Could You Pick it Up (or Slow it Down) Already? Setting the Right Pace in Your Novel

Pace–how quickly (or not)–a novel progresses has a direct impact on readers’ enjoyment and understanding of the story, its characters, and its plot. But pace doesn’t mean hurry-up-and-get-to-the-end. A masterful writer understands when to speed up or slow down action, how to dole out character backstory, and the key moments to reveal vital clues or information. This session will explore how to consider pace as part of planning a novel, how to use scenes to set the right pace, and how to use editing techniques to tighten or loosen pace.