Goodreads asked James Duncan:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

James Duncan Keep writing! My method of writing requires some discipline, I set a minimum of 1,000 words a day, getting there! Once you have that structure, you are free to be creative and try and write simply for the pure enjoyment of it. Find a theme and a plot and characters that you can live with comfortably for several months. Do your research, internet brilliant for this. I find obscure information which is vital for descriptions. Last night I couldn't think of the word of the 'things' you secure a nappy with. Found it, of course, you fasten the "tabs"! Doh! Get a little distance and then re-read your book, be as honest as you can and write another draft. Approach publishers and agents specialising in your genre, remembering rejection is more likely than acceptance. Then try self publishing if traditional publishing contract eludes you. I recommend Amazon Kindle, so many self-publishing outfits are pretty dodgy and will cause you heartache (personal experience!) Believe in yourself. It's a competitive world, with multitudes of author budding new writers trying to make it big. Develop a thick skin and be relentless with promotion. Good luck!

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