How to handle writing a romantic subplot when the main plot is very different?
5 Tips for Writing Stellar Romantic Subplots
- Know the Character Dynamics Going In. One of the biggest issues I see in romantic subplots is inconsistent character dynamics. …
- Introduce Romantic Subtext Early. …
- Give the Characters Something in Common. …
- Bring Them Together in a Vulnerable Moment. …
- Don’t Overshadow the Main Plot.
Should my book have a romantic subplot?
Writing a romantic subplot can be great fun, so don’t be put off by what could go wrong. However, ultimately, a romantic subplot is not an obligatory feature of a novel, so if it doesn’t feel right for you or your story, don’t stress.
How does the subplot support the main conflict in the story?
Conflict Subplot
Conflict subplots seek to do what they say on the tin – add conflict and tension in your novel. They’re also a brilliant vehicle for in-depth characterisation as they allow you to show how a character overcomes certain conflicts.
What is the difference between main plot and subplot?
In simple terms, a plot is a sequence of connected events that are bound together by cause and effort. The subplot is a side story that exists within the main plot. The subplot is connected to the main story but never overpowers it.
What does romantic subplot mean?
Romance. An example of a subplot would be the romance between a main character and a secondary character. Unless the entire focus of your book is their love story, a romantic storyline would be considered a subplot as it works alongside the overarching main plot of the story.
How do you connect subplots to a main plot?
And as with your main plot, all subplots should follow a narrative arc of conflict, crisis, and resolution, usually wrapped up before the main plot’s climax. Subplots can be what’s happening to secondary characters or an internal conflict your main character is facing in addition to the main conflict of your story.
How do you write a romantic subplot?
5 Tips for Writing Stellar Romantic Subplots
- Know the Character Dynamics Going In. One of the biggest issues I see in romantic subplots is inconsistent character dynamics. …
- Introduce Romantic Subtext Early. …
- Give the Characters Something in Common. …
- Bring Them Together in a Vulnerable Moment. …
- Don’t Overshadow the Main Plot.
How many subplots is too many?
Unless you’re a master writer, you shouldn’t use more than 2 subplots to your main one.
How many subplots should a novel have?
Most novels of typical length contain a main plot and up to three subplots.
How do you structure a subplot?
6 Tips for Writing Better Subplots
- Ensure that your subplots play second fiddle. …
- Give your subplots a narrative arc. …
- Write character-driven subplots. …
- Try a new POV. …
- Figure out how to connect the subplot and the main plot. …
- Ramp up the tension with a subplot.
Why does every story have a romantic subplot?
You make like fantasy or sci-fi but some people get bored if that’s all they read- so often writers will write a romantic side-story to follow so it breaks up all the uniformity of the storyline. Sometimes it works but often they take that as an easy way out rather than bother to find new ideas.
How do you pace a romance novel?
4 Key Ways to Improve Tension and Pacing in Your Novel
- Don’t Forget the Conflict . . . Inner and outer conflict. …
- . . . Or the Compelling Characters. …
- Boring, Boring. …
- Make Sure Every Scene Has a Point. …
- Scrutinize Your Writing. …
- Don’t Write Like Everyone (or Anyone) Else. …
- Strong Pacing Does Not Mean Light Speed.
How do you write a compelling romance story?
How to Write a Romance Novel: Your Adoring Readers Await!
- Find your niche.
- Set the stage effectively.
- Write a strong main couple.
- Use tried-and-true tropes.
- Carefully construct intimate scenes.
- Don’t neglect secondary characters.
- Give your main couple a happy ending.
What is mirror subplot?
Mirror subplot: A smaller-scale conflict mirrors the main character’s in order to teach them a valuable lesson or illuminate how to resolve the conflict. 2. Contrasting subplot: A secondary character faces similar circumstances and dilemmas as the main character but makes different decisions with the opposite outcome.
How do you bring a story together?
Weaving Your Plot, Characters, and Theme
Plot, characters, and theme are the foundational cornerstones of your story. All three are important, and all three must be woven into the other two if they’re to create a cohesive and powerful story. knowledge to start comprehending your theme.
How do you weave in a subplot?
So first work out a strong subplot that amplifies the themes of your novel, then create an outline of scenes, then write those scenes. Try writing them in a separate Word doc, then, when you’re ready, carefully read through your novel and see where to insert those scenes.
How many scenes should a subplot have?
A subplot is just what it sounds like: A mini-story which plays a secondary, but related role to the Plotline. Here are some characteristics of subplots: A subplot must have at least 3 narrative beats (scenes or moments within scenes), but can have many more beats.
How many subplots is too many?
Unless you’re a master writer, you shouldn’t use more than 2 subplots to your main one.