Hello,

I am working on writing a novel for the third time now. The first novel I wrote made it to about 35000 words and just stopped dead as a literally did a free write of one character over the course of a week and then could not decide how to end the book.

The second book made it 10000 words and a bad case of writers block.

My question is as far as a first time author how strict are publishers on the word count and how should I approach writing my novel. I am currently at 95000 words and am about halfway. I have gone back and inserted notes for rewrites and appendixes on characters. I would say I have about 85000 words of actual story. The entire book is plotted out this time so I know how it will end. I have it as a stand alone story that wraps up but, if the writing gods smile on me and this ever gets published I could easily turn it into a 3rd book.

I have read all about the limitations on word cout for first time authors and it seems for epic fantasy that 120k is the upper limit. I am worried I am already nearing that point and have much more to tell.

I have days where i just flow like water and crank out chapters that are 5000 words, others were I struggle to get 1000-2000.

Should I finish the book and then go back and begin the rewrite and edit process or should I go ahead and fix things now in order to see how much room i have. I have read some general advice on internet sites and have heard arguements both way. I would like a community consesnsus to help.

Thanks
An aspiring author.