Reviews

20 Master Plots and How to Build Them by Ronald B. Tobias

bootman's review against another edition

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5.0

I read and write non-fiction, but I'm always trying to improve my writing style. I've always felt like my weak point is storytelling, and that's why I picked up this book. I've seen this book referenced by quite a few non-fiction writers when discussing the power of storytelling, and now I know why. This is a great book if you want to learn the formulas for various styles of plots. This is a must-read for fiction writers, but I think it's also great for non-fiction writers like myself who want to become better storytellers.

leahegood's review against another edition

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2.0

Okay as writing books go, but I didn't learn a ton and the chapters felt repetitive quickly. I'm sure other writers would enjoy this more. Just wasn't for me.

breadandmushrooms's review against another edition

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informative medium-paced

2.5

ellieabouttown's review against another edition

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informative medium-paced

3.0

atsundarsingh's review against another edition

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fast-paced

3.0

Not a bad resource. 

coffegrrl's review against another edition

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informative

3.0

Very useful blueprints of plots, but unbelievably dated worldview in the section about moral forces (particularly concerning domestic abuse), and very disparaging about the romance genre. 

joradora's review against another edition

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2.0

He repeats himself a LOT; it can get very redundant at times, making it a slow read.

professor_dinosaur's review against another edition

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funny informative

3.5

figthefruit's review against another edition

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3.0

Solid read. Helps identify the type of plots you might use particularly in the early stages of developing your story. It can be a bit outdated at times, for example, the author discusses queer romance under forbidden love for about two paragraphs in a slightly judgy/negative tone and that's it. A good place to start thinking and clarifying plot for your story.

atarbett's review against another edition

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informative slow-paced

3.0