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The mysteries of the world, available to a child--by faith

Customer Rating:

We all want to believe that if we could just read something SO PROFOUND, our understanding of the writing craft would magically propel us into greatness for all the world to read. Time-after-after, attempt-after-next, we search and purchase and scour through advice both real and imaginary--book after book. Then, some of us, hopefully close to one million of us, happened upon this great book. I had the pleasure of exchanging email with the author. She was kind enough to extend her wisdom even further in two words: "Trust me". I did, and from her thoughtful, deeply opinionated book, I gained the insight that all mysteries of the world are available to a child if they can be accepted by the faith of one. This book worked for me. Trust her well laid-out architecture and you, too, can have the confidence to write a 740 page epic novel as your very first attempt, as I did. You won't agree with all her strong opinions but, that is style. Style helps you understand yourself and where you are in your art. I thank God for people with the gall to say what they mean and mean what they say. "Don't murder your mystery" is as serious work, but its fun! Buy this book. Be faithful to the principles inside which you select to follow. Define your style in doing so (bonus). Invest simple faith in what she says and DO IT! WRITE YOUR OWN NOVEL!! DO IT! (But get this book first) Oh! And listen: the "mystery" part in the title? Don't let that throw you. My novel is fantasy--horror--erotica--drama... Her principles work for ALL of it. Take this book and the "How to write a damn good novel" together... You're bulletproof, baby! Take on the world!

Best mystery writing reference ever!

Customer Rating:

I stumbled upon this book when it was recommended to me by a writer friend. What a refreshing and helpful book! It's clearly written and fun to read--and the advice is spot on. If you are pondering which of the many mystery writer's guides out there you should buy--include this one for sure. You won't be sorry. The author also has a similar book that speaks to a more general writing audience ("Don't Sabotage Your Submission")--check that one out if you're not a mystery writer but want solid tips for making your manuscript the best ever.

Must Have for Writers	Customer Rating:
This is not your usual writing/revising guide. Chris Roerden is an insider (a book editor), and she gives insider information. The best part is the book is not a re-hash of the many writing books available. Be sure to check out her new book DON'T SABOTAGE YOUR SUBMISSIONS. Not only does Chris provide valuable information, but she's one of the nicest people I've met.

Avoid doing in your work before it has a chance

Customer Rating:

Don't Murder Your Mystery Is full of great advice and tips about what not to do and gives a good picture of what you should. It isn't a step-by-step how to write. But rather what to avoid and how to look at your work from the perspective of the publisher, agent and the all important screening process that you must get through before it reaches the eyes of someone who can say "yes"! It is well written and easy to read and I am certain that it was money well spent.

Exhaustive list of amateur writing mistakes

Customer Rating:

This book is a terrific primer for first-time or relatively new writers -- and not just writers of mysteries, but all fiction and even non-fiction. The examples of poor choices and better alternatives that Chris Roerden chooses are clear and relevant. My only nit to pick is the negative construction of the book: with some background in teaching, my preference is always to suggest the right thing to do first, rather than to point out what not to do or how not to do something. A valuable addition to the library of anyone who wants to become a better writer, editor, or reviewer.