Six Magic Words for creating a Bestseller
Notes on Susan Elizabeth Phillips – Six Magic Words for creating a Bestseller.
Write the compelling book, not necessarily the most creative or artistic one. What makes a bestseller?
1. Plot is Riveting
2. You care deeply about the characters.
3. The author reveals an unfamiliar world (Narnia, etc.)
4. Captivating Author’s Voice
The 6 Magic words are: Keep The Reader In The Story
As long as you don’t pull them out, you have a winner. Try to master good craft. Create dazzling characters who are sympathetic, but not perfect. They should be realistic but larger than life. Well-motivated characters, but don’t manipulate their behavior to advance your plot. Move the plot by giving the characters strengths and weaknesses. Let them develop and grow throughout the story. Take the hero and follow his emotional thread throughout the story, then do the same for the heroine. Make them diametric opposites. If he’s a fireman, she should be an arsonist.
Michelle posted in Writing @ 8:33 am | Viewed 2747 times
Robyn Says:
Michelle, you’re a doll. Thanks for posting all these conference notes!
BTW, got the book, and thank you. My daughter made off with the Bite Me button first thing. You might have to clue me in if you know what she wrote- woman’s got interesting penmanship.
Olga Says:
Thanks for posting the conference notes from me, too! That was very nice for you to do, Michelle!