His background in classical music has led to regular collaborations as concert narrator with leading artists including The Bridge String Quartet, Orlando Choir, West London Sinfonia and the pianist Gamal Khamis.
A Complete Writing Course For Authors and Tutors
About the Book
Are you ready to write your novel—but not sure where to start?
Or maybe you’ve already begun, but your manuscript doesn’t feel ready to submit?
The Art of Writing a Novel – The XYZ Method is a comprehensive, practical guide by author and writing coach Martin J.P. Devaney. It offers a step-by-step system that takes you from first idea to final draft—ready for publication or submission.
Structured, flexible, and grounded in the realities of modern publishing, this is more than a book—it’s a complete course. With expert guidance, targeted exercises, and a clear progression from concept to completion, you’ll learn not just how to write—but how to write with purpose.
Available in Hardback, Paperback and eBook
What You'll Learn
✅ Write with Confidence – Master the fundamentals of storytelling and structure
✅ Create Memorable Characters – Build compelling protagonists, villains, and secondary figures
✅ Craft a Gripping Plot – Keep readers turning pages from beginning to end
✅ Edit Like a Pro – Sharpen your draft and avoid the mistakes that sink manuscripts
✅ Nail Your First Chapter – Because if chapter one doesn’t work, chapter two won’t get read
✅ Avoid Rookie Errors – A writer’s guide to common pitfalls and how to dodge them
✅ Optional: Grammar & Typo Toolkit – Ideal for newer writers or anyone preparing for submission
✅ Leverage Your Experience – Use your background and insights to enrich your writing
✅ Navigate Traditional Publishing – Learn how to pitch to agents and publishers
✅ Self-Publish with Confidence – Explore the indie path and make it work for you
Useful Checklists
Special Introductory offer- full course from €9.99
Lesson Plans
🎁 Each version includes Complimentary Lesson Plans – Delivered as a PDF straight to your inbox!
Perfect for writing groups, tutors, or solo authors, these structured guides act as your step-by-step roadmap, keeping you on track through every stage of your novel.
👉 Get Your Free Lesson Plans Now → Email: comments@martinjpdevaney.co
Six Editions Tailored to Your Software
Every word-processing software is a novel-writing application. That’s why The XYZ Method is available in six platform-specific editions. Each version includes tailored chapters on formatting, document security, and advanced tips—like using hypertext features—optimised for your preferred writing software.
Each edition includes: Software-specific screenshots and instructions Tips for efficient editing and formatting Guidance on using features like comments, track changes, and navigation
🖥️ Microsoft Word for PC
🍏 Microsoft Word for Mac
🍎 Apple Pages
🟢 LibreOffice for PC
🍃 LibreOffice for Mac
🌍 Universal Version (works with any software)
COMING SOON!
The Chapter Clinic
Get expert, personalised feedback on your writing. Submit a chapter—typically your first—and receive a detailed critique. You’ll get constructive insights on style, pacing, characterisation, dialogue, and common issues like overwriting or info-dumping. Ideal for first-time novelists or anyone preparing a submission.
This option opening soon.
- Please note: due to limited availability, not all requests can be accommodated.
- Submissions will require a covering letter and the first chapter with track changes enabled.