During the Novel Pacing Clinic,
you probably noticed something...
Some of those plot points were easier to work through than others.
And even if you could identify all five…
There’s still that lingering question:
“Okay… but how do I actually use this in MY story?”
Because that’s where most writers get stuck.
Knowing the mile markers is one thing.
But turning them into a clear, working plan for your novel?
That’s something completely different.
And without that plan...
it becomes really hard to move forward.
And you end up stuck in the same place weeks, even months, from now.
You sit down at your laptop again.
You open your manuscript and read the last paragraph you wrote three months ago. Maybe six months ago. Maybe longer.
You know what needs to happen next... sort of. But you don't know how to get there. So you scroll up to Chapter 3 and start editing sentences instead.
Change "said" to "cried" and back to "said." Tweak a line of dialogue. Delete a paragraph, then add it back.
You tell yourself you're making progress, but you know the truth.
You're avoiding the real problem.
Your plot doesn't work and you don't know how to fix it.
So you close the laptop. Tell yourself you'll figure it out tomorrow. But tomorrow looks exactly like today.
And that manuscript joins the others in your Google Drive. The half-finished projects you started with so much excitement and abandoned when you hit the wall.
Maybe you've been stuck at 32,000 words for 18 months. Maybe you're on your fourth revision and it still doesn't feel right. Maybe you keep starting new projects because finishing the old ones feels impossible.
You call yourself a writer, but when someone asks how the book is coming, your chest tightens and you force a smile.
I get it. I've been there too.
Here's the thing... plot structure isn't the problem.
The problem is how it's been taught.
Most plotting systems throw 15 or 27 beats at you with jargon nobody actually understands.
"Inmost Cave." "Pinch Point 1." "Refusal of the Call." "Break Into Two."
You read about it, nod along, think you get it... and then sit down to apply it to YOUR story and your brain goes blank.
Because abstract concepts don't stick.
That's why I created the Marathon Method of Plotting.
Once I saw the connection between running a marathon and writing a novel, everything clicked.
Instead of juggling confusing beats, you see 11 clear Mile Markers anchored in real-life experiences everyone can picture.
The gunshot at the starting line. The sweaty halfway point. Hitting the wall. The finish line.
Those images make plot structure concrete and visual, because humans are wired to learn through story and analogy.
The Marathon Method doesn't teach you new theory... it makes plot structure accessible for YOU.
That's the difference between understanding plot and actually being able to implement it.
I know the Marathon Method works because it's what saved my own manuscript.
Let me tell you what happened.
Way back in 2014, I had been writing for about 5 years and was ready to pursue publication.
BUT, when I got some feedback from one of my dream agents, she said my story was weak.
I’d been busy writing so many manuscripts that I failed to figure out the best way to revise them. I knew the fastest way for me to get published was to learn how to revise my stories in a way that could truly capture the attention of an agent or an editor.
I was so embarrassed.
And crushed.
Yes, big ol’ crocodile tears were involved.
Here I was at a writing retreat and I suddenly felt 2 inches tall. I felt like a failure.
But she was right. My story WAS weak...
I knew that I would never get published if I couldn't turn my weak plot into a strong story.
A lot has changed since then.
Now I have an agent, an award-winning manuscript, and two published books. I also founded Writers Who Run, a community of over 2,000 writers who also like to run, and host the annual Writers Who Run Retreat each summer in western North Carolina.
That experience became the foundation for Plot Like a Novelist. Everything I learned from turning my weak plot into a strong story is inside this course, and it's ready for you to use right now.
PLOT LIKE A NOVELIST
Here's what's inside...
Module 1:
The Prologue
In this module, you'll gain an understanding of story structure, the important role that plot plays in it, and the steps needed to complete your plot outline.
- How plot is one of the 4 fundamentals of story.
- How running a marathon of 26.2 miles has everything to do with writing a novel.
- The roadmap to create a strong outline to help you write a novel with a good plot.
Module 2:
The Beginning
In this module, you'll learn everything you need to include in the first 25% of your book.
- What to show in your character's world before the story even begins.
- How to get inside your character's head and create desire and conflict from the very beginning.
- The two scenes that must show up in the beginning of your story and how to properly pace them.
Module 3:
The Middle
In this module, you'll learn how to create a strong, well-paced middle.
- How to create conflict that creates changes in your characters.
- What the halfway point should represent for your entire story.
- How to raise the stakes for your characters and leave your readers on the edge of their seats.
Module 4:
The End
In this module, you'll be outlining the final 25% of your book that will leave your readers wanting more of your stories.
- How to use internal thoughts to spur your character into action.
- The single incident that needs to happen before your character ever reaches the finish line of their story.
- How to implement the "mirror effect" into your story and why it happens twice.
Module 5:
The Epilogue
In this module, you'll learn what to do once your outline has been completed. Now it's time to write (or revise) your manuscript.
- Develop a strong base to help you write more consistently.
- Learn how to set your word count goals and create a schedule.
- Use your outline to write a draft of your novel synopsis.
A FEW STUDENT RESULTS
"Before I signed up, I had only a thought of maybe writing a middle grade novel. NOW I have a title, characters, and direction for sub-plots."
- Sylvia
"Because of my new plot outline, I was finally able to finish a rough draft of my memoir."
- John
"I was able to validate the plot in my current novel, as well as solidify the outline for the sequel. Great course for both beginner and advanced writers."
- Karen
"I was a total newbie, but the course was really helpful. I didn’t feel like thrashing about for months trying to figure it out on my own. Thanks to a good foundation set by Christie, I smashed it with my first novel and wrote 38,000 words of my first draft in two weeks because of my outline!"
- Ursula
This works whether you're staring at a blank page or you're 30,000 words deep into a draft that's starting to feel like a mess.
It works if you've tried other plotting methods and gave up halfway through because the jargon made your head spin.
It works if you have three unfinished manuscripts in your Google Drive and you're terrified this will just become number four.
It works if you work full time and can only write in 30-minute windows between meetings and bedtime.
And it works even if you've spent $2,000+ on other courses that taught you about writing without going deep enough into plot to fully understand and implement it.
The Marathon Method is not another complicated beat sheet.
It's 11 clear Mile Markers you can actually use, whether you're outlining before you draft or analyzing your existing manuscript to figure out where the plot went wrong. Most students have their plot outline done in 30 days or less.
We call it your Novel Training Plan.
Plot Like a Novelist is designed for writers who want to write a novel.
Our students include:
Romance Writers
Mystery/Thriller Writers
Sci-Fi Writers
Fantasy Writers
Historical Fiction Writers
Literary Fiction Writers
Women's Fiction Writers
Young Adult Novelists
Middle Grade Novelists
Memoirists have also found success with the Marathon Method, though the course is designed specifically for fiction writers.
Whether you're drafting your first novel or revising your fifth, if your story has a beginning, middle, and end, the 11 Mile Markers will work for you.
The Plot Like a Novelist Course
is an all-in-one framework
where you'll learn:
- How to CREATE a foundation for your story.
- How to DEVELOP your Novel Training Plan, so you can finally write a novel with a great plot.
- How to get inside your character's head and CREATE DESIRE AND CONFLICT from the very beginning.
- How to create and PROPERLY PACE THE 2 SCENES that must show up in the beginning of your story.
- How to create MEMORABLE CHANGES in your characters.
- How to RAISE THE STAKES for your characters and leave your readers on the edge of their seats.
- How to use INTERNAL THOUGHTS to spur your character into action.
- How to IMPLEMENT the "mirror effect" into your story and why it happens twice.
- How to DEVELOP A STRONG BASE to help you write more consistently.
- How to use your outline to WRITE A SYNOPSIS for your novel.
Everything You Get Inside Plot Like a Novelist
Coaching Calls
PERSONAL FEEDBACK ON YOUR STORY
Get personal feedback on your five main plot points and your plot outline. The live weekly Coaching Calls are for six weeks. Attending and watching others can give you a deeper understanding of plot. Ask any questions you have about the course content. This bonus alone is worth more than the entire course!
Plot Audit Feedback Session
HEAR FEEDBACK ON ONE WRITER'S STORY - it could be YOU
This is one of the most powerful parts of the program. During the Plot Audit Feedback Session, I review one writer’s story live. What’s working, what’s missing, and what needs to change. Everyone else gets to watch, learn, and apply those insights to their own novel. So you’re not just learning the method, you’re seeing exactly how it works in real time.
Private Community
PRIVATE MEMBERS-ONLY FACEBOOK GROUP
Access to our community and extra accountability. It's the best way to stay connected to other writers while you draft your plot outline. Bounce ideas off each other and celebrate all your wins, small and large, as you reach new milestones.
Resource Library
PREMIUM WRITING WORKSHOPS
The Resource Library includes a dozen exclusive recordings from published authors teaching topics such as character, conflict, setting, and so so much more! Once you start writing (or revising) your novel, you'll definitely want to dive into the Resource Library!
Writer Inspiration Kit
FULL-COLOR PDF PRINTABLE
Stay motivated throughout the week with these 78 cards posted around your house. The famous quotes look great on your office walls, computer, desk, filing cabinet, fridge, bathroom mirror, car, and anywhere else you want.
_____
In just 30 days you can have:
- A story with a solid beginning.
- Lots of conflict for your character.
- A plot that builds momentum and tension.
- An ending that satisfies your reader.
- And a novel that editors will want.
… so choose your plan NOW.
_____
What Students Are Saying...
"You make the plotting process straightforward. My finished story flows better and is more interesting."
- Tammy
"I’m so glad you got to my novel before I started seriously writing it. That would’ve been a monster to rework."
- Malissa
"I’ve taken other premium writing courses that I haven’t gotten nearly this much out of! Highly recommend."
- Angie
You've seen what's possible. Now let's talk about what it takes to get started.
When you enroll in PLOT LIKE A NOVELIST, here's everything you get.
⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️
The full 5-module Marathon Method framework that walks you through creating your Novel Training Plan using the 11 Mile Markers.
6 weeks of live group coaching calls with me (all recorded, so you can watch them anytime). This is where you get feedback on your plot and clarity on where you're stuck.
Attendance to a live Plot Audit Feedback Session. This is where you see me giving feedback on ONE writer's entire story. It could be YOU.
Private community access where you can connect with other writers who are working through the same process.
Writer Inspiration Kit with 78 printable quote cards to keep you motivated.
Resource Library filled with premium writing workshops from published authors.
Choose Your Plan
Flexible Payment Plan
INCLUDES:
- 5 Modules with videos, examples, and worksheets
- BONUS: 6-Week Access to Group Coaching Calls
- BONUS: Plot Audit Feedback Session
- BONUS: Access to Accountability Community
- BONUS: Resource Library
- BONUS: Writer Inspiration Kit
- Flexible Payment Plan
ACCESSIBLE 3-MONTH PAYMENT PLAN
3 MONTHLY PAYMENTS
of $199
Pay In Full and SAVE!
INCLUDES:
- 5 Modules with videos, examples, and worksheets
- BONUS: 6-Week Access to Group Coaching Calls
- BONUS: Plot Audit Feedback Session
- BONUS: Access to Accountability Community
- BONUS: Resource Library
- BONUS: Writer Inspiration Kit
- Pay in Full and SAVE $100
SAVE 20% BY PAYING IN FULL
1 SINGLE PAYMENT
of $497
STUDENT LOVE
"I didn’t think I would sign up for a course I had to pay for, but I was impressed with Christie’s skills, knowledge, teaching methods, and support. This was exactly what I needed to find clarity and direction. I finally learned how to plan properly. Thank you for the great course. It has been and will continue to be very helpful!"
- Dianne
"It was so doable! My first draft was done, but it was a hot mess! The work I’ve done in every module brought clarity and a new excitement to this project. I crafted a clear plan that helped me move forward without feeling overwhelmed."
- Kathy
"I wanted to apply my ideas and skills to completing something that’s uniquely my own (instead of freelance work). I now have a strong sense of what it takes to truly complete a novel, from start to finish. I have a strong outline for my first novel and have the confidence to move forward to completion."
- Suzanne
30-Day "Run With Your Writing Guarantee"
Go through the course. Do the work. If you've completed the modules and you're not making progress on your plot, just reach out before day 30, and I'll refund you. I'm confident this system works, but I'd never want you to feel stuck with something that isn't helping you move forward.
DO THE WORK. GET RESULTS. GUARANTEED.
Motivation and Accountability
"I needed the motivation to restart my writing practice. I knew I’d never get going on my idea for a novel unless I could work out a plot. I now have a complete outline to work from."
- Vicki
"At first, the running references bothered me because I don’t run. But after using them in my outline, I found they work really well. Very clear to use."
- Sharon
"I needed accountability because it’s so easy to get out of the habit of writing every day. I finished my outline and now I’m ready and excited to finally write my novel."
- Melody
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When does the course start?
Right now. Everything is ready for you the moment you enroll. You can start immediately and go at your own pace.
2. How long do I have access?
Lifetime. You get unlimited access across any device you own, plus all future updates and upgrades at no additional cost.
3. Is it too late to outline if I've already started writing?
Not at all. The Marathon Method works whether you're outlining before you draft or analyzing an existing manuscript to figure out where the plot went wrong. Some of my best students are revising drafts they've been stuck on for years.
4. What if my book is character-driven, not plot-driven?
Character-driven stories still need structure. The 11 Mile Markers help you build a plot that supports your characters' emotional arcs without forcing them into a formulaic box.
5. How is this different from Save the Cat or the Hero's Journey?
Those systems are great, but they were designed for screenwriters. The Marathon Method is built specifically for novelists, and it's way less jargon-heavy. You won't need a glossary to figure out what I'm talking about. If you like to run, this is the plot structure for you.
6. Do I have to be a plotter to use this?
Nope. Pantsers use this all the time to reverse-outline their messy first drafts and figure out what's missing. The system works whether you outline before you write or after.
7. What if I can't make the live coaching calls?
Every call is recorded and stored in the course platform, so you can watch them anytime.
8. Does this work for memoir?
It's designed for fiction writers, but memoirists have used it successfully. Memoir still needs narrative structure, and the 11 Mile Markers can help you shape your story into something compelling.
9. What's your refund policy?
If you do the work and you're not making progress in 30 days, just reach out and I'll refund you. Easy peasy.
10. How much does it cost?
$497 if you pay in full (saves you $100), or 3 payments of $199.
Choose Your Plan
Flexible Payment Plan
INCLUDES:
- 5 Modules with videos, examples, and worksheets
- BONUS: Access to Private Community
- BONUS: 6-Week Access to Group Coaching Calls
- BONUS: Writer Inspiration Kit
- BONUS: Resource Library
- Flexible Payment Plan
ACCESSIBLE 3-MONTH PAYMENT PLAN
3 MONTHLY PAYMENTS
of $199
Pay In Full and SAVE!
INCLUDES:
- 5 Modules with videos, examples, and worksheets
- BONUS: Access to Private Community
- BONUS: 6-Week Access to Group Coaching Calls
- BONUS: Writer Inspiration Kit
- BONUS: Resource Library
- Pay in Full and SAVE $100
SAVE 20% BY PAYING IN FULL
1 SINGLE PAYMENT
of $497
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