What Turns a Good Novel into a Breakout Hit

Categories: Writing

Some novels connect with readers while others explode onto the scene. Gregg Hurwitz and literary agent Adriann Ranta Zurhellen explore what separates a solid book from a breakout success. This session examines storytelling, structure, and bold creative decisions that can elevate a novel and position a writer for greater visibility and opportunity.

To access this content, please sign up as a member.

Check out these other resources:

A Fast-Paced Taste of Modern Noir

A Fast-Paced Taste of Modern Noir

Eric Beetner and Steven Blackmore host a fast paced showcase of noir fiction with 60 second readings from a wide range of mystery authors. This lively session highlights noir’s sharp prose, dark humor, and emotional punch, offering a taste of the genre at its most...

Inside the Author–Agent Partnership

Inside the Author–Agent Partnership

Literary agent Amy Burkhardt explains how agents and authors work together throughout the publishing process. She discusses how agents discover new clients, how they support a writer’s career, and what helps build a successful long-term partnership.

Making Self-Promotion Feel Natural

Making Self-Promotion Feel Natural

Vicki Draeger explores how promotion has evolved and why authors are now expected to take an active role in marketing. She shares practical ways to use social media, online ads, and other tools to promote your work—and actually enjoy the process.