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Story Structure and Outline Resources

Whether you're an author, writer, editor, or writing coach, navigating the complexities of storytelling can be daunting. I've created a list of some of my favorite books that can assist you in a piece of mastering the art of storytelling, editing, and coaching:

 

You may be finding yourself...

  • Looking to understand the psychological aspects of storytelling.

  • Facing difficulties with plot development, narrative coherence, or character development.

  • Struggling to maintain consistency and coherence across multiple books.

  • Struggling to find a suitable structure for your story.

  • Finding it difficult to identify and implement the key elements of story structure.

 

For Authors and Writers:

These books will help you:

  • Learn how to develop stories and characters that resonate deeply with readers.

  • Gain insights into the science behind storytelling to enhance your narrative.

  • Discover practical techniques, like step-by-step frameworks and exercises, to support your outlining and story structure process, both during the initial writing phase and editing phase.

  • Find the suitable structure for your story.

 

For Editors and Writing Coaches:

These books will support you if you want to:

  • Support writers in character and plot development.

  • Integrate brain science with storytelling techniques.

  • Help writers create consistent and engaging series.

  • Guide writers in structuring and pacing their novels.

  • Assist in crafting authentic romantic relationships.

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Story Genius: How to Use Brain Science to Go Beyond Outlining and Write A Riveting Novel
by Lisa Cron

Lisa Cron delves into psychological studies to explore effective storytelling. She emphasizes the importance of internal conflict and character development to create compelling and emotionally driven stories.​

Blueprint for a Book: Build Your Novel from the Inside Out

by Jennie Nash

Jennie Nash provides a detailed framework for constructing novels with a focus on building them from the inside out. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the core elements of your story and developing a solid foundation for your narrative. It is also the perfect companion book to Story Genius by Lisa Cron because Lisa is Jennie’s book coach.​

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Secrets to Outlining a Novel
by K. Stanley and L. Cooke

K. Stanley and L. Cooke offer an in-depth guide to outlining novels, emphasizing the importance of planning and structure to create a coherent and engaging narrative. Their approach provides practical techniques for developing detailed outlines that serve as a roadmap for your writing journey.

Secrets to Writing a Series 
by K. Stanley and L. Cooke

K. Stanley and L. Cooke present a comprehensive guide to outlining a book series, focusing on the importance of planning and consistency to ensure a cohesive and compelling multi-book narrative. Their approach provides practical techniques for developing outlines that maintain continuity and engagement across multiple installments.

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Save The Cat! Write A Novel
by Jessica Brody

Jessica Brody adapts Blake Snyder's famous screenwriting method for novel writing, offering a structured and intuitive approach to crafting compelling stories. She provides a practical guide to using the "Save the Cat!" beat sheet to ensure your novel has a strong and engaging narrative arc.

The Science of Storytelling

by Will Storr

Will Storr explores the psychological and neurological foundations of storytelling, providing insights into why stories captivate and move us. He delves into the science behind narrative techniques and offers practical advice for creating emotionally engaging and psychologically rich stories.

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Story Structure Architect
by Victoria Lynn Schmidt

Victoria Lynn Schmidt offers a comprehensive guide to story structure, presenting various frameworks and models to help writers craft well-organized and compelling narratives. She explores different structural archetypes and provides practical tools for planning and developing stories across genres.

Romancing the Beat

by Gwen Hayes

Gwen Hayes provides a specialized guide for writing romance novels, focusing on the essential beats that create a compelling love story. She offers a clear and practical framework for structuring romance narratives, ensuring they hit all the right emotional notes.

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5 Secrets to Story Structure

by K. M. Weiland

K. M. Weiland unveils five key secrets to mastering story structure, offering writers a clear and actionable approach to crafting well-organized and compelling narratives. Her insights help writers understand the fundamental elements of structure and how to apply them effectively to their stories.

Summon the spirits of creativity and clarity for your writing or editing journey — contact for my support.

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