Book Review: The Dance of Character & Plot by DiAnn Mills

“To write is to feel the dance of your soul swirling in a dream that drips imagination onto paper.” – DiAnn Mills 

Can you see the dance taking form when you write? The steps are hard, but award-winning author and writing mentor, DiAnn Mills teaches us how each foot is placed in The Dance of Character & Plot. She shows us how every beat and rhythm is important.

In this book, Mrs. Mills takes us through the many aspects of writing. The use of dance as a metaphor is very effective in revealing how each step works together for the ultimate dance—a masterpiece work of art. This visual shows me what I need to know in perfecting my writing craft.

Here’s a list of some of the areas Mrs. Mills covers:

• First steps
• Developing characters that shine
• Setting and its importance
• Plotting
• Point of view
• Using emotion
• Dialogue
• Symbolism
• Rhythm of pacing
• Editing

This is a slim book but powerful. It’s the easiest writing book to understand and clearly written. At the end of each chapter there are exercises she calls “stretching” that help us understand what she taught. Also, she shares some effective resources at the end of the book.

If you’re a new writer or a veteran, I highly recommend adding this to your library. You won’t regret it. I’ll leave you with a powerful quote on pacing.

“You control the dance of character and plot. Speed up the pacing and fill the reader with excitement, then slow it just long enough for your reader to grab her blood pressure medication before another dynamic scene. Take charge of the dance, and keep your readers coming back for more.”

Pick up The Dance of Character & Plot and let your dance begin!

DiAnn Mills is an award- winning author and writing mentor. I’ve had the privilege of having her as a writing mentor (and friend) and she’s amazing. To find out more about DiAnn and her books, check out her site and Expect an Adventure.