'Just write what's in your head'

There are fewer fairy tales in publishing these days, but there's still some magic left and dreams can come true.

Don't write for the publishers and don't try to second guess the market; it's elusive and impossible to pin down.

Just write what's in your head and what's in your heart and give the reader a reason to keep turning the pages, whether it's love for your characters or a need to find out what happened ten years ago or what happens next.

And don't worry if it sometimes feels impossible. It's supposed to feel that way.

Lisa Jewel, author of The Girls and Ralph's Party, in the Mail online