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Writing the Bestseller: Romantic And Commercial Fiction
Is there a great book in you? Or several great books? Writing the Bestseller offers practical advice and wisdom from a dozen successful authors who have sold hundreds of thousands of books, experiencing all the ups and downs of the publishing industry. What to do, what not to do, as romance and commercial fiction have their own rules. Writing the Bestseller doesn't sugar-coat the work involved. Instead, authors who've been there tell you how to understand the genre and reader expectations. The rewards of writing a bestseller are worth the effort, and these authors share what they've learned over the years so you, too, can succeed in today's competitive market. "A master class in writing compelling and unforgettable fiction. Writing the Bestseller deserves a spot right beside your keyboard..." - Elizabeth Boyle, NYT bestselling author of Love Letter from a Duke and If Wishes Were Earls.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2014
32 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 11, 2014
Loved this book. I highlighted tips throughout. Porter's chapter on "Voice" was excellent. As a writer you hear so much about it, but she addresses what it is--and isn't --in a way that resonated with me. Much of the content of this book I've seen other places, in blogs and articles on craft, but this book goes into richer detail and that's what makes it so valuable. Highly recommend for both accomplished and aspiring authors.
March 28, 2014
This book was much more than I expected for a guide. I really loved the detail and how it broke down the types of things I'd want and need to know as a romance writer. Look over the Table of Contents for this book. The topics are truly valuable and I can vouch that the actual content delivers!
Some of the tips are obvious, yet I overlooked them before reading, and some are in-depth and totally new stuff I am glad to have learned.
Highly recommend! Happy reader :)
Some of the tips are obvious, yet I overlooked them before reading, and some are in-depth and totally new stuff I am glad to have learned.
Highly recommend! Happy reader :)
December 19, 2014
If you're a budding author, you may have already read many of the tips in this book. Hearing them a second time, however, might remind you of advice you'd forgotten along the way and reinforce the things you're doing right. That's what it did for me anyway! There was also some very useful advice I hadn't heard at all before. Overall, I liked it.
June 29, 2017
Writing the Bestseller offers practical advice from various authors willing to share their experiences from the negative to the positive for writing and publishing for, not just, romance but also for commercial fiction.
The authors who've been there tell you how to understand the genre and reader expectations. Keep this book nearby for reference to questions that nag you during the process of writing your novel. Some of the information, you may know, some may be new or a needed refresher on a subject that would be just thing you need.
I believe this will, not only, help the beginner, but also the seasoned writer looking for a refresher or a 'pep talk'.
The authors who've been there tell you how to understand the genre and reader expectations. Keep this book nearby for reference to questions that nag you during the process of writing your novel. Some of the information, you may know, some may be new or a needed refresher on a subject that would be just thing you need.
I believe this will, not only, help the beginner, but also the seasoned writer looking for a refresher or a 'pep talk'.
August 30, 2017
nice compilation of ideas from bestselling romance authors.
August 7, 2015
Writing the Bestseller II: Romance and Commercial Fiction, Jane Porter
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Non-Fiction, Adult
I love to read, always have, and always have my kindle with me – everywhere and anywhere, even took it to the dentist this morning. Loving stories though and writing them...well, its a whole different ball game.
How many people say “ I’m going to write a book” and it’;s always One Day or When there’s time etc...Many years ago when my kids were toddlers I tried writing short stories – and found making them interesting was a real problem for me..it’s one of those things I reckon where the simpler it looks the harder it is ;- ) and I felt I just hadn’t got it.
After reading my way through this though, advice from real authors on everything from where to start, how to plan characters and plots, how to hook the reader early on, ( and as a reader I know if a story doesn't get me quickly I’ll drop it) how to balance writing time with the other things in your life, how to deal with editors and a host of other incredibly useful advice from people who have done all this themselves I feel inspired to give it another shot. Some people have a kind of compulsion to write, they sacrifice other things in their life to do it, and to me those are natural authors but there’s others for whom it’s a way of making money more than an inbuilt compulsion that can’t be left alone. Does it matter which you are? who knows. for me I think its more a personal challenge, can I really do this, make something others would want to read? I know as an artist how good it feels when someone buys something I’ve created...though I hate marketing and I suspect writing successfully needs just as much time spent on that as selling artwork does. there’s a chapter devoted to building an online presence, something in todays media savvy generation that's so important. whereas we’d go to a book shop or ,library before now it’s the web and big sellers such as amazon that's first port of call. Social media helps spread the word about your work to reach those readers who look online for books. I read blogs, look at what they recommend and as a (small time ) blogger myself I search out new and upcoming release to read and review.
Something covered that I feel is incredibly important is editing, the Writer/Editor relationship. I’ve started and abandoned books that just don't have a free flow of words, have bad grammar, spelling issues etc Not just a few typos but an error ridden novel, no one wants to read that, and even if you make it free then reader time is precious – never forget that. In the early eBook/self-publishing days I abandoned probably at least ten per cent of free novels as too difficult to read. I’d see disclaimers – this book is free so...I’m dyslexic so...I can’t afford an editor so...Well, to me if you’re putting work out there with the hope someone wants to read it you have to do all you can to make it as good as you can. Get beta readers to look at plot issues, friends to critique – though they need to be honest and you must take it if you want to remain friends!! Then there’s spellcheck and grammar software if you really really don’t want the expense of an editor but really, its an essential expense IMO.
Its a fascinating read, from the how to of plotting and characterisation, to the nuts and blots of editing and finally marketing. When I look at a painting the artist part of me wants to look at how its actually done, how the paint layers were set out, whether what looks like detail from a distance is the same close up, how the artist has worked out getting the viewers eye to drift round, taking in the story told by the image. With a book is the same kind of thing – I want to know How its constructed, how to set out the plots and make them work, how to make characters realistic, even if they’re vampires and werewolves! After reading this I feel I’ve been given a huge insight into the practicalities of writing and I’ve really enjoyed it....now to put some of that into practice...maybe :- )
Stars: Five. It’s a great read, full of helpful situations and uncovering so much useful, but not necessarily known, advice.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
July 3, 2017
Books on craft I prefer to buy them physically but I felt I really needed to read this to get some insight on the romance industry. Plus when I saw Jane Porter had a hand on this, I got really excited.
I enjoyed reading what these bestselling authors had to say along with their recommendations on texture (hadn't heard of this before), conflict (my very weak spot) and many other things. I think this is a fantastic book for a writer who is just started reading books on craft. It encompasses a lot of things and later, once you realize what you need to study up on, you can research books on those specific subjects.
What I didn't enjoy was one particular essay where that mere generalization can create havoc. Not everyone that finds a typo, spelling mistake, etc is a troll. Some people, like myself, point it out because it's annoying and it shows that editing was not as thorough as it should've been. Irony of ironies, I found a few typos in this book and that my friends is very disappointing. This statement apparently makes me a troll. Whatever. That's why I couldn't give this the four star rating I originally wanted to give it. Don't teach writers that they have a right to come after a reader just because they disagree with an opinion. That left a bad taste in my mouth.
However, there was more good than bad in this book. I did loads of highlighting that I will revisit when I am in the throes of my next manuscript.
I enjoyed reading what these bestselling authors had to say along with their recommendations on texture (hadn't heard of this before), conflict (my very weak spot) and many other things. I think this is a fantastic book for a writer who is just started reading books on craft. It encompasses a lot of things and later, once you realize what you need to study up on, you can research books on those specific subjects.
What I didn't enjoy was one particular essay where that mere generalization can create havoc. Not everyone that finds a typo, spelling mistake, etc is a troll. Some people, like myself, point it out because it's annoying and it shows that editing was not as thorough as it should've been. Irony of ironies, I found a few typos in this book and that my friends is very disappointing. This statement apparently makes me a troll. Whatever. That's why I couldn't give this the four star rating I originally wanted to give it. Don't teach writers that they have a right to come after a reader just because they disagree with an opinion. That left a bad taste in my mouth.
However, there was more good than bad in this book. I did loads of highlighting that I will revisit when I am in the throes of my next manuscript.
February 11, 2014
I have been toying with the idea of writing a book for a few years now and I have been at a loss at where to start besides just writing and see what happens.
This book is an amazing guide for people interested in writing and for those that have already written, but want to strengthen a certain area. The book is very easy to understand and I felt like I was having a personal chat with most of the authors. I will be buying this book in paperback as well, so that I can highlight and check parts at my finger tips. (yes I know I can do this with the Kindle and I have highlighted a few things already, there is something about a paperback when It comes to this sort of book for me.)
I found the book to be encouraging, but it also didn't sugar coat anything! The advice from the various sources felt personal and that they were given from the heart.
I think that even if I decide to not write a book, I learned some things that I can apply to my every day life, but this book did give me a sense that if I wanted to do it, I could do it and that it will be work, but so worth it!
Thank you Jane Porter and all the other authors who contributed! I recommend this to anyone thinking about writing, It will become a book you use over and over again to guide you.
This book is an amazing guide for people interested in writing and for those that have already written, but want to strengthen a certain area. The book is very easy to understand and I felt like I was having a personal chat with most of the authors. I will be buying this book in paperback as well, so that I can highlight and check parts at my finger tips. (yes I know I can do this with the Kindle and I have highlighted a few things already, there is something about a paperback when It comes to this sort of book for me.)
I found the book to be encouraging, but it also didn't sugar coat anything! The advice from the various sources felt personal and that they were given from the heart.
I think that even if I decide to not write a book, I learned some things that I can apply to my every day life, but this book did give me a sense that if I wanted to do it, I could do it and that it will be work, but so worth it!
Thank you Jane Porter and all the other authors who contributed! I recommend this to anyone thinking about writing, It will become a book you use over and over again to guide you.
May 11, 2016
I don’t know whether I’ll ever write a best selling novel. I know I’d like to and I also know that I know almost nothing about how to go about it. The more I read the more amazed I am at the skill of those who have already published a book or twenty, and the more I realise just how much work is involved in putting a readable story together.
When I started on this journey, one of the first books I picked up was Writing The Bestseller, which is written by a number of bestselling romance novelists and publishers. Edited by best selling author Jane Porter and Rebecca Lyles, this book is written in a chatty, comfortable way which has you turning the pages whether or not you plan to take the advice it offers. My copy is filled with comments in the margins and covered with post it notes to direct me back to pages with wise advice or exercises to improve my writing skills.
If you’re thinking about writing a novel, or for that matter anything at all, this book is a terrific companion to help you on your journey. I’m so grateful I picked it up and I firmly believe you will be too. Highly recommended!
When I started on this journey, one of the first books I picked up was Writing The Bestseller, which is written by a number of bestselling romance novelists and publishers. Edited by best selling author Jane Porter and Rebecca Lyles, this book is written in a chatty, comfortable way which has you turning the pages whether or not you plan to take the advice it offers. My copy is filled with comments in the margins and covered with post it notes to direct me back to pages with wise advice or exercises to improve my writing skills.
If you’re thinking about writing a novel, or for that matter anything at all, this book is a terrific companion to help you on your journey. I’m so grateful I picked it up and I firmly believe you will be too. Highly recommended!
March 18, 2015
I am not a writer...yet. I am a reader, though. This book has so much helpful & insightful knowledge from many great authors. I like the writing exercises that are recommended; they are written briefly with a lot of clear information. The examples that are given are fact filled and easily grasped. The techniques to use or try are explained in a way that it would help any novice or stimulate an accomplished writer. The checklists shown are a helpful tool to use for keeping everything in order, knowing what you have done, and what to anticipate. Secrets of their written works are shared willingly and with a desire to help anyone who wants to explore the area of writing. Creating a book can be demanding as well as satisfying. Challenges are to be likely when writing, and this book helps one to understand them more and how to move on with their pursuit. With this collection of tips and wisdom, it will be easier to be a more satisfied and assured writer.
February 20, 2014
I’ve read quite a few books on the craft of writing. I loved this particular book because it was practical, concise and reader friendly. I liked the fact that many different writers and industry professionals contributed to the book, because it offered different insights into all aspects of writing, editing, publishing and marketing. There are also quite a few examples and exercises to elaborate on the topics of each chapter. Although the focus is commercial fiction, with an emphasis on romance, I think all writers would benefit from the knowledge of these professionals. Even though I’m currently writing nonfiction, I learned valuable information about the publishing industry. All contributors emphasized that hard work and practicing your craft is essential, but the tone of the book was still kind and encouraging – which I truly appreciated!
February 11, 2014
Invaluable reference for writers!
When I read through the table of contents, I knew I needed this book! This is the kind of writing reference that I always look for but have never been able to find until now. Entertaining, concise chapters address both the basics and nuances of writing romantic fiction. Beginners will find this book a staple in their writing education, and those with more experience will find themselves thumbing back through to review areas where they need more development. This is the perfect book for those who have found themselves struggling to finish their first manuscript as well as those who need a refresher to jump start the creative process again. I'll be referencing this book time and time again.
When I read through the table of contents, I knew I needed this book! This is the kind of writing reference that I always look for but have never been able to find until now. Entertaining, concise chapters address both the basics and nuances of writing romantic fiction. Beginners will find this book a staple in their writing education, and those with more experience will find themselves thumbing back through to review areas where they need more development. This is the perfect book for those who have found themselves struggling to finish their first manuscript as well as those who need a refresher to jump start the creative process again. I'll be referencing this book time and time again.
February 20, 2014
Writing The Bestseller: Romantic And Commercial Fiction is a great read about writing a book.
I enjoying reading it. Even though I'm not an author.
I read a lot of romance novels and I was curious to how it was done and that’s why I grabbed a copy.
The funny thing is that I really wished that I was a writer when reading this book. It’s so fun and light and easy to understand. I enjoying reading it. Even though I'm not an author it almost made me wish I was. It had me writing down goals and following along with the great ideas as I read it.
I can highly recommend this one to another curious romance reader as I, or to a future author.
I enjoying reading it. Even though I'm not an author.
I read a lot of romance novels and I was curious to how it was done and that’s why I grabbed a copy.
The funny thing is that I really wished that I was a writer when reading this book. It’s so fun and light and easy to understand. I enjoying reading it. Even though I'm not an author it almost made me wish I was. It had me writing down goals and following along with the great ideas as I read it.
I can highly recommend this one to another curious romance reader as I, or to a future author.
August 20, 2015
Writing The Bestseller II: Romantic And Commercial Fiction
by Jane Porter
wonderful well written.
Writing The Bestseller II: Romantic And Commercial Fiction
by Jane Porter is a 5 stars book.
I highly recommend reading this book.
I got a free advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jane Porter,Megan Crane , CJ Carmichael , Joanne Rock , Mallory Kane , Dani Collins, Terri Reed , Kim Boykin , Lenora Worth, Erika Marks
by Jane Porter
wonderful well written.
Writing The Bestseller II: Romantic And Commercial Fiction
by Jane Porter is a 5 stars book.
I highly recommend reading this book.
I got a free advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jane Porter,Megan Crane , CJ Carmichael , Joanne Rock , Mallory Kane , Dani Collins, Terri Reed , Kim Boykin , Lenora Worth, Erika Marks
May 13, 2014
Lots of useful information in this book, especially the chapter on "Texture and the Marketplace" by Kim Boykin, which addresses an issue I suspect many writers confront--those miserable rejections that say, This story needs something. I just don't know what. I also learned a lot from the chapters specific to romance. Very direct and useful.
July 2, 2015
3 Stars
This one is definitely worth a read but I also diagreed with some points.
Anyone trying to write a romance needs to read this book.
There are good pointers sometimes discussed well.
Review coming up
This one is definitely worth a read but I also diagreed with some points.
Anyone trying to write a romance needs to read this book.
There are good pointers sometimes discussed well.
Review coming up
March 13, 2014
Excellent self help guide for writers, both old and new. I highlighted tips all the way through and know I'll be re-reading it often
November 1, 2014
There is an amazing amount of information in this book.
Some I knew, a lot I did not.
I am 100% certain that my writing has improved since I started reading it.
You'll refer to it over and over.
Some I knew, a lot I did not.
I am 100% certain that my writing has improved since I started reading it.
You'll refer to it over and over.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews