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Books matching: character arcs

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  1. Robert McKee's 'Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting' delves deep into the art of storytelling, offering a comprehensive guide to crafting engaging narratives. McKee's writing style is informative and insightful, providing readers with a thorough understanding of story and character development. The book covers various aspects of storytelling, from narrative structure to character arcs, using examples from classic films to illustrate key concepts.

    Imagine, in one global day, the pages of prose turned, plays performed, films screened, the unending stream of television comedy and drama, twenty-four-hour print and broadcast news, bedtime tales tol...

  2. The Anatomy of Story by John Truby is a comprehensive guide to crafting compelling stories, focusing on character development, plot structure, and thematic elements. Truby presents a 22-step framework that delves into the essential components of a successful story, emphasizing the hero's journey, moral arguments, and symbolic elements. Through in-depth analysis of classic Hollywood movies and literature, Truby offers practical advice and writing exercises to help writers build well-crafted and original narratives. The book's writing style is informative, detailed, and insightful, providing readers with a systematic approach to story creation while encouraging creativity and critical thinking.


  3. #3

    Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody
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    Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody is a comprehensive guide that breaks down essential storytelling patterns for writers, providing a clear roadmap for structuring novels. Brody introduces a 15 beat breakdown that can be applied to any genre, offering valuable insights and real-life examples to help writers craft compelling stories with engaging characters and plots.

    Brody's writing style in Save the Cat! Writes a Novel is engaging, informal, and crystal clear, making complex storytelling concepts accessible even for beginners. The book not only helps writers plot their novels but also guides them through the revision process, ensuring that every story hits the essential beats and elements needed for a successful narrative.


  4. #4

    Heretic Spellblade - Heretic Spellblade by K D Robertson
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    'Heretic Spellblade' by K D Robertson is an epic fantasy novel that follows the journey of Nathan and his friends through a world filled with magic, intrigue, and complex characters. The book is praised for its intricate plots, engaging world-building, and the balance between action-packed scenes and character development. Readers are drawn into a story where the hero, Nathan, is granted a chance to correct his past mistakes while facing challenges that test his strength and character.

    The writing style of K D Robertson is described as progressive adult fantasy with shades of grey, focusing on the battle of good versus evil. The book is commended for its well-developed characters, witty dialogue, and the gradual unveiling of the intricate inner workings of the world. Fans of sword and sorcery and those who appreciate complex storytelling will find themselves immersed in a world where friends and enemies from the past converge in a narrative that keeps readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.


  5. #5

    Story Engineering by Larry Brooks
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    'Story Engineering' by Larry Brooks is a comprehensive guide to writing that breaks down key elements of successful storytelling. The author emphasizes the importance of core competencies such as character development and story structure, providing practical step-by-step advice on how to plan and design a compelling story. The writing style is described as informative and easy to follow, with a focus on teaching writers how to create stories that satisfy reader expectations while also incorporating surprise elements.

    You can go your whole career as a writer without someone asking you to define the essence of story. What it means. What it is. What it isn't. For many writers this is a good thing. Because their answe...

  6. #6

    The Hero's 2 Journeys by Christopher Vogler, Michael Hauge
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    'The Hero's 2 Journeys' by Christopher Vogler and Michael Hauge is a practical guide for writers, especially in the realm of screenwriting and novel structure. It delves deep into Joseph Campbell's monomyth structure and how it can be applied to storytelling, focusing on the Inner and Outer Journeys of a hero. The authors provide insights on how to intertwine these journeys into a screenplay or novel, offering a unique perspective on story structure.

    offers a comprehensive overview of the Hero's Journey, connecting it to the act structure of a film and suggesting key points where events from the monomyth cycle can be introduced. It is praised for its ability to provide valuable insights for writers at any stage, offering a powerful combination of practical advice and theoretical knowledge that can enhance the understanding of story structure and character development.


  7. #7

    The Escape Room by Megan Goldin
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    The Escape Room by Megan Goldin is a psychological thriller that follows the story of four high-flying investment bankers - Vincent, Jules, Sylvie, and Sam - who are trapped in an elevator during a team-building exercise turned deadly. As they struggle to solve cryptic clues to escape, dark secrets and past misdeeds come to light, leading to a thrilling game of survival. The narrative alternates between the present-day plight of the trapped bankers and the backstory of a former employee named Sara, gradually revealing the interconnected web of deception and revenge in the cutthroat world of high finance. Goldin weaves a gripping tale of suspense and mystery, with intricate character development and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    Vincent was the last to arrive. His dark overcoat flared behind him as he strode through the lobby. The other three were standing in an informal huddle by a leather sofa. They didn’t notice Vincent co...

  8. #8

    The Cactus by Sarah Haywood
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    'The Cactus' by Sarah Haywood follows the story of Susan Green, a quirky and socially awkward woman in her mid-forties who prefers a regimented life devoid of social ties. However, her life takes a turn when she discovers she is pregnant and has to navigate a legal battle with her brother over their deceased mother's estate. Through the unexpected events that unfold, Susan is forced to let people into her life, leading to personal growth and transformation. The novel is described as character-driven, humorous, and poignant, with a writing style that slowly reveals details and provides witty observations about Susan's life and relationships.

    I’m not a woman who bears grudges, broods over disagreements or questions other people’s motives. Neither do I feel compelled to win an argument at any cost. As with all rules, of course, there are ex...

  9. #9

    The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom - Hero's Guide by Christopher Healy
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    In "The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom" by Christopher Healy, readers are taken on a fun and humorous adventure through a twist on traditional fairy tales. The book follows four different Prince Charmings, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, as they must work together to defeat an evil witch. The story provides clever in-world explanations for the discrepancies in the official versions of fairy tales we are familiar with, and offers a light-hearted and feel-good reading experience filled with silly fun and clever storytelling.

    The narrative of the book explores what happens to Prince Charming after the events of well-known fairy tales like Rapunzel, Cinderella, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty. It delves into the aftermath of the "happily ever after" and presents a humorous and entertaining take on how the princes navigate challenges such as bossy princesses, evil witches, dragons, giants, and more. Through witty writing and quirky illustrations, Healy brings to life a world where traditional fairy tale characters are reimagined with diverse personalities and unexpected twists, making it a delightful and engaging read for both young readers and adults alike.

    The only thing Frederic had to do in return was live the life of a proper gentleman. He was allowed to attend as many poetry readings, ballroom dances, and twelve-course luncheons as he wanted. But he...

  10. #10

    Chain of Thorns - The Last Hours by Cassandra Clare
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    Readers praise Cassandra Clare for her addictive and captivating storytelling in "Chain of Thorns," part of 'The Last Hours' series. The book follows a group of well-developed characters, with intertwining relationships and emotional journeys. Clare expertly weaves together multiple storylines, creating a rich and engaging universe that readers find hard to put down. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the satisfying conclusion. Clare's writing style is commended for its comfort and readability, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the world of Shadowhunters.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Last Hours )

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