Delve, Pivot, Propel : 350 Writing Secrets to Elevate Your Storytelling and Transform Your Novel

by Steven James

Unlock the secrets to powerful storytelling with DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL, the groundbreaking resource from award-winning novelist Steven James. After decades of teaching fiction writing intensives and addressing countless questions from aspiring authors, James finally distills his insights into this essential guide for novelists at every level.

Packed with practical tips, charts, and time-saving strategies, DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL tackles the tough questions that writers face, offering fresh perspectives and unorthodox advice that challenges conventional wisdom.

But the advice isn't always what you might expect.

How to write a scene even when you don't know where it will lead or what will happen within it.The disadvantages of "character arcs" and how to overcome them.6 things-besides "hooking" readers' attention-that your opening needs to accomplish, no matter the genre.12 ways to make a villain more formidable (and what to do if he becomes more interesting than your hero).Why conflict does not equal tension, difficulty does not equal dilemma, and structure does not equal story.5 reasons why readers keep flipping pages (and which one to always avoid!).With DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL, you'll find the tools you need to elevate your writing, engage your readers, and unleash your creative potential. Dive in and transform your storytelling approach-because the journey to becoming a great writer starts here.

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 20, 2025

About the author

Steven James is the award-winning, critically acclaimed author of twenty novels and numerous books on the craft of novel writing, including the new release, DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL, which explores revolutionary new approaches to fiction writing. With a master's degree in storytelling, James teaches writing worldwide and has appeared on five continents telling stories and teaching storytelling at over 2000 appearances.

His latest Young Adult horror novel, RIFT, is the first in a new trilogy that takes place in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. James lives in Eastern Tennessee and loves watching sci-fi movies, playing basketball, and eating chicken fajitas—although not all at the same time.

James has been penning smart, taut thrillers that actually thrill, since 2007, when his acclaimed psychological suspense novel, THE PAWN, released.

If you love stories and storytelling, check out his podcast, The Story Blender, on which he has interviewed nearly 200 of the world's top writers and storytellers.