The Marshall Plan for Novel Writing
by Evan Marshall

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Book Reviews of The Marshall Plan for Novel Writing

Book Review: Get focused and stay focused
Summary: 5 Stars

Those who have actually gotten through writing half a novel, as I did at one point, only to find that it honestly wasn't worth reading, should particularly appreciate `The Marshall Plan'. If that uneasy `where-am-I-going-with-this' feeling is starting to creep in- or, if you know where you are going but don't quite know how to get there- you need this book.

Forget the literary prejudice against `formula' writing. This book just shows you `A' way to construct your novel so it will be readable and enjoyable (and acceptable to publishers), not the only way. You still have to supply all the creativity. As with anything, rules are made to be broken IF you know why you are breaking them and are confident you can stay focused outside their guidelines. Until you really know your way with confidence, a roadmap is an excellent thing to follow to keep from getting hopelessly lost. Even after that point, it should be a very useful reference.

Although Marshall does a pretty good job of covering all the bases, I would also recommend Orson Scott Card's `Characters & Viewpoint' as a companion volume to further aid in keeping your characters on track.

I do have one small gripe about the book. Marshall's method is based on the premise of using at least two viewpoint characters even in the shortest novel. My experience as a reader has been that even long novels are ALWAYS better if they are confined to a single viewpoint character who is also the main character. So if Mr. Marshall- or someone else- could write a similar `Plan' based on that premise it would certainly be appreciated. (Not-so-subtle hint intended.)

Summary of The Marshall Plan for Novel Writing

In this unique guide, agent, editor and novelist Evan Marshall does give you everything it takes to write your novel. Drawing on his extensive experience, Marshall has perfected a simple and methodical approach to novel writing. His clear-cut, 16-step "Marshall Plan" breaks down the complex novel-writing process into a series of parts you put together one piece at a time. You'll have your whole story planned and plotted before you actually begin writing, so there's no chance of working yourself in a corner or making critical mistakes in pacing and plot.

In short, The Marshall Plan for Novel Writing works. Use it, and watch your story masterfully develop into a completed manuscript ready to get the full attention of readers, agents and editors alike.

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