Let’s chat about subplots – those juicy side stories that run alongside your novel’s main course. When you throw them in just right, they can turn your book from a simple meal into a full-on feast. In my new novel, Cults Coffee and Close Encounters, there’s a great side plot involving a meth head and two fawns! Let’s dive into why subplots are awesome and what to watch out for.
Why Subplots Rock:
- They add flavor: Subplots let you dig into your side characters, explore interesting themes, and stir up extra drama.
- Pace control: Need a breather from the main action? Subplot time! Or use them to crank up the tension when things are slow.
- Character gains: Give your characters more screen time and let readers really get to know them.
- Theme boosters: Use subplots to hammer home your big ideas or flip them on their head for contrast.
- Reality check: Life’s messy, and multiple storylines make your fictional world feel more real.
Subplot Pitfalls to Dodge:
- The distraction factor: If your subplot’s stealing the show, readers might lose the main focus of the characters key desire.
- Pacing problems: Too many subplots can turn your novel into a slog or make it feel all over the place.
- Loose ends: Leaving subplots hanging is like a too many cups of tea and letting them go cold!
- The “who cares?” trap: If a subplot doesn’t tie into the main story somehow, readers might wonder why it’s there.
- Brain overload: Go easy on the complexity. Too many tangled storylines can leave readers scratching their heads.
The trick with subplots? Balance. Make sure each side story brings something to the table and doesn’t just take up space. Nail this, and you’ll turn your good novel into a page-turner that readers can’t put down.
Aaron Lamb 