How many words are in the average novel? If you've written a novel, how many words was it in length?

Question

I've written several novels now and most of them are about 250,000 words. Is that higher or lower than average. I don't care if it's above average on the word count, but I don't want to be the skinny guy stuck on a shelf that is so thin the title can't be printed on the spine. Just wondering.

Also, are there any forums online for writers? I've looked and turned up a few that require a rather hefty membership fee and I'm not THAT desperate to find one. Basically somewhere that you can edit-swap and things of the like.

Answer 1

Generally speaking, for a first time author you want to be in the 80,000 -120,000 range, depending on the subject. Most agents and publishers would hesitate to publish a new author with a higher word count because of the risk involved with a new author. The cost of publishing a 80,000 word novel is far less than publishing a 250,000 word novel. Since you have more than one novel, you might try self publishing one first and really work to gain exposure and loyal readers. If you can show a prospective agent/publisher you have a track record and a platform with a strong reader following, you are more likely to be published.

I have written two novels. The one I am now seeking publication on is 92,000 words. The other is right at 50,000 words because I had to cut a lot out during my re-write, but I am expecting it to be around 85,000 - 90,000 as well.

Less than 8 out of 10 books purchased today are read all the way through to the end. I want people to finish my book and then go pick up my next book.

To build your platform and get to know other writers you can join Associated Content (AC), which is what I did.
Here you can meet new authors, publish smaller pieces (articles) and make a little extra cash while you are working on the all American Novel. I have met some great people through AC. Here is the link:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/join.html?refer=21342

The other great place is through National Novel Writing Month (which just ended November 30th). Make sure you sign up for next year. People swap novels, ideas, stories, characters, etc! I love it!
www.nanowrimo.org

Good Luck!!

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
How many words are in the average novel? If you've written a novel, how many words was it in length?
I've written several novels now and most of them are about 250,000 words. Is that higher or lower than average. I don't care if it's above average on the word count, but I don't want to be the skinny guy stuck on a shelf that is so thin the title can't be printed on the spine....

Answer 3

I have written three novels, 80 thou, 74 thou, and 102 thou.

I was told by two agents at a writers conference that the 74 thou was not long enough for a hardback historical suspense--that it should be 100 thous.

If you get the 250 thous word novel published you'll be rivaling Harry Potter in length.

I know of one free critique group on line. But they only accept scifi/fantasy/horror, most are short stories but there is a way to get a novel looked at too.

I also belong to a writers group (it cost $35 dues a year with an additional sign up fee of $10) they have on line eloops for questions, and just started a critique group (still getting off the ground). Most members are located in Pennsylvania (USA) but they have members in most of the states, and some in Canada.

Look at the web site, you might be able to find some links to other places of interest. Also check out Writers Digest, they list contests and conferences and you might find some near you.

Answer 4

My first ever novel I wrote ended at 225 thou words. Since then, I have written 3 other full-length novels. All rage between 200 thou and 250. So I think your spot on, dude. You have to tell the story, man. The whole story. Don't leave anything out because you think that it's too long. The story already exists, it is just waiting to be written. To tell the whole story might take 80 thou words or it may take 300.

Answer 5

I've written two novels. The first came to 146,000 words, the second 160,000. I like my stuff to be sparse, so I edit out a lot. It's a question of style.
To me, 250,000 words sounds a lot. So well done for stringing all those words together.
I don't use any writers' forums, so I can't help you with the last part of your question.
Good luck with your writing.

Answer 6

its a first time writer an its about everything an nothing at all. just something to make u turn the page. how many words is to many?