Start Here! - Resources for Writers - The Novel Smithy
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Start Here

Welcome to The Novel Smithy!

I’m Lewis Jorstad, a developmental editor and writing craft author who teaches up-and-coming writers the skills they need to write their dream novels. My goal with this site is to help you build a robust writing toolkit, full of everything you need to create stellar casts, powerful plots, and amazing story worlds. I’m so excited to have you here, and I can’t wait to see your novels come to life!

This site has grown a lot over the last few years, meaning it might be a bit intimidating if you’re just coming on board. So, let me walk you through some of my favorite writing resources, as well as how to make the most of them…

Want to know more about me and what I do? You can find my story over on my About Page!

Lewis Jorstad Home Page

Check Out My Free Resources

The Novel Smithy offers a variety of free resources, from articles on craft and publishing, to free workbooks and guides built just for writers.

If there’s a specific topic you want to study, start by browsing the archives. Then, sign up for our free Story Bible Template! This template is the perfect way to distill everything you’re learning. You’ll also be signed up for The Novel Smithy’s weekly newsletter.

Here are just a few of the things you’ll find inside:

  • Your Novel at a Glance
  • Character and Cast Rosters
  • Plot Templates

Connect With Me

Alongside my free resources, I also offer a variety of one-on-one services, including book coaching and developmental editing. My favorite part of this job is connecting with writers like you—so, if you’re interested in working together, I hope you’ll get in touch!

Dive Into Some Books

Writing craft books are a treasure trove of information on the art of storytelling! If you’re looking for recommendations on what to read next, here are some of my favorite books for writers, in no particular order.

Write Your Hero
Writing Tools - Roy Peter Clark
Strategic Series Author - Crystal Hunt
Structuring Your Novel - KM Weiland
Take Off Your Pants - Libbie Hawker
The Ten Day Outline by Lewis Jorstad
Plot vs. Character - Jeff Gerke
The Virgin's Promise - Kim Hudson
The Writer's Journey - Christopher Vogler
Techniques of the Selling Writer - Dwight V Swain

(Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you choose to purchase. You can find my full affiliate disclaimer here.)

Grab Some Writing Tools

In addition to books, I also rely on a variety of software to streamline my writing process. All of these are tools I personally use and recommend, meaning they’re a great place to start if you’re looking for some help!

Publisher Rocket logo
Scrivener logo
Prowritingaid logo
Atticus logo
Canva logo
Bookfunnel logo

(Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you choose to purchase. You can find my full affiliate disclaimer here.)

Get In Touch

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Want to ask me a question about storytelling, this site, or my editing services? Feel free to shoot me an email through my contact page. I should get back to you in 2-3 business days.