Greetings and welcome to another edition of Editor AMA! I asked my followers on Instagram if they had any questions for me about writing, editing, or publishing. Without further ado, let's explore the queries that have sparked your interest.
(Jump to a question by clicking the links below.)
What is the difference between a hard and soft magic system?
The difference between hard and soft magic systems lies in how defined and structured the rules and limitations of magic are within a story.
Hard Magic Systems have well-defined rules, limits, and constraints that the reader clearly understands. The mechanics of the magic are explained in detail, and there are specific costs or consequences for using it. This creates a predictable framework where the audience knows what magic can and cannot do, which can add tension and strategy to the story. A good example of a hard magic system is found in Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series, where magic operates on strict principles involving the consumption of metals.
Soft Magic Systems, on the other hand, are more mysterious and flexible, with fewer clearly defined rules. The limits of magic are not fully explained, allowing it to feel more wondrous and unpredictable. This type of magic system is often used to create an atmosphere of enchantment or to serve as a plot device without needing detailed explanation. However, because it lacks clear boundaries, it should be used sparingly to avoid plot holes or the sense that magic is a convenient solution to any problem. J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings features a soft magic system; magic is present, but its workings are largely left unexplained.
Should I warn readers if my book isn't written using American English?
This is a great question, and one that comes up often for authors writing in versions of English other than American English. Unfortunately, some US-centric readers may leave negative reviews for what they perceive as spelling errors, even when the words are correctly spelled in another form of English, such as British or Australian English. This can also extend to characters speaking in certain dialects, like African American Vernacular English (AAVE), which some might wrongly view as grammatically incorrect.
Some authors, like Caimh McDonnell, address this upfront by including a note in the author’s note or introduction, informing readers about the spelling or language choices used in the book. This approach has had mixed reactions—some readers appreciate the heads-up, finding it helpful to know what to expect, and it can indeed reduce poor reviews based solely on language differences. However, others have found these notes to be unnecessary or even patronising.
Ultimately, whether you choose to include such a note is up to you. There’s no guarantee it will prevent every critical review, as there is really no winning with some readers! But if you feel that providing a brief explanation could enhance the reading experience for your audience, it might be worth considering. You know your readers best, and your decision should reflect what you think will serve them—and your story—most effectively.
Can I write my book description in first-person POV?
Yes, you can write your book description in first-person POV, but it depends on your genre, target audience, and the personality of your main character. Typically, book descriptions are written in third person present tense, even for memoirs that are told in first person. This is the industry standard, and it's what's generally expected by readers and publishers alike.
However, if you’re writing for genres like middle grade or YA fiction—where there’s often more flexibility—and your main character has a strong, distinctive voice, a first-person blurb can be an engaging way to draw readers in. This approach can add a unique touch that reflects the tone of your story and gives potential readers a taste of your character’s personality.
That said, sticking with a third-person blurb is usually the safest bet, especially if you’re aiming for a more traditional or broad appeal. As an indie author, you have the freedom to experiment and break from the norms, but it’s important to consider how these choices might be received by your audience. Ultimately, the key is to choose the approach that best captures the essence of your book and resonates with your intended readers.
What classifies a book as a novella?
Simply, the length!
The classification of a book as a novella is all about word count, not genre or content. A novella can belong to any genre, and the only requirement is its length. Here’s a general breakdown of word counts for different types of fiction:
Short story: Typically over 1,000 words, but usually under 10,000 words.
Novelette: Between 7,000 and 17,000 words.
Novella: Ranges from 10,000 to 40,000 words.
Novel: Anything over 40,000 words, though most novels are at least 50,000 words.
So, if your story falls within the 10,000 to 40,000-word range, it’s considered a novella, regardless of its subject matter or genre. The novella format offers a great opportunity to explore a more focused narrative than a novel, while still providing more depth than a short story.
How do I write a neutral, supportive review for a book I didn't like?
Writing a neutral or supportive review for a book you didn't enjoy can be challenging, but it’s all about finding balance and being considerate about your language. Start by highlighting any positives, no matter how small they may seem. For instance, perhaps the author had a strong vocabulary, a character you liked, or a plot twist you found creative. Leading with these positives sets a constructive tone for your review.
When moving into your critique, aim to use neutral language and avoid personal or harsh comments. For instance, if the romantic plotline didn't resonate with you, instead of saying, "The female main character was so annoying—what did he even see in her?!" you might write, "I struggled to connect with the dynamic between the main characters, which made it challenging for me to invest in their relationship."
Another example: if the pacing felt off, instead of saying, "The plot was painfully slow, and nothing ever happened," you could phrase it as, "I found the pacing slower than I typically prefer, which made it hard for me to stay engaged. However, readers who enjoy a more gradual build-up might appreciate this approach."
Using this neutral and respectful language helps convey your honest opinion without alienating the author or potential readers who might feel differently. Phrases like “I think” and “I feel” can also soften your critique and make it clear that these are just your personal views. Remember, reviews are subjective, and what didn’t work for you might resonate with someone else.
To wrap up your review, acknowledge that while the book wasn’t to your taste, it may still appeal to a different audience. For instance, I recently found a YA dystopian novel slow-paced and lacking in action; I ended my review by suggesting that readers who enjoy science fiction with a slower, more mysterious tone might appreciate the book more than I.
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