Rating: 2 1/2 stars

By using the “Book Architecture Method”, Horwitz provides a step-by-step process for revising your novel that basically involves breaking down the manuscript into manageable scenes to determine what is working and what is not.

As with most artistic endeavors, the same hints, tricks and tips that work for one person, may not work for another.

Horwitz’s well-planned system may be too rigid for some writers, while providing the much needed structure and direction for others.

In junior high school I knew an amazing painter. By the time he left for college he had already sold many pieces and garnered the attention of gallery owners and agents. Once in school, however, he was forced to paint the “technical” way, using a plumb line and other “rules” that greatly hampered his creativity. Though others in the class were quite comfortable with the methods, he felt to restricted and dropped out.

My initial impression of the book was that it felt too controlled—again, the process, as a whole, just doesn’t fit my personality type. However, chapter seven was one of the more interesting chapters, especially for beginners, in that it helped the writer choose a direction, as well as pointed out a few things to avoid.

As with any how-to book it’s a suggestion, not gospel. In writing there is no “right way” to do things. For some, Stuart Horwitz’s method will be exactly what they need, while other may only use bits and pieces of it—or nothing at all.

In regards to writing—or anything that you’re passionate about—it’s always helpful to have the mindset that if you learn just one new thing from a book, class, or experience then it was all worth it.

Blueprint Your Bestseller is definitely worth a look.
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Reading level: Ages 18 and up
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Perigee Trade (January 29, 2013)
ISBN-13: 978-0399162152