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Write Naked: A Bestseller's Secrets to Writing Romance & Navigating the Path to Success
Learn how to transform your passion for writing into a career. New York Times best-selling author Jennifer Probst reveals her pathway to success, from struggling as a new writer to signing a seven-figure deal. Write Naked intermingles personal essays on craft with down-to-earth advice on writing romance in the digital age. Probst will teach you how to:
Commit to your current work-in-progress, get focused, and complete it on schedule
Reveal raw emotions and thoughts on the page to hook your readers
Assemble a street team to promote and celebrate your books
Overcome writer's block with ease
Develop themes that tie together your books and series
Write the most difficult elements of romance--including sex scenes--with skill and style
Regardless of the genre, every novelist faces a difficult task. Creating authentic characters and an engaging plot are challenging enough. But attempting to break into the hotter-than-ever romance genre, which is constantly flooded with new titles and fresh faces? It can feel impossible. This is where Probst's Write Naked comes in. To survive--and thrive--you need the help and wisdom of an expert.
Written in Probst's unmistakable and honest voice, Write Naked is filled with the lessons and craft advice every writer needs in order to carve out a rewarding career.
Commit to your current work-in-progress, get focused, and complete it on schedule
Reveal raw emotions and thoughts on the page to hook your readers
Assemble a street team to promote and celebrate your books
Overcome writer's block with ease
Develop themes that tie together your books and series
Write the most difficult elements of romance--including sex scenes--with skill and style
Regardless of the genre, every novelist faces a difficult task. Creating authentic characters and an engaging plot are challenging enough. But attempting to break into the hotter-than-ever romance genre, which is constantly flooded with new titles and fresh faces? It can feel impossible. This is where Probst's Write Naked comes in. To survive--and thrive--you need the help and wisdom of an expert.
Written in Probst's unmistakable and honest voice, Write Naked is filled with the lessons and craft advice every writer needs in order to carve out a rewarding career.
240 pages, Paperback
First published March 31, 2017
113 people are currently reading
1241 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Probst
112 books10.3k followersJennifer Probst wrote her first book at twelve years old. She bound it in a folder, read it to her classmates, and hasn’t stopped writing since. She holds a masters in English Literature and lives in the beautiful Hudson Valley in upstate New York. Her family keeps her active, stressed, joyous, and sad her house will never be truly clean. Her passions include horse racing, Scrabble, rescue dogs, Italian food, and wine—not necessarily in that order.
She is the NYT, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of sexy and erotic contemporary romance. She was thrilled her book, The Marriage Bargain, spent 26 weeks on the NY Times. Her work has been translated in over a dozen countries, sold over a million copies, and was dubbed a "romance phenom" by Kirkus Reviews. She loves hearing from readers. Visit her website for updates on new releases at www.jenniferprobst.com. Sign up of her newsletter at www.jenniferprobst.com/newsletter for a free book.
She is the NYT, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of sexy and erotic contemporary romance. She was thrilled her book, The Marriage Bargain, spent 26 weeks on the NY Times. Her work has been translated in over a dozen countries, sold over a million copies, and was dubbed a "romance phenom" by Kirkus Reviews. She loves hearing from readers. Visit her website for updates on new releases at www.jenniferprobst.com. Sign up of her newsletter at www.jenniferprobst.com/newsletter for a free book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
July 31, 2017
This had a lot of good reminders, however, the first seven chapters of this book weren’t helpful to me—they might be to you depending on where you are in your career and how many other writing manuals you’ve already read. The first seven chapters in particular are heavily autobiographical, and I’ve already lived it and already know a lot of authors’ stories. However, after that, there is good material for keeping you going when you get frustrated.
This also might be a more helpful book if you’ve read all her fiction books. I haven’t read one. She refers to her own work frequently.
There was a lot of stuff I highlighted—stuff you may already know, but it’s a good reminder, and inspiration is always welcome. The chapter on saggy middles is short and disappointing. I did like her advice about how, when you get stuck, start over at the good part. “If you’re bored writing it, I can guarantee readers will be bored reading it.”
This also might be a more helpful book if you’ve read all her fiction books. I haven’t read one. She refers to her own work frequently.
There was a lot of stuff I highlighted—stuff you may already know, but it’s a good reminder, and inspiration is always welcome. The chapter on saggy middles is short and disappointing. I did like her advice about how, when you get stuck, start over at the good part. “If you’re bored writing it, I can guarantee readers will be bored reading it.”
June 7, 2017
I shouldn't have been surprised that Write Naked would become my favorite book on writing and publishing. After all, Jennifer has been a favorite author of mine since I reviewed The Marriage Bargain all those years ago. But I couldn't have anticipated how much Write Naked would resonate with me.
I read most of it on an airplane. I think the people sitting around me thought there was something wrong with me because I kept nodding my head, laughing, and yes, I think I even cried a few tears. I related to EVERYTHING. The book was filled with wisdom and reminded me to embrace the roller coaster ride that is the publishing industry.
I highly recommend this book to all romance writers, from newbies to the experienced.
I read most of it on an airplane. I think the people sitting around me thought there was something wrong with me because I kept nodding my head, laughing, and yes, I think I even cried a few tears. I related to EVERYTHING. The book was filled with wisdom and reminded me to embrace the roller coaster ride that is the publishing industry.
I highly recommend this book to all romance writers, from newbies to the experienced.
July 23, 2017
This ranks up with Bird by Bird and On Writing as one of my favorite books about being a writer...perhaps even moreso as it focuses on writing romance. Excellent, relateable, and inspiring.
June 8, 2017
I think this book should be a reading requirement for every romance writer out there.
I found myself nodding in agreement or smiling while reading this book. I really appreciated Jennifer's honesty and openness about her experiences with writing and then hitting the best seller lists, as well. No BS. Felt a connection because I thought, "here is a person who gets me as a writer".
This is a book I will go back and re-read next year and the next.
I found myself nodding in agreement or smiling while reading this book. I really appreciated Jennifer's honesty and openness about her experiences with writing and then hitting the best seller lists, as well. No BS. Felt a connection because I thought, "here is a person who gets me as a writer".
This is a book I will go back and re-read next year and the next.
March 3, 2021
The first section about the writers life was pretty good. I liked the discussion on writers block and jealousy. However once it came to the craft section it was just "here's what i did that was perfect" followed by descriptions of "what" with no descriptions of "how". It was basically a bunch of self promotion without any real advice. Oh and also she said 50 shades was good which is a big red flag
May 28, 2017
This was more than I expected. Super helpful. I learned a lot and reviewed several things that I already knew. However, the best part was reading her journey and understanding that we all deal with failure and success, but in the end we always should stay true to our writing and ourselves!
Great read for any writer at any level, but especially romance writers.
Great read for any writer at any level, but especially romance writers.
May 17, 2017
At once an essay, a tiny touch of memoir and self-help book, add quotes from fellow authors to explain and reinforce the points and you have a very good starting point for aspirant writers (or not) to begin a career and learn what traps to avoid.
Like probably everyone on Earth, I think it would be cool to write a book and see it in stores, but I don't aspire to become a writer, and let's be honest; I'm too anxious and have not enough patience and I'm too lazy for the hard work it sure is, to make a living at it. Jennifer Probst will tell you, just like every author I'm sure : writing for a living may seem like fun, but it's not a hobby, it's a job.
For me, it was more interesting when she talk about her career path and personal experiences. I read it because it's one of my favorite author, so of course I wanted to know more about her. I like to learn how an author found inspiration for her books, her series and what happened in their life and if they always wanted to do that. I wanted to know more about the personal stuff, but I understand it was not what this book is about.
Jennifer Probst knew very young that she wanted to be a writer and wrote her first novel at twelve. Success didn't come quickly or easily and I have lot of admiration for people who try and try, no matter the number of rejection and the trouble because for them, there's no other choice, no plan B, they were made to be this or that and they're gonna try until it works.
One sentence she wrote resonated with me. Here's the quote :
"You must convince the reader that there is no hope, though the reader is promised a happily-ever-after. The book will be a safe place for a reader to experience all the messy, raw emotions of relationships."
A safe place. That's just it ! Jennifer Probst just found the perfect words, the right expression to explain why I read romance and love it so much. A safe place. That's what romance novels are for me.
The chapters on characters were my favorites. I always say that for me, characters are the real hit or miss of a book. Once again, I totally agree with what Jennifer said.
"A book can have the most exotic setting, the most thrilling plot, the deepest theme, but if the reader doesn't care about the characters, the entire book will fall flat."
"Growth is the key to getting readers to fall for character, whether it's a duke, a shape-shifter, or a CEO."
That's the other reason why I love romance so much. I like to see the characters grow, overcome obstacles or their past, discover their true potential or strength and qualities they didn't know they had (and yeah okay, it's to see them fall in love too and the path that take them there :p).
I'm keeping this book, just in case I change my mind one day or if someone I know decide to take a chance I could give it to him/her because there's lot of tips and proposed exercices.
"Series have become extremely popular, and secondary characters are now in the spotlight. Readers enjoy trying to spot the next potential hero or heroine, and imagine him or her as the protagonist in the author's next book."
Like probably everyone on Earth, I think it would be cool to write a book and see it in stores, but I don't aspire to become a writer, and let's be honest; I'm too anxious and have not enough patience and I'm too lazy for the hard work it sure is, to make a living at it. Jennifer Probst will tell you, just like every author I'm sure : writing for a living may seem like fun, but it's not a hobby, it's a job.
For me, it was more interesting when she talk about her career path and personal experiences. I read it because it's one of my favorite author, so of course I wanted to know more about her. I like to learn how an author found inspiration for her books, her series and what happened in their life and if they always wanted to do that. I wanted to know more about the personal stuff, but I understand it was not what this book is about.
Jennifer Probst knew very young that she wanted to be a writer and wrote her first novel at twelve. Success didn't come quickly or easily and I have lot of admiration for people who try and try, no matter the number of rejection and the trouble because for them, there's no other choice, no plan B, they were made to be this or that and they're gonna try until it works.
One sentence she wrote resonated with me. Here's the quote :
"You must convince the reader that there is no hope, though the reader is promised a happily-ever-after. The book will be a safe place for a reader to experience all the messy, raw emotions of relationships."
A safe place. That's just it ! Jennifer Probst just found the perfect words, the right expression to explain why I read romance and love it so much. A safe place. That's what romance novels are for me.
The chapters on characters were my favorites. I always say that for me, characters are the real hit or miss of a book. Once again, I totally agree with what Jennifer said.
"A book can have the most exotic setting, the most thrilling plot, the deepest theme, but if the reader doesn't care about the characters, the entire book will fall flat."
"Growth is the key to getting readers to fall for character, whether it's a duke, a shape-shifter, or a CEO."
That's the other reason why I love romance so much. I like to see the characters grow, overcome obstacles or their past, discover their true potential or strength and qualities they didn't know they had (and yeah okay, it's to see them fall in love too and the path that take them there :p).
I'm keeping this book, just in case I change my mind one day or if someone I know decide to take a chance I could give it to him/her because there's lot of tips and proposed exercices.
"Series have become extremely popular, and secondary characters are now in the spotlight. Readers enjoy trying to spot the next potential hero or heroine, and imagine him or her as the protagonist in the author's next book."
July 14, 2017
As soon as I began reading 'Write Naked' - I knew I was going to struggle to put it down. Jennifer Probst manages to engage us with an honest, funny and insightful guide to help fellow writers (like myself!) navigate our way through writing and publishing.
Probst's advice is extremely useful and comforting for both aspiring and seasoned authors. The manner in which she has expressed her thoughts and ideas is not only eloquent, but reminds us of what it means to have a powerful 'voice' when we write. Hers is utterly honest and endearing. It's what makes 'Write Naked' so addictive. Reading it is akin to conversing with Probst over a coffee; she invites us in to her world, whilst generously sharing the secrets of the trade along the way.
It is her candid advice (revealing her own personal pitfalls and triumphs) and thorough understanding of the business that makes 'Write Naked' a refreshing read. 'Think Career, Not Hobby' she advises. It has stuck in my mind, as has her encouragement for us to view ourselves as writers. Full stop. Without any adjectives to diminish it.
The book resonates so well because she has given us a part of herself in writing it, it is what keeps us reading yet another page, and yet another chapter, until you realise it is 3am and well past bedtime! In short, reading her book has been a real treat.
I thoroughly recommend 'Write Naked' and I have no doubt that you will enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you Jennifer Probst for such an engaging and insightful book!
Probst's advice is extremely useful and comforting for both aspiring and seasoned authors. The manner in which she has expressed her thoughts and ideas is not only eloquent, but reminds us of what it means to have a powerful 'voice' when we write. Hers is utterly honest and endearing. It's what makes 'Write Naked' so addictive. Reading it is akin to conversing with Probst over a coffee; she invites us in to her world, whilst generously sharing the secrets of the trade along the way.
It is her candid advice (revealing her own personal pitfalls and triumphs) and thorough understanding of the business that makes 'Write Naked' a refreshing read. 'Think Career, Not Hobby' she advises. It has stuck in my mind, as has her encouragement for us to view ourselves as writers. Full stop. Without any adjectives to diminish it.
The book resonates so well because she has given us a part of herself in writing it, it is what keeps us reading yet another page, and yet another chapter, until you realise it is 3am and well past bedtime! In short, reading her book has been a real treat.
I thoroughly recommend 'Write Naked' and I have no doubt that you will enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you Jennifer Probst for such an engaging and insightful book!
April 23, 2017
One of the best books on writing with such an honest, open, and often humorous back story of Probst writing career. From her failures to success. Do's and dont's. And more do's and dont's.
So many eye opening subjects that had me reading chapters again, writing down major points and even getting a highlighter out.
While keeping things on a serious, business tone throughout the book she is able to hit every topic an aspiring author, or a veteran author would have. While also telling laugh out loud moments in her career, to truthful breakbacking, hard to "write the words" moments.
I can't recommend this book enough!
Great quotes! Many tips! And a love for writing that was found at a very early age!
Thank you Jennifer Probst! May the words always be with you!
So many eye opening subjects that had me reading chapters again, writing down major points and even getting a highlighter out.
While keeping things on a serious, business tone throughout the book she is able to hit every topic an aspiring author, or a veteran author would have. While also telling laugh out loud moments in her career, to truthful breakbacking, hard to "write the words" moments.
I can't recommend this book enough!
Great quotes! Many tips! And a love for writing that was found at a very early age!
Thank you Jennifer Probst! May the words always be with you!
April 28, 2017
Solid craft book that spends equal time on inspiration and modern marketing strategies. It helps if you are already familiar with Probst's work (which I was not) or don't plan to read it at all, since she primarily uses examples from her own books to demonstrate various writing principles; I had to skip most of those because I didn't want to read spoilers! The section on success is starkly honest about the highs and lows of becoming a bestselling author, which deglamorizes the fantasy a bit, but overall the book is funny, fresh, and uplifting.
June 1, 2017
If this book sounds intriguing but you are hesitating because you are worried the focus will be entirely on the romance genre than I would encourage you to "take the plunge" and buy the book. Any writer in any genre can learn and benefit from Probst's honest reflection on the successes, failures and lessons learned so far of her career.
March 23, 2017
Best. Writing. Book. Ever.
This book isn't going to give you a magic formula to write a bestseller but it's going to inspire you to take on the task.
I loved it. I'm inspired. I. Must. Write. Now.
This book isn't going to give you a magic formula to write a bestseller but it's going to inspire you to take on the task.
I loved it. I'm inspired. I. Must. Write. Now.
May 23, 2017
It doesn't matter whether you write romance, or horror. This book is meant for writers. Period. On the pages, I found inspiration to get my butt back to what I love. Thanks Jennifer for reminding me what's important!!!
January 17, 2018
While there wasn't necessary any advice I haven't encountered in other writing books, I appreciated this book for two reasons. First, Probst has experience in self-publishing and in traditional publishing. It's rare to find a writing book (beyond how-tos) about the former, much less the combination. Second, this is specifically written from the lens of writing romance. Romance writers don't get enough respect. I've learned so much by simply observing their marketing prowess and I enjoyed the insights into writing romance, which really translate to any genre.
July 26, 2017
This is fabulous resource for writers. It is one of the best I have read about the writing process, publishing your work, and a writer's life. Loved it! Thank you so much, Jennifer Probst for writing a book that is both honest and encouraging.
July 27, 2017
Write Naked is so much more than a 'how to' guide, so much more than an inspirational or motivational bible. Between the pages of this wonderful book, you will find not only Jennifer's words of wisdom and experience, but other authors' nuggets, too.
From characterization to plot to promotion, Write Naked gives both newbie and experienced writers a place to not just start from, but also flourish. I have just finished the first draft of my twenty-first novel - I can hardly be seen as new to the business but, lordy, did I find SO much to glean and work from within the pages of this book as I head into the next draft...not to mention thinking about things in a much better, smarter, way for my next, too.
I seriously cannot recommend Write Naked highly enough to anyone wanting to embark and succeed in a business that is so very tough on every level. From the initial concept of an idea, right through to promotion and that all-important follow up novel, Write Naked will have a passage, a page or a chapter that will help in keeping you focused and full of self-belief.
Bravo, Jennifer Probst!
From characterization to plot to promotion, Write Naked gives both newbie and experienced writers a place to not just start from, but also flourish. I have just finished the first draft of my twenty-first novel - I can hardly be seen as new to the business but, lordy, did I find SO much to glean and work from within the pages of this book as I head into the next draft...not to mention thinking about things in a much better, smarter, way for my next, too.
I seriously cannot recommend Write Naked highly enough to anyone wanting to embark and succeed in a business that is so very tough on every level. From the initial concept of an idea, right through to promotion and that all-important follow up novel, Write Naked will have a passage, a page or a chapter that will help in keeping you focused and full of self-belief.
Bravo, Jennifer Probst!
July 8, 2017
One of the best writing craft books I've read in a long time. This book has a mix of the author's journey and writing and makes you feel you too can be successful.
July 1, 2017
Loved Probst's voice and the common sense, no-nonsense advice of part I: being an author. It reminded me a lot of Dorothea Brande's On Becoming an Author -- even down to the feeling of sitting there and listening to her speak directly to me... but UPDATED to include indie publishing!
Part II wasn't bad, just didn't provide me with as much new info or insights. I liked the chapters here where Probst dug in deeper and gave more personal analogies. Writing muscle, the right to suck, the sewage and blockage of writing, the right hook and warm up jabs were my favorites from this section.
Part II wasn't bad, just didn't provide me with as much new info or insights. I liked the chapters here where Probst dug in deeper and gave more personal analogies. Writing muscle, the right to suck, the sewage and blockage of writing, the right hook and warm up jabs were my favorites from this section.
April 19, 2024
Enjoyed making my way through this, bit by bit. I don’t t know that I’ll ever write romance but I still got a lot out of this book. I appreciated the honesty and disclosures about the true business side of writing.
Reread to this today—I’m in a different place than when I first read it and the book holds up really well. Also, it really speaks to a writer progressing in her journey. Kudos again!
Reread to this today—I’m in a different place than when I first read it and the book holds up really well. Also, it really speaks to a writer progressing in her journey. Kudos again!
February 1, 2018
Worst book on craft I've ever read. All the glowing reviews on Amazon? Pffft.
February 5, 2018
LOVED IT! Super insightful and motivating for aspiring authors. 🙌🏼
November 25, 2018
I quit halfway through. There was nothing new in there for me. There are better, more entertaining books about writing.
January 16, 2019
4.5 stars
I really liked this. There is a lot of good advice, and personal anecdotes relating to the advice. Reading this was easy, and pretty fast. I read most of it during 10 minute breaks at work. Because of how I read it, I didn't do any of the writing exercises in the book, but I did at least think about each one for a while.
I really liked this. There is a lot of good advice, and personal anecdotes relating to the advice. Reading this was easy, and pretty fast. I read most of it during 10 minute breaks at work. Because of how I read it, I didn't do any of the writing exercises in the book, but I did at least think about each one for a while.
February 19, 2019
Some of examples the author chose to illustrate her points made me cringe (especially those containing puppies) and wonder, who in the hell would want to read such books, let alone think they're good. However, the points being made are good and the book is full of wisdom. Strong recommendation to all wannabe writers.
April 20, 2020
A really inspiring look at Probst's journey to publication and bestsellerdom, and encouragement for anyone who wants to write and publish genre fiction. A nice overview of the publishing scene for beginners to the genre or to their publication path.
December 2, 2017
Fun and dynamic book on writing. While this is geared toward writing in the romance genre, there are some gems on navigating the writing industry, the importance of networking, and sitting in the chair to ‘write the damn book.’ I recommend this to anyone who considers themselves a writer.
December 31, 2021
One of the best craft books for writers I’ve ever read. Definitely recommend!
October 5, 2023
One of the more helpful books I’ve read on writing. Several nuggets I’ll take with me!
February 24, 2021
This is one of the best books on writing that I've ever read. I would recommend it to any writer regardless of what stage they are in their writing journey. It contains practical tips, exercises and very up close and personal experiences that hit home.
July 12, 2017
This is one of those resources that should be in every writer's toolkit!
In sharing her journey to becoming a #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author, Jennifer Probst gives us advice and encouragement on getting there ourselves. So much of what Jennifer shares in Write Naked resonated with me that I found myself thinking, "Ah-ha! Here are my people."
One of my favorite chapters is "Trademarks of Best-selling Authors" where Jennifer surveyed more than fifty best-selling authors. I would love to attend the workshop on this topic! Every piece of advice is a gem.
Write Naked is filled with advice, tips, and tools that have already improved my writing skills. I was struggling with the edits and revisions on one of my current WIPs until I read Write Naked. Now the revisions are flying along and I'm really proud of the increase in the quality of the novel. I will be keeping Write Naked close and revisiting it often.
In sharing her journey to becoming a #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author, Jennifer Probst gives us advice and encouragement on getting there ourselves. So much of what Jennifer shares in Write Naked resonated with me that I found myself thinking, "Ah-ha! Here are my people."
One of my favorite chapters is "Trademarks of Best-selling Authors" where Jennifer surveyed more than fifty best-selling authors. I would love to attend the workshop on this topic! Every piece of advice is a gem.
Write Naked is filled with advice, tips, and tools that have already improved my writing skills. I was struggling with the edits and revisions on one of my current WIPs until I read Write Naked. Now the revisions are flying along and I'm really proud of the increase in the quality of the novel. I will be keeping Write Naked close and revisiting it often.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews