Why
would I, a book reviewer, read a book about writing a novel? This
book has helped me to differentiate between a good novel and a great
one. I now know all of the elements that make up a captivating novel.
I also now know why I rarely give a novel five stars in a review. I
now know the exceptional work it takes to craft a great plot and
develop characters that are memorable. Many authors just do not
bother with all that work.
A
particular aspect of this book I really appreciated was Lakin
emphasizing the importance of the first paragraph. Authors need to
capture readers immediately. So many times I have had to slog through
pages of the introduction of characters and settings before a hint of
the plot was evident. If I hadn't made a commitment to the publisher
or author to review the book, I would have quit reading it. Nancy
Pearl, with the Seattle Public Library, suggests giving a book the
number of pages equal to 100 minus your age. The older I get, the
more quickly an author has to capture my attention.
I
do recommend this book to authors and readers alike.
My
rating: 4/5 stars.
C. S. Lakin is a novelist,
copy editor, writing coach, mom, and more. She teaches the craft of
writing at conferences and retreats. She lives near San Francisco.
You can find out more at http://www.livewritethrive.com/.
Ubiquitous
Press, 214 pages.
I
received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author.
My comments are an independent and honest review.
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