Last week I (Rachel) talked about writing chick literature be it chick, mom, lady, hen, southern, super chick or whatever. There are a wide variety.

This week, Prescriptions continues the Lits lesson.

Lits have plot, believe it or not. When I started ready chick lit, I could not figure out the plot or true point of the story. But, it’s there. Authors like Sophie Kinsella write high concept plots where almost every thing in the book revolves around a theme like a secret, or money.

Here are a few Lit plot tips:

Start with a situation, or inciting incident that sets up the story question. “You have a woman with a problem.”

She goes on a journey of discovery or to find a solution. Things don’t go as planned. She makes wrong decisions. The answer evades her.

She’s in a place of no return. All decision have rippling consequences.

Ah, but there’s the light at the end of the tunnel. Create a satisfying ending. Now, it doesnt’ have to be a traditional or HEA ending, just satisifying. She gets something or someone she wants.

Lit Voice:

Voice is very important, in fact, it’s the distinguishing power behind lits. Voice is the “thing” that makes you, as a writer, unique. It’s your unique blend of description, character and style. The way you put words and sentences together.

For all writers voice is important, but especially for lit writers.

First Person verses Third:

Lately in the CBA market there is a draw back from the first person story. My guess is because many submission are not done well. And for some reason, there’s reader back lash.

Here are some guidelines for choosing person:

First person – Lits lend themselves to first person, diary feel. Do you hear the story in first person?
Is it your natural voice? First person must be done well. Can’t be 3rd person with “I” pronoun. Allows for Deep POV. Downside: Too much rambling and introspection. Watch the back story. Industry and readers skepticism of 1st person.

Third person – Safe for new authors. Easier than 1st to find voice. More accepted by editors and readers. Can have multiple POVs. Author intrusion. Downside: Can keep distance from the characters. Not as deep POV.

Thanks for stopping by. Next week, our final lesson on Lits!

*********************
Sign up now for our monthly, Book Therapy blog feed and get:

5 Secrets to a Best-Selling Novel

Frustrated? Confused? …Dreaming of the day when an editor calls and says, “I MUST publish your book?” Don’t laugh — it could happen! It does happen – all the time – and you could be next! What’s holding you back? Flat characters? A Saggy plot? Lackluster writing? Let the Book Therapists help. We believe that deep inside every troubled story lies a deep-seated problem. But it’s not beyond hope… Your book simply needs therapy. Stop by MY BOOK THERAPY and…get published!