How do you create characters who keep readers hooked? How do you write the opposite sex? Teenagers? Believable relationships? Historical characters? Enigmatic characters? Plausible antagonists and chilling villains? How do you understand a character whose life is totally unlike your own? How do you write characters for dystopias? How do you make dialogue sing? When can you let the reader intuit what the characters are feeling and when should you spell it out? Roz Morris is a bestselling ghostwriter and book doctor, and a literary author in her own right. She has mined 20 years' worth of writing, editing and critiquing experience to create this book. It contains all the pitfalls and sticky points for writers, laid out as a set of discussions that are easy to dip into. And it wouldn't be a Nail Your Novel book without a good dose of games, exercises and questionnaires to help you populate a novel from scratch. Whether you write a straightforward story-based genre or literary fiction, this book will show you how to create people who enthrall readers - and make you want to tell stories. Previously titled Nail Your Novel: Bring Characters to Life.

In this guide, Hugo and Nebula award-winning author Nancy Kress explores the crucial relationship between characterization and plot, illustrating how writers can create vibrant, well-constructed characters.

Vampires, zombies, ghosts, and ghoulies: there are more things going bump in the night than ever. So how do you wend your way through all of them to find the ones that interest a particular reader? RA expert Spratford updates her advisory to include the latest in monsters and the macabre.

Nine months shy of hs 40th birthday, freelance music producer Tyler Harrison has started to experience horrific hallucinations. At first, he thinks it's just the stress of his job, but the hallucinations continue until they culminate at the three-day concert in Chicago, Lollapalloza, which he is covering for work. There he is approached by an older man who tells him that he's going to die on his fortieth birthday. The man claims to be an angel named Matthew, and even though he gives Tyler enough evidence to convince him he's telling the truth, he doesn't know what to do with the information. Tyler's underlying doubt and confusion about Matthew's prediction turn to anger, both at God and those around him. As he begins to exhibit destructive behavior, he befriends Ellis, an internationally known DJ. Tyler is scared that he really is about to die. He's scared for his sanity. He's scared that if he does die, he's not going to Heaven. He also soon becomes scared of Ellis, who is wild and opens up a door of temptation to Tyler. As Tyler begins falling in a downward spiral of fear and confusion, he reaches out to a pastor he met, Will, and tries to right his wrongs with some of the important people in his life in a desperate attempt to find peace before his 40th birthday.

Based on the principle that the ability to develop and support a thesis persuasively is of utmost importance for beginning writers, WRITING WITH A THESIS: A RHETORIC AND READER, 12th Edition, dispenses clear and practical writing advice. Sarah Skwire skillfully weaves humor into her advice and in the text's examples of good professional writing--for a uniquely useful text that remains enjoyable to read and to teach from. Best of all, the text's short, easy-to-read essays ensure that your class time will focus not on what the readings mean, but on what they mean for your students' writing. Available with InfoTrac Student Collections http://gocengage.com/infotrac. Important Notice: Media content referenced within the product description or the product text may not be available in the ebook version.

Things get stickey when Sarah Grayson and her cat, Elvis, must solve the murder of a troublesome baker in the second novel in the New York Times bestselling Second Chance Cat Mystery series. Things have been quiet in the coastal town of North Harbor, Maine, since Sarah Grayson and her rescue cat, Elvis, solved their first murder. Sarah is happy running Second Chance, the shop where she sells lovingly refurbished and repurposed items. But then she gets dragged into a controversy over developing the waterfront. Most of the residents—including Sarah—are for it, but there is one holdout—baker Lily Carter. So when Lily is found murdered in her bakery, it looks like somebody wanted to remove the only obstacle to the development. But Sarah soon discovers that nothing is as simple as it seems. Now, with the help of her cat’s uncanny ability to detect a lie, Sarah is narrowing down the suspects. But can she collar the culprit before the ruthless killer pounces again?

Fantastical felines Owen and Hercules are ready to help librarian Kathleen Paulson pounce on a killer art thief in this novel in the Magical Cats Mystery series. Normally, the arrival of an art exhibition at the Mayville Heights library would be cause for celebration. But thanks to the overbearing curator and high-tech security system that comes with it, Kathleen’s life has been completely disrupted. Even Owen and Hercules have been affected, since their favorite human doesn’t seem to have a spare moment to make their favorite fish crackers or listen to Barry Manilow. But when Kathleen stops by the library late one night and finds the curator sprawled on the floor—and the exhibition’s most valuable sketch missing—it’s suddenly time to canvass a crime scene. Now Kathleen, her detective boyfriend Marcus, and her clever cats have to sniff out a murderous thief, before anyone else has a brush with death...

Pathways, Second Edition, is a global, five-level academic English program. Carefully-guided lessons develop the language skills, critical thinking, and learning strategies required for academic success. Using authentic and relevant content from National Geographic, including video, charts, and other infographics, Pathways prepares students to work effectively and confidently in an academic environment. Important Notice: Media content referenced within the product description or the product text may not be available in the ebook version.

And then there were three... Fire and ice have nothing on Angela Holguín and Soren Lund who first met as MBA students in exciting Barcelona. But their timing was off, until Destiny put them back in the same city: London; and their passion ignited. But will their fledgling romance stand a chance against the forces of Time and Space with Soren in Barcelona and Angela in Los Angeles? And a new threat also looms on the horizon: a mysterious and handsome entrepreneur interested in Angela's new business ...or is he? Angela beckons Soren to spend the holidays with her in Los Angeles, but when he makes her a beguiling offer, their relationship will be put to the test. BECKONED: slow burn, second chance romance inspired by food, travel, and Jane Austen. Over 300 reviews with 4.4+star average! Part 3 of a complete 6-part series. "It has been so long since I have read a series that has kept my interest like this one! I literally couldn't wait to jump into part 3 of this series and again as with the first two books I wasn't disappointed! I just can't help but be swept up in the relationship between Angela and Soren! I really am drawn to them. Again the author did a fabulous job with the writing in this book and I really do love her writing style - I honestly feel like I am on the journey with these characters through the author's fabulous descriptive writing! I am so excited to read part 4!" -Katie, 5-star review "Aviva Vaughn just keeps bringing it. Another book in the Beckoned series that I could not put down. The way Ms. Vaughn writes, always is so descriptive and makes you feel like you are right there with the characters. She keeps you on your toes with all the twists and turns. You keep reading because you want to see what is going to happen next. I cannot wait to read Part 4 in the series." -Dori from Florida, 5-star review "Something I've always admired about books is that when you find a well written series each book may even be better than the last, unlike motion pictures where the second rarely adds up. This is just one of the many reasons I've always favored a good book over a movie. My point is that I feel this way about Aviva Vaughn's Beckoned series. I was completely drawn into Angela and Soren's story in book one, book two blew my mind and yet somehow even after following their story a third time, I NEED to know more." -Felicia, 5-star review "This lady has completely captured me with this series, at first I was intrigued to see how a American author would write about the UK and she definitely did it justice. I really feel that Aviva characters really pull you into the story and plays wonders with your imagination not many authors can really do that for me I've only got a hand full I will read hundreds of times over and over and she has definitely gone on that list for myself." -Claire,5-star review "The whole story/series has been fascinating and captivating- but this book takes it to a whole new level. Ms. Vaughn has upped the ante, so to speak, and produced a story that I devoured in matter of hours. I couldn't put it down and HAD to find out what was happening. The books just seem to get better and better.... And the love triangle of sorts/the 'threat,' and the emotional rollercoaster that this story took me on had me sooooo conflicted. I am now really anxious about the next book, and to find out how the story will end.Thank you, Ms. Vaughn!" -Angela, 5-star review "Woah part three! This series just keeps getting better! I read this one in just a few hours because I could not stop reading it! After finding out this is the author's favorite book of the series, I was so excited to read this and Aviva Vaughn did NOT disappoint! This book gave me a new appreciation for California and seeing it through the eyes of someone who truly loves it is wonderful.Every time Aviva Vaughn describes a new location, I can picture it in such vivid detail. She really has a way with words! Bring on Part 4!!" -Emily, 5-star review "I'm not even sure I'm even capable to begin to describe how much i enjoy this book ( and series ). Wow, it's such a roller ride! So much attention to details, scenic scenes and characters ! I can picture it all in my head and hear their voices. Phenomenal story plot, with drama, suspense, intrigue ... oh and sooo much love!! We can't all forgot that! The characters are relatable and entertaining! Such an amazing story, once you read one, you'll want to read the others ASAP!!" -Nicole, 4-star review "This series just gets better and better with each book..." -Lisette, 5-star review  FROM THE AUTHOR Dearest Reader, I wrote BECKONED for many reasons, but first and foremost, I wrote it to feature the kind of people I know: diverse, smart, complicated men and women. My heroines are strong and educated, and my heroes are polite and respectful. As an avid reader, I wanted to see characters that looked like me and my friends and reflect the world I want to see. I also wanted to write a beautiful book. I consider BECKONED to be a modern story told in an old-fashion way with lots of metaphors and beautiful phrases, and where the sex is explicit but also elegant. So if you are a Word Nerd like me, then you will love BECKONED! If you choose to embark on this journey with me, you--and your taste buds--will get to visit London, Barcelona, Bath, Los Angeles, Honolulu, Costa Rica, New Zealand, and Copenhagen. It will be a fun--and delicious--ride! There are even recipes in some of the books as well as soundtracks to give you a multi-sensory experience. BECKONED is a single story in six parts and should be read in order. The intimacy is steamy, but it is slooooooow burn and is distributed throughout the books because of how the couples' relationships change and deepen. Birthing BECKONED has truly been a labor of love, and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it! BUCKLE UP and enjoy the journey. Wishing you love and romance, ~Aviva

One battle is over, but the war has just begun. They escaped the Five Realms and have found a home, but peace is much harder to find. The aftermath of the Battle of Sarikar should have been a time to mourn those lost in the slaughter. The enemies of Armania are many, however, and when one steps back to regroup, another surges forward in attack. While the remnant must take responsibility for the evil they brought to Er'Rets, it would seem that something just as dark already existed in this new world. The growing struggle between Armania and Barthel Rogedoth is but a pale reflection of a far more dangerous battle for the souls of humanity. And so begins this awe-inspiring conclusion to Jill Williamson's Kinsman Chronicles. The Hadar family and their allies prepare to make one final stand in the name of Arman. There shall be war--in Er'Rets and in the Veil--to vanquish evil or be ruled by darkness.

Finally Something That Works! Have you ever wanted to write a novel, but didn't know where to start? Have you ever started writing a novel, only to get stuck halfway through? If you're serious about writing that novel then this book is for you. You see many writers (including me) just start writing without realising how easy it is to fall into the multiple traps that can ruin their books. Anyone can write a novel but to write a bestseller you need to understand what makes a novel successful. This book will guide you through the process of brainstorming, crafting, and developing your own bestseller. Discover the secret storytelling code behind all successful novels and use it to outline, write, or revise your own. Plan new novels with plots that will keep readers engaged and turning pages. Stop struggling with your first draft (or your fourth!). Whether you're a seasoned writer or an anxious beginner, you'll be able to use this book to fast-track your writing career! Apply this practical advice to turn what could be an overwhelming goal into an actionable and attainable one. In this book you will discover The Essential Element of a Successful Story Why Some Stories Work and Others Don't How to Stay Focused and Motivated Bringing Your Characters To Life Stephen King's Million Dollar Routine Creating Killer Plots Advanced Fiction Writing Tricks Why You Should Never Write in Cliche How to Edit Like a Pro Making Space For What Comes Creating Suspense and Drama And Much, Much More Click Add To Cart to see your story come to life fast!

For all the scholarship devoted to Mary Shelley's English novel Frankenstein, there has been surprisingly little attention paid to its role in American culture, and virtually none to its racial resonances in the United States. In Black Frankenstein, Elizabeth Young identifies and interprets the figure of a black American Frankenstein monster as it appears with surprising frequency throughout nineteenth- and twentieth-century U.S. culture, in fiction, film, essays, oratory, painting, and other media, and in works by both whites and African Americans. Black Frankenstein stories, Young argues, effect four kinds of racial critique: they humanize the slave; they explain, if not justify, black violence; they condemn the slaveowner; and they expose the instability of white power. The black Frankenstein's monster has served as a powerful metaphor for reinforcing racial hierarchy—and as an even more powerful metaphor for shaping anti-racist critique. Illuminating the power of parody and reappropriation, Black Frankenstein tells the story of a metaphor that continues to matter to literature, culture, aesthetics, and politics.

This edition of Romance Readers and Romance Writers (1810) is the first modern scholarly publication of what is arguably Green's most famous novel. As with many of her other works, Green adopts numerous sophisticated methods to parody her contemporaries.

Peretz Markish (1895-1952), one of Eastern Europe's most important Yiddish poets in the period between the two world wars, was a fiercely independent maverick who published work in all literary genres. Although emerging from the Kiev literary tradition, Markish always went his own way in a literary career spanning four decades and embracing almost

Jeffrey A. Mason has written an informative, accessible guide to today's most popular form of philosophical writing, the journal-length essay. The Philosopher's Address does what no other book on the market has attempted: it takes the reader behind the scenes of the writing process to expose the rhetorical underpinnings of philosophical texts. Mason argues that readers need to understand why philosophical writing is constructed as it is, and to be aware of the rhetorical devices by which authors seek to persuade them if they are to engage fully with these texts. This book is intended for a broad audience of specialists and students alike. Professional scholars will appreciate Mason's astute discussion of current trends within analytic philosophy, while students will benefit greatly from his comprehensive understanding of the social context in which philosophical discourse is produced, its various and competing schools of thought, and the theoretical concepts that inform them.

Explains how to write an autobiography, discussing such elements as setting, character, point of view, and plot, and contains examples from successful books and profiles of notable authors.

Although the problems of writing fantasy and science fiction include all those pertaining to the writing of any kind of fiction, particular problems arise in stories in which unprecedented things can and do happen, as well as stories that often involve unhuman characters of various sorts, and that might require the elaborate design of entire imaginary worlds. This book provides an elementary introduction to problems of those kinds, and the ways in which they modify the general problems of writing fiction. It also suggests strategies that might enable the problems to be handled constructively and productively. The author has published more than seventy novels in the field, more than twenty short story collections, and more than twenty related works of non-fiction; he has, as the saying goes, been there, done that, and chewed his t-shirt in relevant frustration. Robert Reginald says: "An absolutely first-rate guide to writing fantastic literature. Stableford has much to say that potential writers of ALL fiction might find valuable, interesting, and highly illuminating. His reasonable discussion and dissection of the basic issues facing authors of creative fiction--and the solutions to be found to each problem--are dollops of solid gold advice, in this editor's humble opinion. Every would-be author should read this book--and more than once!"

The early works of Paul Auster convey the loneliness of the individual fully committed to the work of writing, as if he were confined within the book that dominates his life. All through Auster’s poetry, essays and fiction, the work of writing is an actual physical effort, an effective construction, as if the words aligned in the poem-text were stones to place in a row when building a wall or some other structure in stone. This book studies the symbolism of the genetic substance of the world (re)built through the work of writing, inside the walls of the room, closed in space and time, though open to an unlimited mental expansion. Paul Auster’s work is an aesthetic-literary self-reflection about the mission of writing. The writer-character is like an inexperienced God, whose hands may originate either cosmos or chaos, life or death, hence Auster’s recurring meditation on the work and the power of writing, at the same time an autobiography and a self-criticism. The stones, the wall, and the room – the words, the page, and the book – are the ontological structure of the imaginary cosmos generated in Paul Auster’s mind, like a real world born of the magma of words lost in another, interior world.