If you have an idea for a novel that you believe will be a bestseller, you’re not alone. Many people have great inspirations for books but aren’t quite sure how to go about writing them. Once you understand the basic ingredients and structure of a novel, it becomes much easier. With a solid plan, you can transform your ideas into something that others will read and enjoy. By the end of this, you will know what to do.
Undoubtedly, the most crucial element of any good novel is the main character. This protagonist must meet several criteria. They need to be someone that readers can identify with, sympathize with, and understand. Someone they can root for in a conflict or disagreement. To achieve this, you must make them as real as possible. Describe them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Ensure that you know their complete background and family history. Make sure they have both strengths and weaknesses.
Next is the story arc. There should be a clear beginning, an introduction of the problem, a climax, and a resolution. Even short fairy tales contain these elements. The beginning serves as the hook that grabs your readers and introduces them to the world of your characters. The problem is something that your character must face or resolve. The climax is the most exciting and significant scene involving your character and the problem. The resolution is how everything is resolved in the end.
Equally important as the story arc, your character should also undergo change and growth. They may learn something, improve their perspective in some way, or elevate themselves in the eyes of society. As they solve the problem, they should experience some sort of transformation so that they are better off than when they started.
Finally, your novel should be captivating. The main character should be someone that many people would want to root for. The problem they face should be something that readers can imagine themselves facing and perhaps overcoming. And the resolution should not leave anyone hanging or provide any unpleasant surprises.
This is the basic structure of most successful stories today. If you can fit your ideas into the structure outlined above, whether you’re writing a historical romance novel or a futuristic fantasy thriller, it will be more engaging. This means more people will read it, and you will have a higher chance of success as a novelist. Now, all you need to do is get started.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME