Learn to:



Craft a winning manuscript
Troubleshoot and edit your work
Prepare your manuscript for publication
Find a good agent to represent you
Negotiate the best possible deal

Turn your aspiration into reality with this completely updated guide

If you’ve always wanted to write that great novel, but never knew where to start, look no further! With a published author advising you on how to write well and a literary agent providing insight into getting a publishing deal, this updated guide gives you the inside track on the art and science of breaking into the fiction-publishing industry. Taking you step by step from concept to contract, this book provides the tools you need to tell your story with skill and approach agents and publishers with confidence.



Dive in — check out how to combine your natural talent with the writing techniques used by successful authors
Establish a firm foundation — construct your basic story, plot and structure
Examine the key elements — create characters, develop dialogue, explore relationships and insert conflict
Fine-tune and finish up — discover tips on adding detail, creativity and flair while bringing your work to a close
Get published — take the next step by weighing up your publishing options, working with agents and negotiating deals
Find out more — check out additional advice, like the most common mistakes you need to avoid, and tips from published authors

Open the book and find:



Tips for getting started
Creative ways to develop plots, storylines, characters and dialogue
The seven basic stories and how to put them to work
Tricks for crafting a great ending to your novel
How to prepare your manuscript for editing and publishing
The lowdown on the business side of publishing