Everything you need to know about editing a action/adventure manuscript

Editing an action/adventure manuscript can sometimes feel like trying to navigate a white-water rapid – it's fast-paced, unpredictable, and full of thrills. But don't worry, this guide is here to be your raft, helping you steer your way towards crafting an exhilarating, heart-pounding adventure. Grab your life jacket, and let's plunge into the world of high stakes, daring exploits, and epic quests!

Understanding the audience

Action/adventure readers crave excitement. They're seeking tales of intrepid heroes, villainous adversaries, exotic locales, and high-octane situations. Understanding these genre conventions and their readers can guide your editing process to better cater to their adrenaline-fuelled expectations.

This is an audience of thrill-seekers so let your editing be guided by this: focus on ensuring that the pacing is fast, the action scenes are thrilling, and the stakes are always high.

Story structure and plot

In action/adventure, plot is king. Your story needs a high-stakes beginning, a middle filled with escalating tension and conflict, and a satisfying ending that resolves the central crisis.

As you edit, examine your plot. Are your action sequences varied and thrilling? Does the tension ratchet up towards a climactic showdown? Does the ending bring resolution and relief? In the world of action/adventure, the plot must keep the reader on the edge of their seat. Ensure the structure of your story captures the exhilarating pace, the obstacles encountered, and the eventual triumphant – or perhaps bitter-sweet – ending.

Character development

Your characters, particularly your hero, are central to your action/adventure story. Readers should be rooting for your protagonist and booing your antagonist.

For an action/adventure story, characters must be dynamic and resilient, ready to face challenges head-on. They should be convincing in their bravery and cleverness, with a character arc that reflects their adventures. Make sure their actions and decisions align with the high-octane narrative. In action/adventure, character consistency and growth can make the difference between a forgettable romp and a memorable epic.

Language and dialogue

In action/adventure stories, language often conveys fast-paced action and vivid descriptions. Dialogue should reflect the urgency and dynamics of the plot, with short, snappy exchanges and decisive statements.

Is your language vivid and dynamic? Does your dialogue feel natural and reveal important information?

Theme and message

Action/adventure novels often tackle themes of courage, survival, and the struggle between good and evil. Ensure that these themes are seamlessly integrated into the plot and character arcs, providing depth and resonance to the thrilling action sequences.

Crafting action scenes and resolution

Crafting believable, exciting action scenes and a satisfying resolution is vital in action/adventure. Your action scenes should be clear, visceral, and varied, and your resolution should provide a satisfying end to the adventure.

In your edit, scrutinise your action scenes and resolution. Are your action scenes engaging, dynamic, and easy to follow? Is the resolution a fitting conclusion to the adventure? Remember, varied and well-crafted action scenes and a satisfying resolution are the keys to a gripping action/adventure story.

The importance of editing in action/adventure

Editing an action/adventure manuscript is about ensuring every element adds to the thrill of the ride. It's about perfecting every action scene, every character moment, and every plot twist until you have a story that keeps readers breathlessly turning the pages.

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