Goodreads
Goodreads asked Robyn Kelly:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Robyn Kelly Don't just read the books you like. Read books from other beginners in your genre. Notice the things that bother you, and then look for it in your writing. It's often easier to see the flaws in others, while being blind to our own. I have a dislike of unmotivated plot twists, and then spent a week having to rewrite my book when I realized I had created a few.

Be kind in your criticism. Having written a book, I realize now the effort it takes. That critical voice in your head may sabotage your first draft. It kept me from writing for years.

Learn your strengths. Are you better with dialogue or description? Are you better at first drafts or rewriting? Let your strengths out when inspiration flows, and polish your weaknesses when it is still.

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more