Fiction Writing is a skill that demands time, creativity, and a lot of dedication to excel. Whether an established writer or just starting in the field, every writer can relate that the feeling of completing a manuscript remains unmatched. The joy of ending your last chapter is endless.

As a fiction writer, you must be aware that most readers prefer to read fiction to escape reality for a while. It allows them to be in someone else’s shoes for a while and empathize with them. Fiction creates an open field and liberates the reader to let their imagination run free. 

If you are a fiction writer or aspiring to become one, here are a few proven tips to help you engage your reader better.

1. Use the Iceberg Theory

Before you start to write, take a few days to dive into the writing styles of the icons from the past. They have much to teach us through their writing skills and character-building. By reading through the lines, you will understand why people like Hemingway are still with us, even after so many years.

Hemingway’s Iceberg Theory is helping fiction writers even to date. This theory suggests that, like an iceberg, let the readers see only the tip of what you have to say. The base of the iceberg is its strongest part. In the same way, you must keep the strongest part as a surprise to be revealed later.

2. Develop Strong Characters

Characters in any story, especially the protagonists, hold the most important role in the success of your fiction work. They are the strongest link between your work and the reader. Compelling character descriptions are the most important step toward engaging your readers. 

Before writing, you can start by creating a character mood board. This practice can help you create and understand your character better and strengthen your character and plot. As a result, the readers will also develop stronger connections with your characters.

3.  Hire Professionals to Help

Whether you have just started writing fiction or have years of experience, revisions and editing can get overwhelming sometimes. Repeated editing sessions can cause burnout, and there is a higher chance that you will overlook redundancies in your book.

This is why many fiction writers rely on literary fiction editors for help. Hiring a reliable editor can help improve your manuscript in many ways. With an objective set of eyes, professional editors can help you work on your tone, omit grammatical errors and eliminate inconsistencies.

4. Write Simple Sentences

Writing fiction is about providing a safe space for your reader to relax and enter the world of imagination. Your best effort must ensure that each sentence is written so that the reader’s train of thought is not lost and they stay indulged in your book.

Using a minimal writing approach is the best way to engage your readers. You can improve your engagement by using concise sentences and avoiding verbose to engage a wider audience. This practice will help you engage readers from different age groups and diverse backgrounds.

5. Kill All Distractions

Writing is a task that requires your utmost attention and complete focus. Distractions can be your worst enemy. They can disrupt your thought process and make you exhausted more quickly. You need a distraction-free writing space to work effectively as a writer.

It is recommended that you dedicate a separate space for writing. It does not have to be a proper office. All you need is a separate room, a mood board, and a peaceful environment. In addition, switching off your cell phone during writing can also be very helpful in staying focused.

6. Write Consistently 

Writing a book may become exhausting at some point. It is nothing to worry about, and you do not have to give up. All you need to do is stay consistent and create a routine. You can set a dedicated time for writing every day per your schedule.

Remember, the key to completing your book is to stay on track. Even if you can spare only one hour every day, do it. Maintaining a consistent writing routine will help your brain get on track naturally. Therefore, it will also make you more focused on your dedicated time.

7. Set a Deadline

If you promise to complete your manuscript in a certain amount of time, there is a high chance that you will adhere to the deadline. Setting deadlines can help you write your books effectively and avoid procrastination. 

You cannot spend hours scrolling through social media as a writer rooting to write a book. Of course, this does not mean you cannot take good breaks. But setting deadlines will help remind you again and again about your priorities.

8. Design a Catchy Book Cover

A book cover is the first impression a fiction writer makes on the reader. Bookstores are filled with thousands of books with unique colors and eye-catching art. What will make your book stand out for readers striving to find their next good read?

As a writer, you cannot just rely on the power of your words. You have to ensure that your book cover catches the eye of a reader and engages them enough to take it home with them. You can hire book cover designers to share your burdens in designing a book cover.

9. Read to Write

According to numerous acclaimed writers, reading other writers’ work is the best way to improve your writing style. Reading fiction from famous writers can help you see how they do what they do. Their work can also help you find inspiration and ideas for your book.

As a result, your brain learns so many qualities of good writing. Before you know it, you already start incorporating your learnings into your work. Extensive reading can help you improve your writing style, create effective plots and write better character descriptions. 

10. Fight Off the Writer’s Block

Many writers, experienced or just begging in the field, can sometimes not write. If you feel that you are in the same situation, do not panic. It is a phenomenon that every writer has faced at some point in their lives. The key to fighting your writer’s block is to stay resilient.

Even if you feel like you are completely out of creative ideas, keep writing. You may have to remove the whole section during a revision, but that is okay. Staying resilient through a mental block trains your brain to work in even the most impossible circumstances.