Often, the basic plot of a romance novel commences with the setting of the scene. The author might describe a beautiful place like a small seaside town. Then, the main characters are introduced. They could be a local girl and a newcomer to the town. Their first encounter might be something simple like passing each other on the street and having a brief moment of eye contact.
A spy novel's plot usually starts with some sort of disruption in the status quo. For example, a new threat emerges that endangers national security. This could be in the form of a new weapon technology in the wrong hands or a plot to assassinate a key political figure. The spy is then either assigned to the case or is already involved in some related matter, and from there, the story begins to unfold as they start to investigate and piece together the clues.
In a seduction romance novel, the plot often starts with an initial encounter that sparks interest. For example, in many novels, the two main characters meet in an unexpected or exciting situation like at a grand ball or in a foreign city. Then, there are often obstacles. One character might be hesitant due to past experiences or social status differences. As the story progresses, the seduction intensifies through various means such as secret glances, small gifts, or shared secrets. Eventually, they overcome the obstacles and come together in a passionate union.
In a sports romance novel, the plot often starts with the introduction of the athlete, either at a game or during training. Then, the love interest enters the scene, and there's an initial attraction or conflict. As the story progresses, the athlete may face challenges in their sport, like an injury or a big competition, while also dealing with their feelings for the other person. Eventually, they have to decide between their sports career and their relationship, and usually find a way to balance both.
Xianxia novels usually started with a mysterious scene, such as a mysterious island, a mysterious cave, a mysterious city, and so on. Then the protagonist would usually appear in this mysterious scene and begin their journey of Xianxia. In the beginning, the identity and background of the protagonist are usually introduced to let the reader understand their character and goals. At the same time, the protagonist will encounter some mysterious enemies or events to promote the development of the story. The ending of the story would usually give the reader a general understanding.
The plot structure builds tension through the introduction of obstacles between the lovers. For example, if one of them has a secret that could break the relationship if revealed.
In a forced marriage romance novel, the plot often starts with some external force pushing the two main characters into marriage. It could be family obligations, financial reasons or social status. At first, they may resist or be hostile towards each other. But as they spend time together, they start to see each other's good qualities. Small moments of kindness or shared interests gradually break down the barriers between them, and eventually love develops.
Often, in a destiny romance novel, there's an initial encounter that seems fated. For example, two characters might meet in an unexpected place or situation, like during a storm or at a far - off destination. Then, there are obstacles in their way, such as differences in social class or family expectations. But destiny keeps pulling them together, and they have to overcome these challenges to be together in the end.
The beginning of a romance novel is very important. It can attract the reader's attention and make the reader want to continue reading. Here are some common tips for opening romance novels: 1. Description of a fascinating scene: At the beginning of the novel, describe a fascinating scene such as a beautiful scene, a touching scene, a thrilling scene, etc. This scene could make the readers curious and want to know more. 2. Shaping the image of the protagonist: At the beginning of the novel, the reader will have a good impression of the protagonist by describing the image of the protagonist. It could describe the protagonist's personality, appearance, quality, and so on, allowing the reader to have a preliminary understanding of the protagonist. 3. Introduction of the love theme: Directly introduce the love theme through a sentence, paragraph, or scene at the beginning of the novel. For example," When I first met her, I was attracted by her beauty and gentleness." 4. Ask questions: Ask questions at the beginning of the novel to make the reader want to think. For example,"Why is she so beautiful?" Why does she have such a gentle personality?" 5. Use conflict to attract the reader's attention at the beginning of the novel. For example," He is full of desire for her, but she has not realized that this desire has already made him feel pressured." The beginning of a romance novel should be able to attract the reader's attention and make the reader want to continue reading. At the same time, it should be able to create the image of the protagonist, introduce the theme of love, raise questions, use conflicts, etc., so that the beginning of the novel is both interesting and profound.
In a transmigration novel, usually the plot starts with the main character suddenly finding themselves in a different body or world. Then, they have to adapt to the new environment. For example, if it's a historical setting, they might need to learn the customs. After that, they often start to change things around them, like improving their own situation or influencing the people around them.
The time to plot a novel depends on many factors. If you're an experienced writer and have a well-defined concept, it might take around a month. However, if you're new to writing or have a very elaborate story in mind, it could take several months or even longer. You also need to factor in research and outlining time.