I'm quite new around here too, and am unpublished, although I have finished my first book and am trying to sell it. I'm also in the process of writing a second book. Here's my opinion...
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Originally Posted by Anthony Goolab   How much theory do I include when explaining theories and working principles to the multitude of inventions I have created for this story? Thus far I have included quite detailed explanations. This will hopefully ensure I do not baffle readers too much; as I could be in danger of losing readers if I am sparse with Plain English. |
As Anthony W says, it's a matter of taste... my own opinion, though, is that you should include as little explanation as possible. Certainly you don't want to alienate your audience, but likewise you don't want to bombard them with facts. They'll be reading the story to see how characters behave and plots develop - I see the inventions as props. If there are things you need to explain, maybe you can do so through the story. I guess I'm trying to say, be wary of info-dumping as it slows down the narrative.
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Originally Posted by Anthony Goolab I have a suspicion I will exceed the 100,000 word limit. Is this acceptable? |
I think that John Jarrold, an agent and book doctor, has said on this forum that most fantasy and science fiction is over 120,000, and it's very common to find books over 150,000 words. Obviously you don't want to go too far the other way, especially for your first book, but I don't think you should worry about it being over 100,000.
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Originally Posted by Anthony Goolab I am now with the most amazing lady who supports this venture and totally believes my story will be a bestseller. Also, my two eldest children (teenagers) think my story is phenomenal and are quite disappointed when I can't produce narrative quicker than I do. |
For me, the support and encouragement of my family are so important, so it's really good that you have this - it really does help. Um, but I'd suggest that you be wary of thinking too much about your book being a bestseller. It may be, but if it isn't, it's still an achievement, and is still worth writing. I also hear that the road to getting published is sometimes very long and you might experience knock-backs, so I guess I'm just saying to be cautious, and let your lady know that publishing, for the most part, does not automatically lead to fame and riches! (Though we all wish it would for us!
) I'm always having to remind my husband of this.