I am new to writing outside the academic versions so it’s strange to have so much freedom with where a story can go. It’s a beautiful thing! Thanks for the insight.

Thank you!

I’m glad this helps you! Way too many writers don’t work hard to develop their concept and end up with a fairly boring novel.

it’s an important distinction because many writers think if they just have a great twist at the end, that’s what will make their story great. But they first have to grab readers’ attention and keep it all the way through, before they get to that great plot twist.

Thanks for sharing those thoughts. I agree. A great concept will grab readers’ attention and raise curiosity to know how the story will unfold and resolve. The reader indentification comes with setting up a compelling protagonist who is empathetic and passionate about a goal (one of the four corner pillars of novel structure). I present a holistic view and way of building a novel that requires more than just concept, because a strong novel can’t just ride on that alone.

Nick, asking questions is a terrific way to get deep into concept. And by adding mystery and tension to create questions in the reader’s mind is the objective!