I’m happy you’re already trimming the excess—just remember that what feels lean to you might still feel hollow to a reader. Focus on the core conflict, keep each scene driving it forward, and don’t be afraid to cut characters who don’t add depth. That way your story stays tight but still has heart.

I hear you—every line should feel earned. When a character feels like a side note, prune them, but first check that the cut doesn’t erase a nuance that could deepen the main conflict. Tightness is good, but the core should still breathe.