How to write a damn good novel?

Simple. The writer needs to master the art of developing the plot of the story. If you have read reviews about Harry Potter, you will learn that the critics correctly pointed out that Harry Potter is really very simple story. In fact, there's really nothing spectacular about it as a work of literature. The achievement of J.K. Rowling is in her masterful development of the plot by creating characters that interact seamlessly at each stage (or act) of the story. She knew the demands of the plot and she knew how to satisfy them.

I agree that your story develops as you develop. and honestly if you sit there and think about JK Rowling's fame and success- you wont get far. You'll always be comparing your work to someone else's who has made alot of money from writing, and you'll start trying to imitate them and their storyline thinking that your writing gold. Just write your character's story, don't try to change the way your writing is going- just let it flow. the point of writing a novel isn't to make money or become famous (if it is though for you- you need to stop) it's about sharing a story and adventure with people. It's taking the story/world/trials and tribulations of the characters in your mind and sharing them with the world. Stop thinking about every author that made it great and copying their writing styles or "formulas"- write how you write and you may be surprised what comes about.

I think that J.K. Rowling's phenomenal success has less to do with how good her books are and more to do with luck. Not that I think she's a bad writer, I think she's really good... but there are tons of writers out there who are as good or better than she is. I think that Harry Potter became a mega-bestseller just because it got so many fans behind it that nothing could stop it. I don't think there's a formula for a good novel. No matter how hard you try there's always going to be someone who hates it, and thinks it's written horribly. Good writing is kind of a matter of personal taste. I'd just write what you love and not worry about other people. I think mastering the craft is not nearly as hard as getting something published and accepted by the public.