Secret Formula for Writing a Novel

 Some people (usually non-readers, almost always non-writers) say that genre novels are formulaic.  I've tried and tried to figure out what that means, and I think I've finally broken the code.  Here, at last, I'm revealing the....

Secret Formula for Writing a Novel

Create characters your readers care about. 

Develop a plot that keeps your readers turning the pages. 

Write in a compelling, consistent voice that fits your story.

Skillfully weave description, dialogue, narrative, action and internal dialogue together, while heightening tension, constantly raising the stakes, adding in your characters’ back stories, developing your theme, and illustrating how your characters are growing and changing.

Bring the conflict to a climax where your protaganists face their worst fears.

Create a black moment when all seems lost.

Surprise the reader with an unexpected reversal that shows the characters’ personal growth.

End the story in a way that ties up all loose ends, answers all questions and leaves the reader thinking,  “Wow!  What a great book!  I can’t wait to read this author’s next one!”