Hello to everyone. I'm Jodhi and I'm trying to write a book. Currently living in Somerset, UK - no, my house is not flooded. Looking to get advice and feedback on how to go about things really. My other half doesn't read much so it's hard to ask him about stuff. Been wanting to write a book for at least 15 years and figured it was high time I actually got on with it. After having an initial idea, the thing has run away with itself and I appear to have created an entire world - didn't have the intention of writing a fantasy novel, but this is what seems to be happening! I have characters and setting, but not much plot yet. Shall I just keep writing and see what happens? Or should I plan things out more? If you want to check it out, I have a blog here: spiritsandsteel.com Thanks
Hi Jodhi. Welcome. You'll find lots of good advice here, so much as to seem a bit overwhelming at times and very often more than a little contradictory. You'll find that different members have different takes, depending on their preferred means of going about things. All points are valid, it might just take a little time to figure out what works for you. Some plan, some fly by the seat of their pants. Have a good look around, check out the Forum Rules and FAQ It's worth taking a turn round the Workshop too. Lots of good thought provoking stuff in the critiques. Oh, and re: Jan 9th's blog post. Back up, back up, back up.
Welcome! I would suggest at least roughing out a plot, as it may conflict or require additions to your setting and it would be a pain to be forced to change huge chunks of the setting or bend the story in order to fit the setting.
She means it in the sense of making back-up copies, not retreating. You mentioned having your 'puter go dodgy on you and losing the text of a blog post...
