Yes, they can. If the story is engaging and unique, readers will be drawn to it regardless of length. For example, 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss is a long debut novel that has gained a huge following. It has a richly detailed world and complex characters that keep readers hooked.
Challenges in long debut novels include managing the complexity. There are often multiple sub - plots and themes in a long novel, and making sure they all tie together neatly is not easy. First - time writers may also face the problem of self - doubt more acutely as they pour so much time into a long work. There's also the issue of marketability. Publishers may be more hesitant to take on a long debut novel as it may be seen as a riskier investment compared to shorter works. And from a creative perspective, coming up with enough original ideas to fill the pages of a long debut novel can be a struggle.
It depends. While length can be a factor, publishers also consider the quality of the writing, the market demand, and the author's potential. A long debut novel with a unique plot and strong characters can still find a publisher.
For a debut fantasy novel, a good length is often between 70,000 and 90,000 words. This allows for enough depth and detail while not overwhelming the reader or the author in the initial stages of their writing career.
It can vary, but typically a debut urban fantasy novel is around 80,000 to 100,000 words. That gives enough space to build the world and tell a compelling story.