The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel

The trick for most first-time novelists is How do I tell my story? Well, look no further. In a reader-friendly, easy-to-understand style, CIG to Writing a Novel will cover in detail all of the elements necessary to create a great novel. Author Tom Monteleone illustrates how to create three-dimensional characters, write believable and colourful dialogue, pace the story, write effective transitions, and nail down the often tricky process of shifting points of view. He'll also explore such crucial concepts as style, structure, creating a setting, rewriting, and common mistakes first-time novelists make. He'll guide readers through the research process, distinguish between the many different genres of fiction to help them gear their work toward the best audience, and offer suggestions for time management and discipline - necessary tools for the would-be Courtenay in all of us.