Hardcover Fiction

Writing fiction is an exercise in writing about things or events that are purely imaginary, though a fiction story may be based in fact. Preparing a story to be published as hardcover fiction can be an arduous process and requires self-discipline as well as a vivid imagination. It takes devotion to the task; indeed some of the great authors devoted their lifetimes to their stories.

Fiction is usually categorized according to genre: romance, horror, mystery, thriller, science fiction. What most fiction stories have in common is form. The main characters are introduced, a tense situation is created, a negative character is introduced as an antagonist, and the story comes to a climax in the last scene.

A few basic principles apply to writing fiction:

* Start with an idea

* Write in a narrative style

* Use realistic characters and dialogues, especially if you are writing about a specific region

* Write about something you have personally experienced

* Mull the story over while you are engaged in other non-writing tasks

* Return to the fiction story to make your final edits in preparation for its presentation as a work of hardcover fiction.

One way to get a feel for what type of fiction appeals to a large audience is to read bestsellers. Another is to enroll fiction writing workshops or join a fiction writers group to share ideas and gain skills and insight into writing fiction. Read book reviews to discover what reviewers describe as compelling elements of a good story.

Once you have completed your story, give it a final read to check for spelling, grammar, and syntax. If possible, hire a professional editor to read through and critique it. If a professional editor is not an option, ask a friend or colleague to read it and provide feedback.