Mr. Frey speaks heavily of the necessity of Premise, and describes thoroughly the difference between a workable Premise, and one that will fall through the cracks like dry sand.
He discusses perspectives, view points, flashbacks, which he feels has been misused greatly in storytelling (agreed), symbolism and the imagists who abuse it, the importance of foreshadowing, and writing sensuous, dramatic prose that engages the reader, along with clever, witty and unique dialogue to keep the reader entertained. And finally, the Zen of writing novels.
You will also learn how the only type of writing group worth enlisting in is one that serves destructive criticism. Or how to get along without a writing group entirely.
"How To Write A Damn Good Novel" is an indispensable, practical tool for writing novels. His book will change the way you think about sitting down to your word processor or type writer, and likely help you kick the habit of watching too much TV that otherwise keeps you from working on your novel.