"What I like best, and what is too often missing in other writing texts, is the practicality of instruction. Kardos wisely focuses on the nuts & bolts that can be taught and demonstrated."
— Randall Silvis, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
"Kardos’ instruction is clear and down-to-earth—and the prose is as informative and enlightening as it is interesting and fun to read. I look forward to teaching with this book as soon as it is available."
— Wiley Cash, Bethany College
"Kardos gives students uncomplicated access to the mysterious process of fiction making."
— John Holman, Georgia State University
"Kardos gives a thorough overview of the most important ideas and techniques on the craft of fiction. Even advanced writers will find new insights and new angles to old challenges.
— Laura Valeri, Georgia Southern University
"The strength of this book lies in Kardos’ easy, frank presentation. This is a ‘how to write’ book that distinguishes itself with a friendly, conversational tone."
— Alyce Miller, Indiana University
"I was sold on this book as soon as I read the first few paragraphs of the Mechanics chapter. "
— Betty Wiesepape, University of Texas at Dallas
"Kardos touches upon the very problems I have seen in the stories my students write. I love this book!"
— Patrick Bizzaro, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
"I like Kardos’ approach of singling out the landmarks of the story arc and examining their variations. The text is comprehensive, examples well-chosen, and user-friendliness exemplary. I am impressed."
— Barry Lawler, Oregon State University
"This is the kind of stuff I wish I’d been taught in grad school, and it’s what I try to teach my undergrads: specific techniques that can enhance their stories. I wish I’d had something like this book as a beginning writer."
— Stephanie Vanderslice, University of Central Arkansas
"I’ve been looking for a text like this for years. It’s refreshingly different in organization, with an emphasis on not just the elements of fiction, but on mechanics, openings and endings, and structure. The brevity and price are also strengths. I absolutely would adopt this book.
— Liza Wieland, East Carolina University
"The content supports the kind of work my students aspire to."
— Marc Nieson, Chatham University