I have a pretty good idea for a novel...

[Dodie]

I think I have a pretty good idea for a romance novel. NOW what do I do?

I have an English degree - taught English for many years - but have never really tried to write anything of length or get published.

I have summarized the book chapter by chapter - catching the main points in the storyline. Now what? Do I just start writing away and see what happens? Are there places I can go for guidance on this type of thing? Are there seminars?

I know that a romance novel is kind of a tawdry thing to write, but I honestly feel like I have a pretty good story.

This is pushing it, but has anyone here tried to do anything like this before? Am I crazy?

 

[iluvorlando]

Dodie,

I don't know about your questions, but I think it is great. I love to read "smut", er romance novels. Sorry, but I love the characters and places, etc...

Just start writing!! I'll read it!!

Do you have any publishing houses near you? That is where I would start.

 

[Frogdad]

Just start writing and rewriting. Ask yourself what your motivation is to write: ie to make money, to explore deep parts of soul, or just to tell a story.

When you are ready to be published go to the bookstore and buy a copy of the current writers market. It will give you many outlets in which to sell your story/novel.

 

[Dodie]

bumping...

 

[Dodie]

Bumping one last time

Thanks for the guidance, Frogdad. I have always wanted to try this. I have stories to tell, plus I'd like to make a little money.

Does anyone else have any advice? Has anyone done anything like this?

Thanks.

 

[Tiggeroo]

I have done freelance newspaper articles and am working on my first mystery novel. Just jump in there and do it. If you need help there are web sites for aspiring romance novelists with message boards. There is also a book out on how to write a mystery nove. In my experience these things are helpful, but the best thing is to set a schedule and do it. Ex. every day from 5-8 pm I will be writing and then an 8 hour block on Saturday and Sunday. I read Stephen King's book on writing and was greatly impressed with how, in spite of his difficult circumstances he was so disciplined.
By the way, his book is excellent, no matter what genre you write.
Good luck

 

[Annie&Hallie'sMom]

The outline is excellent. You'll also need a sample chapter or two to submit to a publisher and/or agent. The Writer's Market will help you find both.

Good luck and DON"T get discouraged. Some of the best novels were rejected NUMEROUS times before they were accepted

 

[Jeff in BigD]

I seem to remember an web site that you can post your novel & publishers look & decide which ones they like. I think it's e-novel.com or something. You might want to do a search for it.