First novel in the making

[neilepi]

If I knuckle down and really focus on the task I am within a few short weeks of finishing my first novel. Because I am getting close and in order to spur myself on I published the first chapter online and anyone who reads this is welcome to read it.

The best description of what I am trying to create is 'contemporary thriller' and if that is not your genre then I recommend that you pass. For anyone contemplating reading chapter 1 I suggest that you print a hard copy. It comes to 9 pages in my browser and makes for much more a much more relaxing read.

There is quite a risk in inviting a bunch of bright, educated people to look at my work but I have to learn to be thick-skinned about it.

Risk Premium - The first chapter

[AverageJoe]

1. Congrats!

Finishing a book is quite an accomplishment. Good on you!

[fasttense]

2. I'm working on my first novel too

but I'm months away from the end. I would read your novel but I write science fiction and you specifically asked for people who were into your genre. Good luck with your novel. Let us know how your publishing ventures go.

[classof56]

3. Congrats!

I'm within a couple of passages of finishing my first novel, then comes the fun part--editing and going through the daunting task of trying to get it published. Good job getting yours close to done and what a good idea to put it online for review. I've bookmarked to peruse later. You've picked a good genre for the current market.

Best wishes!

[Orrex]

4. Congratulations on a heavy-duty undertaking!

Completing a novel is no mean feat. I know many adults who can't even claim to have finished reading a novel in the last few years, so I applaud your perserverence and effort. I intend to read your posted chapter as soon as I have the chance; do you mind if readers post feedback here? Also, you might consider posting to the Writing Group here on DU.

One question as I start to read it: are you British, by chance? If you're seeking publication in the US and are yourself an American, an editor or publisher will likely take issue with your spelling of "colour," "honour," "favour," and the like. Just a thought, and I'm sure that many may disagree with me..

I'll let you know when I've had the chance to read it. Congratulations again!

[neilepi]

5. Thankyou

Yes, I'm a Brit, by birth and education, but have been living in the US for the last 10 years.

Regarding publication initially I am planning to self-publish via www.Lulu.comwhich gets high marks based on the research I have undertaken. I would by no means rule out the possibility of being published by a mainstream publisher as a 'stage II' but rightly or wrongly I plan to get it "out there" and get copies into the hands of some reviewers rather than go the long and tortuous route of trying to get a publisher to take it on at the outset.

Anyone should feel free to post feedback and/or criticism but I will give notice that I am unlikely to rewrite any of the first chapter. One thing that I have learned about writing is that a work can almost always be improved and that, if one is not careful, rewriting can become an endless task. As far as chapter 1 is concerned I have drawn a line in the sand and it will take a lot to convince me to make changes.

Neil