A breakout novel is one that rises out of its category--such as literary fiction, mystery, romance, or thriller--and hits the bestseller lists. Maass explains the elements that all breakout novels share and shows readers how to use these elements to write a novel that has a good chance of succeeding in a crowded marketplace. They'll learn to:
* create a powerful and sweeping sense of time and place * develop larger-than-life characters * sustain a high degree of narrative tension from start to finish * weave sub-plots into the main action * explore universal themes that will interest a large audience of readers
Then, using several of his clients' experiences--including best-selling novelist Anne Perry--as case studies, Maass provides real-life, insider examples to show how this type of novel can generate agent and publisher interest, creating or enhancing a novelist's career.
* Includes an introduction by best-selling author Anne Perry * Maass' insider examples lend the credibility and visibility necessary to attract a wide audience of writers
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass:
this is hands down the best 'how to' book for writers and aspiring writers that I've read. It has valuable hints and tips on every page. This man knows the writing craft! Buy it - your writing will get better.
Great book..... But:
The book was very helpful, answer many of my questions and if you follow his suggestion I beleive, I think it will improve your writing and (hopefully) your chances of being published. Now for the "but." There are lots of good and even great writers not getting a chance. There are too many agents and publishers that are looking for "types or formats" not great stories or books. As a reader and hopefully a writer, I am looking for something a little different...The book is well worth a read and it will help... more info
Very good advice for writers:
I'm now reading through Donal Maass's Writing the Breakout Novel for the 2nd or 3rd time, and each time it's very helpful in writing my own fiction. His insights and analyses of what makes a book 'break out' into bestsellerdom or into critical acclaim make one stop to look more critically at one's own writing.
Really, really helpful. Very practical advice.
Pull out your Highlighters--You're going to need them:
My rating of course is a dead giveaway that I liked this book, immensely. It deserves high praise indeed for Maass's in depth, yet succinct and clear writing style. His many years of writing experience shine through. And as president of his own Literary Agency, he knows what the industry looks for and he knows how to showcase the important, and indispensable devices you need to master--if you really want to get published. All the chapters conveniently end with a Breakout Checklist, which is a nice way to... more info
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