How to Write and Sell True Crime: How to Spot Local Stories and Turn Them into Gripping National Bestsellers

by Gary Provost

Tells how to select a story, write a proposal, gather information, handle interviews, create an outline, find an agent, and write a film synopsis, and discusses viewpoint, style, and plot line

Genres: Writing

149 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1991

Reviews

[Antonn Park · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was pretty outdated but still had useful information. I was saddened to learn the author passed four years after writing this.

[Virginia Rand · Rating 2 out of 5]

Certainly not the most up to date resource out there.

[Teraisa Goldman · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to Write and Sell True Crime--even after all these years--is a great starting off book for writers interested in true crime writing. From finding a story, making sure it's writable, researching, and following through to publication, Provost covers it all.

From the get-go, Provost pulls you in as if you were reading narrative fiction. He reminds us WHY we read and crave true crime stories and why knowing and understanding this puts you in the lead with your true crime writing.

In fact, he samples much of his true crime work, both creating a better understanding and an urge to read his other work.

Step-by-step, beginning with Truman Capote and ending with Gary Provost, you will learn to spot, research, find and interview important story characters, publish and market your true crime book..

An Aside:
In this day and age, the only thing that changes (besides technology) is that the crime, before being written, should be concluded. The perpetrators getting Justice of some kind, according to this book, is a must. Here's the thing, it really still is. There are plenty of incredible true crime books without the resolution, but all in all, a story without an ending leaves you wanting in the wrong way.

RIP Gary Provost, an incredible writer and mentor.

[James W. Gillespie · Rating 5 out of 5]

informative and inspiring

Mr. Provost knew his craft well. While some of the information is dated (this is pre-internet era writing) it is none the less helpful. He takes the massive task of writing a true crime novel and makes it accessible and less fearsome than the criminals it speaks of. I highly recommend this book even if you are faintly interested in writing or learning the craft of true crime.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essential read for wannabe true crime writers

Watching “Defending Jacob” has inspired to research writing a book about a homicide in my hometown that’s gone unsolved for nearly 18 years.

Provost’s book was the first step on this journey.