There are abundant free or low-cost resources for new writers who want to learn how to write fiction. These are some of my favorite fiction writing blogs and books on fiction writing:
Online
A Newbie’s Guide to Publishing
One of my favorite websites, it is run by mystery writer J.A. Konrath. His
blog posts give budding authors a lot of useful tips on e-publishing and how to
promote your work and maximize your exposure.
Absolute Write
This site bills itself as a “comprehensive
informational Website for writers of all levels. Absolute Write offers articles
and information about fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, freelancing, and
copywriting. In addition, we provide information about editing, publishing,
agents, and market research. You’ll find links to classes, software, and a
large and active online community of writers and publishing
professionals.”
I especially like the Forum. Set up your own profile
and post or respond to other posts. It’s a great way to find other writers and
get some great guidance.
Sponsored by HarperCollins, Authonomy is a site for writers, readers and
publishers. Its goal is to “flush out the brightest, freshest, new literature
around.” Its Tips section has some useful resources for writers and the online
Forum has some lively discussions. I haven’t spent a lot of time here, but find
it a pretty useful site.
Backspace “is predicated on the idea of writers helping writers,”
According to its website, The Book Report Network assists readers “with
thoughtful book reviews, compelling features, in-depth author profiles and
interviews, excerpts of the hottest new releases, literary games and contests,
and more every week.”
Authors who feel they are ready for publication can submit their query letters
or first 150 to 200 words of their work, where it is critiqued (no holds
barred) by the evil editor and other critics. Not for the faint at heart.
Jane Friedman-Being Human at Electric Speed
Jane is a former publisher and media executive and now is a full-time professor who blogs on writing, publishing and the future of media.
A former literary agent, Nathan Bransford’s site is one of my favorites. You can find it all here, from excellent advice on writing, obtaining an agent, publishing, and his weekly publishing roundup is a “must read.”
Plot Whisperer for Writers and Readers
Martha Alderson’s blog gives tips and insights on how to plot novels, memoirs and screenplays.
A literary agent, Rachelle can always be relied on for mature, sensible advice on writing, agenting, and publishing.
The blog of author Jennifer Hubbard.
Writer Unboxed is a collaborative blog by authors Therese
Walsh and Kathleen Bolton. There are a number of guest contributors who contribute
to the richness of this site.
Books
On Writing, By Stephen King
The Art of Fiction, By John Gardner
Write Away, By Elizabeth George
Writing the Breakout Novel, By Donald Maass
A New Fiction Writers Forum 
While cruising thru 133 e-mails I happened upon your submission to W. U. on June 20th. WHEN IS IT TIME TO KILL YOUR NOVEL? Happy Day, I think I’ve found a kindred spirit. I’ve been writing for about two yrs and after the third attempt at my current novel I’ve decided to lay to rest this albatross hung around my keyboard. I’ve got the black blindfold, the last cigarette, and the shot of brandy and as soon as I find a suitable wall to stand it against I’ll send it to the Writer’s Hell it’s tried to drag me down to…OR… maybe I’ll send it to that deep drawer purgatory where other unwanted story ideas reside.
J.D.,
Thanks for your comment. I know that feeling all too well. It’s painful to kill a work-in-progress. In my case, I had to weigh the vast amount of work it would take to get the MS into shape against future writing projects and other ideas that showed more promise. It’s always a difficult call. Thanks again.
I appreciate the helpful information on this blog. I was wondering about any feedback you may have heard about Authonomy. Thanks
Thanks for your comment. I don’t know a lot about Authonomy, except that it is run by HarperCollins and is designed to allow unpublished authors to showcase their work.