Transform Your Novel Dream Into Reality
Have you always wanted to write a novel but don't know where to start? Are you overwhelmed by writing advice and struggling to finish your first draft? How to Write a Novel: From Idea to Book cuts through the confusion with clear, practical guidance that actually works.
Award-winning author Joanna Penn has written over 20 novels (as J.F. Penn) and sold nearly a million books worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, she shares the exact process that took her from aspiring writer to New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.
What Makes This Book Different
Unlike most craft books written by plotters, Joanna is a discovery writer (pantser), offering a refreshingly intuitive approach to novel writing. Whether you outline meticulously or write by the seat of your pants, you'll find practical strategies that work for your creative process.
Inside This Book You'll Discover:
- How to generate and capture compelling story ideas that excite you
- Plotting vs. discovery writing: finding your unique creative process
- Essential elements of story structure, character development, and dialogue
- Practical strategies for overcoming writer's block and finishing your first draft
- The complete editing process from self-editing to working with professionals
- Writing tools and software recommendations to streamline your workflow
- Real insights from Joanna's journey writing 18+ novels across multiple genres
Perfect For:
- First-time novelists ready to write and finish their debut
- Fiction writers who've started novels but struggled to finish
- Authors wanting to refine their craft and creative process
- Discovery writers seeking guidance from a fellow creative
- Anyone who's ever said "I want to write a novel someday"
Five Parts, One Complete Journey:
From mindset and idea generation through research, drafting, and editing—this book guides you through every stage of creating your novel. With questions at the end of each chapter and downloadable resources, you'll have everything you need to turn your story idea into a finished book.
Your novel is waiting to be written. Let's get started.
Available in ebook, paperback, hardback, audiobook, and companion workbook formats, as well as bundles.
KEY BENEFITS
✓ Complete roadmap from initial idea to finished, edited novel
✓ Beginner-friendly approach that won't overwhelm you with theory
✓ Discovery writing perspective from a successful (pantser) author
✓ Practical strategies for plotting, character development, and story structure
✓ Overcome writer's block with proven techniques from an award-winning author
✓ Master the editing process including self-editing and working with professionals
✓ Companion workbook available for hands-on application (available separately)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Is this book for complete beginners? A: Yes! This book is specifically designed for first-time novelists and anyone who's struggled to finish a novel, or anyone who wants to level up their craft or get some new ideas. Joanna breaks down the process into manageable steps without overwhelming you.
Q: What if I'm a discovery writer who doesn't outline? A: Perfect! Unlike most craft books, this is written by a discovery writer for discovery writers. You'll find strategies that work for intuitive, non-linear creative processes.
Q: Do I need the companion workbook? A: The workbook is optional but recommended if you like to work through material hands-on. The main book includes questions at the end of each chapter, and free downloadable resources are available.
Q: What formats are available? A: All formats—ebook, paperback, hardback, audiobook, and spiral-bound companion workbook. Also available on the usual online stores.
Q: Is this book relevant if I write in a specific genre? A: Absolutely. The craft principles apply to all fiction genres, from literary fiction to thrillers, romance to sci-fi.