Reading Widely Matters
Writing Your First Novel
Absorb different styles to strengthen storytelling.
Writing a novel requires creativity, discipline, and an understanding of storytelling. To become a better writer, be an active reader.
Reading is more than a pastime, it’s training. Gain insights into pacing, structure, character development, and dialogue.
If you write psychological horror, study books like Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn or The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides. These will help you understand how to build tension.
These novels use unreliable narrators, slow-burn reveals, and chilling character psychology to keep readers on edge. Absorb these techniques and apply similar strategies to your own writing.
Read outside your comfort zone.
Mystery and Thriller: Pay attention to how suspense is created. Authors layer uncertainty and deliver twists.
Fantasy: Study world-building. Small details create fictional universes.
Literary Fiction: Observe how language shapes tone. Focus on character depth and emotional nuance.
Science Fiction: Futuristic concepts are introduced without overwhelming the story.
Romance: Tension is built between characters. Strong chemistry develops between protagonists.
A fantasy novel with psychological twists could have the unpredictability of a thriller, while a romance subplot in a sci-fi book makes characters relatable.
Reading passively isn’t enough. Approach books with a critical eye. Analyze what works.
As you read, jot down moments that stand out. Did a scene make you feel nervous? Did a particular phrase paint a vivid picture?
Some books move quickly, others take their time. Compare how different novels structure their scenes. Thrillers have punchy chapters to keep momentum high. Epic fantasy uses intricate descriptions. What fits your story best?
Notice how authors build relationships. Are characters driven by internal conflict? Does their dialogue feel natural?
Some writers struggle with making conversations feel authentic. Read books with excellent dialogue. The Catcher in the Rye teaches how to craft conversations that sound natural.
A first-person perspective feels intimate. A third-person point of view can create distance.
Read wide to sharpen your craft, gain new techniques, and deepen your storytelling. Study different genres and analyze what makes books work.