By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
I’ve been creating fiction since my husband challenged me to write a book—1996. Actually, it was a dare. “Stop telling me you’re going to write a book someday. Quit your job and do it. If you get anything published in the next year, you never need to go back to your job.” So I did! I wrote a book and short stories, and in 1998, I published my first book. And I never returned to the other job.
Over the years, I discovered that writing a novel takes diligence, rewrites, and a daily commitment to learning the craft and all about the publishing industry. The process isn’t easy, but I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do.
I see writing as a ministry with a dual goal: to create the best book and support dedicated writers.
My dedication to the craft has resulted in Mastering the Art of Writing Fiction.
I’m thrilled to release this fiction writing book, an accumulation of nearly 25 years of experience.
Write the story only you can tell—boldly, beautifully, and with purpose.
Whether you’re writing your first novel or refining your craft, Mastering the Art of Writing Fiction offers a practical and inspiring roadmap for fiction writers at every stage. Bestselling author DiAnn Mills guides you through the essential elements of powerful storytelling—from unforgettable characters and gripping plots to authentic dialogue and emotional depth.
Packed with hands-on exercises, insightful examples, and encouragement on every page, this comprehensive guide will help you:
- Craft interesting characters with goals, flaws, and emotional resonance
- Structure your plot to maximize conflict, pacing, and stakes
- Weave emotion and dialogue that breathe life into every scene
- Strengthen your story’s spiritual or thematic core
- Develop a writer’s mindset of excellence, consistency, and courage
Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, a new writer or seasoned novelist, this book will equip you with the tools to write fiction that connects—and endures.
If writing a novel is nudging you or someone you love, this book is for you. I welcome your questions!
Comments 30
Added to my Kindle pile. Looking forward to reading it soon.
Thank you, Betty, I appreciate you.
Just added it to my Kindle library! Looking forward to learning from you again (took your valuable class at BRMCWC). I’m stuck on my current novel, and your wisdom will be priceless on helping me restructure it. Thanks for sharing your experience with all of us!
Thank you, Nancy. Let me know if you have any questions.
This will be a must-read addition to my library of books on the writing craft. Congratulations, DiAnn!
Thanks, Tim! I appreciate your kind words – I’m here to help.
I’ve written a number of novels but I’m determined to keep learning (there is AWAYS more to know!) so I’ve ordered my copy and can’t wait to dig in. Thanks for this great resource, DiAnn! 🤗
Author
Thanks, Laura, let me know if you have any questions.
Congratulations on the new book DiAnn! Many blessings for success.
Thank you, Kay – a lot of work and mistakes over the years went into that book.
Oh, I’m getting this ASAP! Thank you — for writing it! For your dedication. And for all your encouragement to other writers. I love you, friend!
Maureen, you are such an encourager! Thank you and much success with your newest release! Love you right back.
I just got this book and can’t wait to learn from it. Thanks for sharing your years of expertise with us, DiAnn!
Thank you, Barbara. Let me know if you have any questions!
I can’t wait to get my hands on this book! Your class on fiction at Blue Ridge was the first fiction class I ever took several years ago. It’ll be great to have your expertise in my office with me!
Thanks so much, Marilyn. I love helping writers. Let me know if you have any questions.
Can’t wait to get my hands on this book! Reading great books can intuitively give one writing tips, but nothing beats hearing the “how” from masters of the art. Your input was invaluable when I was in the Your Novel Blueprint program. Your blogs on the craft and business of writing are great. Looking forward to seeing much more of that in your book!
Lana, you are an encourager – and a great writer. Thanks so much.
Ordered my copy. Can’t wait to get it and begin reading it.
Author
Woo Hoo! thanks
This is going to be a great book, DiAnn because of the details and steps I know you’ll share. I’ve only written non-fiction, but I’m intrigued enough to give it a shot. Oh, this is quite exciting! Thank you for helping writers. It’s always a blessing when people share their talents and don’t keep them hidden under a possessive bushel. Bless you. . . 🙏
Author
Barbara, I hope it’s a help to you. I believe non fiction needs a few fiction techniques to keep the reader engaged. Let me know if you have any questions! Be blessed.
My faith walk started when I read a truth based fiction faith story as a teenager. I keep telling myself that I need to just sit down and write my story and have studied the art of writing for years…but I’ve let life get in my way of actually writing it. If not now, then when?
I hope to get your book soon as I know it will encourage me to do what God is calling me to write. So glad you are sharing this book with the world.
Author
Thanks, Brenda, I encourage you to pursue those God-given dreams! Let me know if you have questions. Be blessed!
DiAnn,
This an exciting tool for those who want to write. You’re the perfect person to create such a book. Congratulations.
I’m no writer, but y’all keep writing and I’ll keep reading.
Blessings and thank you!
Author
Thanks, Joyce, you are such a great cheerleader!
Congratulations on this new book. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Blessings! 🙂
Oh what a blessing this book will be for myself and others! What a blessing you are to so many!
Author
Cindy, you are blessing to all you touch!
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Thank you, Melissa!