The prospect of writing a novel can seem daunting, but writing, revising, and editing fiction don't have to be headache-inducing tasks. In The Magic of Fiction, editor Beth Hill helps you master the ins and outs of writing fiction. Learn how to create stronger first drafts to streamline the revision process later. Learn how to work and rework the fiction elements. And learn how to self-edit your stories whether you intend to self-publish or plan to submit your manuscript to an agent or publisher, whether you're a first-time novelist or a many-times-published author. This book is your comprehensive guide to crafting fiction. It's the perfect resource for writers planning to self-publish, authors looking for an edge for their manuscript submissions, and freelance fiction editors looking for a handbook on the craft. Students and educators will also benefit from having specifics about writing and editing in one book. The Magic of Fiction addresses all aspects of writing and editing, from the mechanics to story issues to style concerns. In it you'll find tips, explanations, suggestions, examples, and a boatload of questions to guide your writing and editing. This guide includes: A comprehensive editing checklist Fixes for common writing mistakes Specifics for punctuation in dialogue Tips for putting setting to work for your fiction Recommendations for strengthening plot, character, and dialogue Suggestions for editing for the reader Help for writing to genre conventions Tips for word choices A guide for editing approaches and much more. Why you need this book: Every fiction writer should be equipped to not only write well, but to rewrite and self-edit. There are books designed to help you write a novel, books to help you revise, and books to help you with the nitty-gritty of punctuation and grammar. The Magic of Fiction brings all these elements together in a single friendly, easy-to-digest, and comprehensive resource for the writer looking for an edge in today's literary marketplace. Easy and convenient to use The format of The Magic of Fiction helps you focus on what you need when you need it. Chapters provide a detailed discussion of topics and end with "quick lists" and suggestions to help you get straight to work on your own stories. Written by a freelance fiction editor who's seen hundreds of works in progress, The Magic of Fiction will help you produce high-quality fiction that will stand out for all the right reasons.