Any attempt to give €would-be writers€ tips or advice on how to write well or what to write about is a veritable minefield. Why? Well writing is entirely a subjective pursuit, especially when creating fiction which comes largely from the deep recesses of the writer's mind. Because it is a subjective process it goes without saying that what comes forth is unique to the pen of that particular author. It can't be imitated or copied. There is a trend these days, well-known, successful writers to take up the unfinished stories of dead authors. I have read a few of these attempts to enliven the words of a late-departed writer in order to perpetuate the portfolio beyond the grave. But these books, however well intentioned never work. How can they? How can one writer get into the very depths of another's mind by simply reading the books of that writer or by studying the target-writer's life? It's not possible. Fake paintings that deftly imitate the old Masters are always found out to be that...fakes! It's the same with books.

So what does that tell us...

Tip No. 1 - Don't be afraid to write. If it's your destiny it will come out, just be confident.

Tip No. 2 - Always write your own stuff. Don't ever imitate someone else's style or plot or characters.

Tip No. 3 - Don't look for praise or literary advice from members of your own family circle. Remember a prophet in his own country is not well esteemed. Take your manuscript to a local librarian, they love books and will give you honest advice.

Tip No. 4 - When you have finished writing for the day, meaning to continue the next day, remember Ernest Hemingway's excellent advice €...always end the page at a point when you definitely know what's coming next.€

Tip No. 5 - Always place a pen and a notebook beside your bed - inspiration often comes in the middle of the night. If it does, write it down because if you don't you won't remember what it is in the morning.

Tip No. 6 - Read lots. And after reading lots carry on reading. Reading stimulates the writer's mind and without being plagiaristic, it can often be the source of new inspiration.

Tip No. 7 - Do it for love and not for money. If you do it for love then the money will come.

Tip No. 8 - When submitting your manuscript ALWAYS read the guidelines, if you don't the publisher will simply bin your work unread (and they will not let you know).

Tip No. 9 - Get a copy of the €Writers & Artist's Year Book€ - it has invaluable advice and will save you time, money and wasted effort.

Tip No. 10 - Remember writing is business, big business! So do not be naive. Finishing a book counts for only 10% of the game, the rest is all marketing, promotion and sales. Don't be discouraged - be realistic.

Good Luck and work hard - you'll get there in the end so don't ever give up.