Recently, I had the opportunity to read two novellas. Both were good and I was about to post a quick review on Amazon, when Amazon prompted me (as the reader) to do a closer examination. While doing this, I (as an author) used the short questionaire to grade my own story that isn't released yet.
Is your next release so compelling, you would give it 5 stars in all categories? If not, hold the presses.
How many "I didn't see that coming" do you have in your book. Next, is the mood of the story. I write my Christian novels with a happy ending, so I keep my readers hopeful toward that goal. Now, what about the pace of the story. Do readers prefer a constant 85 miles per hour of action in a story? I like fast pace, a pause to breathe, then a pick up speed again. Lastly, the character development. I've learned to create my characters based on real friendship or acquaintances. While my husband and I were watching a movie, I mentioned to him that the secondary characters help make the story funny or sad. For me, everything can't be about the heroine. So there you have it. Can you write your own review on your WIP? How many stars would you give it? If you're honest with yourself and admit you won't score high, it's time to bring in a developmental editor. I don't think I could have sold my first book, GUILTY OF LOVE, without one. And just because I've written dozens of books doesn't mean I don't need them from time to time, because every story is different.
Book 5 in the Love at the Crossroads series is due out this month. Have you joined my waiting list for EVERY WOMAN NEEDS A PRAYING MAN to read an excerpt? Sign up now.
