Thursday, February 16, 2012

In the Beginning

So, there's been some debate amongst my writer friends about whether you should start your story with the antagonist's (villain) point of view (POV) or the protagonist's (hero/heroine). Most of the time, stories start from the protagonist's POV.

Two things of note: I'm not much of a rule follower (unless it's practical) and I lean toward formal in things I like, e.g. pictures in frames should generally be the same size and color and symmetrically ordered on the wall. A mirrored balance makes me happy.

My soon-to-be-released novel, The Archer's Hollow, is in chronological order of events. Remember, I like things that way. This puts my villain in the very first chapter. It works for me and I hope it works for you when you read it.

This is why I think it will. Feel free to agree or disagree in the comments!

  • The first chapter is titled Nefarious Intent.
  • My villian's name is Nafaeri and not by accident (definite connection there).
  • Throughout the first chapter, I've tried to expose her for what she is. I definitely want the reader to know what the hero and heroine are up against.
So, do you think I can pull of this latest rebellion? Any tips for making a stronger case?

Write On my friends!

4 comments:

  1. I think you can do it if you're clear that it's the villain you're talking about. There could be books where the villain is the protagonist, so the distinction should be clear.

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  2. I think it will almost serve the purpose that a prologue does to help set up the story--like you say, so we'll know what the protagonist is up against.

    And, of course, I think you can do anything, Peggy!!!

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  3. Thanks Valerie, I'm just trying to keep up with you!

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  4. Interesting thought. I read one prologue in the antagonist's viewpoint and at the time made no sense at all until the story unfolded. The rest of the novel was in the protagonist's POV. I believe you can make anything work if done well.

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