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Your First Novel Revised and Expanded Edition: A Top Agent and a Published Author Show You How to Write Your Book and Get It Published
Your Expert Guide to Writing and Publishing a Novel
In this revised and expanded edition of Your First Novel , novelist Laura Whitcomb, seasoned literary agent Ann Rittenberg, and her knowledgeable assistant, Camille Goldin, team up to provide you with the essential skills needed to craft the best novel you can--and the savvy business know-how to get it published. Complete with updated references, analysis of new best-selling novels, and the same detailed instruction, Whitcomb will show you how
• Practice the craft of writing, using both your right- and left-brain
• Develop a flexible card system for organizing and outlining plot
• Create dynamic characters that readers love--and love to hate
• Study classic novels and story structure to adapt with your ideas
Featuring two new chapters on choosing your path as an author and understanding the world of self-publishing, Rittenberg and Goldin dive into the business side of publishing,
• What agents can--and should--do for your future
• Who you should target as an agent for your burgeoning career
• How the mysterious auction for novels actually goes down
• Why you should learn to work with your agent through thick and thin
Guiding your first novel from early words to a spot on the bookshelf can be an exciting and terrifying journey, but you're not alone. Alongside the advice of industry veterans, Your First Novel Revised and Expanded also includes plenty of firsthand accounts from published authors on their journeys, including Dennis Lehane, C.J. Box, Kathleen McCleary, David Kazzie, and more.
In this revised and expanded edition of Your First Novel , novelist Laura Whitcomb, seasoned literary agent Ann Rittenberg, and her knowledgeable assistant, Camille Goldin, team up to provide you with the essential skills needed to craft the best novel you can--and the savvy business know-how to get it published. Complete with updated references, analysis of new best-selling novels, and the same detailed instruction, Whitcomb will show you how
• Practice the craft of writing, using both your right- and left-brain
• Develop a flexible card system for organizing and outlining plot
• Create dynamic characters that readers love--and love to hate
• Study classic novels and story structure to adapt with your ideas
Featuring two new chapters on choosing your path as an author and understanding the world of self-publishing, Rittenberg and Goldin dive into the business side of publishing,
• What agents can--and should--do for your future
• Who you should target as an agent for your burgeoning career
• How the mysterious auction for novels actually goes down
• Why you should learn to work with your agent through thick and thin
Guiding your first novel from early words to a spot on the bookshelf can be an exciting and terrifying journey, but you're not alone. Alongside the advice of industry veterans, Your First Novel Revised and Expanded also includes plenty of firsthand accounts from published authors on their journeys, including Dennis Lehane, C.J. Box, Kathleen McCleary, David Kazzie, and more.
320 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2006
72 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 30, 2018
Such a comprehensive guide and a must-read for all aspiring authors! The first portion of this delivered consistently sound, but not new to me, advice about the craft of writing. The second portion, however, contained in-depth information about literary agents, editors, publishing companies and all of the other elements of getting your book on to the shelves of all good bookstores. Much of this I had not seen collected in one place before and with such accessibility and frank honesty.
I recieved a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the authors, Ann Rittenberg and Laura Whitcomb, and the publisher, Writer's Digest Books.
I recieved a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the authors, Ann Rittenberg and Laura Whitcomb, and the publisher, Writer's Digest Books.
March 17, 2018
As a reference book, this book excels in overall presentation. It is separated into two sections, the first educating potential authors how to write, and the second dealing with what to do with your finished project. After reading the book, chapters within each section help authors return to specifics without having to scan for whatever info is needed.
I was disappointed with the specific character examples provided by Laura Whitcomb (author of the writing section). It was as if the author expected that I have read the same books she has enjoyed. For instance, when listing examples of great heroes and great villains, I only knew one of the five heroes. It is hard to fully understand what the author is saying, especially on an emotional level. While it could be argued that I could expand my horizons and read the books mentioned, that still will not help me with the here and now. It could take me years to catch up on the book’s “required” reading.
Ms. Whitcomb, however, excelled with her technique presentations. Contrasting poor writing with better or great writing was accomplished by using examples taken from the books of published authors. Not only does this help budding authors by providing written examples, but it encourages them to embrace the necessary rewriting of your work in order to craft something special. Ms. Whitcomb also presents many writing exercises that readers could easily apply to whatever projects they are working on. I can’t see how anyone could walk away from this section without fistfuls of great ideas.
Ann Rittenberg’s “Publishing Your Novel” section was also exceptional. No matter whether an author wishes to seek out an agent, go directly to the publishing houses, or choose to self-publish, Ms. Rittenberg presents all methods as positive while explaining the pitfalls that might be encountered.
This updated and expanded edition of “Your First Novel” lives up to its promises of showing you how to write and get your work published. Five Stars.
My thanks to the authors, F+W Media, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.
I was disappointed with the specific character examples provided by Laura Whitcomb (author of the writing section). It was as if the author expected that I have read the same books she has enjoyed. For instance, when listing examples of great heroes and great villains, I only knew one of the five heroes. It is hard to fully understand what the author is saying, especially on an emotional level. While it could be argued that I could expand my horizons and read the books mentioned, that still will not help me with the here and now. It could take me years to catch up on the book’s “required” reading.
Ms. Whitcomb, however, excelled with her technique presentations. Contrasting poor writing with better or great writing was accomplished by using examples taken from the books of published authors. Not only does this help budding authors by providing written examples, but it encourages them to embrace the necessary rewriting of your work in order to craft something special. Ms. Whitcomb also presents many writing exercises that readers could easily apply to whatever projects they are working on. I can’t see how anyone could walk away from this section without fistfuls of great ideas.
Ann Rittenberg’s “Publishing Your Novel” section was also exceptional. No matter whether an author wishes to seek out an agent, go directly to the publishing houses, or choose to self-publish, Ms. Rittenberg presents all methods as positive while explaining the pitfalls that might be encountered.
This updated and expanded edition of “Your First Novel” lives up to its promises of showing you how to write and get your work published. Five Stars.
My thanks to the authors, F+W Media, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.
June 22, 2007
Dennis Lehane is winningly honest as he dishes out tough love in his inspiring foreword, leading into the first half of the book (written by novelist Laura Whitcomb) which focuses on the craft of novel writing and is filled with helpful hints, book recommendations, and exercises.
The second half of the book (written by agent Ann Rittenberg) focuses on the business side of publishing your novel. I devoured this section. Even though I had what I thought was a clear understanding of how things worked on the business side, I was not comprehending it as clearly before I read this book, as I am now that I have read it. This section also offers reading recommendations, web site links, and much insider knowledge.
If you are writing your first novel (or your second, third, fourth, fifth, and even if you have already published a novel) this book is for you--as it leads you from inception to publication and beyond. You might find--as I did--that after reading this book you feel better about your work because you realize how much you are doing right by yourself and your work in the potentially intimidating writing life.
In short, where in the past I might have felt anxiety, after reading this book I feel empowered. And that is the strength of being informed.
The second half of the book (written by agent Ann Rittenberg) focuses on the business side of publishing your novel. I devoured this section. Even though I had what I thought was a clear understanding of how things worked on the business side, I was not comprehending it as clearly before I read this book, as I am now that I have read it. This section also offers reading recommendations, web site links, and much insider knowledge.
If you are writing your first novel (or your second, third, fourth, fifth, and even if you have already published a novel) this book is for you--as it leads you from inception to publication and beyond. You might find--as I did--that after reading this book you feel better about your work because you realize how much you are doing right by yourself and your work in the potentially intimidating writing life.
In short, where in the past I might have felt anxiety, after reading this book I feel empowered. And that is the strength of being informed.
December 20, 2019
Books about writing fall into one of two categories; inspirational or instructional. Either the book is full of writing prompts and outlining tips, or it requires the reader to put the book down and get to writing immediately. Written by Ann Rittenberg, a literary agent, and Laura Whitcomb, an author, this is mostly the first kind of book, but quickly moves into something else entirely. This is a walk through the process from when an aspiring author completes that first draft, through to publication and afterwards.
The first half talks about perfecting that novel, with notes on things like dialog and structure. It's got a few interesting ideas, as well as many of the usual ones. The second half, however, is less expected. Here, Rittenberg explains how to go about finding an agent and getting them to represent you. Here you find out what exactly an agent does and how they work, followed by what happens once a publisher has taken your book on. It's fascinating stuff.
This was published in 2006 and many of the references are dated. There is a new revised edition that was published just last year that will be more up to date.
The first half talks about perfecting that novel, with notes on things like dialog and structure. It's got a few interesting ideas, as well as many of the usual ones. The second half, however, is less expected. Here, Rittenberg explains how to go about finding an agent and getting them to represent you. Here you find out what exactly an agent does and how they work, followed by what happens once a publisher has taken your book on. It's fascinating stuff.
This was published in 2006 and many of the references are dated. There is a new revised edition that was published just last year that will be more up to date.
January 29, 2019
This would have been a lot more useful if I were brand-new to writing and publishing. There's good information here and resources at the end of each chapter to help writers. You have an author in the "writing guide section" and an agent in the "publishing section" - which I thought was a great idea.
The problem for me is that most of the information in both sections is commonplace. You can find the same info in other writing guides as well as author blogs out there... and, sometimes, these other sources will go into more detail. Also, I've read a lot of stuff over the years. There was nothing new here for me.
All in all, this is a good, solid guide for beginners - hence the 3 stars. But if you're looking for in-depth info into publishing (which is what I was looking for), this is not the book for you.
The problem for me is that most of the information in both sections is commonplace. You can find the same info in other writing guides as well as author blogs out there... and, sometimes, these other sources will go into more detail. Also, I've read a lot of stuff over the years. There was nothing new here for me.
All in all, this is a good, solid guide for beginners - hence the 3 stars. But if you're looking for in-depth info into publishing (which is what I was looking for), this is not the book for you.
June 11, 2017
I don't know if it's even possible to become a published author without the information in this book.
February 25, 2018
This book is super informative in all the stages of writing! As someone who aspires to write a book, this novel not only has inspired me to take my ideas and transfer them to paper, but also has shared with me many amazing tips to make sure my first novel will be written with expertise! Although I did only read part one of this book, I marked it as complete because the second part doesn’t quite pertain to me, at least not yet. The first part talks about actually writing the book and the second part talks about publishing it. Seeming as I haven’t written anything yet, going far into the publishing section doesn’t seem relevant to my current place and it will be most beneficial to me when I’m ready to consider publishing. All in all, a great read for those interested in writing a book for themselves!
March 22, 2008
I did not find this book as helpful as the last one. I did enjoy the last half of the book that is written by an agent on what they expect and what a writer's job is. They had some good points the first half is written by a published author and she gave the typical show don't tell speeches. If you are going to look at this book look at the last half. There are pleanty of other books out there that would help with characterization and what not.
August 23, 2017
Es una excelente guía para escritores noveles, con ideas y soluciones súper interesantes.
January 16, 2019
This really pulled back the curtain on the entire writing process, from vague story idea all the way through post publication. I so appreciate the no-nonense insight these authors offer up.
January 31, 2010
I've started reading this book, tidbits from different chapters, and I can't wait to finish reading it. Truly. And I can't stand reading nonfiction books. So that's saying something!
After reading this book, I wish that the second half written by the agent, Ann Rittenberg, could be a separate book in and of itself. That book would get a good 3 stars, if not more. But the first half of the book written by Laura Whitcomb was as elementary as a freshman year of high school English class. I am hoping that anyone who is actually thinking enough about writing their first novel so much so that they are reading books about it, are far enough passed what the definition of "dialogue" is or the difference between a "simile" and a "metaphor". I mean, really? Is that necessary for an author. I got more out of my senior year in high school English class than I did from that portion of the novel.
Now I realize that the section about finding an agent by Rittenberg could be just as elementary for those who already know the process, but finding an agent and getting your book published for the first time is not something that is taught to every American with a high school diploma. Therefore, it is very educational. She describes the process in such detail, something as simple as how to find out what the best way to communicate with your agent is, if they prefer email, phone, etc. Now those parts got a little tedious because some of it is simple common sense, but it is also something that I actually found beneficial (even though I know enough to ask a simple question about whether or not they want an email or a phone call) because it is a very good walk through of the beginning of the process of finding an agent all the way to when you book in published and on the shelves of a book store.
My suggestion to anyone who is actually interested in writing a novel, skip to chapter 12 where Rittenberg starts discussing findind an agent. Don't both with the first half unless you really don't know anything about writing...anything.
After reading this book, I wish that the second half written by the agent, Ann Rittenberg, could be a separate book in and of itself. That book would get a good 3 stars, if not more. But the first half of the book written by Laura Whitcomb was as elementary as a freshman year of high school English class. I am hoping that anyone who is actually thinking enough about writing their first novel so much so that they are reading books about it, are far enough passed what the definition of "dialogue" is or the difference between a "simile" and a "metaphor". I mean, really? Is that necessary for an author. I got more out of my senior year in high school English class than I did from that portion of the novel.
Now I realize that the section about finding an agent by Rittenberg could be just as elementary for those who already know the process, but finding an agent and getting your book published for the first time is not something that is taught to every American with a high school diploma. Therefore, it is very educational. She describes the process in such detail, something as simple as how to find out what the best way to communicate with your agent is, if they prefer email, phone, etc. Now those parts got a little tedious because some of it is simple common sense, but it is also something that I actually found beneficial (even though I know enough to ask a simple question about whether or not they want an email or a phone call) because it is a very good walk through of the beginning of the process of finding an agent all the way to when you book in published and on the shelves of a book store.
My suggestion to anyone who is actually interested in writing a novel, skip to chapter 12 where Rittenberg starts discussing findind an agent. Don't both with the first half unless you really don't know anything about writing...anything.
June 11, 2010
I've spent hundreds of dollars on dozens of books designed to teach aspiring authors the craft. Most of the books sing the same song and at the end the reader realizes he's just wasted many hours of valuable time that could have been spent practicing the craft or reading worthwhile prose.
Despite the dozens of writing-related books it recommends throughout the book, Your First Novel: An Author Agent Team Share the Keys to Achieving Your Dream is the only book on writing you need. It shows, not tells, aspiring novelists by providing countless examples from familiar works, something most other books lack.
The book is divided into two sections, one about authoring a book and the other about publishing the novel. I haven't read the second part (I want to finish the manuscript before I start thinking about getting it into print), but I still feel confident in giving the book five stars because even if the publishing section was filled with blank pages I have learned more from the first section than I have from every other book I've purchased (including On Writing by Stephen King, Telling Lies for Fun & ... yawn ... Profit, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Creative Writing, 101 Habits of Highly Successful Novelists, The First Five Pages, and many, many more).
If you are serious about writing a novel, this book is a must-have.
Despite the dozens of writing-related books it recommends throughout the book, Your First Novel: An Author Agent Team Share the Keys to Achieving Your Dream is the only book on writing you need. It shows, not tells, aspiring novelists by providing countless examples from familiar works, something most other books lack.
The book is divided into two sections, one about authoring a book and the other about publishing the novel. I haven't read the second part (I want to finish the manuscript before I start thinking about getting it into print), but I still feel confident in giving the book five stars because even if the publishing section was filled with blank pages I have learned more from the first section than I have from every other book I've purchased (including On Writing by Stephen King, Telling Lies for Fun & ... yawn ... Profit, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Creative Writing, 101 Habits of Highly Successful Novelists, The First Five Pages, and many, many more).
If you are serious about writing a novel, this book is a must-have.
February 18, 2018
I received a complimentary ARC copy of Your First Novel: Revised and Expanded Edition by Ann Rittenberg, Laura Whitcomb and Camille Goldin from NetGalley and F+W Media/Writer’s Digest Books in order to read and give an honest review.
If you are an aspiring writer who wants to publish your first book, Your First Novel: Revised and Expanded Edition is a perfect guidebook for you. Some of the biggest challenges a writer faces often just boils down to a lack of knowledge. This book is a very comprehensive how-to guide that which walks you through every step of the writing process. From creating a positive mindset, idea creation, POV and dialogue to finding an agent and publishing. I loved the tone of the book, it was easy to read and comprehend. The authors offer examples from well known published books to illustrate each section as well as reading lists of other books that focus on that specific aspect of writing. I don’t think they leave any aspect of the writing process out. Although it leans primarily towards traditional publishing it does feature an informative chapter on self-publishing.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book which I know will become a reference that I will refer to time and again.
If you are an aspiring writer who wants to publish your first book, Your First Novel: Revised and Expanded Edition is a perfect guidebook for you. Some of the biggest challenges a writer faces often just boils down to a lack of knowledge. This book is a very comprehensive how-to guide that which walks you through every step of the writing process. From creating a positive mindset, idea creation, POV and dialogue to finding an agent and publishing. I loved the tone of the book, it was easy to read and comprehend. The authors offer examples from well known published books to illustrate each section as well as reading lists of other books that focus on that specific aspect of writing. I don’t think they leave any aspect of the writing process out. Although it leans primarily towards traditional publishing it does feature an informative chapter on self-publishing.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book which I know will become a reference that I will refer to time and again.
March 10, 2018
This is an excellent book for aspiring writers. Within the covers is valuable advice on writing, publishing and working with an agent. The first ten chapters on the art of writing were extremely valuable to me. I highlighted many sections and will be referring to them as I continue to practice the craft.
Part II of the book was fascinating. I am not to the point of needing to worry about the publishing of my work, but when that happens, there will be good advice in Your First Novel. The ins and outs of the publishing world was educational.
Reading Your First Novel has given me more tools and has empowered me to continue of my writing journey. I highly recommend this book to any aspiring writers.
I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley and F+W Media in exchange for my honest review. Thank you.
ISBN: 1440351902 (ISBN13:9781440351907)
PUBLISHER: F+W Media
Publication date: 2.16.18
Part II of the book was fascinating. I am not to the point of needing to worry about the publishing of my work, but when that happens, there will be good advice in Your First Novel. The ins and outs of the publishing world was educational.
Reading Your First Novel has given me more tools and has empowered me to continue of my writing journey. I highly recommend this book to any aspiring writers.
I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley and F+W Media in exchange for my honest review. Thank you.
ISBN: 1440351902 (ISBN13:9781440351907)
PUBLISHER: F+W Media
Publication date: 2.16.18
December 28, 2018
The first part of this book is about the writing process and how to write a novel. It's well-written, full of information and motivating, so I enjoyed reading it. I didn't find much new in the first part of the book compared to other books on writing I have read.
The strength of this book is the second part, where a top agent explains the whole aspect of the life of a book post-writing: finding an agent, working with them, getting published, etc. I learned an awful lot from the second part. I would definitely recommend reading this book for the second part especially. Although targeted for an American readership, it is good for writers of other countries as well, as it doesn't go into too much legal detail.
A very informative read!
Disclaimer - I received a free digital copy of this book courtesy of F+W Media through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The strength of this book is the second part, where a top agent explains the whole aspect of the life of a book post-writing: finding an agent, working with them, getting published, etc. I learned an awful lot from the second part. I would definitely recommend reading this book for the second part especially. Although targeted for an American readership, it is good for writers of other countries as well, as it doesn't go into too much legal detail.
A very informative read!
Disclaimer - I received a free digital copy of this book courtesy of F+W Media through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2009
Having thrown enough first novels away to start an insulation business with all the wasted paper, I decided it might be worth thinking about the process of writing a novel before I start another. From "listening for the idea" through carding the scenes to character development and plot, the book has changed the way I think about the process and inspired me with more confidence. Writing a novel is no longer a source of anxiety but a prospect for lengthy and involved pleasure. Still equally unlikely to actually complete the task, of course. But at least I'm gonna worry about it less. And this book is a lot cheaper than an MFA.
November 26, 2008
The greatest book to read if you're looking to write a book. While most books along these "helping" lines are stiff and mostly remind you of your most boring college professor, this book gets up close and personal, skipping around the soft edges and going straight for the hard core. You will not be able to hide from your own fears while reading this book. It offers sound advice from my most favored author.
February 18, 2010
All you need to know to go about writing your first novel from the author of 'A Certain Slant of Light' and 'The Fetch'. From what and how to write, to picking an agent and to getting published. It's not a riveting read but it has all you need to know and having read it I now realise how hard writing a novel, or at least a good one, must be!
April 23, 2015
This was a great guide to writing a novel. Even if it's not your first novel, I still recommend this book for great tips. The first half of the book is about writing your novel, the second half is about getting it published. Great wealth of information!
January 15, 2018
REVIEW TO COME!
January 30, 2021
Greatly enjoyed this informational book-Your First Novel.
If you are looking to cover the basics, and even the secrets of writing fiction, this is the book for you. I spent a lot of time highlighting in this book just from the sheer fact that it's loaded with great advice and little bits of motivation.
What's amazing is that I do have a BA in English/Creative Writing, so you'd figure that I know all about writing, at least when it comes to having a BA degree. The fact is that college material drags the creative inside you to look at writing in a boring, judgmental way, where everything you write is just a means for a grade. That's all college Creative Writing is, assignments for grades with people critiquing your work. The critiquing isn't so bad, that's actually the best part--learning your faults and self correcting. But with this book, I can bring myself to remember why I first started writing fiction. Because it's fun!
"Your First Novel" does not promise anything. It, actually, emotionally breaks you down with clear and direct language that states your first novel might not make it to book stores. Maybe your second won't neither. Highly likely that it won't. This is great as it pushes the reader to want to get that first novel done, move on and keep writing as a means to perfect their art form.
This is art after all. We have to work at it. The book reminds you of this. Practice practice practice!
Greatly enjoyed this book. Hopefully it works well for you too.
If you are looking to cover the basics, and even the secrets of writing fiction, this is the book for you. I spent a lot of time highlighting in this book just from the sheer fact that it's loaded with great advice and little bits of motivation.
What's amazing is that I do have a BA in English/Creative Writing, so you'd figure that I know all about writing, at least when it comes to having a BA degree. The fact is that college material drags the creative inside you to look at writing in a boring, judgmental way, where everything you write is just a means for a grade. That's all college Creative Writing is, assignments for grades with people critiquing your work. The critiquing isn't so bad, that's actually the best part--learning your faults and self correcting. But with this book, I can bring myself to remember why I first started writing fiction. Because it's fun!
"Your First Novel" does not promise anything. It, actually, emotionally breaks you down with clear and direct language that states your first novel might not make it to book stores. Maybe your second won't neither. Highly likely that it won't. This is great as it pushes the reader to want to get that first novel done, move on and keep writing as a means to perfect their art form.
This is art after all. We have to work at it. The book reminds you of this. Practice practice practice!
Greatly enjoyed this book. Hopefully it works well for you too.
May 19, 2025
One of those "Eavan picks this up at the library and then gets frustrated she didn't read the title close enough" reads.
This is obviously for the first-time genre writer more than anything. It has some baffling statements, such as don't start a novel idea with theme in mind, works shouldn't be about "nothing", and that your writing space must be *sacred* (I write 90% of the time in McDonalds 💀💀💀).
While a useful hand-holding gesture, I was left wanting a lot as someone who has a) already written an awful first novel and b) writes more on the literary side. The second half regarding the agent was welcome though and I think it's still a useful reference guide for having both sides.
Definitely outdated though. Make sure you print that manuscript on white twenty-weight paper so help you god!!!
This is obviously for the first-time genre writer more than anything. It has some baffling statements, such as don't start a novel idea with theme in mind, works shouldn't be about "nothing", and that your writing space must be *sacred* (I write 90% of the time in McDonalds 💀💀💀).
While a useful hand-holding gesture, I was left wanting a lot as someone who has a) already written an awful first novel and b) writes more on the literary side. The second half regarding the agent was welcome though and I think it's still a useful reference guide for having both sides.
Definitely outdated though. Make sure you print that manuscript on white twenty-weight paper so help you god!!!
June 2, 2017
I wish I had read this 3 years when I was just beginning my first novel. It touches on almost every area of your writing. But now, three years in, most of it is a little basic as I'm ready to drill deeper into each particular subject like character and dialogue. But those types of books would be too overwhelming and detailed for a beginner.
June 5, 2023
Your First Novel Revised and Expanded Edition: A Top Agent and a Published Author Show You How to Write Your Book and Get It Published is a comprehensive guidebook that offers valuable insights and expert advice on the process of writing and publishing your first novel. In this revised and expanded edition, a highly regarded literary agent and a successful published author join forces to provide aspiring writers with practical techniques, step-by-step instructions, and industry secrets to help bring their literary dreams to fruition.
This book covers a wide range of topics, including developing compelling characters, constructing engaging plots, crafting authentic dialogue, refining writing style, and polishing manuscript drafts. It also delves into the intricacies of the publishing industry, providing guidance on query letters, book proposals, finding the right literary agent, and navigating the submission and publication process.
I am only giving it three stars because I was disappointed in the publishing aspect (the reason why I bought the book). First, a lot of the advice was not useful to me. Of course, this is a subjective review, and therefore subjective reasoning. You might like the book more, or find it more useful if you had a degree in writing, had published somewhere, or live in America. For example, she advised that 1) you have to have writing credentials already (I am an unpublished lawyer, so nothing like that in my background) and 2) you need to go to conventions and meet agents, or you need to do readings in bookstores, etc. I live in Austria so none of these things are possible.
While the first portion of the book (how to write your first novel) was interesting to read, I feel like in order to fully make use of it, one would have to take notes. I was also not familiar with a lot of the novels referenced / used as examples in the book (or if I knew of the novel, I had not read it).
Lastly, I was a little annoyed before I even read the book because I came across the book on the website of Ann Rittenberg's literary agency when I was researching agents to query. The link on her webpage brought me to the old edition of the book being sold on Amazon. It wasn't until I went to start reading it and entered it into Goodreads, that I discovered that there had been a newer version of the book published years later. Obviously a book published in 2018 is going to have more timely and up to date information on the industry than a book written in 2006. So I ended up having to buy the book....again. Why would you not update your webpage? Or at least make sure the link was correct?
So in conclusion, am I saying this book isn't a good resource? No, it could definitely be. It just wasn't for me.
This book covers a wide range of topics, including developing compelling characters, constructing engaging plots, crafting authentic dialogue, refining writing style, and polishing manuscript drafts. It also delves into the intricacies of the publishing industry, providing guidance on query letters, book proposals, finding the right literary agent, and navigating the submission and publication process.
I am only giving it three stars because I was disappointed in the publishing aspect (the reason why I bought the book). First, a lot of the advice was not useful to me. Of course, this is a subjective review, and therefore subjective reasoning. You might like the book more, or find it more useful if you had a degree in writing, had published somewhere, or live in America. For example, she advised that 1) you have to have writing credentials already (I am an unpublished lawyer, so nothing like that in my background) and 2) you need to go to conventions and meet agents, or you need to do readings in bookstores, etc. I live in Austria so none of these things are possible.
While the first portion of the book (how to write your first novel) was interesting to read, I feel like in order to fully make use of it, one would have to take notes. I was also not familiar with a lot of the novels referenced / used as examples in the book (or if I knew of the novel, I had not read it).
Lastly, I was a little annoyed before I even read the book because I came across the book on the website of Ann Rittenberg's literary agency when I was researching agents to query. The link on her webpage brought me to the old edition of the book being sold on Amazon. It wasn't until I went to start reading it and entered it into Goodreads, that I discovered that there had been a newer version of the book published years later. Obviously a book published in 2018 is going to have more timely and up to date information on the industry than a book written in 2006. So I ended up having to buy the book....again. Why would you not update your webpage? Or at least make sure the link was correct?
So in conclusion, am I saying this book isn't a good resource? No, it could definitely be. It just wasn't for me.
January 21, 2017
I love this book! I go back to it constantly, even though I don't feel like there is much I can still learn from it. I would absolutely recommend it for anyone who dreams of being a published author and even for those who dream of being a well-known fan-fiction author.
June 24, 2017
Ann Rittenberg has written an excellent book for the novice writer. Some great tips in finding an agent and what to look for in an agent once you've identified her. I am still reading the book--focusing now on the second half. It's worth the price of purchase.
March 31, 2023
I know it sounds silly to read this after I had already published books, but it's a great book to scan through to pick up some nuggets of info that either you missed with your latest novel, or could improve upon. Great reference book.
March 11, 2018
Love the further reading suggestions at the end of each chapter.
February 1, 2019
Super helpful withe publishing part but really broad about the writing process.
July 19, 2019
Good advice. Calm and logic way of guiding us through the writing / publishing maze.
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