Tips + Techniques
Mastering Dialogue
Dialogue is where characters truly come to life. These resources will help you write conversations that feel natural, reveal personality, and push the story forward, making your characters’ voices impossible to ignore.
by Lewis Turco
Turco’s book dives into the craft of writing dialogue that feels real, compelling, and authentic. It covers everything from subtext to pacing, helping writers avoid the common pitfalls that make dialogue sound stiff or unrealistic.
Why I recommend it: If you struggle with making your characters’ conversations sound natural or engaging, this book provides clear, actionable advice.
by James Scott Bell
Bell’s book focuses on how to craft dynamic, realistic dialogue. It breaks down techniques like creating conflict in conversations, conveying character personality, and ensuring dialogue serves the plot.
Why I recommend it: James Scott Bell has a knack for breaking down complex writing concepts into practical tips you can apply immediately.
(Online Resource) – Writer’s Digest
Writer’s Digest offers several free articles and exercises that can help you hone your dialogue skills. The online tips cover a wide range of topics, from crafting authentic conversations to understanding how dialogue can deepen character development.
Why I recommend it: Practical, easy-to-digest tips that can instantly improve your dialogue writing.
Pacing + Tension
Keeping readers on the edge of their seats is an art. These resources will guide you in building suspense, managing the rhythm of your story, and maintaining a compelling pace that keeps your audience hooked from start to finish.
by Christopher Vogler
Vogler’s work is often lauded for its ability to help writers understand story structure, and it’s especially useful for learning how to manage pacing and build tension. His exploration of archetypes and plot elements helps you fine-tune pacing at every stage of your story.
Why I recommend it: This book is essential for understanding how pacing and tension work within the framework of a larger narrative.
by Les Edgerton
Edgerton focuses on the first few pages of a story, offering insights into how to grab the reader’s attention and keep it. His tips can be applied to managing tension and pacing throughout the entire story.
Why I recommend it: If you want to learn how to hook your readers and build tension from the very first line, this is a great resource.
by Charles Baxter
Baxter’s book focuses on the hidden layers beneath the surface of a story. He explores the subtle ways in which writers can use subtext to create tension, build anticipation, and keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Why I recommend it: For writers looking to build suspense without relying on overt action, Baxter’s focus on subtext is invaluable.
(Online Resource) – Writers Helping Writers
This website features several excellent articles and tools for writers who want to master pacing and build tension. Their “Thesaurus” series includes lists of words and phrases designed to evoke specific emotional responses in readers.
Why I recommend it: If you’re struggling with pacing or want more concrete tips for creating tension, this resource is a goldmine.
Narrative Voice + Style
Your narrative voice is what makes your story uniquely yours. These resources will help you discover and refine your voice, choose the perfect point of view, and develop a style that resonates with readers while staying true to your vision.
by Ursula K. Le Guin
Le Guin’s classic is packed with wisdom on crafting a strong narrative voice. She touches on point of view, tone, and style, providing practical exercises to develop your unique voice.
Why I recommend it: Le Guin’s ability to merge philosophy and writing craft makes this a beautiful resource for any writer developing their voice.
by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
A timeless classic, The Elements of Style is essential for any writer who wants to polish their style. It offers clear guidance on grammar, sentence structure, and clarity, helping you find your voice and present it effectively.
Why I recommend it: A must-have in any writer’s library, this book helps keep your writing clear and concise while still allowing room for individual style.
(Online Resource) – The Write Practice
The Write Practice offers a comprehensive breakdown of how to work with different narrative voices and points of view. Their blog covers everything from first-person narration to omniscient third-person, helping you find the best fit for your story.
Why I recommend it: A wealth of articles focused on helping you refine your narrative voice and effectively choose your point of view.