Navigating the Challenges of a Long First Novel: Insights for Writers

When setting out to write your first novel, it's common to encounter various challenges, such as feeling that your story is always stretching out and that it will never end. This can be particularly disheartening when you're faced with feedback from your literary agent indicating that your 280 Google Doc pages might be too much for your first novel. However, with the right approach, you can manage the length and pacing of your story effectively.

Understanding the Difference in Pages and Word Count

Firstly, it's important to understand the difference between the word count in your Google Doc and the actual page count in a printed version. The 280 Google Doc pages you mentioned presume an 8.5 by 11-inch page size. However, in a 6” x 9” trade paperback format, the actual page size will be smaller, resulting in fewer words per page. Online calculators can help you estimate the page count based on your total word count, providing a clearer picture of the length of your manuscript.

The Case for a First Novel's Length

Your concern about the length of your first novel is understandable, especially if you're writing in a genre like fantasy, which tends to be longer than other genres. The good news is that a first novel over 400 pages is not too long, especially if you are a novice author. It's best not to worry about the page or word count until after you've completed your first draft. This approach allows you to focus on crafting a compelling narrative, and you'll have a better understanding of the story's length once it's completed.

Addressing the Feeling of an Unending Story

If you often feel that your stories are dragging on with no end in sight, you might benefit from a more structured approach to your writing. Outlining can be an invaluable tool in helping you maintain a clear and engaging narrative. Here is a simple guide to help you break your story into three acts:

Three-Act Structure for Your Novel

First Act (25% of the Novel): Set up your world and introduce your main character along with their goals. By the end of this act, you should have established the main story and the inciting incident or call to action that sets it off. Second Act (50% of the Novel): Your character is on the main journey of the story. During this act, you should include scenes that build towards the book's end while fulfilling what the reader expects from the story. This includes the development of side plots that add depth to the narrative. Third Act (25% of the Novel): Bring all the plot threads together, reaching the climax and the highest point of tension in the novel. This act should also contain the resolution of the story, whether you tie up all the loose ends or leave them open-ended based on your storytelling goals.

Remember, this is just a rough guide, and not every story follows this structure precisely. However, having a general outline can help you avoid common pitfalls of over-expanding certain sections and ensure that your narrative remains engaging throughout.

By outlining your novel, you can gain a clear roadmap for your writing journey. This approach will help you maintain control over the pacing and ensure that your story remains engaging and well-structured. Whether you're a seasoned writer or a newcomer to the craft, a well-planned outline can be the key to crafting a captivating and coherent narrative.

Conclusion

Writing a first novel is an exciting but challenging journey. With the right strategies and tools, you can navigate the complexities of storytelling and produce a compelling manuscript. Don't let the page count or the feeling of an unfinished story deter you. Embrace the process, stay focused, and with time and effort, you can bring your narrative to a satisfying and fulfilling conclusion.