So, I’ve spent the last two days holed up in my room finishing the third draft of my novel. I added a great motivation for one character as a result.
However, I also began to wonder if I shouldn’t change my ending. If I did, I would cut out the last two chapters (essentially 5000 words), resulting in I think a better cliff hanger. But my qualms: 5000 words is a lot when my novel is only 65,000. It would take it down to 60,000 words, which I think is very low. Does anyone out there have any advice for me on this point?
To recap: it’s a young adult novel and I’ve read that they are supposed to be between 50,000 and 70,000 words so I’m right in there. I am just unsure.
Thanks for any advice out there!
Hi! I wrote about this very subject in my blog post yesterday. In my opinion, you need to make the characters and story work the way that feels best to you. You’ll instinctively know when you have the right balance.
Get input from other people too. But basically, If the story “feels” right to you, don’t worry about the word count. You’re in the recommended ballpark, and when an agent/editor decides they want to work with you, you’ll end up editing the book again anyway. So, follow your instincts.
I’d love to have you visit my blog. If you begin with the Blog Launch Posting on November 4, you’ll see what “The Journey” is all about. And then, in subsequent postings, I’ve tried to include links and information that might be of help and/or interest to other writers.
Good luck! I’ll look forward to hearing from you.
Cheri