Wow, so you've written a novel. Or a complete manuscript? Even better
From here, the really important things to consider are:
- Is your plot complete?
- Do all your subplots advance the mail plot or character?
- Are you happy with the ending? If not, then brainstorm it and do a rewrite.
- Print the manuscript at least five times and give it to some honest friends to read. Pick people who you trust will give you good feedback.
- Walk away from your manuscript for at least a week. Give your head a break!
Editing
Another extremely important part of writing a novel, and hopefully the final part is editing. (Although I do always wonder if it is really over yet?) It is recommended that you edit at least four times – or even more until the manuscript is polished, clear, and concise.
Now if you read my books you will still see errors. My point is that it's a great idea to get several people to read your manuscript. Each person will see things the others haven't. Listen to what they have to say. Make the changes that are necessary. Beware though, don't let them influence your style of writing. You'll soon see your style as you write, that is yours and yours alone. And whatever you do - do not take the advice personally. I know that your manuscript is 'your baby', but they are giving feedback on your story - not on you.
Some great pieces of editing advice can be found here:
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Seven Practical Tips for Improving Your Manuscript
http://editingpublishing.suite101.com/article.cfm/editing_your_novel - How to edit a novel
Random Advice
I often come across random bits of writing advice and people sent a lot through to me as well. Here are a couple of pages to look at:
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Top Ten Author Truths from Andrea Semple http://www.creativeportal.org/advice/andrea_semple/truth.html
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Seriously good advice from one of my favourite writers - Cassandra Clare http://www.cassandraclare.com/cms/writing
I'll add more as I find more. That's a promise.
Happy Writing!