Resources for Writers: Fiction Genres
MYSTERY/CRIME
Mastering Suspense, Structure, and Plot by
Enthrall Your Readers! Suspense is one of the most powerful tools a writer has for captivating readers--but it isn't just for thrillers. From mainstream fiction to memoir, suspense creates the emotional tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Mastering Suspense, Structure, & Plot is your hands-on guide to weaving suspense into your narrative. Award-winning author Jane K. Cleland teaches you how to navigate genre conventions, write for your audience, and build gripping tension to craft an irresistible page-turner. Inside, Cleland will show you how to: * Implement thirteen no-fail techniques to construct an effective plot and structure for your story * Use Cleland's Plotting Road Map to add elements of suspense like twists, reversals, and moments of danger * Write subplots with purpose * Improve your descriptions, character development, sentence structure, and more Packed with case studies, exercises, and dozens of examples from best-selling authors, Mastering Suspense, Structure, & Plot is the key to writing suspenseful, engaging stories that leave your readers wanting more. ------ "Indispensable! For newbie authors and veterans alike, this terrific how-to is your new go-to. Don't write your book without it--it's a treasure." --Hank Phillippi Ryan, Agatha, Anthony, Macavity and Mary Higgins Clark award-winning author
Call Number: 808.3 CLEISBN: 9781599639673Publication Date: 2016-04-28
Writing the Mystery by
An authoritative guide to writing the genre, including the ins & outs of submitting, promotion, as well as in depth interviews with Elmore Leonard, Sujata Massey, S.J. Rozan, & others. Promoted through Writer's Journal, guides, & website.
Call Number: 808.387 HAYISBN: 1890768367Publication Date: 2004-12-01
How to Write Killer Fiction by
Learn the craft of mystery/suspense writing from a respected profesional. Achieve your writing and publishing goals through entertaining, thorough and practical tips and inspiration covering all aspects of writing--from construction to revision to marke
Call Number: 808.3872 WHEISBN: 9781880284629Publication Date: 2003-03-01
Writing Mysteries by
Here's your ticket to the greatest mystery-writing workshop ever! In this extraordinary compilation, more than three dozen members of the Mystery Writers of America share insights and advice that can help make your writing dreams a reality. You'll learn how to: Develop unique ideas Construct an airtight plot packed with intrigue and suspense Create compelling characters and atmospheric settings Develop a writing style all your own Write convincing dialogue Choose the appropriate point of view Work with an agent Conduct accurate research and much, much more! You'll also find special guidelines for creating clues, dropping red herrings, and writing medical, legal, historical, true crime, and young adult mysteries. It's all the information you need to solve the mystery-writing riddle!
Call Number: 808.3872 WRIISBN: 1582971021Publication Date: 2002-04-22
Masterclass: Writing Crime Fiction by
LEARN HOW TO WRITE GRIPPING CRIME FICTION. Do you have an idea for a gripping crime novel? Would you like to know how to plot your book flawlessly? Do you want to create beautifully crafted characters and nail biting twists? This book is designed for anyone who wants to write an unputdownable crime novel. Whatever your subgenre, whether Scandi-crime or detective 'cosies', this book is full of inspirational advice, acute insights and practical exercises. The first part of the book establishes the rules of writing crime fiction - from convincing characters to the role of research. The book then covers the practical craft of writing and editing, before explaining in detail how to secure a contract and/or self-publish your work. A comprehensive guide for anyone who wants to be the next Val McDermid or Ian Rankin. ABOUT THE SERIES The Teach Yourself Creative Writing series helps aspiring authors tell their story. Covering a range of genres from science fiction and romantic novels, to illustrated children's books and comedy, this series is packed with advice, exercises and tips for unlocking creativity and improving your writing. And because we know how daunting the blank page can be, we set up the Just Write online community at tyjustwrite, for budding authors and successful writers to connect and share.
ISBN: 9781473601369Publication Date: 2014-10-31
HISTORICAL
Writing Historical Fiction by
Writing Historical Fiction: A Writers' & Artists' Companion is an invaluable companion for a writer working in this challenging and popular literary genre, whether your period is Ancient Rome or World War II. PART 1 includes reflections on the genre and provides a short history of historical fiction. PART 2 contains guest contributions from Margaret Atwood, Ian Beck, Madison Smartt Bell, Ronan Bennett, Vanora Bennett, Tracy Chevalier, Lindsay Clarke, Elizabeth Cook, Anne Doughty, Sarah Dunant, Michel Faber, Margaret George, Philippa Gregory, Katharine McMahon, Valerio Massimo Manfredi, Hilary Mantel, Alan Massie, Ian Mortimer, Kate Mosse, Charles Palliser, Orhan Pamuk, Edward Rutherfurd, Manda Scott, Adam Thorpe, Stella Tillyard, Rose Tremain, Alison Weir and Louisa Young. PART 3 offers practical exercises and advice on such topics as research, plots and characters, mastering authentic but accessible dialogue and navigating the world of agents and publishers.
ISBN: 9781780937854Publication Date: 2014-01-30
How to Write Killer Historical Mysteries by
Emerson, author of the Lady Appleton and Diana Spaulding mystery series, turns her hand to how it's done in this useful guide to writing historical crime fiction. Drawing on her own works and those of her fellow historical-mystery writers (Kerry Greenwood, Alan Gordon, Carola Dunn, and others), she lays out, in commonsense sequence, the stages of planning and writing a historical mystery. Chapters on choosing setting and character, research, crafting a plot, and selling your book offer much of the same information as similar chapters in other how-to books for mystery writers, but the information is nicely tailored for this particular genre. The core of the book is Emerson's personal take on writing and selling historical mysteries, but it also includes contributions from over forty other historical mystery writers --practical advice, anecdotes, and suggestions for research--and input from assorted editors, booksellers, and reviewers. For both historical mystery writers and readers.
ISBN: 9781880284926Publication Date: 2008-04-01
WOMEN'S FICTION & CHICK LIT
See Jane Write by
With chick lit novels popping up on every bestseller list, millions of readers are all thinking the same thing: I could write this stuff. I could write a bestseller and never go back to the office again! nbsp; And here's the guide that will show you how. Bestselling novelist Sarah Mlynowski and veteran chick lit editor Farrin Jacobs cover every stage of developing and selling your soon-to-be bestselling novel, with information on nbsp; nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;* nbsp;developing an idea nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;* nbsp;learning the basics of plotting nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;* nbsp;deciding on a point of view nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;* nbsp;pacing, and conflict nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;* nbsp;making your characters likable nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;* nbsp;finding an agent nbsp; --and much more, including humorous tips and advice from scores of established writers (from Meg Cabot and Marian Keyes to Emily Giffin and Sophie Kinsella). If you've got stories to tell, See Jane Write will take care of the rest!
Call Number: 808.3085 MLYISBN: 9781594741159Publication Date: 2006-06-01
THRILLERS
Writing the Thriller by
Skillman shows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats by defining suspense in clear terms writers can use to make their work tense, spine-tingling and unexpected.
Call Number: 808.3872 SKIISBN: 0898799287Publication Date: 2000-03-01
How to Write a Damn Good Thriller by
A quick look at any fiction bestseller list reveals that thrillers make up most of the titles at the top. HOW TO WRITE A DAMN GOOD THRILLER will help the aspiring novelist or screenwriter to design, draft, write, and polish a thriller that is sure to grab readers. Frey uses examples from both books and movies and addresses the following hot topics: *Germinal ideas *Breathing life into great thriller characters *Crafting a gripping opening *Maintaining tension *Creating obstacles and conflicts *Writing a mean, lean thriller scene *Adding surprise twists *Building a smashing climax and many more. In his trademark approachable and humorous style, Frey illuminates the building blocks of great thrillers and gives the reader the tools to write his or her own.
ISBN: 9780312575076Publication Date: 2010-03-30
ROMANCE
On Writing Romance by
Sweep Readers Off Their Feet With a Romance They'll Never Forget In On Writing Romance, award-winning romance novelist Leigh Michaels talks you through each stage of the writing and publishing process. From the origins and evolution of the romance novel to establishing a vital story framework to writing that last line to seeking out appropriate publishers, everything you ever wanted to know about writing a romance novel is here. In addition to a comprehensive breakdown of more than thirty romance subgenres, including such categories as historical, inspirational, Regency, and sweet traditional, you'll discover how to: Steer clear of cliches and stereotypes by studying the genre Craft engaging and realistic heroes and heroines readers will adore Convincingly develop the central couple's blossoming relationship Add conflict by utilizing essential secondary characters like the "other woman" Use tension and timing to make your love scenes sizzle with sensuality Get your characters to happily-ever-after with an ending readers will always remember lus, read a sample query letter, cover letter, and synopsis, and learn how to properly prepare you romance novel for submission to agents and editors. On Writing Romance has everything you need to leave readers swooning!
Call Number: 808.385 MICISBN: 9781582974361Publication Date: 2007-01-30
The Romance Writer's Handbook by
The author of "Diva" takes budding romance writers by the hand and guides them through the techniques needed to succeed in the popular romance genre.
Call Number: 808.385 VINISBN: 0871162040Publication Date: 2004-04-01
Write Naked by
Learn how to transform your passion for writing into a career. New York Times best-selling author Jennifer Probst reveals her pathway to success, from struggling as a new writer to signing a seven-figure deal. Write Naked intermingles personal essays on craft with down-to-earth advice on writing romance in the digital age. Probst will teach you how to: * Commit to your current work-in-progress, get focused, and complete it on schedule * Reveal raw emotions and thoughts on the page to hook your readers * Assemble a street team to promote and celebrate your books * Overcome writer's block with ease * Develop themes that tie together your books and series * Write the most difficult elements of romance--including sex scenes--with skill and style Regardless of the genre, every novelist faces a difficult task. Creating authentic characters and an engaging plot are challenging enough. But attempting to break into the hotter-than-ever romance genre, which is constantly flooded with new titles and fresh faces? It can feel impossible. This is where Probst's Write Naked comes in. To survive--and thrive--you need the help and wisdom of an expert. Written in Probst's unmistakable and honest voice, Write Naked is filled with the lessons and craft advice every writer needs in order to carve out a rewarding career.
Call Number: RCLSISBN: 9781440347344Publication Date: 2017-03-31
Writing Romances by
Jude Deveraux and 23 other top professional provide valuable, how-to advice on the passionate craft of romance writing.
ISBN: 089879756XPublication Date: 1997-03-15
HORROR
On Writing by
"If you don't have the time to read, you don't have the time or the tools to write."In 1999, Stephen King began to write about his craft -- and his life. By midyear, a widely reported accident jeopardized the survival of both. And in his months of recovery, the link between writing and living became more crucial than ever.Rarely has a book on writing been so clear, so useful, and so revealing. On Writing begins with a mesmerizing account of King's childhood and his uncannily early focus on writing to tell a story. A series of vivid memories from adolescence, college, and the struggling years that led up to his first novel, Carrie, will afford readers a fresh and often very funny perspective on the formation of a writer. King next turns to the basic tools of his trade -- how to sharpen and multiply them through use, and how the writer must always have them close at hand. He takes the reader through crucial aspects of the writer's art and life, offering practical and inspiring advice on everything from plot and character development to work habits and rejection. Serialized in the New Yorker to vivid acclaim, On Writing culminates with a profoundly moving account of how King's overwhelming need to write spurred him toward recovery, and brought him back to his life.Brilliantly structured, friendly and inspiring, On Writing will empower -- and entertain -- everyone who reads it.
Call Number: B KINGISBN: 0684853523Publication Date: 2000-10-03
FANTASY/SCIENCE FICTION
Get Started in Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy by
YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO WRITING AWESOME AND AMAZING FICTION FROM ANOTHER DIMENSION. This is an authoritative and engaging introduction to writing science fiction and fantasy for the complete beginner. This book provides all the information, guidance, and advice you need to write great science fiction to captivate your readers. It will help you understand how the genre works, the big dos and don'ts - as well as giving you the inspiration and motivation you actually need to write. Written by a leading Science Fiction novelist and a Professor in Creative Writing at the University of London - you'll discover how to let your creativity flow, create incredible worlds, and get your novel finished. ABOUT THE SERIES The Teach Yourself Creative Writing series helps aspiring authors tell their story. Covering a range of genres from science fiction and romantic novels, to illustrated children's books and comedy, this series is packed with advice, exercises and tips for unlocking creativity and improving your writing. And because we know how daunting the blank page can be, we set up the Just Write online community at tyjustwrite, for budding authors and successful writers to connect and share.
ISBN: 9781444795653Publication Date: 2014-06-27
The Craft of Writing Science Fiction That Sells by
Guides writers step by step through the major elements of SF storytelling, showing how to construct strong, editor-attracting stories and novels.
ISBN: 0898796008Publication Date: 1994-02-15
Science Fiction and Fantasy by
Are you struggling to get started on your first science fiction or fantasy novel? Stuck at chapter two and need a fresh approach? Find new direction with this unique guide to creating original and convincing stories. Crawford Kilian offers a clear and straightforward approach to tackling the pitfalls of writing science fiction and fantasy. Coverage includes the origins of science fiction and fantasy, how to use basic science correctly, developing plausible fantasy worlds, and the effective use of symbolism and imagery.
ISBN: 1551801892Publication Date: 1998-11-01
Worlds of Wonder by
Offers advice for would-be science fiction writers, covering such topics as setting, plot, character, and dialogue, as well as the mechanics of grammar, tense, sentence structure, and paragraph transition.
Call Number: 808.38762 GERISBN: 1582970076Publication Date: 2001-02-15
The Science of Science Fiction Writing by
Written by one of the leading authorities on writing, publishing and teaching science fiction, The Science of Science Fiction Writing offers the opportunity to share in the knowledge James Gunn has acquired over the past forty years. He reflects on the fiction-writing process and how to teach it, and the ideas he has shared with his students about how to do it effectively and how to get it published afterwards. The first section discusses why people read fiction, the parts of the short story, the strategy of the science fiction author, scene as the smallest dramatic unit, how to speak well in print, suspense in fiction, how to say the right thing, and how to give constructive criticism. The second section takes a more philosophical approach. Here, Gunn elaborates on the origins of science fiction, its definition, the worldview of science fiction, and the characters that appear in science fiction novels. The third section highlights well-known sci-fi authors: H.G. Wells, Robert A. Heinlein, Isaac Asimov, Henry Kuttner, C.L. Moore, and others, and the impact they have had on the development and progression of science fiction.
ISBN: 1578860113Publication Date: 2000-10-31
Now Write! Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror by
Featuring speculative fiction-writing exercises from Harlan Ellison (R), Piers Anthony, Ramsey Campbell, Jack Ketchum, screenwriters of The Twilight Zone and Star Trek: The Next Generation, and many more. The fifth volume in the acclaimed Now Write! writing-guide series offers a full toolbox of advice and exercises for speculative fiction writers hoping to craft an engaging alternate reality, flesh out an enthralling fantasy quest, or dream up a bloodcurdling plot twist, including: -Harlan Ellison (R), on crafting the perfect story title -Jack Ketchum, on how economy of language helps create a truly frightening tale -Piers Anthony, on making fantastical characters feel genuine and relatable Among the other writers incluided are: Steven Barnes, Peter Briggs, David Brin, Sara B. Cooper, Brian James Freeman, Joe R. Lansdale, Bruce McAllister, Vonda N. McIntyre, William F. Nolan, Michael Reaves, Melissa Scott, Michael Dillon Scott, Vanessa Vaughn and others. This collection of storytelling secrets from top genre writers--including winners of Nebula, Hugo, Edgar, and Bram Stoker awards--is essential for any writer looking to take a leap beyond the ordinary.
ISBN: 9780399165559Publication Date: 2014-02-20
Writing Fantasy and Science Fiction by
Do you envision celestial cities in distant, fantastic worlds? Do you dream of mythical beasts and gallant quests in exotic kingdoms? If you have ever wanted to write the next great fantasy or science fiction story, this all-in-one comprehensive book will show you how. Writing Fantasy & Science Fiction is full of advice from master authors offering definitive instructions on world building, character creation, and storytelling in the many styles and possibilities available to writers of speculative fiction. Combining two Writer's Digest classics, Orson Scott Card's How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy and The Writer's Complete Fantasy Reference, along with two new selections from award-winning science fiction and fantasy authors Philip Athans and Jay Lake, this new book provides the best of all worlds. You'll discover: * How to build, populate, and dramatize fantastic new worlds. * How to develop dynamic and meaningful themes that will expand the cannon of sci-fi and fantasy storytelling. * Exciting subgenres such as steampunk, as well as new developments in the sci-fi and fantasy genres. * How to imbue your tales with historically accurate information about world cultures, legends, folklore, and religions. * Detailed descriptions of magic rituals, fantastic weapons of war, clothing and armor, and otherworldly beasts such as orcs, giants, elves, and more. * How societies, villages, and castles were constructed and operate on a day-to-day basis. * Astounding methods of interstellar travel, the rules of starflight, and the realities and myths of scientific exploration. * How to generate new ideas and graft them to the most popular themes and plot devices in sci-fi and fantasy writing. The boundaries of your imagination are infinite, but to create credible and thrilling fiction, you must ground your stories in rules, facts, and accurate ideas. Writing Fantasy & Science Fiction will guide you through the complex and compelling universe of fantasy and science fiction writing and help you unleash your stories on the next generation of readers and fans.
ISBN: 9781599631400Publication Date: 2013-09-30
The Writer's Digest Guide to Science Fiction and Fantasy by
Craft an otherworldly experience for your readers! Do you dream of writing tales that pull readers into extraordinary realms? The Writer's Digest Guide to Science Fiction & Fantasy gives you everything you need to build a fantastic world, inhabit it with original and believable characters, and create an authentic and enthralling story. Two complete books in one, this comprehensive guide includes invaluable and timeless advice for writing and selling speculative fiction from best-selling author Orson Scott Card's How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy, as well as world-building information and instruction from the indispensable classic The Writer's Complete Fantasy Reference. You'll discover: how to wield story elements that "define" the science fiction and fantasy genres ways to build, populate and dramatize fantastic new worlds how to construct compelling stories by developing ideas, characters, and events that keep readers turning pages historically accurate information about world cultures, legends, folklore and mysticism how to authentically portray the rituals of magic and witchcraft in-depth descriptions of mythological creatures, fantasy races, clothing, weapons, armor, and more The boundaries of your imagination are infinite, but to truly hook your reader you must ground your fiction with credible details. Let this book be your guide as you venture into the fantastic and you'll create vibrant, captivating new worlds that spring off the page.
ISBN: 9781582976099Publication Date: 2010-03-26
Daemon Voices by
From the internationally best-selling author of the His Dark Materials trilogy, a spellbinding journey into the secrets of his art--the narratives that have shaped his vision, his experience of writing, and the keys to mastering the art of storytelling. One of the most highly acclaimed and best-selling authors of our time now gives us a book that charts the history of his own enchantment with story--from his own books to those of Blake, Milton, Dickens, and the Brothers Grimm, among others--and delves into the role of story in education, religion, and science. At once personal and wide-ranging, Daemon Voices is both a revelation of the writing mind and the methods of a great contemporary master, and a fascinating exploration of storytelling itself.
ISBN: 9780525521174Publication Date: 2018-09-18
