Sometimes, creating a thrilling plot can take a lot of work. It can be difficult to capture your readers and give them a story that makes them come back for more. Although I don't typically write fiction much anymore, I grew up formulating plots and crafting novels. I've definitely done my share of plot and character development. So here are just three things I learned that will help make your plot capture your reader and make the story come alive: 1. Don't go with the predictable ending. A lot of times a novel can feel boring because you have a pretty good idea of where the plot is going. Take movies for example. Have you ever watched the same movie on TV over and over, just with different titles? Of course, the actors/actresses and the names aren't the same, but the general plot is all the same. When this happens in writing, the reader gets bored and may not even finish the book. Or if they're like me, they'll skip to the end and discover--just as they thought--that the plot ends how they imagined it would. Play around with the sad ending. When a book ends with "happily ever after" and all the character's dreams come true, it feels just a little unrealistic to me. Because life isn't always like that. Make the story feel real, even if your character doesn't get what she/he wants in the end. Throw in a plot twist no one was expecting. Maybe it's the villain who comes out of nowhere or the accident that shocked the reader. Throw your reader off. Surprise them. 2. Create believable characters. I will get bored with a book so much faster if I cannot relate to the character or imagine this character as a real person. There are some books where the characters just feel distant or unrealistic (too perfect, no flaws, gets everything they want, says stuff a real human wouldn't say, etc.), and this bores me. I will be so much more into the book if that character feels like a long lost friend I'm just re-discovering. Throw in some character flaws. Maybe your writer is too opinionated or gets irritated easily or gets angry when people don't close their bedroom door. Everyone has their own quirks and flaws. Make sure your character has them too. 3. Don't drag it out. A reader can sense when you are throwing in bunny trails or throwing in extra action scenes or dialogue just to make the story last longer. You're going to keep your reader's attention best when you stick to the story, you tell the story, and then you finish the story. You're telling one story in this book, not three or four. The best movies or books are the ones where you know that every little detail has a purpose. They aren't just telling you about the pink hat your character used to love because they thought it would be interesting. They're telling you about that pink hat because it's going to mean something to that character further on in the story. This is a good use of foreshadowing, which is key to a great story. Use every detail to your advantage and focus on the one plot that you are telling. Happy writing! 2/17/2018 04:15:03 pm
This was SO helpful for my book, Bella! Thank you SO much! :D
Bella Morganthal
2/18/2018 03:29:02 pm
Aww, I'm so glad, Livy love! :D
Bella Morganthal
2/18/2018 03:29:31 pm
Hey girly, thanks for commenting! :D <3 Comments are closed.
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About this page:
This page of my blog is dedicated specifically to writers. I've been writing for over half of my life. I live and breathe writing. Because of that, I'm passionate about helping other writers grow, develop, and succeed. This section of my blog will include blog posts dedicated to writing, encouragement, and resources. Feel free to read through some posts and my contact form is always open if you ever have any questions or need encouragement! ♥ Archives
April 2018
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