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Here are ten writing resources that every fiction writer should have on their bookshelf:

1) The Career Novelist by Donald Maass
Donald Maass is one of the best literary agents around and his book "The Career Novelist" is a primer for anyone serious about pursuing a writing career. Covers everything from creation to publication.

2) GMC: Goal, Motivation, and Conflict by Debra Dixon

If you don't have this book, drop everything and get a copy. GMC is the building blocks of all good fiction and Deb Dixon shows you how to stack the blocks like an expert. It might be difficult to find a copy but worth the search effort.

3) Story by Robert McKee
Mckee is a world renowned writing instructor. Technically, "Story" was written for screenwriters, but it does a great job of breaking down all the elements of good story. This text uses movie examples, which makes the lessons accessible to everyone.

4) Self-Editing for the Fiction Writer: How to Edit Yourself Into Print by Browne and King
"Self-Editing for the Fiction Writer" is the self-editing book of choice because it covers what's relevant to fiction writers, including redundancy, show vs. tell, POV, voice, and sophistication.

5) On Writing by Stephen King
Part memoir and part writing guide. Stephen King's easy style and rich story telling ability makes this the non-manual, writing manual.

6)Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass
Observations on what it takes to push the average writer into the stratosphere. Great tips on upping the ante in your own work.

7) Ten Percent of Nothing: The Case of the Literary Agent From Hell by Fisher
Every aspiring writer should read "Ten Percent of Nothing". Not every agent has your best interest at heart. Presents a chilling, real-world case of what happens when writers ignore the warning signs of a bad agent.

8) Dojo Wisdom for Writers by Jennifer Lawler
"Dojo Wisdom" presents a different approach to the "writers-life" book. This pocket sized book includes exercises to help overcome fears and blocks that might be holding you back from achieving your highest potential.

9) The Synonym Finder by J.I. Rodale
In my opinion this book is better than any thesaurus ever written.

10) Snoopy's Guide to the Writing Life Edited by Barnaby Conrad and Monte Schultz
This book is indispensable! Yes, "Snoopy's Guide" includes tips from some well-known authors, but its best asset is a good laugh. This business is tough, a little humor can help get through the rough spots.

Learn more about this author, Stacy Verdick Case.
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