Learn to: Craft a winning manuscript Troubleshoot and edit your work Prepare your manuscript for publication Find a good agent to represent you Negotiate the best possible deal Turn your aspiration into reality with this completely updated guide If you’ve always wanted to write that great novel, but never knew where to start, look no further! With a published author advising you on how to write well and a literary agent providing insight into getting a publishing deal, this updated guide gives you the inside track on the art and science of breaking into the fiction-publishing industry. Taking you step by step from concept to contract, this book provides the tools you need to tell your story with skill and approach agents and publishers with confidence. Dive in — check out how to combine your natural talent with the writing techniques used by successful authors Establish a firm foundation — construct your basic story, plot and structure Examine the key elements — create characters, develop dialogue, explore relationships and insert conflict Fine-tune and finish up — discover tips on adding detail, creativity and flair while bringing your work to a close Get published — take the next step by weighing up your publishing options, working with agents and negotiating deals Find out more — check out additional advice, like the most common mistakes you need to avoid, and tips from published authors Open the book and find: Tips for getting started Creative ways to develop plots, storylines, characters and dialogue The seven basic stories and how to put them to work Tricks for crafting a great ending to your novel How to prepare your manuscript for editing and publishing The lowdown on the business side of publishing