Novel Writing Just Got Easier

Welcome to my website! Whether you are just starting out in novel writing or you need more detailed advice on how to write fiction, you have come to the right place.

"I have been to many writing sites, but yours is the best. With your instruction techniques, you have given me the inspiration and help that I have been searching for...Thank you so much."
- Judy Duckworth, Long Beach, CA

More Satisfied Visitors

Here are three things that make Novel Writing Help special...

  1. It's Intuitive. The biggest problem new writers have is knowing where to begin. Here, you simply follow all those links over on the left, in order, and you will have a completed manuscript sitting on your desk by the time you reach the end.
  2. It's Simple. I have assumed no prior knowledge of creative writing whatsoever and explain everything you need to know right from the very beginning. (And if you are still left scratching your head, I answer questions too!)
  3. It's Seriously Detailed. This is the big one. The best way to get a publisher to sit up and take notice is to master your craft, which is why I have made Novel Writing Help the most comprehensive writer's website you will find.

Oh, one more thing: The online help and advice won't cost you a single penny.

I do sell a downloadable version of the site (I've got eat, you know!) which contains even more explanation and examples. But if you've only just got here, feel free to kick off your shoes and make yourself at home.

A Writer's Site Born of Passion

In case you are wondering who the heck I am, my name is Harvey Chapman and I LOVE teaching the art and craft of novel writing.

Harvey Chapman from Novel Writing Help

I also love reading fiction and writing fiction (when I can find the time - which isn't often). But it is the theory of how novels are built that has hooked me from an early age.

You know all those writing guides you see in the stores? Well, I've been reading them for fun since I was in my teens (including all the out of print ones).

I've also analyzed hundreds of published novels for technique and done plenty of teaching, so I know where beginners need the most help. And Novel Writing Help is the result.

Here is how I want you to think of me...

Imagine I'm a friendly stranger you meet in a bar. We get chatting and you tell me you're thinking of writing a novel.

"I know a thing or two about that," I say.

"Really?" you say as you sit up straighter in your seat. "Tell me more."

So I do. And everything I tell you is right here on this site. And it doesn't even cost you a beer

Good luck on your journey. And don't forget that writing fiction is not a race - and that it's okay to have plenty of fun along the way.

- Harvey

Help! Where Do I Start?

The beginning is not a bad place. But if you are wondering if you have what it takes to succeed and you need some reassurance, right here and right now, check out The Myths & Secrets of Writing a Novel.

Another good starting point might be to decide Why You Want to Write Fiction At All.

Otherwise, begin at the beginning...

  • The best way to think of this site is like a giant "how to" manual - one you will keep returning to again and again as you plan, write, and revise your novel.
  • You see all the links on the left? (You might need to scroll up.) They are like the chapters in this novel-building manual.
  • Work through the chapters from top to bottom and read all the articles contained in them. Simple as that.

Take as much time as you need (years is better than months) and there is no reason at all why novel writing success cannot be yours.

Itching to get started? Then follow this link to "Chapter 1": How to Write a Novel Step by Step...