orytelling with DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL, the groundbreaking resource from award-winning novelist Steven James. After decades of teaching fiction writing intensives and addressing countless questions from aspiring authors, James finally distills his insights into this essential guide for novelists at every level.

Packed with practical tips, charts, and time-saving strategies, DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL tackles the tough questions that writers face, offering fresh perspectives and unorthodox advice that challenges conventional wisdom.

But the advice isn't always what you might expect.

• • How to write a scene even when you don't know where it will lead or what will happen within it.
  • The disadvantages of "character arcs" and how to overcome them.
  • 6 things-besides "hooking" readers' attention-that your opening needs to accomplish, no matter the genre.
  • 12 ways to make a villain more formidable (and what to do if he becomes more interesting than your hero).
  • Why conflict does not equal tension, difficulty does not equal dilemma, and structure does not equal story.
  • 5 reasons why readers keep flipping pages (and which one to always avoid!).

With DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL, you'll find the tools you need to elevate your writing, engage your readers, and unleash your creative potential. Dive in and transform your storytelling approach-because the journey to becoming a great writer starts here.