8 1/2” by 11”, 256 pages, paperback, $19.99. Sections on Storytelling, Description, Dialogue, Writing Techniques, Word Usage, Editing Exercises, and Computer Tips. See Contents in free PDF sample.

NYT bestseller Tess Gerritsen,
The Keepsake

Editor/Publisher Laura Abbott,
Amber Quill Press

It’s a winner! For some time now, I've been a fan of "Flogging the Quill," Rhamey's excellent blogsite about the how-to's of writing. Now he's compiled his expertise into a writing guide, and it's a must-have for any novelist--published or just aspiring. It's one of the most readable, entertaining books on writing out there. Whether you're writing your first novel or your twentieth, this book will provide the kick you need to start writing--and keep writing.

As an owner and managing editor of a publishing company, I've read many submissions that were near-misses. If the writers had had the benefit of this book, they'd be published right now. This is a must-read for the burgeoning storyteller and serious novelist. It's a necessity for all editors who seek to nurture their writing clients.

This delightful tome breaks the mold as ittells you everything you need to know to start your book and sustain its

LOOK INSIDE! Free PDF sample

Literary agent Dan Conaway,
Writers House

excitement all the way to a perfect ending. In a style that can only be described as witty, funny, and engaging, Ray offers writing tips on gripping story-telling, the pesky point-of-view shift, concise word usage....well, I could go on but Ray would probably edit the list. There's even a "Workout" section that encourages the reader to step into the midst of text samples and play with the words. Brilliant!

Learn the critical art of revision--ruthless and rigorous self-editing--from a man who understands the art better than most. If you’re ready to do the work, Ray Rhamey’s ridiculously-titled book provides the sort of practical, sensible advice that really can help you become a better writer.

Author Therese Walsh,
Unbounded (Random House, Fall 2009)

Editor/publisher Lou Aronica President, The Fiction Studio, former editor & publisher, Berkley Publishing Group & Avon Books

A wonderful resource. I wish I’d had this book a few years ago, because I had to figure a lot of stuff out for myself. There are great writing books out there, but there is something more accessible about Ray’s. This book doctor whips out his prescription pad to offer user-friendly and sensible solutions for lifeless or overworked prose with unique tips on

• how best to start your novel
• how to utilize a deep POV to create powerful, experiential descriptions of character, place and action
• how to avoid tags that are the equivalent of verbal cholesterol

“Ray Rhamey won't win any awards for titling, but his advice to writers is excellent. Writers will learn a great deal from the pages of this book. Rhamey offers the kind of advice that could make a huge difference in a writer's prospects."

Author Kathleen Bolton,
Confessions of a First Daughter
HarperCollins, Fall 2009, as Cassidy Calloway

Endlessly useful. This editing book belongs right up there with Sol Stein, and (Rennie) Browne and (Dave) King. Ray Rhamey's approach to the craft of writing focuses on the most important aspect of fiction: storytelling. Advice is doled out with dollops of humor and gallons of common sense.