The Novelry on Writing The 5 Ps: Plot - Writing Plot Structure
While you can’t get the whole plot of a novel in the first three pages, those initial pages need to set up a foundation for writing plot structure. The plot is the journey your main character goes on to overcome challenges and change as a person by the end of the story. In this bonus episode of The Novelry on Writing, editor Tash Barsby and author Heather Webb dive into:
✍️ What is plot, and how does it drive story
✍️ How stakes play a role in plot
✍️ The importance of subplots
What happens in your story? Submit your work to The Next Big Story prize, where you could win $100,000 for the best first three pages of a novel. T&Cs apply—see website for details.
Perfect for fiction writers seeking to enhance their novel openings and craft a setting that captivates readers. Whether you’re a new writer or have a few books under your belt, these writing tips will help you craft more engaging story beginnings and make your first three pages stand out.
Thanks for tuning in, and happy writing! 🖋️
Chapters
00:00 Introduction02:02 What is Plot?03:35 Stakes Drive Plot05:35 Inciting Incident07:39 Writing Plot Structure08:47 Subplots
Guest Bios
Tash Barsby was a Commissioning Editor at Transworld Publishers and worked at Vintage Books, Macmillan, and Simon & Schuster before moving to Penguin Random House, where she worked with authors Sarah Pearse, Fiona Barton, Lesley Kara, and Tess Gerritsen.
Heather Webb is the USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of historical novels, including Queens of London, The Next Ship Home, and Strangers in the Night.
Resources
Check out these blog posts for more insight on how to write a compelling story:
How to Raise the Stakes in Your Story
How to Create a Plot Diagram for a Smooth Writing Journey
What To Do if You’ve Got Too Much Plot
▶️ On YouTube: https://youtu.be/VsjTR9AP-OY
🔔 Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to our podcast and YouTube channel for more writing tips, podcast episodes, and creative inspiration! Hit the bell icon to stay updated.
📖 Read the full episode transcript here!
📚 Ready to take your writing to the next level? For one-on-one help writing your novel, join us on a creative writing course at The Novelry today. Sign up for courses, coaching, and a community from the world’s top-rated writing school.
❓Have a question? Email us at hello@thenovelry.com.
All writers learn from other writers, even the greats. Write your novel with motivation and support from The Novelry. Sign up! Your story starts here...
Connect with The Novelry
Official Site: https://thenovelry.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenovelry
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenovelry/
Twitter: https://x.com/thenovelry
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheNovelry
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenovelry
Show description
Learn how novels work from publishing’s top experts at The Novelry, the world’s #1 school for writers. Hosted by our bestselling writing coaches and publishing editors, this podcast is a practical, helpful guide to writing novels for every genre. Enjoy inside tips and tricks to make your writing a joyful experience while building your expertise in writing craft.
With new topics every week, there is always something to learn at The Novelry, the world’s top-rated fiction writing school with more 5 reviews from writers than any other creative writing course.*