The 6 Best Books to Help You Write Your Novel in 2025
So. It’s time to start writing the novel that’s been in your head for as long as you can remember.
But you’ve never written a book before. And you could do with some help getting started. Luckily, there’s no shortage of guides available, all with their own take on the best way to write a novel. One of them is almost certainly the perfect book for you.
Remember, though, that there’s no “right” way to write your novel. Every writer has their unique style and process, and you’ll find yours as you go. That’s why I’ve written this article to recognise that different types of writers need different types of guidance.
I’ve organised my recommendations into seven categories:
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No matter how you approach your writing or what process suits you best, there’s a guide here for you.
Just so you know: this article contains affiliate links, so I may earn a commission on purchases made by clicking the links below. This doesn’t cost you anything extra, and I only recommend brands, products, and services that I personally know and love, or which I’ve had recommended to me by people I trust.
Best for Authors Who Like to Plan in Advance
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody
If you thrive on structure and organisation, Jessica Brody’s Save the Cat! Writes A Novel is a must-read. This book adapts Blake Snyder’s screenwriting method to novel writing, providing a clear roadmap for crafting compelling stories. With its easy-to-follow beat sheets and practical exercises, you’ll learn how to write an outline for a novel that resonates with readers.
Why It’s a Good Fit
For authors who thrive on planning and structure, Save the Cat! Writes A Novel is a beacon of clarity. Brody adapts Snyder’s successful screenwriting method, which emphasizes the importance of having a solid framework before diving into writing. If you’re someone who likes to have a roadmap for your writing journey, this book will provide you with the tools to outline your story effectively.
What You Can Expect Inside
- Beat Sheets:The book introduces you to “beats,” which are essential plot points that drive your story forward. Brody provides templates and examples that guide you through plotting your novel in a way that keeps readers engaged.
- Practical Exercises:Each chapter includes practical exercises that help you apply what you’ve learned. This hands-on approach allows you to actively create an outline for your novel as you read.
- Case Studies:Brody analyses popular novels and films, illustrating how they align with her beat sheet structure. This not only helps you see theory in action but also inspires you to think critically about your own story.
- Character Development:The book emphasises the importance of creating relatable characters who undergo significant transformations throughout the story. You’ll learn how to craft character arcs that resonate with readers.
- Flexibility in Structure:While it provides a solid framework, Brody also encourages flexibility, reminding writers that every story is unique and may require adjustments to fit their vision.
In summary…
For authors who enjoy planning their novels meticulously, Save the Cat! Writes A Novel offers an invaluable toolkit filled with actionable strategies and creative insights. By employing Brody’s techniques, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with readers while keeping yourself organised throughout the process.
Best for Authors Who Write to Find the Story
Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg
For authors who prefer a more organic approach to storytelling, Natalie Goldberg’s Writing Down the Bones serves as an inspiring guide that encourages you to embrace spontaneity and intuition in your writing process. Goldberg sees the act of writing as a journey of discovery, allowing writers to unearth stories that may not be immediately apparent. If your creative process involves telling yourself the story as you go, you’ll find that Writing Down the Bones is right up your street.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Writing Down the Bones is ideal for authors who believe that writing is a means of exploration rather than a way to convey pre-existing ideas. Goldberg’s approach emphasises the importance of freewriting and mindfulness, inviting writers to tap into their inner thoughts and emotions. This book provides practical exercises that help authors unlock their creativity and reveal hidden narratives, making it a perfect companion for those who write to discover their stories.
What You Can Expect Inside
- Freewriting Exercises: Goldberg advocates for freewriting as a technique to bypass self-censorship and access deeper layers of creativity, allowing stories to emerge organically.
- Mindfulness Practices: The book encourages writers to be present in their creative process, fostering a deeper connection with their thoughts and feelings.
- Inspiring Anecdotes: Through personal stories and insights from her own writing journey, Goldberg motivates authors to embrace their unique voices.
- Practical Advice: The book offers actionable tips on overcoming writer’s block and cultivating a regular writing practice that prioritises exploration over perfection.
In Summary…
Writing Down the Bones is an excellent choice for authors who view writing as a path to discovery, providing them with tools and inspiration to navigate their creative journeys. By embracing Goldberg’s method, you’ll connect with your creative self and allow your stories to unfold naturally—leading you toward becoming a more intuitive writer.
Best for Character-Driven Writers
The Art of Character: Creating Memorable Characters for Fiction, Film, and TV by David Corbett
For writers who find that their stories often revolve around the complexities of character relationships and personal growth, The Art of Character: Creating Memorable Characters for Fiction, Film, and TV by David Corbett is an incredible resource. This guide offers practical techniques for developing nuanced and relatable characters, helping you create individuals that resonate with readers. Whether you’re exploring their motivations, flaws, or transformations, Corbett’s insights will enrich your approach to storytelling.
Why It’s a Good Fit
If character development is the element of the craft you enjoy most, this one’s for you. Corbett delves deep into the intricacies of crafting memorable and complex characters, providing readers with tools to create individuals that resonate with readers on an emotional level.
What You Can Expect Inside
- In-Depth Exploration of Characterisation: Corbett breaks down the elements that make characters compelling, including backstory, motivations, desires, and flaws. His insights help writers create multi-dimensional personalities that feel real and relatable.
- Practical Exercises: The book includes exercises designed to help writers develop their characters more fully. These hands-on activities encourage reflection and exploration, making it easier to bring characters to life on the page.
- Case Studies from Literature and Film: Corbett examines iconic characters from various media, illustrating what makes them effective and how writers can learn from their construction. This analysis provides valuable lessons in character dynamics and growth.
- Emphasis on Emotional Resonance: Corbett emphasises the importance of creating emotional connections between characters and readers, and offers strategies for eliciting empathy and investment in your characters’ journeys.
In Summary...
The Art of Character is a must-read for any writer looking to deepen their understanding of character development. With its blend of theory, practical advice, and engaging examples, this book equips character-driven writers with the skills they need to craft unforgettable protagonists (and antagonists) that will linger in readers’ minds long after the final page.
Best for Complete Beginners
Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
If you’re just starting out on your writing journey, Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird is an excellent choice. With its humorous yet poignant advice on writing and life, Lamott breaks down the process into manageable steps—perfect for learning how to get started writing a book as a beginner.
Why It’s a Good Fit
Bird by Bird is an approachable and relatable guide that speaks directly to those just starting their writing journey. Lamott’s warm, humorous, and candid style makes the daunting task of writing feel accessible to novices. Her insights into both the writing process and life itself resonate deeply with beginners who may feel overwhelmed by the idea of crafting a novel or any substantial piece of writing. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, she encourages writers to embrace imperfection and find joy in the act of creation.
What You Can Expect Inside
- Personal Stories: Lamott shares her own experiences as a writer, including her struggles, successes, and moments of self-doubt. These anecdotes create a sense of camaraderie, and show you’re not alone in any challenges you might be facing.
- Practical Advice: The book is filled with practical tips for writers at every stage. Lamott covers essential topics such as character development, plot structure, and the importance of revision, all tailored to help beginners navigate their initial forays into writing.
- The “Bird by Bird” Philosophy: The title refers to a family story about her brother’s struggle with a school project on birds. Lamott uses this metaphor to emphasise taking writing one step at a time—focusing on small tasks rather than feeling overwhelmed by the bigger picture.
- Embracing Imperfection: A core theme in Bird by Bird is accepting that first drafts will often be messy and imperfect. Lamott encourages beginners to let go of their perfectionist tendencies and simply write, fostering an environment where creativity can thrive.
- Writing Exercises: Throughout the book, Lamott includes exercises designed to spark creativity and encourage regular writing practice. These prompts help beginners develop their voice while building confidence in their abilities.
In Summary…
For complete beginners looking to embark on their writing journey, Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird offers invaluable insights wrapped in warmth and humour. By encouraging writers to take things step-by-step and embrace the process of creation without fear of failure, this book serves as an essential companion for anyone ready to explore their creative potential.
Best for Authors Who Like Routine
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
If you find you’re most productive in an established routine, developing the habit of regular and consistent writing practice can be transformative. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron serves as both a guide and a companion on this journey, offering practical tools and insights that help authors forge a deeper connection with their creativity.
Why It’s a Good Fit
The Artist’s Way is an invaluable resource for writers who thrive on routine and structure. Cameron introduces the concept of “morning pages,” a daily writing exercise designed to clear the mind and foster creativity, making it an essential practice for those who appreciate consistency in their writing habits. The book also includes weekly tasks that encourage reflection and exploration, allowing authors to develop their craft while building a supportive routine.
What You Can Expect Inside
- Daily Writing Practices: The morning pages are just one of the many exercises that help writers establish a regular writing habit, promoting discipline and creativity.
- Structured Weekly Tasks: Each chapter features specific tasks and reflections that guide authors through their creative journey, providing a clear roadmap for progress.
- Encouragement and Support: Cameron’s warm and encouraging tone inspires writers to overcome self-doubt and embrace their artistic potential.
- Focus on Creativity as a Spiritual Practice: The book emphasizes the importance of nurturing creativity not just as a skill but as an essential part of personal growth.
In Summary…
The Artist’s Way is perfect for authors who find comfort in routine and structure, providing them with the tools they need to nurture their creativity while developing productive writing habits. By combining mindfulness with practical exercises, this book empowers writers to embrace their creativity while establishing a disciplined approach to their craft.
Best All-Rounder
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
This was the first book I ever read about the craft of writing, and it remains one of my all-time favourites. When it comes to finding comprehensive guidance on writing, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King stands out as an exceptional choice. King offers a unique blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, making this an ideal companion for aspiring authors at any stage of their journey—especially those who may still be exploring their preferred writing process.
Why It’s a Good Fit
On Writing is a compelling blend of memoir and masterclass that offers invaluable insights for writers at any stage. King shares his personal journey as an author, detailing the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned along the way. This approachable and engaging book serves as both inspiration and practical guidance, making it an excellent option for aspiring novelists who are looking for a steer but are still be unsure about which writing process will suit them best.
What You Can Expect Inside
- Personal Anecdotes: King weaves his life story into the narrative, providing readers with relatable experiences and a glimpse into the mind of one of the most prolific writers of our time.
- Practical Advice: The book covers essential writing techniques, including character development, plot structure, dialogue, and more. King’s straightforward advice is easy to understand and apply, regardless of your experience level.
- Encouragement for All Writers: King emphasises that writing is a craft that can be honed through dedication and practice. His encouragement resonates with those just starting out or feeling uncertain about their abilities.
- Valuable Tips on Revision: One of the standout sections focuses on the importance of rewriting and editing. King shares his own revision process, offering practical strategies to help writers refine their work.
In Summary…
On Writing is not just a guide; it’s a celebration of the craft itself. With its blend of personal reflection and practical wisdom, this book provides aspiring authors with the comfort and confidence they need to start their writing journey—no matter where they are in that process.
Setting Out on Your Creative Journey
Embarking on the journey of writing your first novel can be daunting, but with one (or more) of these seven books in hand, you’ll have the tools and inspiration you need to get started. But always remember: there are as many ways to write a novel as there are writers in the world. Every author will have their own unique approach, and finding what resonates with you will make all the difference as you find your writing path.
What’s your favourite how-to book on the art of writing? Let me know in the comments!
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