My 7 Amazing (Or Not) Rules For Writing A Novel

Elizabeth Bonaparte, who American Socialite is based on.

With the publication of my second novel, American Socialite, just around the corner, I've hunkered down to give my book that last shot of intense attention it needs before it's fired off into the world. I'm currently working with a cover artist, carefully giving the manuscript a final read over (the most grueling part of the entire process, by far) and am trying to promote the novel as effectively as possible.

With so much going on, though, I thought it would be good to let off some steam. I recently read articles from a well known publication where famous writers presented their 7 best pieces of writing advice. While I'm far from famous myself, I thought it would be fun to take a break and present 7 rules of my own.

And so, with no further ado, here are:

My 7 Amazing (Or Not) Rules For Writing A Novel

1. Only write something you're truly excited about.
2. Become an expert (or close to an expert) on whatever your subject is.
3. Don't rush, either to start or to finish. 
4. Except when you're in the zone. Then put the pedal to the metal.
5. Give your novel theme songs that you play on loop while working on it. 
6. Take breaks from your novel when needed.
7. Revise and polish until you think you might be losing it. Then take the hint your mind is giving you and wrap it up.

Each writer has her or her own process, of course, but this one certainly works for me.

Remember to pick up American Socialite at Amazon.com when it goes on sale July 16th!