So I know I already posted a part about outlining, but I wanted to give you another point of view on it.

Lori Goldstein is the author of the Young Adult Contemporary Fantasy novel, Becoming Jinn. I asked her if she outlines her stories, and I have included her response below. She even has a whole series on her blog about novel planning. http://www.lorigoldsteinbooks.com/novel-planning-step-1/. After I read it, I began to outline my story, and it has helped so much.

And here is her response to outlining:

"I'm a huge proponent of outlining. I find it really helps me focus. It takes time. I probably spend a month outlining. But then the writing is much faster and more focused and I cut much less. Not everything stays the same--surprises happen for the good. But the basis is there and I know generally where I need to end up at key points in the novel. People do also outline in revision stage and find it's very very helpful.

"I write in such a way that the first draft is definitely like a second or even third. I outline like crazy before (to the tune of an 80 page outline before I start) and then I write slowly--I don't jump ahead. I don't move on until I'm set. Then probably 2-4 times for revisions on my own. Reading through, fixing plot, tweaking language. Then I get my agent's feedback and go through at least one round with her. And then editor time! Which can be one light or one heavy and one light!

"So for my own purposes before I'd have anyone else read it, I'd say at least 5-6 rounds. Some of those are major things--realizing a plot line doesn't work, changing the order of things, etc. Some are light, tweaking dialogue and language and keeping an eye out for repetitive language, etc. Suffice it to say, I have the book memorized by the time I'm done!

"Breaks from the story are good. Take them when you need them and get energized to dive back in!"

So want to know about her awesome book? Trust me, it's good.

Azra Nadira's Jinn ancestry means magic has always been inside her. But the rules don't allow her to begin drawing upon it until the day she turns sixteen. The day she receives the silver bangle that releases her powers and transforms her into a genie.

It doesn't have to be tight like a handcuff to achieve the same effect.

Her destiny is now controlled by the powerful Afrit who rule over the Jinn world, and she must keep her true identity a secret from all but the fellow Jinn who make up her Zar sisterhood.

Though she grew up with these five Jinn "sisters," they've always wanted the one thing Azra never has: to become a Jinn. This fact separates Azra from them now more than ever. When she reconnects with Henry, the human boy across the street she used to play with as a child, she finds in him the best friend her Zar sisters are supposed to be.

The more she uses her powers, the less she feels like a Jinn. Maybe that's because her focus begins to shift to Nate, the lifeguard with the underwear model exterior and sweet, shy interior.

Her attachments to Henry and Nate and the human world begin to further strain her ties to her Zar and the Jinn. With her attention divided, she skirts the rules, and her genie mistakes begin to mount, along with the consequences.

As Azra uncovers the darker world of becoming Jinn, she realizes when genies and wishes are involved, there's always a trick.

Sounds really cool right? You can find the first chapter on her Wattpad. Here's my review of it:

Becoming Jinn is an absolutely incredible debut novel by Lori Goldstein. When I first heard it was about genies, I knew I had to check it out. The problem was was that it wouldn't be out for another year and a half. I had the privilege of becoming friends with Ms. Goldstein through Twitter, and then a few months ago she asked me to be a part of her Teen ARC tour. I was thrilled.

The main character, Azra, is amazing, and I felt like she was my best friend immediately. I mean, a genie as a best friend, it can't get much better than that.

Azra's love triangle is definitely not one sided for readers. I loved both Henry and Nate, though admittedly I loved Nate more, but another ARC reader was completely for Henry.

There were so many fantastic quotes I wish I could share. I underlined and highlighted so much in that ARC.

The pacing was perfect. There was never a dull moment, but there were times when the reader was still able to catch their breath while still having to turn the page.

Becoming Jinn is truly fantastic. Lori Goldstein's writing is marvelous. I wanted the second book before I was even done with the first.

Don't miss out on this beautiful book.

Want an opportunity to chat with LoriGoldstein and author AnnaBanks ? On Monday at Eight PM EST, they are hosting a Twitter chat on the #BecomingJinn. They are also giving away prizes!

Never participated in a Twitter Chat? They're a blast! I won a signed audio book of Anna Banks' novel, Of Poseidon, during one.

They'd love to see you there!

For more information on Lori Goldstein: http://www.lorigoldsteinbooks.com/