The Novelry Blog

Answer: Get good at taking criticism.

As a published author of four novels, Booker longlisted and a few awards, the major step-change in my writing came when I learn to take it on the chin. I became hungry for criticism, harsh criticism because I wanted to get better at my craft fast. Taking the blows - in style - was the difference between being an amateur and a pro.

A published book has seen many interventions post the author's first draft. Better to get these under your belt sooner rather than later and go out looking dandy when you show your work to the big guns - the agents, publishers and readers. For that reason, all insults, slurs and calumnies should be most gratefully received at any point between second draft and twenty-second.

Order of merit.

1. You crit. (The Editing Course, after resting that first draft for a month to become a reader.)
2. Peer crit.
3. Prof crit.
4. Publisher crit.
5. Publish - and don't look back!

Choose your moment. You should never show...