Novelrunner is an opinionated, structured way to write a novel, using storytelling structure based on serialized television.

How does it work

When you create a project, you give Novelrunner the following pieces of information and it creates a project template for you:

• Title
• Genre
• Word count (Novelrunner will suggest a word count based on your genre, but you are free to change it)
• Pace (How quickly does your plot move?)
• Color (Pick a nice color for your project)

Based on the above information, Novelrunner will create an appropriate amount of “Episodes” with a target word count for each. Reach the target word count for each episode and you will reach your target word count for your novel!

Episodes

An episode is made up of scenes. Think of your favorite TV show and how it is a set of scenes. A good serialized television series will be made up of scenes that not only advance the overall plot of the show, but also create a satisfying story arch for the individual episode. Television writers typically like to end their episodes in a way that entices viewers to want to watch the next episode. Likewise, think about creating your episodes in the same way, creating a page turner that your readers can’t put down

The goal of Novelrunner is to create a narrative that is continually captivating readers to continue reading.

When looking at your novel episodically, think about where your characters are at the beginning and where they are at the end and what hooks have you created to create a need to see what happens next.

Defined Word Counts

Television shows are typically about the same length each episode–usually either 30 minutes or an hour. Likewise, it is good to keep your novel episodes about the same length. This gets readers into a routine and ensures the plot doesn’t lag in long sections.

Novelrunner suggests an episode length. Don’t worry if you don’t make the length or go over, its merely a suggestion.

Export and Submit

When you have completed your novel, Novelrunner can export your novel as a complete, compiled work in RTF, manuscript format. From there, you can edit as you please, split into chapters as you see fit and add any additional personal information.