Plot development is not the same in all novels. As we all know, the shorter your writing, the less intricate the plot. Longer novels have several related or interrelated subplots. So, instead of your plot running in a straight line, the story will branch off in many directions.In your writing, what comes first: plot or character?
For some writers the characters come first. But for other writers, the plot comes before any thought of a character. No matter which you do first, remember that characters are essential to plot development. They must be strong and believable to sustain a good story.
1. The Ticking Clock: Plot lines where time is of the essence. Something must be done before time runs out.
2. Unsolved Crime: a mystery that readers must unravel
3. Developing Relationships: all romance novels focus on this, but most also have additional confict. If your plot deals primarily with the interrelationship of characters, make sure you delve deeply into the psychology of the relationship.
4. Evolution of a Family: intense character contrast and growth. Frequently, the characters and often the environment are pitted against each other.
5. Other Worlds/Future Worlds/Time Travel: setting is a major importance with much detail about the time and place
6. Vengenance: Conflict between characters must be strong to last throughout the major portion of the book
7. Personal Struggle/Search for Self: Overcoming a tragedy
8: Adventure
9. Quest: search for a lost parent or child. The protagonist must have an absolute committment to succeed in a quest. Many obstacles should be provided
10. Survival
11. Social/Society and Civilization/Lifefstyles: their way of life is in itself part of the developing drama. Regency is a good example
12. Power Play: one person or group attempting to control another group
There are many other plot patterns, but these are some of the ones most frequently used. Also, these patterns can be and probably are combined in the longer novel. The most important thing to remember is keep your plot believable and cohesive.
~Allison Byers
TWRP Historical Editor
We just received a new review for the Civil War anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles. TwoLips Reviews gave it a 4.5 lip review.
