or change in some way by the end of the story?

Secondary characters: Are your supporting characters fully developed, or do they need more depth? Make sure they serve a purpose in the story and aren’t just there to fill space.

3. Cut Unnecessary Scenes and Filler

As writers, we sometimes fall in love with scenes or dialogue that don’t really add to the story. Now is the time to cut anything that doesn’t serve the plot, develop characters, or increase tension.

Ask yourself: Does this scene move the story forward? If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go.

Step 4: Self-Editing the Details

After revising for story structure and character development, it’s time to shift your focus to the details. Self-editing can be tricky, but with patience and the right techniques, you can sharpen your prose and catch most errors.

Here are some self-editing tips if you can’t afford to hire a professional editor:

1. Eliminate Redundancies

One of the easiest ways to tighten your writing is to eliminate redundant phrases, unnecessary adjectives, and repetitive information. Ask yourself if each word and sentence adds value. If not, cut it.

Example:

Redundant: “She whispered softly.”

Improved: “She whispered.”

2. Use Active Voice

Passive voice can make your writing feel weak and indirect. Whenever possible, use active voice to create stronger, more engaging sentences.

Example:

Passive: “The book was read by him.”

Active: “He read the book.”

3. Vary Sentence Structure

Too many sentences of the same length and structure can make your writing feel monotonous. Pay attention to sentence variety—mix shorter sentences with longer, more complex ones to create rhythm and flow.

4. Show, Don’t Tell

One of the most common writing tips is to “show, don’t tell.” Instead of telling the reader how a character feels, show it through their actions, thoughts, or dialogue.

Example:

Telling: “She was nervous.”

Showing: “Her hands trembled, and she wiped her sweaty palms on her jeans.”

5. Watch for Overused Words

We all have crutch words—those words or phrases we tend to overuse without realizing it. Common offenders include “just,” “really,” “very,” and “that.” Use the search function in your document to find and cut these unnecessary words.

6. Read Your Draft Aloud

Reading your novel aloud is a fantastic way to catch awkward sentences, clunky dialogue, and repetitive language. It forces you to slow down and pay attention to the rhythm and flow of your writing.

Step 5: Use Free or Affordable Editing Tools

If hiring a professional editor isn’t in the budget, there are plenty of free or affordable editing tools that can help you polish your draft:

Grammarly: A popular grammar and spell-checking tool that can help you catch errors and improve sentence clarity.

Hemingway App: Highlights complex sentences, passive voice, and unnecessary adverbs, helping you simplify and strengthen your writing.

ProWritingAid: An all-in-one editing tool that checks grammar, style, readability, and more.

AutoCrit: Focuses on fiction-specific editing by analyzing your writing for pacing, dialogue, and word choice.

These tools aren’t a replacement for a human editor, but they can help you spot common issues and refine your manuscript before submitting it to agents or self-publishing.

Step 6: Get Feedback from Beta Readers

Once you’ve revised and self-edited your draft, it’s helpful to get feedback from beta readers—trusted friends, fellow writers, or members of writing groups who can give you honest critiques. Beta readers can provide valuable insights into aspects of your story you might have missed, such as pacing, character development, and overall coherence.

Tip: Provide your beta readers with specific questions. For example, ask them about plot clarity, character likability, or whether certain scenes were engaging or confusing.

Conclusion: Embrace the Process

Revising and editing the first draft of a novel can be a long and sometimes frustrating process, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s where your story truly comes to life, and where your hard work as a writer pays off. Whether you’re revising on your own or enlisting the help of beta readers and editing tools, remember that every pass through your manuscript brings you one step closer to a finished novel.

 

Assignment: Revise your novel.

Take your time, embrace the imperfections of the first draft, and trust the process. After all, writing is rewriting—and your novel will be stronger because of it.

How do you approach revising and editing your drafts? Share your tips in the comments below!

 

Now that you have completed your first novel, its time to decide what to do with it. You can try publishing traditionally or independent publishing.

The first draft is not about producing a masterpiece—it’s about getting your story down on paper. Embrace the messiness, allow yourself to take risks, and don’t be afraid to write badly. Remember, you can’t revise or improve something that doesn’t exist, so the most important thing is to keep writing.

Assignment: Write your novel

By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll approach your first draft with the right mindset, making it easier to finish and, ultimately, refine into a story you’re proud of.

What’s the most challenging part of writing your first draft? Let me know in the comments below! Happy writing!

How to Revise and Edit the First Draft of Your Novel: Tips for Self-Editing

So, you’ve completed the first draft of your novel—congratulations! Finishing a draft is no small feat and is something worth celebrating. But as every writer knows, the first draft is just the beginning. Now comes the hard part: revising and editing.

The revision process is where your story takes shape, becomes polished, and transforms into the novel you envisioned when you first began writing. But revising a draft, especially a long one, can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you know what to cut, change, or keep? And what if you can’t afford to hire a professional editor?

Fear not! In this blog, we’ll walk through the essential steps to revising and editing your first draft. Plus, I’ll share some self-editing tips to help you refine your novel if hiring an expert isn’t in the budget.

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1. Do Write Without Judging Yourself

The first draft is about exploration, not perfection. This is your opportunity to let your imagination run wild and discover what your story is about without getting caught up in the details. Don’t worry about perfect grammar, polished prose, or even plot holes at this stage. You’ll have plenty of time to fix those in later drafts.

Tip: Give yourself permission to write badly. Embrace the messiness and trust that the magic of revision will shape your story later.

2. Do Set a Writing Schedule and Stick to It

Consistency is key when writing a first draft. Set a regular writing schedule and commit to it, even if you don’t feel particularly inspired on some days. The goal is to build momentum and make steady progress, not to wait for the "perfect" time to write.

Tip: Set daily or weekly word count goals that are realistic for your lifestyle. Even writing 500 words a day can add up to a complete novel over time.

3. Do Focus on Forward Momentum

In your first draft, always prioritize moving the story forward. It can be tempting to go back and revise previous scenes or fix plot inconsistencies as you write, but this can cause you to lose momentum. Instead, keep pushing forward and finish the story, knowing that you can revise later.

Tip: If you get stuck, leave a placeholder note like “fix this later” or “research this,” and move on. Your goal in the first draft is progress, not perfection.

4. Do Experiment and Take Risks

The first draft is your playground. Try out different plot twists, character traits, or narrative techniques. You might find that some of these experiments don’t work, but that’s okay. Taking risks in your writing can lead to unexpected discoveries and creative breakthroughs.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to veer off your original outline or idea. Sometimes the best parts of a story emerge when you allow yourself to explore unplanned directions.

5. Do Write Every Scene, Even the Hard Ones

It’s tempting to skip scenes that feel difficult or unclear, but the first draft is the time to tackle those head-on. Writing through challenging scenes—even if they’re not perfect—will help you understand the flow of your story and identify any structural problems early on.

Tip: Break difficult scenes into smaller, manageable pieces. Focus on one key element at a time, whether it’s dialogue, action, or description, to make the process less daunting.

The Don’ts of Writing a First Draft

1. Don’t Edit As You Go

One of the biggest mistakes writers make in the first draft is trying to edit while they’re still writing. Editing too soon can stall your progress, make you overly critical of your work, and disrupt the flow of your creativity. Remember, the first draft is not the final draft, so resist the urge to polish sentences or perfect scenes.

Tip: If you’re tempted to edit, set a strict rule for yourself: no going back to revise until the first draft is complete. Focus on getting the full story down first.

2. Don’t Obsess Over Word Count

While it’s helpful to have writing goals, don’t get too hung up on hitting a specific word count every day. Fiction writing is a creative process, and some days you might write a lot, while other days, progress may come slower. What matters is that you’re making progress, not that you hit a magic number.

Tip: If you have a day where you don’t meet your word count, don’t beat yourself up. Celebrate the words you did write and look forward to the next writing session.

3. Don’t Get Stuck on the Perfect Opening Line

The opening line of your story might feel like the most important sentence, but don’t let it paralyze you. Many writers spend too much time agonizing over the perfect beginning, which can slow down the rest of the draft. Keep in mind that your first draft’s opening line will likely change in revision, so don’t get too attached to it.

Tip: Write any opening that gets you started, even if it’s clunky. You can always go back and rework it later, once you know where the story is headed.

4. Don’t Compare Yourself to Other Writers

Writing is a deeply personal process, and every writer’s journey is different. Avoid comparing your first draft to someone else’s polished, finished work. Comparing yourself to other writers can lead to self-doubt and frustration, which will only hinder your progress.

Tip: Focus on your own creative process. Remember that every published book started as a rough first draft, just like yours.

5. Don’t Worry About Plot Holes or Continuity Errors

It’s normal for a first draft to have plot holes, inconsistencies, or even missing scenes. Don’t worry about resolving every issue right away. Your first draft is meant to be a rough outline of your story’s skeleton, and you can smooth out the details in subsequent drafts.

Tip: If you notice a plot issue while writing, jot it down on a separate note and keep writing. You’ll have plenty of time to fix these problems during revision.

Bonus: How to Stay Motivated Through the First Draft

Writing a first draft can sometimes feel like a marathon. Here are a few strategies to help you stay motivated through the ups and downs of the drafting process:

·         Set Small Milestones: Break your first draft into smaller goals, such as completing a chapter or a specific number of scenes. Reward yourself when you reach these milestones.

·         Embrace Bad Days: Some writing sessions will be harder than others, and that’s okay. Accept that not every day will be perfect, but keep showing up. The more you write, the more progress you’ll make.

·         Join a Writing Group: Surrounding yourself with other writers can be a great way to stay motivated and get feedback. Writing groups provide accountability and a sense of community that can keep you going when writing feels tough.

·         Celebrate the Finish: Completing the first draft of a fiction story is a huge accomplishment. When you finish, take time to celebrate your achievement, even if the draft is rough. You’ve taken the first big step toward bringing your story to life!

Conclusion: Embrace the Imperfection of the First Draft

The first draft is not about producing a masterpiece—it’s about getting your story down on paper. Embrace the messiness, allow yourself to take risks, and don’t be afraid to write badly. Remember, you can’t revise or improve something that doesn’t exist, so the most important thing is to keep writing.

Assignment: Write your novel

By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll approach your first draft with the right mindset, making it easier to finish and, ultimately, refine into a story you’re proud of.

1. Don’t Edit As You Go

One of the biggest mistakes writers make in the first draft is trying to edit while they’re still writing. Editing too soon can stall your progress, make you overly critical of your work, and disrupt the flow of your creativity. Remember, the first draft is not the final draft, so resist the urge to polish sentences or perfect scenes.

Tip: If you’re tempted to edit, set a strict rule for yourself: no going back to revise until the first draft is complete. Focus on getting the full story down first.

2. Don’t Obsess Over Word Count

While it’s helpful to have writing goals, don’t get too hung up on hitting a specific word count every day. Fiction writing is a creative process, and some days you might write a lot, while other days, progress may come slower. What matters is that you’re making progress, not that you hit a magic number.

Tip: If you have a day where you don’t meet your word count, don’t beat yourself up. Celebrate the words you did write and look forward to the next writing session.

3. Don’t Get Stuck on the Perfect Opening Line

The opening line of your story might feel like the most important sentence, but don’t let it paralyze you. Many writers spend too much time agonizing over the perfect beginning, which can slow down the rest of the draft. Keep in mind that your first draft’s opening line will likely change in revision, so don’t get too attached to it.

Tip: Write any opening that gets you started, even if it’s clunky. You can always go back and rework it later, once you know where the story is headed.

4. Don’t Compare Yourself to Other Writers

Writing is a deeply personal process, and every writer’s journey is different. Avoid comparing your first draft to someone else’s polished, finished work. Comparing yourself to other writers can lead to self-doubt and frustration, which will only hinder your progress.

Tip: Focus on your own creative process. Remember that every published book started as a rough first draft, just like yours.

5. Don’t Worry About Plot Holes or Continuity Errors

It’s normal for a first draft to have plot holes, inconsistencies, or even missing scenes. Don’t worry about resolving every issue right away. Your first draft is meant to be a rough outline of your story’s skeleton, and you can smooth out the details in subsequent drafts.

Tip: If you notice a plot issue while writing, jot it down on a separate note and keep writing. You’ll have plenty of time to fix these problems during revision.

Bonus: How to Stay Motivated Through the First Draft

Writing a first draft can sometimes feel like a marathon. Here are a few strategies to help you stay motivated through the ups and downs of the drafting process:

·         Set Small Milestones: Break your first draft into smaller goals, such as completing a chapter or a specific number of scenes. Reward yourself when you reach these milestones.

·         Embrace Bad Days: Some writing sessions will be harder than others, and that’s okay. Accept that not every day will be perfect, but keep showing up. The more you write, the more progress you’ll make.

·         Join a Writing Group: Surrounding yourself with other writers can be a great way to stay motivated and get feedback. Writing groups provide accountability and a sense of community that can keep you going when writing feels tough.

·         Celebrate the Finish: Completing the first draft of a fiction story is a huge accomplishment. When you finish, take time to celebrate your achievement, even if the draft is rough. You’ve taken the first big step toward bringing your story to life!

Conclusion: Embrace the Imperfection of the First Draft

The first draft is not about producing a masterpiece—it’s about getting your story down on paper. Embrace the messiness, allow yourself to take risks, and don’t be afraid to write badly. Remember, you can’t revise or improve something that doesn’t exist, so the most important thing is to keep writing.

Assignment: Write your novel

By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll approach your first draft with the right mindset, making it easier to finish and, ultimately, refine into a story you’re proud of.

What’s the most challenging part of writing your first draft? Let me know in the comments below! Happy writing!

How to Revise and Edit the First Draft of Your Novel: Tips for Self-Editing

So, you’ve completed the first draft of your novel—congratulations! Finishing a draft is no small feat and is something worth celebrating. But as every writer knows, the first draft is just the beginning. Now comes the hard part: revising and editing.

The revision process is where your story takes shape, becomes polished, and transforms into the novel you envisioned when you first began writing. But revising a draft, especially a long one, can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you know what to cut, change, or keep? And what if you can’t afford to hire a professional editor?

Fear not! In this blog, we’ll walk through the essential steps to revising and editing your first draft. Plus, I’ll share some self-editing tips to help you refine your novel if hiring an expert isn’t in the budget.

The Difference Between Revising and Editing

Before we dive in, it’s important to understand the distinction between revising and editing:

·         Revising is about making big-picture changes to your story—this includes plot structure, character development, pacing, and theme. It’s where you reimagine scenes, strengthen character arcs, and address major story issues.

·         Editing, on the other hand, focuses on the finer details—like sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and word choice. This stage is all about polishing your prose.

For most writers, it’s best to revise first, then edit. Start by focusing on the big picture, and once you’re happy with your story as a whole, move on to polishing the language and fixing technical errors.

Step 1: Take a Break

One of the most valuable things you can do after finishing your first draft is to take a break. Set the manuscript aside for a few weeks or even a month if you can. This allows you to return to your story with fresh eyes and a more objective perspective. You’ll be better equipped to spot problems and inconsistencies when you’ve had some distance from the work.

Step 2: Read the Entire Draft From Start to Finish

When you’re ready to dive into revisions, start by reading through your entire draft in one or two sittings, if possible. Resist the urge to start editing or making changes during this initial read-through. Instead, focus on absorbing the story as a whole.

Take Notes: Keep a notebook or document handy and jot down any major issues you notice, such as:

Plot holes

Inconsistent character behavior

Pacing issues (slow or rushed sections)

Unclear motivations or goals

Areas where tension drops or stakes feel low

This read-through gives you an overview of what’s working and what needs improvement, allowing you to create a roadmap for your revisions.

Step 3: Revise for Structure and Story

Once you’ve identified the major issues with your story, it’s time to start revising. This stage is where you’ll make the biggest changes, so don’t be afraid to rewrite entire scenes, cut unnecessary sections, or add new material where needed.

Here are a few key areas to focus on during the revision process:

1. Strengthen Your Story Arc

Does your novel have a clear beginning, middle, and end? Ensure that your story arc is strong and that the plot develops logically. Check for the following:

Conflict and stakes: Are they introduced early enough? Do they escalate throughout the story?

Pacing: Does the story drag in places? Are there scenes that feel rushed?

Climax and resolution: Is the climax satisfying? Does it resolve the main conflict and provide closure?

2. Deepen Character Development

Take a close look at your characters, particularly your protagonist. Do they have clear goals and motivations? How do they change over the course of the story? Make sure your characters are fully realized, with distinct personalities, strengths, flaws, and desires.

Character arcs: Ensure that your protagonist has a meaningful arc. Do they grow, learn, or change in some way by the end of the story?

Secondary characters: Are your supporting characters fully developed, or do they need more depth? Make sure they serve a purpose in the story and aren’t just there to fill space.

3. Cut Unnecessary Scenes and Filler

As writers, we sometimes fall in love with scenes or dialogue that don’t really add to the story. Now is the time to cut anything that doesn’t serve the plot, develop characters, or increase tension.

Ask yourself: Does this scene move the story forward? If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go.

Step 4: Self-Editing the Details

After revising for story structure and character development, it’s time to shift your focus to the details. Self-editing can be tricky, but with patience and the right techniques, you can sharpen your prose and catch most errors.

Here are some self-editing tips if you can’t afford to hire a professional editor:

1. Eliminate Redundancies

One of the easiest ways to tighten your writing is to eliminate redundant phrases, unnecessary adjectives, and repetitive information. Ask yourself if each word and sentence adds value. If not, cut it.

Example:

Redundant: “She whispered softly.”

Improved: “She whispered.”

2. Use Active Voice

Passive voice can make your writing feel weak and indirect. Whenever possible, use active voice to create stronger, more engaging sentences.

Example:

Passive: “The book was read by him.”

Active: “He read the book.”

3. Vary Sentence Structure

Too many sentences of the same length and structure can make your writing feel monotonous. Pay attention to sentence variety—mix shorter sentences with longer, more complex ones to create rhythm and flow.

4. Show, Don’t Tell

One of the most common writing tips is to “show, don’t tell.” Instead of telling the reader how a character feels, show it through their actions, thoughts, or dialogue.

Example:

Telling: “She was nervous.”

Showing: “Her hands trembled, and she wiped her sweaty palms on her jeans.”

5. Watch for Overused Words

We all have crutch words—those words or phrases we tend to overuse without realizing it. Common offenders include “just,” “really,” “very,” and “that.” Use the search function in your document to find and cut these unnecessary words.

6. Read Your Draft Aloud

Reading your novel aloud is a fantastic way to catch awkward sentences, clunky dialogue, and repetitive language. It forces you to slow down and pay attention to the rhythm and flow of your writing.

Step 5: Use Free or Affordable Editing Tools

If hiring a professional editor isn’t in the budget, there are plenty of free or affordable editing tools that can help you polish your draft:

Grammarly: A popular grammar and spell-checking tool that can help you catch errors and improve sentence clarity.

Hemingway App: Highlights complex sentences, passive voice, and unnecessary adverbs, helping you simplify and strengthen your writing.

ProWritingAid: An all-in-one editing tool that checks grammar, style, readability, and more.

AutoCrit: Focuses on fiction-specific editing by analyzing your writing for pacing, dialogue, and word choice.

These tools aren’t a replacement for a human editor, but they can help you spot common issues and refine your manuscript before submitting it to agents or self-publishing.

Step 6: Get Feedback from Beta Readers

Once you’ve revised and self-edited your draft, it’s helpful to get feedback from beta readers—trusted friends, fellow writers, or members of writing groups who can give you honest critiques. Beta readers can provide valuable insights into aspects of your story you might have missed, such as pacing, character development, and overall coherence.

Tip: Provide your beta readers with specific questions. For example, ask them about plot clarity, character likability, or whether certain scenes were engaging or confusing.

Conclusion: Embrace the Process

Revising and editing the first draft of a novel can be a long and sometimes frustrating process, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s where your story truly comes to life, and where your hard work as a writer pays off. Whether you’re revising on your own or enlisting the help of beta readers and editing tools, remember that every pass through your manuscript brings you one step closer to a finished novel.

The list of things to do comes next month.