Starting Out

[The Storyteller]

Welcome to SFF Chron! Looks like you have got lots of advice and feedback, so I don't think there is much I can say that won't be redundant at this point! For your first novel I might suggest you go ahead with writing, even if you don't know the ending--it might be the easiest way to discover what works best for you (plotting or pantsing), and it also allows you to write while you have some momentum built up.

Regardless, there is no right or wrong answer, so go with your gut instinct!

Best of luck.

 

[MGM]

Welcome to the forum and good luck with your writing! I'm interested in how well your film experience translates to stories on the page.

I'm finding I'm very comfortable with dialogue, and keeping characters grounded in reality. But am having to work harder on scene setting and exposition.

I have however decided to create some concept art to help kick start my brain

 

[NbDawn]

There are two types of writers. Those who write by the seat of their pants and those who like to get their plot and characters all fleshed out first. I'm of the latter type where I outline my plot and write my characters' backstory first. It sounds like you have the characters but not the plot. I'd give writing by the seat of your pants a try and if it doesn't work, consider outlining a plot. Good luck on your journey!

 

[MGM]

Hello everyone

I thought I'd come back and offer a bit of an update.

I've found I don't fit into either of the two typical types of writer. I have discovered I am a bit of both.

After taking a step back I reassessed my narrative structure and characters, their backgrounds and what motivates them. Turns out it was my 'big bad' that was causing me issues. After changing him around I have found a lot of things began to click into place.

I am now finding the best way to describe my writing style is like completing a puzzle.

I have a general idea of what it is a going to look like when it is finished and am completing sections as I find them. Putting it together piece by piece. I found trying to stick strictly to writing in a linier manor was holding me back as at times my mind would race ahead and i would have ideas for a chapter further down the line. This is also helping to influence earlier parts of the story as I have signposts that I am aiming for.

My word count is currently just shy of 6,000 words, so roughly 10% of the way through my first draft.

Really enjoying this process, and once again thank you for everyone's kind words and advice. I have taken them all on board and they are helping imessurably.

M

 

[Ignited Moth]

Hi, there! Welcome to the forum.
I'm glad to read that you've found your groove in writing your story and that it is going so well now.
Best of luck to you!