| Novels That $ell All writers strive to improve with each new book. To
date, I have written thirty-nine novels and four nonfiction works. The books have been
published in eleven foreign languages, and at last count, there were upwards of 36 million
copies in print. In terms of fiction, I have written historical novels, adventure
novels, mystery novels, and several contemporary thrillers. One novel won a literary
award, another was produced as a six-hour miniseries on CBS, and a third will be produced
as a movie on TNT. I have enjoyed some measure of success as a writer.
For all that, the literary establishment will
never shower me with accolades. But then, I long ago cast aside the pretense of writing
literature. So the indifference of the literati merits nothing more that a large ho hum. I
write these days for the readers, rather than the artsy-smartsy community. Which is not to
say I wouldn’t like the prestige and recognition that comes with a Pulitzer. From a
pragmatic standpoint, however, I’m not waiting for the phone to ring.
A story will serve to illustrate the point. Some
years ago I journeyed to New Mexico for research on a novel. The first stop on my trip was
the historical society, located in Santa Fe. A gracious lady there listened attentively as
I outlined the purpose of my visit. At that point, I had identified myself only by name,
commenting that I was Researching a book. Abruptly, she stopped and subjected me to a
long, searching stare. Then a sudden light of recognition crossed her features.
"Matt Braun!" she beamed. "I read
your books!"
I won’t forget the look on her face. Nor
will I forget how she remembered titles and various characters from my books. Listening to
her, I was reminded once again of what counts most. Awards and literary recognition
are strictly second place. First prize for a storyteller can be reduced to a simple,
declarative sentence. I read your books!
You may aspire to write literature with a capital
L. In that event, I have little to offer you in the way of advice. However, if you wish to
write solid novels that will engage publishers and entrance readers, I offer you
twenty-five years of experience as a published author.
Whatever your field of interest—adventure,
romance, mystery, thrillers, novels of any description—you benefit from a book on the
craft of writing by a craftsman whose novels have sold millions of copies. HOW TO WRITE
NOVELS THAT $ELL will guide and instruct you toward a career as a successful author.
Here is a
Chapter-by-Chapter Preview.
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