What separates a decent first draft from a truly compelling novel? In this episode, we’ll provide you with 10 tips on the art of revision and explore the strategies that transform rough manuscripts into powerful stories readers can’t put down. Whether you’re tackling your first revision or your fifth, this episode will help you approach the process with clarity, confidence, and a sharper editorial eye.

SHOW NOTES:

1. Walk Away
2. Read Through
3. Identify your Core Story
4. Focus on Big Ideas First
5. Revise in Layers
6. Strengthen Character Motivation
7. Raise the Stakes
8. Cut and Move
9. Check Scene Purpose
10. Sharpen Openings and Endings

SOURCES & LINKS

“How to Revise a Novel,” Holly Lisle https://hollylisle.com/how-to-revise-a-novel/

“Novel Revision Checklist,” Nathan Bransford https://nathanbransford.com/blog/2022/06/revision-checklist

Books on story structure, character, motivation and stakes

Story Genius, Wired for Story by Lisa Kron

Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody

Related ATB Episodes:

Editing and Revision Methods, Episode 21 (backwards outline, color coding, notecards…)

Editing (interview with 2 editors), Episode 51

Tension and Conflict, Episode 61

DO NOW: Determine where you are in your editing process and try an editing technique that you haven’t tried yet

Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.

Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com

Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/

Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com

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