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The Conflict Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Obstacles, Adversaries, and Inner Struggles Volume 1
Are you maximizing the power of conflict in your story—choosing the right scenarios that will build tension and high stakes, challenge characters as they traverse their arcs, and most importantly, keep readers emotionally invested from beginning to end?
Inside Volume 1 of The Conflict Thesaurus, you’ll find:
* A myriad of conflict options in the form of relationship friction, failures and mistakes, moral dilemmas and temptations, pressure and ticking clocks, and no-win scenarios
* An analysis of each scenario that maps out possible complications and catastrophes, internal struggles, and the stressful impacts on a character’s basic human needs
* Guidance on using conflict to influence your protagonist's character arc through opportunities for failure and success
* Master class instruction on internal conflict: what it is, why it's important, and how to incorporate it at the scene and story levels
* Information about the role conflict plays in generating high stakes that are personally significant to the character, upping the tension for readers
* A breakdown of the various adversaries your character might encounter along the way
Don't give your character a break. Keep the hits coming with a variety of obstacles that will force them to work harder to get what they want. With over 100 entries arranged in a user-friendly format, The Conflict Thesaurus is the guide you need to write intense and satisfying fiction readers won’t forget.
Inside Volume 1 of The Conflict Thesaurus, you’ll find:
* A myriad of conflict options in the form of relationship friction, failures and mistakes, moral dilemmas and temptations, pressure and ticking clocks, and no-win scenarios
* An analysis of each scenario that maps out possible complications and catastrophes, internal struggles, and the stressful impacts on a character’s basic human needs
* Guidance on using conflict to influence your protagonist's character arc through opportunities for failure and success
* Master class instruction on internal conflict: what it is, why it's important, and how to incorporate it at the scene and story levels
* Information about the role conflict plays in generating high stakes that are personally significant to the character, upping the tension for readers
* A breakdown of the various adversaries your character might encounter along the way
Don't give your character a break. Keep the hits coming with a variety of obstacles that will force them to work harder to get what they want. With over 100 entries arranged in a user-friendly format, The Conflict Thesaurus is the guide you need to write intense and satisfying fiction readers won’t forget.
304 pages, Paperback
Published October 12, 2021
515 people are currently reading
993 people want to read
About the author
Angela Ackerman
36 books1,023 followersANGELA ACKERMAN is a writing coach, international speaker, and co-author of 11 bestselling books for writers, including The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression. Her books are available in 10 languages, are sourced by US universities, and are used by novelists, screenwriters, editors, and psychologists around the world. Her home country is Canada.
Angela is also the co-founder of the popular site Writers Helping Writers®, as well as One Stop for Writers®, a portal to powerful tools and resources that help you think like a writing expert so you become a stronger storyteller. A strong believer in writers helping and supporting other writers, she tries to pay-it-forward however she is able to.
http://writershelpingwriters.net
http://onestopforwriters.com
Angela is also the co-founder of the popular site Writers Helping Writers®, as well as One Stop for Writers®, a portal to powerful tools and resources that help you think like a writing expert so you become a stronger storyteller. A strong believer in writers helping and supporting other writers, she tries to pay-it-forward however she is able to.
http://writershelpingwriters.net
http://onestopforwriters.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 14, 2021
One for every writer's bookshelf.
Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi should be on every writer's bookshelf. Conflict is at the core of story and this book will teach you why as well as how to craft exquisite conflict that both creates killer stakes for your characters and hooks your readers for life.
Ackerman-Puglisi's thesaurus is so much more than just a "thesaurus". It's a tutor, a guide, and a writing mentor all crammed into one thesaurus. Not only that, but packed into the front end of their latest thesaurus is an array of writing lessons you NEED if you want to craft the best conflict for your story. They dive into internal conflict, why you need it, what it should look like and how to craft it on paper at the story, scene, and character level. And that's aside from the dozens and dozens of conflict entries.
Ackerman-Puglisi have done it again. This really is a must read for any writer hoping to improve their characters and stories.
Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi should be on every writer's bookshelf. Conflict is at the core of story and this book will teach you why as well as how to craft exquisite conflict that both creates killer stakes for your characters and hooks your readers for life.
Ackerman-Puglisi's thesaurus is so much more than just a "thesaurus". It's a tutor, a guide, and a writing mentor all crammed into one thesaurus. Not only that, but packed into the front end of their latest thesaurus is an array of writing lessons you NEED if you want to craft the best conflict for your story. They dive into internal conflict, why you need it, what it should look like and how to craft it on paper at the story, scene, and character level. And that's aside from the dozens and dozens of conflict entries.
Ackerman-Puglisi have done it again. This really is a must read for any writer hoping to improve their characters and stories.
October 21, 2021
As a writer of romantic fiction, I must always instill conflict in my storyline. This book - this wonderful book! - has been so helpful since I rec'd an arc and then purchased it! The book is broken down into categories and lists everything that would be helpful for a writer to know when constructing a character arc and story arc. I can't wait for volume 2~~
May 29, 2022
Завдяки цій книзі я дізналась більше про те, як створювати історію, ніж від купи інших книг + курсів. Нуль води і мільйон аргументованих прикладів.
October 12, 2021
Writers, you need this book.
The Conflict Thesaurus is an incredibly helpful book for writers. You can't have story without conflict. Conflict advances the plot, and forces the character to make decisions and to act.
The first fifth of the book has valuable articles on conflict--why we need it and how to use it in story--even ways you might not have thought of such as through setting, weather, adding an audience to a failure, and more. Ackerman and Puglisi break down internal and external conflict into categories such as relationships, failures, increased pressure, etc. with examples on using them. It's written in a conversational, easy-to-understand tone. The articles alone are worth the price of the ebook.
The rest of the book is broken up into possible conflict scenarios within each of the categories. Each possible conflict topic has examples of how it can be used, how it might move to minor or disastrous, the resulting emotions, possible internal struggles, negative traits that may worsen the situation, the impact of the character's basic needs, positive traits that can help the character cope with the conflict, and possible positive outcomes.
If you've ever read one of the books in the Writer Thesaurus series, you'll know how good this is, and how it can get you thinking about your characters and plot, serve as a jumping off point into something deeper, or help when you're stuck. Highly recommended.
I received a digital ARC of this book for an honest review. I only review books that I love.
The Conflict Thesaurus is an incredibly helpful book for writers. You can't have story without conflict. Conflict advances the plot, and forces the character to make decisions and to act.
The first fifth of the book has valuable articles on conflict--why we need it and how to use it in story--even ways you might not have thought of such as through setting, weather, adding an audience to a failure, and more. Ackerman and Puglisi break down internal and external conflict into categories such as relationships, failures, increased pressure, etc. with examples on using them. It's written in a conversational, easy-to-understand tone. The articles alone are worth the price of the ebook.
The rest of the book is broken up into possible conflict scenarios within each of the categories. Each possible conflict topic has examples of how it can be used, how it might move to minor or disastrous, the resulting emotions, possible internal struggles, negative traits that may worsen the situation, the impact of the character's basic needs, positive traits that can help the character cope with the conflict, and possible positive outcomes.
If you've ever read one of the books in the Writer Thesaurus series, you'll know how good this is, and how it can get you thinking about your characters and plot, serve as a jumping off point into something deeper, or help when you're stuck. Highly recommended.
I received a digital ARC of this book for an honest review. I only review books that I love.
October 10, 2021
Ready to take your story from “Meh…” to “Couldn’t put it down!”?
Nothing’s worse than leaving readers feeling less than satisfied when they finish your book — if they finish it — because they failed to connect with your characters, or the plot fell flat as the characters aimlessly meandered from scene to scene without anything really happening.
When we fail to throw roadblocks at our characters that prevent them from achieving their wants/desires/goals, there’s nothing at stake, nothing for them to overcome. In short, there’s no conflict. And, as is often said, without it, there is no story.
So as writers, how do we amp up those stakes and create enough conflict for the characters in our stories, compelling readers to devour our words all the way to “The End”?
Enter The Conflict Thesaurus, the latest installment in the thesaurus series by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. Joining its seven siblings, The Conflict Thesaurus is both a thesaurus and a masterclass in the art of crafting conflict. And, as with everything that Ackerman and Puglisi create, it’s extremely well thought out and organized.
The beginning is loaded with valuable lessons that ensure you have a basis for understanding what conflict is and why it is an integral part of storytelling — everything from how it helps shape your characters and bolsters plot to how it can be used to make your characters’ struggles relatable to readers, plus how to use the three C’s (Conflict, Choices and Consequences) to connect character and plot so that the story keeps moving forward…and so much more.
Next up is the “thesaurus” portion of the content, which is comprehensive and chock-full of an endless supply of entries with examples for throwing your character into turmoil. The book concludes with several appendices, which offer more valuable lessons/delicious tidbits to aid you in incorporating the concepts into your story. And, mind you, this is only Volume I! ;)
For the price of a coffee or two, The Conflict Thesaurus is a resource that will help take your conflict — and your stories — to the next level.
And that, dear writer, is priceless.
Kudos to Ackerman and Puglisi for another stellar installment in an already brilliant series!
Nothing’s worse than leaving readers feeling less than satisfied when they finish your book — if they finish it — because they failed to connect with your characters, or the plot fell flat as the characters aimlessly meandered from scene to scene without anything really happening.
When we fail to throw roadblocks at our characters that prevent them from achieving their wants/desires/goals, there’s nothing at stake, nothing for them to overcome. In short, there’s no conflict. And, as is often said, without it, there is no story.
So as writers, how do we amp up those stakes and create enough conflict for the characters in our stories, compelling readers to devour our words all the way to “The End”?
Enter The Conflict Thesaurus, the latest installment in the thesaurus series by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. Joining its seven siblings, The Conflict Thesaurus is both a thesaurus and a masterclass in the art of crafting conflict. And, as with everything that Ackerman and Puglisi create, it’s extremely well thought out and organized.
The beginning is loaded with valuable lessons that ensure you have a basis for understanding what conflict is and why it is an integral part of storytelling — everything from how it helps shape your characters and bolsters plot to how it can be used to make your characters’ struggles relatable to readers, plus how to use the three C’s (Conflict, Choices and Consequences) to connect character and plot so that the story keeps moving forward…and so much more.
Next up is the “thesaurus” portion of the content, which is comprehensive and chock-full of an endless supply of entries with examples for throwing your character into turmoil. The book concludes with several appendices, which offer more valuable lessons/delicious tidbits to aid you in incorporating the concepts into your story. And, mind you, this is only Volume I! ;)
For the price of a coffee or two, The Conflict Thesaurus is a resource that will help take your conflict — and your stories — to the next level.
And that, dear writer, is priceless.
Kudos to Ackerman and Puglisi for another stellar installment in an already brilliant series!
October 11, 2021
Like all of their thesauruses, they are not just a great tool for writers but also can be considered an engaging and helpful psychology textbook. If you use it as a writer you will understand the psychological needs of a character and how humans work, however I also recommend this book as a semi self-help book since the writing and the questions at the beginning can help solve our own conflicts. The writing is really good, funny, making us reflect deeper on our character’s inner world and a lot of times our own. Great job! Recommend it to everyone who wants to write a great book and while doing this learn a few new things about themselves too! As a psychologist and writer I use all of the thesauruses that they published until now.
October 22, 2021
Puglisi and Ackerman certainly do not disappoint. The Conflict Thesaurus is a great addition to the Emotion Thesaurus Family, a series which should hold a prominent position on every writers desk. This invaluable resource explains conflict and how to use it in your writing and provides excellent examples and scenarios of varying conflict categories.
I’ve been a big fan of this series since I first got my hands on an Emotion Thesaurus. The Conflict Thesaurus now sits among its siblings on my writing desk, always close at hand when I need it. I also found it terrific for sparking story ideas. If you haven’t got your copy yet, what are you waiting for?
I’ve been a big fan of this series since I first got my hands on an Emotion Thesaurus. The Conflict Thesaurus now sits among its siblings on my writing desk, always close at hand when I need it. I also found it terrific for sparking story ideas. If you haven’t got your copy yet, what are you waiting for?
October 12, 2021
I don’t know about you, but I loathe conflict.
Nobody wants conflict in their life, right? But good authors know that conflict is an essential building block for a book that will keep readers turning the page. Conflict is a necessary part of every story, every plot, even how characters grow and change.
External conflict can be easier to figure out – roadblocks, ticking timebombs, people getting in the way of the main character’s goal.
But INNER conflict is much more difficult to write. As an author, GMC (goal, motivation, conflict) has always been the most difficult thing to figure out for my characters.
But NOW figuring out conflict will be so much easier with the brand spanking new Conflict Thesaurus! The geniuses at One Stop for Writers and Writers Helping Writers blog, Angela Ackerman and Rebecca Puglisi have just released The Conflict Thesaurus!
You will find in this thesaurus subjects such as Conflict’s role in storytelling: Shaping Characters, how plot and conflict combine, taking a deeper look into conflict, how to point the character toward growth, figuring out who is standing in your character’s way, sourcing conflict for your story or scene.
Types of conflict to look at include types of Relationship friction, Failures and mistakes, Moral dilemmas and temptations, Duty and responsibility, Pressures and ticking clocks, No-win scenarios.
Under each of those headings are sub-headings. Under each sub-heading are things to look at, such as: Minor complications, Potentially disastrous results, Resulting emotions, Possible internal struggles, Negative traits that may worsen the situation, Impact on basic needs, Positive traits to help the character cope, and Positive outcomes.
There are also wonderful Appendices called: How will your character respond to conflict, and Identifying your character’s internal conflict.
Is it any wonder that I’ve been a long-time fan of Angela and Becca? THIS is the book on conflict I’ve been waiting for, and I know authors everywhere will be thrilled to add this to their writing toolboxes!
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy and I devoured it. These thesauruses are always well-thought out and have SO much information, and this one did not let me down.
Nobody wants conflict in their life, right? But good authors know that conflict is an essential building block for a book that will keep readers turning the page. Conflict is a necessary part of every story, every plot, even how characters grow and change.
External conflict can be easier to figure out – roadblocks, ticking timebombs, people getting in the way of the main character’s goal.
But INNER conflict is much more difficult to write. As an author, GMC (goal, motivation, conflict) has always been the most difficult thing to figure out for my characters.
But NOW figuring out conflict will be so much easier with the brand spanking new Conflict Thesaurus! The geniuses at One Stop for Writers and Writers Helping Writers blog, Angela Ackerman and Rebecca Puglisi have just released The Conflict Thesaurus!
You will find in this thesaurus subjects such as Conflict’s role in storytelling: Shaping Characters, how plot and conflict combine, taking a deeper look into conflict, how to point the character toward growth, figuring out who is standing in your character’s way, sourcing conflict for your story or scene.
Types of conflict to look at include types of Relationship friction, Failures and mistakes, Moral dilemmas and temptations, Duty and responsibility, Pressures and ticking clocks, No-win scenarios.
Under each of those headings are sub-headings. Under each sub-heading are things to look at, such as: Minor complications, Potentially disastrous results, Resulting emotions, Possible internal struggles, Negative traits that may worsen the situation, Impact on basic needs, Positive traits to help the character cope, and Positive outcomes.
There are also wonderful Appendices called: How will your character respond to conflict, and Identifying your character’s internal conflict.
Is it any wonder that I’ve been a long-time fan of Angela and Becca? THIS is the book on conflict I’ve been waiting for, and I know authors everywhere will be thrilled to add this to their writing toolboxes!
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy and I devoured it. These thesauruses are always well-thought out and have SO much information, and this one did not let me down.
December 10, 2025
A really helpful book which clearly explains what ‘conflict’ in literature is. The later chapters give lots of examples of effectively using conflict in storytelling. This is such huge subject it runs to two books. I’m writing my first novel. The advice in the entire ‘thesaurus’ series is invaluable for authors.
September 12, 2022
Like all their other writing resource books, they're amazing! Highly recommend all of them to any level of writers.
December 17, 2021
Wow! I can't tell you how helpful this resource is. There are nearly 50 pages of explanation in the beginning and an impressive list of conflicts broken down into different categories. I can't wait for the second volume. I would recommend this to all writers.
September 20, 2021
And they've done it again, you guys. Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi have another book in their Thesaurus Series - this one all about Conflict. And the best part? It's VOLUME 1.
If you are not familiar, Writers Helping Writers is an endless resource for any level of author out there. The website is a treasure trove of information that seems refilling everytime you check it out.
Part of their immense stock, is the The Thesaurus Series. Each book in the series dives into a different aspect of descriptive writing with guides, insights and examples.
The latest is this golden beauty - The Conflict Thesaurus Volume 1.
And, of course, no story is complete without some form of Conflict. It's arguable that every author out there could use a brush up with what struggles their characters can encounter. The time and effort that went into creating this resource is unimaginable. There are endless amounts of possible conflicts for your character to face. Conflicts that you didn't even think possible! I love reading a good resource, doing my research and finding something that makes me think "There is no way I would have ever considered that!"
This book is amazing and other priceless resource!
If you are not familiar, Writers Helping Writers is an endless resource for any level of author out there. The website is a treasure trove of information that seems refilling everytime you check it out.
Part of their immense stock, is the The Thesaurus Series. Each book in the series dives into a different aspect of descriptive writing with guides, insights and examples.
The latest is this golden beauty - The Conflict Thesaurus Volume 1.
And, of course, no story is complete without some form of Conflict. It's arguable that every author out there could use a brush up with what struggles their characters can encounter. The time and effort that went into creating this resource is unimaginable. There are endless amounts of possible conflicts for your character to face. Conflicts that you didn't even think possible! I love reading a good resource, doing my research and finding something that makes me think "There is no way I would have ever considered that!"
This book is amazing and other priceless resource!
September 21, 2021
I'm a huge fan of the thesaurus series by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. On October 12th, the CONFLICT THESAURUS joins the lineup. Like any thesaurus, it offers a place to start, a way to spark your own creativity or remind you of an angle you may not have considered. Then it's up to you to build your prose into something uniquely yours. I've had a sneak peek. The first 59 pages discuss the craft aspect of conflict (in clear, concise language) and the remaining pages are dedicated to offering specific situational examples. Craft books can be tricky to recommend because writers approach their craft in so many ways, but I have every single one of their books on my shelf. As a resource, they are second to none.
September 22, 2021
This is a great resource for writers! Many of the types of conflict listed here were ones I had never even thought of including in a story. The book does a great job of presenting lots of aspects of conflict, including examples of each type and ways in which they can affect characters. After I’ve finished the first draft of my next novel, I plan to go through each scene and look up each type of conflict I’ve used, and check this book for insights and details I may want to add. This will be a valuable addition to my collection of writing resources!
October 16, 2021
So much valuable information that is presented in a way that is easy to use and will be sure to make this book side at the side of our computer as you write. I think this is the best of the books in the series and would recommend it to both established writers and newbies. Thank you for the great information.
September 11, 2021
In a word: Fantastic!
I'm a romance writer and I love happy endings! In real life, I've been a teacher for more than a couple of decades. I'm great at defusing conflict and alleviating stress. But as we all know, every good story needs conflict. The better the conflict, the better the story, and the better the happy ending! Cue stress for this mediator personality.
Angela and Becca have created the Conflict Thesaurus and it is magnificent!
In this thesaurus, a wide variety of conflicts are described. For each, the thesaurus lists examples, minor complications, potentially disastrous results, resulting emotions, possible internal struggles, negative traits that may worsen the situation, impact on basic needs, positive traits to help the character cope, and positive outcomes.
In short, everything a writer might want to know!
Looking to strengthen your writing? You won't go wrong with any of the books in this series, but the Conflict Thesaurus might just be your favourite!
I'm a romance writer and I love happy endings! In real life, I've been a teacher for more than a couple of decades. I'm great at defusing conflict and alleviating stress. But as we all know, every good story needs conflict. The better the conflict, the better the story, and the better the happy ending! Cue stress for this mediator personality.
Angela and Becca have created the Conflict Thesaurus and it is magnificent!
In this thesaurus, a wide variety of conflicts are described. For each, the thesaurus lists examples, minor complications, potentially disastrous results, resulting emotions, possible internal struggles, negative traits that may worsen the situation, impact on basic needs, positive traits to help the character cope, and positive outcomes.
In short, everything a writer might want to know!
Looking to strengthen your writing? You won't go wrong with any of the books in this series, but the Conflict Thesaurus might just be your favourite!
October 10, 2021
The thesauruses by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi have become a permanent staple on my writing desk--I own them all both digitally and in hard-copy, that's how much I love them--and this will be a very welcome addition.
Like the other thesauruses, the Conflict Thesaurus is perfect for brainstorming your plot and works well with the other thesauruses. The lay-out is similar to the other additions in the series: first they explain the concept and how you can incorporate the thesaurus entries into your storytelling, then there's a bucketload of conflict examples (seriously... So. Much. Conflict!), guaranteed to get every story on the road.
Every thesaurus entry is broken down in:
- Examples
- Minor complications
- Potentially disastrous results
- Resulting emotions
- Possible internal struggles
- Negative traits that may worsen the situation
- Impact on basic needs
- Positive traits to help the character cope
- Positive outcomes
I honestly cannot say enough good things about this! Just flicking through the pages gave me a bunch of ideas for stories already, and with Preptober coming up, that's a good thing!
In my opinion, every writer needs this on her shelf!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Like the other thesauruses, the Conflict Thesaurus is perfect for brainstorming your plot and works well with the other thesauruses. The lay-out is similar to the other additions in the series: first they explain the concept and how you can incorporate the thesaurus entries into your storytelling, then there's a bucketload of conflict examples (seriously... So. Much. Conflict!), guaranteed to get every story on the road.
Every thesaurus entry is broken down in:
- Examples
- Minor complications
- Potentially disastrous results
- Resulting emotions
- Possible internal struggles
- Negative traits that may worsen the situation
- Impact on basic needs
- Positive traits to help the character cope
- Positive outcomes
I honestly cannot say enough good things about this! Just flicking through the pages gave me a bunch of ideas for stories already, and with Preptober coming up, that's a good thing!
In my opinion, every writer needs this on her shelf!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2021
Angela and Becca have done it again—and left no conflict stone unturned! Everything you've wanted to know about using conflict in your story (and more!) will be found in their latest thesaurus. The first third of the book digs deep into the meaning of each aspect of a conflict, and the remainder is jam-packed with examples to apply to your WIP. You'll never have another excuse for writer’s block!
November 24, 2021
Loving this the latest in the series of useful guides by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. A wealth of conflicts to add layers to your characters! Five stars!
October 14, 2021
If characters drive the story, then conflict operates as the engine to every tale. Keeping this tenet in mind, writing experts Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi return with their most ambitious, hefty thesaurus yet. The latest in their thesauruses of manuals and instruction tools for writers comes with a thoughtful examination of the place of conflict in a story.
Like all of the other books in the series, the co-authors begin with a section on the subject at hand. They discuss conflict and how it relates to plot as well as to the inner motivations of characters, the outcome of the choices made as a result of conflict, and more. The introductory section alone is worth the price of the thesaurus. Ackerman and Puglisi offer critical teaching here that every writer should bookmark as they work.
Following the introduction, the book comes in a format slightly different from previous volumes in the series. The thesaurus is divided into different sections, such as “Failures and Mistakes” and “No-Win Scenarios.” Each section includes a possible scenario and details on that scenario.
For example, in the listing for “Being Given An Opportunity to Cheat,” examples include “a friend offering the character a copy of the exam to study” and “receiving insider information that could be used to make an investment.” Following the examples comes a listing of minor complications that occur as a result of the possible scenarios. The listing also includes potentially disastrous results of the conflict.
Ackerman and Puglisi don’t stop there, however. They offer possible internal struggles, emotions and negative and positive traits associated with the conflict, and outcomes. In the introduction to the book, the authors briefly discuss Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Each entry addresses how a particular conflict would affect a character based on that hierarchy. In other words, the book examines conflict in multiple dimensions and on multiple levels. It’s comprehensive but also leaves room for writers to adapt the information to their story’s needs.
Given the vast variety of types of conflict, the authors have already announced they’ll be releasing Volume 2 next year. Knowing what comes in this first volume, writers serious about their work would do well to invest in this volume and put the second one at the top of their list to purchase.
Like all of the other books in the series, the co-authors begin with a section on the subject at hand. They discuss conflict and how it relates to plot as well as to the inner motivations of characters, the outcome of the choices made as a result of conflict, and more. The introductory section alone is worth the price of the thesaurus. Ackerman and Puglisi offer critical teaching here that every writer should bookmark as they work.
Following the introduction, the book comes in a format slightly different from previous volumes in the series. The thesaurus is divided into different sections, such as “Failures and Mistakes” and “No-Win Scenarios.” Each section includes a possible scenario and details on that scenario.
For example, in the listing for “Being Given An Opportunity to Cheat,” examples include “a friend offering the character a copy of the exam to study” and “receiving insider information that could be used to make an investment.” Following the examples comes a listing of minor complications that occur as a result of the possible scenarios. The listing also includes potentially disastrous results of the conflict.
Ackerman and Puglisi don’t stop there, however. They offer possible internal struggles, emotions and negative and positive traits associated with the conflict, and outcomes. In the introduction to the book, the authors briefly discuss Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Each entry addresses how a particular conflict would affect a character based on that hierarchy. In other words, the book examines conflict in multiple dimensions and on multiple levels. It’s comprehensive but also leaves room for writers to adapt the information to their story’s needs.
Given the vast variety of types of conflict, the authors have already announced they’ll be releasing Volume 2 next year. Knowing what comes in this first volume, writers serious about their work would do well to invest in this volume and put the second one at the top of their list to purchase.
July 7, 2025
This book is an essential resource for crafting stories with believable characters caught in dramatic situations. By understanding the infinite variations of conflict, a writer can mesh their protagonist dynamically in a flesh and blood plot that readers can truly identify with. This is a book genre I’d never considered until I had two novels published and saw areas for improvement.
My method is to write freeform with no forethought or planning and although pleased with the results, my plots tended to be weak or diffuse. Hoping for a better next book, I read a popular tutorial on the essential elements in a novel and this convinced me I should try an outline. More planning would give me a stronger plot but greater structure alone wasn’t enough. The characters moving the plot needed more fleshing out and I needed more ideas on how to do this.
This book is the answer and it goes deep into how to create real life characters with vivid emotions through an understanding of tension and strife. Both internal and external conflict are covered, and especially how these interact with a person’s wants and needs in limitless combinations. These effects can be applied at the story and scene level in countless ways, giving rise to unique circumstances. The most important thing is how the character responds to these negative events, the choices made and the consequences of these decisions. Having these situations erupt at different points along a character’s “change arc” can create a story with a newness that evokes curiosity and demands to be read. When characters are enmeshed in intricate and believable plots, moving with a relentless pacing, the results can be is an “unputdownable” book.
“The Conflict Thesaurus” shows how strife, friction, and discord are essential for creating an engaging novel. By identifying with the protagonist while avoiding the “pain”, the reader is rewarded, knowing that “overcoming it [adversity] in real life . . . is what makes us feel truly alive.”
The authors analyze the concept of conflict with granular detail, giving writers a resource for sparking ideas for that next great book.
My method is to write freeform with no forethought or planning and although pleased with the results, my plots tended to be weak or diffuse. Hoping for a better next book, I read a popular tutorial on the essential elements in a novel and this convinced me I should try an outline. More planning would give me a stronger plot but greater structure alone wasn’t enough. The characters moving the plot needed more fleshing out and I needed more ideas on how to do this.
This book is the answer and it goes deep into how to create real life characters with vivid emotions through an understanding of tension and strife. Both internal and external conflict are covered, and especially how these interact with a person’s wants and needs in limitless combinations. These effects can be applied at the story and scene level in countless ways, giving rise to unique circumstances. The most important thing is how the character responds to these negative events, the choices made and the consequences of these decisions. Having these situations erupt at different points along a character’s “change arc” can create a story with a newness that evokes curiosity and demands to be read. When characters are enmeshed in intricate and believable plots, moving with a relentless pacing, the results can be is an “unputdownable” book.
“The Conflict Thesaurus” shows how strife, friction, and discord are essential for creating an engaging novel. By identifying with the protagonist while avoiding the “pain”, the reader is rewarded, knowing that “overcoming it [adversity] in real life . . . is what makes us feel truly alive.”
The authors analyze the concept of conflict with granular detail, giving writers a resource for sparking ideas for that next great book.
October 14, 2021
Were you playing the game on hard mode, writers? Make your writing life easier and more fun, and grab a copy of The Conflict Thesaurus as soon as you can.
I would have bought this book for the first section alone. After having read and loved all the previous Thesaurus books, I was beyond excited to see Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi tackle the weighty subject of conflict within plot. The first part of the book deals with the role of conflict to make more nuanced characters, ones who can grow or fail depending on how they approach the difficulties we authors love to throw at them. A study of choices, consequences, and challengers follows, helping you to plan out your conflict and tailor it to fit your particular story and protagonists. The information contained here is essential to any writer, from beginners to those trying to take their work to the next level.
It's amazing that this is, in fact, not the meat of the book because the above is a master-class in putting together your story. The main part of the book is the thesaurus entries themselves, ranging from relationship issues to moral quandaries and plot problems that come with a timer, so you can give your unfortunate heroes even more to worry about and less time to do it in.
The entire book is a delight, with each entry offering examples, minor and major complications, how your characters might feel and struggle with the issue, and ways for them to overcome their problems. There's even a list of positive outcomes that can basically blueprint the end of your book for you. This really is easy mode - any single entry could become the basis of your plot with just a little personalization.
Honestly, I only had one conflict left after reading this one: I'm stuck in the entry for Being Made to Wait, because I can't wait for the next thesaurus!
I would have bought this book for the first section alone. After having read and loved all the previous Thesaurus books, I was beyond excited to see Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi tackle the weighty subject of conflict within plot. The first part of the book deals with the role of conflict to make more nuanced characters, ones who can grow or fail depending on how they approach the difficulties we authors love to throw at them. A study of choices, consequences, and challengers follows, helping you to plan out your conflict and tailor it to fit your particular story and protagonists. The information contained here is essential to any writer, from beginners to those trying to take their work to the next level.
It's amazing that this is, in fact, not the meat of the book because the above is a master-class in putting together your story. The main part of the book is the thesaurus entries themselves, ranging from relationship issues to moral quandaries and plot problems that come with a timer, so you can give your unfortunate heroes even more to worry about and less time to do it in.
The entire book is a delight, with each entry offering examples, minor and major complications, how your characters might feel and struggle with the issue, and ways for them to overcome their problems. There's even a list of positive outcomes that can basically blueprint the end of your book for you. This really is easy mode - any single entry could become the basis of your plot with just a little personalization.
Honestly, I only had one conflict left after reading this one: I'm stuck in the entry for Being Made to Wait, because I can't wait for the next thesaurus!
October 11, 2021
Writers, you need this book.
The Conflict Thesaurus is an incredibly helpful book for writers. You can't have story without conflict. Conflict advances the plot, and forces the character to make decisions and to act.
The first fifth of the book has valuable articles on conflict--why we need it and how to use it in story--even ways you might not have thought of such as through setting, weather, adding an audience to a failure, and more. Ackerman and Puglisi break down internal and external conflict into categories such as relationships, failures, increased pressure, etc. with examples on using them. It's written in a conversational, easy-to-understand tone. The articles alone are worth the price of the ebook.
The rest of the book is broken up into possible conflict scenarios within each of the categories. Each possible conflict topic has examples of how it can be used, how it might move to minor or disastrous, the resulting emotions, possible internal struggles, negative traits that may worsen the situation, the impact of the character's basic needs, positive traits that can help the character cope with the conflict, and possible positive outcomes.
If you've ever read one of the books in the Writer Thesaurus series, you'll know how good this is, and how it can get you thinking about your characters and plot, serve as a jumping off point into something deeper, or help when you're stuck. Highly recommended.
I received a digital ARC of this book for an honest review. I only review books that I love.
The Conflict Thesaurus is an incredibly helpful book for writers. You can't have story without conflict. Conflict advances the plot, and forces the character to make decisions and to act.
The first fifth of the book has valuable articles on conflict--why we need it and how to use it in story--even ways you might not have thought of such as through setting, weather, adding an audience to a failure, and more. Ackerman and Puglisi break down internal and external conflict into categories such as relationships, failures, increased pressure, etc. with examples on using them. It's written in a conversational, easy-to-understand tone. The articles alone are worth the price of the ebook.
The rest of the book is broken up into possible conflict scenarios within each of the categories. Each possible conflict topic has examples of how it can be used, how it might move to minor or disastrous, the resulting emotions, possible internal struggles, negative traits that may worsen the situation, the impact of the character's basic needs, positive traits that can help the character cope with the conflict, and possible positive outcomes.
If you've ever read one of the books in the Writer Thesaurus series, you'll know how good this is, and how it can get you thinking about your characters and plot, serve as a jumping off point into something deeper, or help when you're stuck. Highly recommended.
I received a digital ARC of this book for an honest review. I only review books that I love.
October 5, 2021
This book is pure gold. Simple as that. From beginning to end, it is an idea factory for writing. Need a moral dilemma for your protagonist? No problem, you’re covered! Want to create a no-win scenario? A host of options are available. You get the idea.
The book starts with an extensive preamble on the role of conflict in stories. It discusses how the plot benefits from conflict, the difference between internal and external conflict, how conflict helps grow a character, and a look at the choices one must make due to conflict. A unique section highlights the different types of adversaries one might use to create conflict. It finishes up with a guide on inserting conflict into a story, the how, where, and when.
The bulk of the book, and the real meat of the topic, is contained in the entries. Most situations contain a list of examples to help determine the opportunities for conflict. The next heading includes the minor complications for the conflict example, perhaps if it is being used as an annoyance or to set up something larger. There are examples of both negative and positive results for the encounter. Other sections include internal struggle options and some of the emotions which might come out. There is also a description on how the type of engagement might be categorized within Maslow’s pyramid of needs. Each section provides a plethora of ideas on how one might work the conflict into a story.
Overall, I am impressed by The Conflict Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Obstacles, Adversaries, and Inner Struggles (Volume 1). It is the fertilizer for growing engaging character-based stories. It is the conflict version of angsty dialogue prompts, an opportunity to realize and create discord in any situation. A great tool to have in the creativity chest. Five of five stars on Goodreads.
The book starts with an extensive preamble on the role of conflict in stories. It discusses how the plot benefits from conflict, the difference between internal and external conflict, how conflict helps grow a character, and a look at the choices one must make due to conflict. A unique section highlights the different types of adversaries one might use to create conflict. It finishes up with a guide on inserting conflict into a story, the how, where, and when.
The bulk of the book, and the real meat of the topic, is contained in the entries. Most situations contain a list of examples to help determine the opportunities for conflict. The next heading includes the minor complications for the conflict example, perhaps if it is being used as an annoyance or to set up something larger. There are examples of both negative and positive results for the encounter. Other sections include internal struggle options and some of the emotions which might come out. There is also a description on how the type of engagement might be categorized within Maslow’s pyramid of needs. Each section provides a plethora of ideas on how one might work the conflict into a story.
Overall, I am impressed by The Conflict Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Obstacles, Adversaries, and Inner Struggles (Volume 1). It is the fertilizer for growing engaging character-based stories. It is the conflict version of angsty dialogue prompts, an opportunity to realize and create discord in any situation. A great tool to have in the creativity chest. Five of five stars on Goodreads.
October 11, 2021
Like all of their thesauruses, they are not just a great tool for writers but also can be considered an engaging and helpful psychology textbook. If you use it as a writer you will understand the psychological needs of a character and how humans work, however I also recommend this book as a semi self-help book since the writing and the questions at the beginning can help solve our own conflicts. The writing is really good, funny, making us reflect deeper on our character’s inner world and a lot of times our own. Great job! Recommend it to everyone who wants to write a great book and while doing this learn a few new things about themselves too! As a psychologist and writer I use all of the thesauruses that they published until now.
October 31, 2021
Conflict is so critical to the success of a novel and just looking through my recently phrased copy of The Conflict Thesaurus I think this book will help gather your thoughts on the conflict for each character before you start writing the story. I would see this as a planning tool as you develop your idea more than one that you keep at your elbow as you write like the Settings and Emotion Thesaurus books in the series. Of course, if you’re a pantser you might use it differently-I’m a plotter/quilter style of writer so I’ll use it heavily up front and then only refer back to it if I feel I’m losing focus on the conflict. I have every one of the books in this series of writers reference books by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi and they are my #WritingBibles.
October 5, 2021
Ackerman and Puglisi unleash writing alchemy again with this latest installment of their writer’s guide thesauri.
Conflict is the brew that transforms a story from meh to page turning addiction— putting the readers children’s lives at risk because they drink the story at every stoplight.
As the saying goes, no great story ever started with a salad . . .
The Conflict Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Obstacles, Adversaries, and Inner Struggles (Vol. 1) is the writer’s cocktail cookbook. Imbibing tension with over 100 recipes of liquid intelligence worth spilling onto the page, and innumerable combinations that can be mixed to inebriate a character inside and out.
Not unlike a de rigueur liquid lunch before your daughter’s wedding after sleeping with her future father-in-law, the book covers problems, moral dilemmas, ticking clocks, obstacles, and no-win scenarios. It’s plot brainstorming distilled and served in a sparkling Martini glass filled with Gin and Angostura Bitters—hold the ice—sporting a cocktail sword through a green olive, and a cloth napkin covering the stiletto.
An inspiring writer’s reference, The Conflict Thesaurus (Vol. 1), belongs on every writer’s bookshelf who has ever experienced writer’s block or needs a little kick in the plot twist.
Thanks to the author for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Conflict is the brew that transforms a story from meh to page turning addiction— putting the readers children’s lives at risk because they drink the story at every stoplight.
As the saying goes, no great story ever started with a salad . . .
The Conflict Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Obstacles, Adversaries, and Inner Struggles (Vol. 1) is the writer’s cocktail cookbook. Imbibing tension with over 100 recipes of liquid intelligence worth spilling onto the page, and innumerable combinations that can be mixed to inebriate a character inside and out.
Not unlike a de rigueur liquid lunch before your daughter’s wedding after sleeping with her future father-in-law, the book covers problems, moral dilemmas, ticking clocks, obstacles, and no-win scenarios. It’s plot brainstorming distilled and served in a sparkling Martini glass filled with Gin and Angostura Bitters—hold the ice—sporting a cocktail sword through a green olive, and a cloth napkin covering the stiletto.
An inspiring writer’s reference, The Conflict Thesaurus (Vol. 1), belongs on every writer’s bookshelf who has ever experienced writer’s block or needs a little kick in the plot twist.
Thanks to the author for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2021
I have been anxiously awaiting the publication of The Conflict Thesaurus! It does not disappoint. Every writer, whether they craft fiction or memoir, needs this book by their computer. It is chock full of useful tools to consider in creating characters and narrative with internal and external conflict. Because I write memoir, my personal favorites are the chapters on "Being Unable to Forgive Someone" and "Having to Betray a Friend or Loved One." This guide rounded out my collection of The Emotional Wound Thesuarus and The Emotion Thesaurus. I can't wait for Ackerman & Puglisi to put our Volume 2 of the Conflict Thesaurus.
February 20, 2023
This is one of the few nonfiction writing series where I snap up everything the author puts out. The Conflict Thesaurus volumes are thorough not just in providing tons of situations to fuel your story's plot, but in helping you understand how to use conflict from pretty much every angle you'd ever consider.
They cover everything from how to use conflict to develop a compelling character change arc to the fundamental kinds of story-level conflict to a kind of plot doctoring section that addresses several issues you might have with your conflict and how to fix them.
If you struggle with virtually any plot-related issue, I highly recommend both volumes of The Conflict Thesaurus.
They cover everything from how to use conflict to develop a compelling character change arc to the fundamental kinds of story-level conflict to a kind of plot doctoring section that addresses several issues you might have with your conflict and how to fix them.
If you struggle with virtually any plot-related issue, I highly recommend both volumes of The Conflict Thesaurus.
October 12, 2021
The main reason I grabbed a paperback copy of The Conflict Thesaurus by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi for my bookshelf of go-to writing resources after reading the Kindle version? The book not only offers innumerable examples of what conflict can do to elevate and enliven your plot and characters, it guides you through the why and how to do so. Full of hardships, challenges, fears, and foes, you’ll be reaching for The Conflict Thesaurus as you plot, during your writing, when you’re stuck, and throughout your edits.
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