What to do when you've finished your first novel

Write another (that's the bullet point for those of you who like to skip to the end of reviews and read the star rating rather than the review - everyone else read on).

I'm assuming that, having taken the time to research, plan and write a book you've also done your homework in terms of approaching agents and publishers, and that your manuscript (or at least enquiry letter) is out there in roughly the right hands. If not you shouldn't be reading this (yet) you should be reading From Pitch to Publication:Everything You Need to Know to Get Your Novel Published

There are several reasons why I think the logical next step after finishing your first book is to start another immediately. First up is your sanity; if you just sit round waiting for responses you're going to be waiting a while (with no guarantees of any takers) and your blood pressure will be going up all the time you wait. Your manuscript is like your child - you prepare it as best you can for the world and send it out to find its path. If it needs you it'll get in touch.

Secondly no agent or publisher will want to take you on if you don't look like a long-term prospect. Most first novels aren't massive hits so a career that can build over time stands the best chance of earning you (and therefore your publisher and agent) some money.

Next up is practice - if you want to be a decent writer then keep writing. The phrase 'writing is a muscle' is massively over-used but only because it's bang on the money. If you don't write you won't improve. If you're lucky enough to get published and your editor wants a few re-writes then keeping your hand in in the meantime is essential. Also, you don't write a book and magically become a writer, you're only a writer if you write.

Don't have an idea for a second novel? Just keep reading, writing and playing around with ideas. Keep asking those 'what if...' questions and an idea will come to you.

The fact that I've written one book is largely thanks to three people very close to me: one told me I could write, one told me I should and one told me just to keep going. The second book will be entirely down to the fact that I have loved the process and can't wait to do it all again.


Good luck and keep going.