I adore negative character arcs! From what I've read there are 3 main types: 1. The delusional character - they live a lie, but in the ''aha'' moment they understand the truth, only to find out it is tragic and they embrassed it's tragic nature - Sansa Stark 2. The fallen character - they are close to the truth but never find it - they stay with the lie to the very end and often it costs their lives or the lives of others - Ned Stark, Dorian Grey 3. The corrupt character (the most evil of them all, MUAHAHAA) - they live in the truth but believe a lie, and at the ''aha'' moment they fully understand the truth and the lie, they see everything clearly (or they think they do) but still decide to choose the lie - Anakin Skywalker - in this case the lie is actually evil. PS: I write a trilogy and my main character lives trough these three stages of negative arc development and it is beautiful and heartbreaking - don't know why, but Abbie is the person who helped and inspired me the most even if she doesn't like to talk about negative arcs ;)
To Kathleen from the first question: you're doing really well! I have a chronic illness, and a day job, and I completely understand what you mean about how hard it is. I've been working on my current novel (which will end up being 3 novels) for 15 years. 😂 If you're halfway through after 10 months, you're making great progress!
blahblah123 _drake it is a science fiction novel, the sun is dying and in order to procreate the next generation, 137 participants embark on an expedition to the red planet before the sun obliterates earth. They all leave for different reasons and atrocities that occur socially and politically on earth like immigration, and heartbreak, sexual assault and a mysterious disease caused by the spike in radiation
I’m working on Act 1 of a fantasy-adventure-sci-fi novel involving other worlds. Thanks to your videos, my writing has been going smoothly, and has helped me so much. Thank you for ur helpful vids 🙏🏾
i am a 13 year old and i am writing a fantasy and fiction story[i really dont know what is it called] and it is on editing process, it contains about 7000 words and i will publish it and it will be my first book
I'm about to hit 20,000 words, and it feels so good. I know it might be outstanding but I've never wrote than many words before. So if anyone is struggling with not feeling like you're being outstanding with you writing, you are, you're are trying and putting in so much effort in and that is outstanding. Btw, you dog is too cute.
I’m still trying to figure out my main character and the main side character.(?) I do have ideas and some scenes in mind I have roughed our so I can clean them up later with my characters in them.
I plan on indie publishing the book I’m writing at the moment. I’ve been carrying it with me for four freaking years and after I found your channel, I followed your outlining plan step by step and I feel like it’ll be perfect this time so THANK YOU FOR INSPIRING ME SI MUCH!!
I’m currently working on my new novel that I started on May 3rd of this year! I have five chapters left to write, which will probably equate to around 15k words based on the average length of my chapters. Today I hit 90k words and I honestly can’t believe it. My last novel was around 50k, and I am so amazed that I got to this point. It’s a dystopian coming of age novel and I’ve enjoyed working on it so so much. Wishing everyone well on their own current WIPs!
I'm still trying to decide on what to write about. The story that I had planned before wasn't working. So I thought of a new idea and everything works for that idea. I'm just hesitant on going thru with it. It's a time travel fantasy about a world without rain and the protagonist has to find out why the rain disappeared. The idea wrote itself honestly😅.
That was a really good question about a negative character arc! Your approach to it probably could even be used in developing your villain’s backstory. Maybe they were conflicted at one point and then a series of events happened in order to make them fully believe and embrace their lie.
Actually, I'm not even working on an actual book rn... I'm using all your videos to write a fanfic I'm posting online XD... It's going great, though, I posted eleven chapters and I just finished writing the hook for all three protagonists I'm a weird fourteen-year-old......
"They know this is important to you" and that's pretty important. If they DON'T recognize that it's important to you, you gotta sit down and have a long conversation with them and yourself about the relationship.
Hey, Abbie. I recently discovered your channel and have literally been binging all your videos 🙈 I’m working on the final draft of my first ever novel, and it’s been pretty hard to stay focused and motivated, as I’ve been working on this book for so long. But, your channel has really given me that boost which will hopefully get me through this last bit. Thank you 😅🙏🏽
Working on a NA contemporary fantasy - five stages of grief meets a mish-mash of The Devouring Gray/The Raven Cycle/The Spiderwick Chronicles. Almost done with first draft
I would offer Kathleen different advice: as a wife and mom, I’m in the same boat! Guarantee, no one will abide by the instruction of a Do Not Disturb sign! You *must* physically get into a different location. It’s the only way it’s worked for me. Yes, many things are shut down which limits you, *but* you’re a creative...think creatively! Hop over to a friend’s house if they have a spare office or guest bedroom or outdoor space, some cafes/restaurants still have patios that are open (yes, even Starbucks!), find a park...heck, find a parking lot! You can do it! Hopefully your family will support and understand you 💚
I am on the final stretch of development edits of my first novel, finally 😁 I love your answers here, especially the first! It's so true that any progress is good progress!
I just finished my adventure/murder mystery. Following the story of a crime lord's niece, she's trying to clear her name, and start a new life, while getting involved in providing information to a murder. Unfortunately that investigation is headed by the detective that ensured her uncle's death.
Question: How do I write a book from a protagonist's perspective when my protagonist is new to earth? (meaning: she only knows a few English words) Thanks❤
Assuming you're writing it in English and mean to put her in an English-speaking country, you could make it seem like gibberish to her by using a different (or illegible, optionally) font. Treat the English she hears people speak like a different language. Regardless of where she comes from, she most likely will know a method of communication, even if it's not technically a language. You can just imagine you are translating her thoughts and/or words into English. That's what I'd personally do, but it depends on the kind of book you are writing and what you already have for the story. Good luck! Hope you find the most suitable way~
I'm at 16 years and finally starting to be able to get writing an 18 book series I've planned. My brother is onto his 3rd book now in about 1 1/2 years after initially planning his series starting 25 years ago. I'd say your still doing well. Suffering from world builder's disease? I have a most serious case of it.
Season 3 of Infinity Train did very well with Simon’s negative character arc, especially when juxtaposed with Grace’s positive one. They both started with the same misbelief but went in completely opposite directions. As you said, Simon “fully embraced the misbelief” in stark contrast to Grace, who overcame it.
I’m writing a thriller, horror book about kids with powers fighting an evil government. Your videos have been so useful and Empowering. Since I have been watching you videos I have felt more deeply motivated and encouraged to get my book done. I have learned so many things like the 3 act story structure, internal conflict and how to wright backstory. Which now I am including threw my story,. Thank you so much you are a literal angel!
I'm revising my manuscript! First time doing revisions and I'm kind of overwhelmed! I'm basically rewriting the whole thing because EVERYTHING SUCKS LOL
I'm wondering: How do I pick a time frame, i.e. historical period? My story can take place anywhere between the late 1930s - to current day, though cell phones and gps would be tough. I don't want my characters rescued too soon. Current WIP is in outline mode, trying to follow along [this time]. Don't know about making a "monster" outline, though. At that point, I don't think I could keep myself from writing the novel itself, though it's encouraging to hear you say you also hear your characters during this phase. I think my next step is researching. I'm thinking about duel POV in first person present tense, as I just finished reading a YA written that way, so I'm feeling the influence. -- My first novel (now on the back burner to simmer before revising and editing) is a YA fantasy fiction set in the Middle Ages -ish, not earth. It's in the 60k, but parts are missing, and as I was shooting for 80k+ I have room to add more world building: relationships and magic. Doesn't need a lot more, but some.
I'm currently writing the second outline for my book. It's actually been going fairly well even though I'm super slow😂 I also sat down and did a rough outline of all the books I'd planned for this series (I've always known it would be a series...but I never had a full plot, just a general message I wanted to convey across different scenarios). Anyways, I wrote the summary, and came out with a total of five books. It feels so incredibly good to have this sense of direction!
In regard to character descriptions, I tend to feel that less is more. You get too detailed on character appearance, when the tragic live adaptation comes out you get people whining that the actor doesn't fit every little aspect of no importance. "Emma Watson doesn't have buck teeth!" Does it matter? There was never a time in which Hermione saved the day with her incisors. I just adore the male authors who feel it's necessary, let alone acceptable, to describe a woman's breasts before describing her face. Lookin at Richard K. Morgan, ever read Altered Carbon? Oh my cheesecake.
I’m currently working on a pirate fantasy novel, and a murder/mystery set in Texas. I go back and forth between projects especially if I’m struggling with one. I take a break and go to the other. Or depending on how I feel, I pick one to work on. Both are going great! In my pirate fantasy novel, my plot up and twisted on me (typical; characters change on you) and I’m liking how it is going and how it’s completely changing the story!
I think a good way to look at a negative character arc is to simply view your protagonist as the villain of the story. He or she doesn't start out has the villain but that's what they eventually turn into. I say this because most villains tend to be the opposite of the hero they are opposing. Some villains have had the same life as the hero but in more of a negative way. If you want your protagonist to be a good guy in the end then you could view him or her as an anti-hero instead or you could still view him or her as the villain but then they could have another "AHA" moment and they have more a positive outlook now. That's my take on it anyways.
I know you are probably NEVER going to find this, but how are you supposed to know if your book idea is good enough to actually write a book about it or not. I have had a ton of ideas for books but I never know if it’s good or not.
10 months? And half way to a first draft? I WISH! I haven't been able to get that far in 16 years! I was able to get a beginning I was happy with until about 6 months ago. Good going!
Aliastar was going well but unfortunately my laptop is down for the count and lucky me I've saved all of my volumes from 1-3 but otherwise I'm safe and well rock on Abbie!
I am writing a book, not my first attempt, btw. I really want to hold myself accountable, because I'm a shameless pantser. I'm going into high school and writing a YA novel about a Christian superhero story that shows the struggle of a young man trying to find purpose in a life made difficult because of the powers that were given to him, even though those powers were given to him for a purpose. It is a sci-fi, action, romance story with many different characters all struggling with individual struggles, some that I have found myself struggling with as well.
I've heard you mention other books/projects. Do you not try to publish all of your manuscripts? If you don't intend to publish them, what do you do with them?
I’m writing about a fantasy world with no magic where a group of humans just discovered that the near extinct leviathans are intelligent beings who may be the key to ending a world war. It’s going very slowly because it’s very complicated.
#AskAbbie There’s a morally grey antagonist oc character I’ve made up in my head that I’ve become attached to, he starts off conflicted to negative arc but back to conflicted and eventually an almost redemption arc but he ends up working with the bad guys again, but realizes he doesn’t want a life of harm and isolation, he wants a peaceful life and gets a full positive arc. Short answer: does a character with a negative arc always half to end with their tragically dying? Also how do I have this character change and develop without completely changing their personality that changes them from interesting to boring?
I'm writing a supernatural dark drama that follows an aspiring photographer with deeply disturbing past that has left her traumatized. She must face and learn to overcome the evils of her past to face the monsters of the present. This was originally another book that i scrapped after watching many of your videos, but this story together and finally sat down to write it 2 days ago and so far its 7k words in. I'd say it's going fairly well :) Keep up with the great advice!
Doing July Nano for 50k words of editing but only at roughly 25k ack but I did restart at one point (but that is in total). It’s a high fantasy with sci-fi elements and it centres around a secret society
I am working on a multi-novel supernatural detective series currently. I dont want to publish until all books are written so I don't have the jk rowling effect lol.
I just LOVE your videos!! And I especially loved the question regarding husbands interrupting writers. I just complete a very detailed chapter by chapter outline for a sweet contemporary romance. I'm really excited about it.
Omg! My wife drives me nuts! Covid has made life miserable as she moved her office into the house and she treats me like her personal tech person and ... PA! She says she never interrupts me so I started to mark the # of times ..... well she is furious
i'm writing my first novel which i plan on publishing when it's over and edited! i have that story on my mind for like four/five years and tried to write it many times before but i was never happy with the outcome! this quarantine i started over and now i think it's going pretty good. I still have my moments of "shoot this is not going anywhere i should start over!!!!!" but i'm doing the best i can and i think that i'll be able to finish the first draft by the end of summer! hopefully!
I'm currently writing a story that is in the superhero genre BECAUSE I didn't like superheros and I wanted to see what this genre was all about; and now I'm falling in love with it. But I've also realised that's it going to be much longer than I first anticipated 😂😂 Nanowrimo has made me think that a first draft is only like up to 70k, and this is defs going to be a lottt longer.
I just found your channel and I subscribed after watching only a few videos because your content is very helpful so thank you! I'm 15 and I'm just starting to flesh out the idea for a story that's about a bunch of pairs of twins, one pair from every continent, and they either have powers or magic or something along those lines. Because I'm younger and I love middlegrade books, I'm going aim for a style that suits that age group. Also, loving the video 💜
@@butiamjustaperson8823 Yeah, I'm sure it will! I'm currently working on a project as well, but I keep on getting other story ideas therefore distracting myself from my main story 😅.
Your videos always inspire me to write more ✨! I’m always looking forward to your uploads every Wednesday, they just help soooo much! Thank you so much Abbie for everything, you’re the reason that I keep on writing through the good and the bad :) I love watching your videos, you have such a bright and amazing personality and I’m excited to read your new book😉
Working in my poems and short stories. 😁 Some edits to be fine but I like short stories because there are less characters and I don't need to think about a large plot ect
I'm writning a fantasy book about a child who would love to see the world but her parents doesn't let her couse they need her to help them get money as they're poor.
I’m also a coffee shop writer, in quarantine I make a cup of coffee , pull up a chair and desk , and I just put my earphone in and pretend I’m in a coffee shop
My first draft ever is currently about 97000 words, it's about at 4/5. I consider it as incomplete, beacuse there are missing chapters and of course, my writing skill has changed between 1st chapter and 36th (I guess it's 36th). I'll have to rewrite it.
Hi Abbie, I jussst found your channel and I'm so happy I came across it. :) Can't wait to watch all of your videos and read your book. Do you have any videos on how to get your book published? Like a step by step guide? Have a wonderful day!
Hi, Abbie! I'm new to your channel but I just wanted to let you know how my writing project is going. So I just started writing FanFic for one of my FAVORITE book series... The School for Good and Evil! And it's going okay-ish. And I don't really know where I'm headed! lol
Currently trekking up the mountain of research that my second work-in-progress The American Icarus is requiring. It’s taking FOREVER as it’s a historical fiction. My first (Ink of Destruction) is currently with the last round of beta readers so I’m really happy about that.
Hi Abbie!!!!!! (ILL ALSO APPRECIATE OTHER ANSWERS...) I'm Geetalii and I'm eleven.Im working on my own trilogy and its name is a wip,but currently calling it Storm.Storm is the name of my main character.Does this sound good? The name of the first book is also a wip,but I'm going for the beggining/a dark beginning Sounds nice? I love,love ,love ur videos and use all your templates.Im waiting for the next video of the 3 act story structure series.In the middle of outlining my first act and u help a lot!!!!! Also,another q,is it compulsory to use enegrams? And is it a good idea to make an account on nanowrimo? I hope u read this,thanxxx
My book progress has come to a grinding halt and its frustrating because I'm stuck. 😣 I just can't seem to nail the plot points for the second half and no matter how hard I try it's not coming to me. Gah! X
Thank you Abbie, your a total inspiration to us beginner writers. Since I have recently began writing i have been viewing your videos and they are simply amazing. I'm going back a year and viewing all your videos in sequence in the hope of not missing out anything. If I ever publish even a short story in the future it will be silently dedicated to you as I have picked up a lot of tips from your videos. Thank you so much. P.S. - can't wait to get my hands on '100 days of Sunlight'
Great video! Cute dog! I used to write a lot - got sidetracked by life - and have decided to complete and publish a book at last. The process this time has been really strange as the book/characters keep taking over and sending things in new directions. So far, it's working. Right now I'm in a slight quandry as, with half the book completed, the protagonist's (charming but often annoying) sidekick/love interest has decided he'd like a Dual Protagonist role. I like the idea - and have been told it's a good direction - but am having trouble changing the emphasis. He needs interesting scenes - but I don't want to take the "good stuff" away from my first protag. Also, developing his story line requires a lot more research. For now, I'm going along with the Dual plan but not 100% convinced yet.
I'm writing a contemporary adventure Middle Grade about pirates I'm calling "Malamander meets The Goonies" (yes! I'm so bad at naming my stories I've given up and am using the comp title as a working title)! And it's going great... which is a first. I usually freak out somewhere in the middle. But not this time!
I really appreciate the advice about the do not disturb sign! I’m usually home alone now but when people are home I get interrupted quite a bit, and I’ll get annoyed but usually just go with it. It’s important for us to respect our writing time, which includes asking our family and housemates to do the same!
I'm working on finishing the first draft, for the 1st of a 4 book Fantasy Romance series. I'm about 1/3rd of the way through chapter 21/28, and I'm on about 90,000 words.
I'm working on the character arcs for a fantasy plot I am going to write. I'm absolutely in love with it and character development is one of the most fun and exciting things ever, especially for the characters of this one.
Hey Abbie. No clue if you will ever see this but... My name is Jadyn. I’m 13, and I love to write. At the beginning of summer I had a book idea. It’s dystopian/romance. I really like the idea, but here lately I’ve been finding it hard to feel inspired to write. I feel like I’m not writing it in a way that is interesting to other people. I’m also writing it on a chrome book, so software updates are limited. Yet every time I watch your videos, I WANT to write. You help me feel better about my writing, and I can’t even begin to explain how much you have helped me. You have even inspired my mom to write. Thank you for all your support and help. Because of you, I have seriously considered being a writer in my future. You have changed my world in so many ways that you will never understand. I love you, I love your book, and I will always support you just as you have supported me.
Jadyn, your kind words mean so much to me. I am so thrilled that my videos have helped to encourage you to write and chase your dreams! Keep going...no matter what! Write that story.
I adore negative character arcs! From what I've read there are 3 main types:
1. The delusional character - they live a lie, but in the ''aha'' moment they understand the truth, only to find out it is tragic and they embrassed it's tragic nature - Sansa Stark
2. The fallen character - they are close to the truth but never find it - they stay with the lie to the very end and often it costs their lives or the lives of others - Ned Stark, Dorian Grey
3. The corrupt character (the most evil of them all, MUAHAHAA) - they live in the truth but believe a lie, and at the ''aha'' moment they fully understand the truth and the lie, they see everything clearly (or they think they do) but still decide to choose the lie - Anakin Skywalker - in this case the lie is actually evil.
PS: I write a trilogy and my main character lives trough these three stages of negative arc development and it is beautiful and heartbreaking - don't know why, but Abbie is the person who helped and inspired me the most even if she doesn't like to talk about negative arcs ;)
To Kathleen from the first question: you're doing really well!
I have a chronic illness, and a day job, and I completely understand what you mean about how hard it is. I've been working on my current novel (which will end up being 3 novels) for 15 years. 😂 If you're halfway through after 10 months, you're making great progress!
I’m on the second draft of my novel now! I can’t thank you enough for all the amazing advice and help you’ve given!!
About to finish my first book! Publishing September 15 thank you for all your help watched every single video you have
That's great! What is it about?
blahblah123 _drake it is a science fiction novel, the sun is dying and in order to procreate the next generation, 137 participants embark on an expedition to the red planet before the sun obliterates earth. They all leave for different reasons and atrocities that occur socially and politically on earth like immigration, and heartbreak, sexual assault and a mysterious disease caused by the spike in radiation
Also there is LGBTQIA+ representation it’s the first book of a trilogy entitled the aperture series
Fatishka When the Sun Died!
That's so great! I applaud you 👏🏼!
Oh my Gosh, the title made me think you’re married 😂
Sameee, I literally shouted to no one: "WHAAAA, Abbie's MARRIED???"
Same lol
I’m almost at the quarter of my second draft! I’m super excited about it because I finally really connected with the characters
I’m working on Act 1 of a fantasy-adventure-sci-fi novel involving other worlds. Thanks to your videos, my writing has been going smoothly, and has helped me so much. Thank you for ur helpful vids 🙏🏾
I’m writing about an orphan in 1700s southern England and it’s going good!!
Oo love a good historical fiction book
Haha also writing about an orphan in the late 1700s.
Keep going guys! I bet they are all going to be beautiful in different ways.
Don’t give up
i am a 13 year old and i am writing a fantasy and fiction story[i really dont know what is it called]
and it is on editing process, it contains about 7000 words and i will publish it and it will be my first book
I'm 15, young writer squad! 😂
Wow
What is it about?
I'm about to hit 20,000 words, and it feels so good. I know it might be outstanding but I've never wrote than many words before. So if anyone is struggling with not feeling like you're being outstanding with you writing, you are, you're are trying and putting in so much effort in and that is outstanding.
Btw, you dog is too cute.
I'm still in the outlining process of my fantasy book! Its theme is something along the lines of trust and family/friends
I’m still trying to figure out my main character and the main side character.(?) I do have ideas and some scenes in mind I have roughed our so I can clean them up later with my characters in them.
I plan on indie publishing the book I’m writing at the moment. I’ve been carrying it with me for four freaking years and after I found your channel, I followed your outlining plan step by step and I feel like it’ll be perfect this time so THANK YOU FOR INSPIRING ME SI MUCH!!
That is awesome!!!!
It means a lot that you replied ❤️
I’m currently working on my new novel that I started on May 3rd of this year! I have five chapters left to write, which will probably equate to around 15k words based on the average length of my chapters. Today I hit 90k words and I honestly can’t believe it. My last novel was around 50k, and I am so amazed that I got to this point. It’s a dystopian coming of age novel and I’ve enjoyed working on it so so much. Wishing everyone well on their own current WIPs!
Woohoo! Congrats on your progress!
@@AbbieEmmons great!!! Thanks so much I love your Channel and I was just looking at your Instagram photo . 🥰🥰🥰 Virtual hugs .
Abbie Emmons thank you so much! Your videos have been super helpful in the process!
I'm still trying to decide on what to write about. The story that I had planned before wasn't working. So I thought of a new idea and everything works for that idea. I'm just hesitant on going thru with it. It's a time travel fantasy about a world without rain and the protagonist has to find out why the rain disappeared. The idea wrote itself honestly😅.
That was a really good question about a negative character arc! Your approach to it probably could even be used in developing your villain’s backstory. Maybe they were conflicted at one point and then a series of events happened in order to make them fully believe and embrace their lie.
Can you also do a video on flat character arcs? I think they're super underrated but can be amazing if done right!
Yep!...Hello Indiana Jones!
Working on editing my WIP, a YA fantasy with a heavy character-driven story. So far so good!
Outlining my mystery book..... Gotta watch a video of how I'm not sure what else should be in the planning
I'm working on a novel about 5 girls who live in different countries and really want to be friends but can't!
It's a fantasy and it's going well😉
Actually, I'm not even working on an actual book rn... I'm using all your videos to write a fanfic I'm posting online XD... It's going great, though, I posted eleven chapters and I just finished writing the hook for all three protagonists
I'm a weird fourteen-year-old......
"They know this is important to you" and that's pretty important. If they DON'T recognize that it's important to you, you gotta sit down and have a long conversation with them and yourself about the relationship.
90,000 words, Science Fiction Romance, and it's going well. (surprisingly.)
Hey, Abbie. I recently discovered your channel and have literally been binging all your videos 🙈 I’m working on the final draft of my first ever novel, and it’s been pretty hard to stay focused and motivated, as I’ve been working on this book for so long. But, your channel has really given me that boost which will hopefully get me through this last bit. Thank you 😅🙏🏽
Working on a NA contemporary fantasy - five stages of grief meets a mish-mash of The Devouring Gray/The Raven Cycle/The Spiderwick Chronicles. Almost done with first draft
I would offer Kathleen different advice: as a wife and mom, I’m in the same boat! Guarantee, no one will abide by the instruction of a Do Not Disturb sign! You *must* physically get into a different location. It’s the only way it’s worked for me. Yes, many things are shut down which limits you, *but* you’re a creative...think creatively! Hop over to a friend’s house if they have a spare office or guest bedroom or outdoor space, some cafes/restaurants still have patios that are open (yes, even Starbucks!), find a park...heck, find a parking lot! You can do it! Hopefully your family will support and understand you 💚
Just finished my first draft on two companion books. l wrote both books at the same time..it took 3 years. 😬 Havin Nightmares 🤣🤣🤣
Good point!!! Don't rush the art process have fun 😁
I am on the final stretch of development edits of my first novel, finally 😁 I love your answers here, especially the first! It's so true that any progress is good progress!
I loved you book 100 days of sunlight
Does anyone know how old she is? :D
I just finished my adventure/murder mystery. Following the story of a crime lord's niece, she's trying to clear her name, and start a new life, while getting involved in providing information to a murder. Unfortunately that investigation is headed by the detective that ensured her uncle's death.
Question:
How do I write a book from a protagonist's perspective when my protagonist is new to earth?
(meaning: she only knows a few English words)
Thanks❤
Assuming you're writing it in English and mean to put her in an English-speaking country, you could make it seem like gibberish to her by using a different (or illegible, optionally) font. Treat the English she hears people speak like a different language.
Regardless of where she comes from, she most likely will know a method of communication, even if it's not technically a language. You can just imagine you are translating her thoughts and/or words into English.
That's what I'd personally do, but it depends on the kind of book you are writing and what you already have for the story. Good luck! Hope you find the most suitable way~
@@nyenko Thanks for the tip👌
I'll try it👍
I always love these videos, Abbie! Great questions and great responses.
PS: AH! What a cute pupper!!! The little marshmallow!!
Nobody should be worried, I've been working on my novel for over twelve years now...
I'm at 16 years and finally starting to be able to get writing an 18 book series I've planned. My brother is onto his 3rd book now in about 1 1/2 years after initially planning his series starting 25 years ago. I'd say your still doing well. Suffering from world builder's disease? I have a most serious case of it.
Hi Abbie! I've been working for a series action-love story on wattpad and I need ur help plss!!I'm in chapter 1 yet but I "Want my story matter".
Season 3 of Infinity Train did very well with Simon’s negative character arc, especially when juxtaposed with Grace’s positive one. They both started with the same misbelief but went in completely opposite directions. As you said, Simon “fully embraced the misbelief” in stark contrast to Grace, who overcame it.
I’m writing a thriller, horror book about kids with powers fighting an evil government. Your videos have been so useful and Empowering. Since I have been watching you videos I have felt more deeply motivated and encouraged to get my book done. I have learned so many things like the 3 act story structure, internal conflict and how to wright backstory. Which now I am including threw my story,. Thank you so much you are a literal angel!
I'm revising my manuscript! First time doing revisions and I'm kind of overwhelmed! I'm basically rewriting the whole thing because EVERYTHING SUCKS LOL
I'm wondering: How do I pick a time frame, i.e. historical period? My story can take place anywhere between the late 1930s - to current day, though cell phones and gps would be tough. I don't want my characters rescued too soon.
Current WIP is in outline mode, trying to follow along [this time]. Don't know about making a "monster" outline, though. At that point, I don't think I could keep myself from writing the novel itself, though it's encouraging to hear you say you also hear your characters during this phase.
I think my next step is researching. I'm thinking about duel POV in first person present tense, as I just finished reading a YA written that way, so I'm feeling the influence. -- My first novel (now on the back burner to simmer before revising and editing) is a YA fantasy fiction set in the Middle Ages -ish, not earth. It's in the 60k, but parts are missing, and as I was shooting for 80k+ I have room to add more world building: relationships and magic. Doesn't need a lot more, but some.
I'm currently writing the second outline for my book. It's actually been going fairly well even though I'm super slow😂 I also sat down and did a rough outline of all the books I'd planned for this series (I've always known it would be a series...but I never had a full plot, just a general message I wanted to convey across different scenarios). Anyways, I wrote the summary, and came out with a total of five books. It feels so incredibly good to have this sense of direction!
90k words? That's going into epic territory. You might have a series.
In regard to character descriptions, I tend to feel that less is more. You get too detailed on character appearance, when the tragic live adaptation comes out you get people whining that the actor doesn't fit every little aspect of no importance. "Emma Watson doesn't have buck teeth!" Does it matter? There was never a time in which Hermione saved the day with her incisors. I just adore the male authors who feel it's necessary, let alone acceptable, to describe a woman's breasts before describing her face. Lookin at Richard K. Morgan, ever read Altered Carbon? Oh my cheesecake.
I’m currently working on a pirate fantasy novel, and a murder/mystery set in Texas. I go back and forth between projects especially if I’m struggling with one. I take a break and go to the other. Or depending on how I feel, I pick one to work on. Both are going great! In my pirate fantasy novel, my plot up and twisted on me (typical; characters change on you) and I’m liking how it is going and how it’s completely changing the story!
I am writing about fictional queen 👸. My book is about self discovery and self 🥰. You motivate me a lot.
I think a good way to look at a negative character arc is to simply view your protagonist as the villain of the story. He or she doesn't start out has the villain but that's what they eventually turn into. I say this because most villains tend to be the opposite of the hero they are opposing. Some villains have had the same life as the hero but in more of a negative way. If you want your protagonist to be a good guy in the end then you could view him or her as an anti-hero instead or you could still view him or her as the villain but then they could have another "AHA" moment and they have more a positive outlook now. That's my take on it anyways.
I know you are probably NEVER going to find this, but how are you supposed to know if your book idea is good enough to actually write a book about it or not. I have had a ton of ideas for books but I never know if it’s good or not.
Try to get feedback from other people. People that you trust
Thanks!
10 months? And half way to a first draft? I WISH! I haven't been able to get that far in 16 years! I was able to get a beginning I was happy with until about 6 months ago. Good going!
Aliastar was going well but unfortunately my laptop is down for the count and lucky me I've saved all of my volumes from 1-3 but otherwise I'm safe and well rock on Abbie!
I'm working om my gothic vampire book and I've just finished the first draft! (Omg!!!)
I am writing a book, not my first attempt, btw. I really want to hold myself accountable, because I'm a shameless pantser. I'm going into high school and writing a YA novel about a Christian superhero story that shows the struggle of a young man trying to find purpose in a life made difficult because of the powers that were given to him, even though those powers were given to him for a purpose. It is a sci-fi, action, romance story with many different characters all struggling with individual struggles, some that I have found myself struggling with as well.
I've heard you mention other books/projects. Do you not try to publish all of your manuscripts? If you don't intend to publish them, what do you do with them?
I’m writing about a fantasy world with no magic where a group of humans just discovered that the near extinct leviathans are intelligent beings who may be the key to ending a world war. It’s going very slowly because it’s very complicated.
#AskAbbie
There’s a morally grey antagonist oc character I’ve made up in my head that I’ve become attached to, he starts off conflicted to negative arc but back to conflicted and eventually an almost redemption arc but he ends up working with the bad guys again, but realizes he doesn’t want a life of harm and isolation, he wants a peaceful life and gets a full positive arc.
Short answer: does a character with a negative arc always half to end with their tragically dying?
Also how do I have this character change and develop without completely changing their personality that changes them from interesting to boring?
I'm writing a supernatural dark drama that follows an aspiring photographer with deeply disturbing past that has left her traumatized. She must face and learn to overcome the evils of her past to face the monsters of the present.
This was originally another book that i scrapped after watching many of your videos, but this story together and finally sat down to write it 2 days ago and so far its 7k words in. I'd say it's going fairly well :) Keep up with the great advice!
I’m writing an urban fantasy novel set in 1868!🥳 Thanks for this video, Abbie!
Doing July Nano for 50k words of editing but only at roughly 25k ack but I did restart at one point (but that is in total). It’s a high fantasy with sci-fi elements and it centres around a secret society
😂 I live that. My husband definitely is the talker in our relationship.
I am working on a multi-novel supernatural detective series currently. I dont want to publish until all books are written so I don't have the jk rowling effect lol.
I just LOVE your videos!! And I especially loved the question regarding husbands interrupting writers. I just complete a very detailed chapter by chapter outline for a sweet contemporary romance. I'm really excited about it.
I am working on a partially self-indulgent dragon rider fantasy series. And am currently well into the world building phase.
Omg! My wife drives me nuts! Covid has made life miserable as she moved her office into the house and she treats me like her personal tech person and ... PA! She says she never interrupts me so I started to mark the # of times ..... well she is furious
i'm writing my first novel which i plan on publishing when it's over and edited! i have that story on my mind for like four/five years and tried to write it many times before but i was never happy with the outcome! this quarantine i started over and now i think it's going pretty good. I still have my moments of "shoot this is not going anywhere i should start over!!!!!" but i'm doing the best i can and i think that i'll be able to finish the first draft by the end of summer! hopefully!
I'm currently writing a story that is in the superhero genre BECAUSE I didn't like superheros and I wanted to see what this genre was all about; and now I'm falling in love with it. But I've also realised that's it going to be much longer than I first anticipated 😂😂 Nanowrimo has made me think that a first draft is only like up to 70k, and this is defs going to be a lottt longer.
I think a good example os negative character arc is Ramses from Prince of Egypt.
I just found your channel and I subscribed after watching only a few videos because your content is very helpful so thank you! I'm 15 and I'm just starting to flesh out the idea for a story that's about a bunch of pairs of twins, one pair from every continent, and they either have powers or magic or something along those lines. Because I'm younger and I love middlegrade books, I'm going aim for a style that suits that age group.
Also, loving the video 💜
That sounds really awesome!
@@victoriav.969 Thank you! I hope it'll turn out that way, lol
@@butiamjustaperson8823 Yeah, I'm sure it will!
I'm currently working on a project as well, but I keep on getting other story ideas therefore distracting myself from my main story 😅.
I'm working on telling myself not to procrastinate. Not going well, unfortunately, mainly because I'm lacking motivation
I'm currently writing a New Adult fantasy novel!🌌
You talked about the noise of a coffee shop making you feel like you were in one, and I straight up could smell fresh coffee. It was awesome lol.
Your videos always inspire me to write more ✨! I’m always looking forward to your uploads every Wednesday, they just help soooo much! Thank you so much Abbie for everything, you’re the reason that I keep on writing through the good and the bad :) I love watching your videos, you have such a bright and amazing personality and I’m excited to read your new book😉
Thank you so much!!
Your words mean so much to me
Working in my poems and short stories. 😁 Some edits to be fine but I like short stories because there are less characters and I don't need to think about a large plot ect
I'm writning a fantasy book about a child who would love to see the world but her parents doesn't let her couse they need her to help them get money as they're poor.
To the 3 people who gave this vid a thumbs down...how dare you. Abbie is a queen.
I’m also a coffee shop writer, in quarantine I make a cup of coffee , pull up a chair and desk , and I just put my earphone in and pretend I’m in a coffee shop
For negative character arcs, I call the aha moment the "God dammit moment"
Your Facebook link is broken. It doesn't lead anything.
My WIP is a YA/Fantasy.. my YA not sure🤔
My first draft ever is currently about 97000 words, it's about at 4/5. I consider it as incomplete, beacuse there are missing chapters and of course, my writing skill has changed between 1st chapter and 36th (I guess it's 36th).
I'll have to rewrite it.
Dawid Wojacki : But when you start editing - you should find you will lose about 15,000 words 9 (at least)
Hi Abbie, I jussst found your channel and I'm so happy I came across it. :)
Can't wait to watch all of your videos and read your book. Do you have any videos on how to get your book published? Like a step by step guide?
Have a wonderful day!
Hihi, scrolled through your channel and found your video on how to self publish a novel! And by the way, I really like your vibe and personality. :)
I am writing the middle part of my book. Significantly found improvement since I subscribed to your channel. I am writing a fantasy.
Wonderful! Keep it up!!
when i wrote my first draft it took 3 days. But its a short story
Hey
Hi, Abbie! I'm new to your channel but I just wanted to let you know how my writing project is going.
So I just started writing FanFic for one of my FAVORITE book series... The School for Good and Evil! And it's going okay-ish. And I don't really know where I'm headed! lol
Currently trekking up the mountain of research that my second work-in-progress The American Icarus is requiring. It’s taking FOREVER as it’s a historical fiction. My first (Ink of Destruction) is currently with the last round of beta readers so I’m really happy about that.
Hi Abbie!!!!!!
(ILL ALSO APPRECIATE OTHER ANSWERS...)
I'm Geetalii and I'm eleven.Im working on my own trilogy and its name is a wip,but currently calling it Storm.Storm is the name of my main character.Does this sound good?
The name of the first book is also a wip,but I'm going for the beggining/a dark beginning
Sounds nice?
I love,love ,love ur videos and use all your templates.Im waiting for the next video of the 3 act story structure series.In the middle of outlining my first act and u help a lot!!!!!
Also,another q,is it compulsory to use enegrams?
And is it a good idea to make an account on nanowrimo?
I hope u read this,thanxxx
My book progress has come to a grinding halt and its frustrating because I'm stuck. 😣 I just can't seem to nail the plot points for the second half and no matter how hard I try it's not coming to me. Gah! X
You've got this! Keep going...I'm cheering you on over here
Thank you Abbie, your a total inspiration to us beginner writers. Since I have recently began writing i have been viewing your videos and they are simply amazing. I'm going back a year and viewing all your videos in sequence in the hope of not missing out anything. If I ever publish even a short story in the future it will be silently dedicated to you as I have picked up a lot of tips from your videos. Thank you so much.
P.S. - can't wait to get my hands on '100 days of Sunlight'
Great video! Cute dog! I used to write a lot - got sidetracked by life - and have decided to complete and publish a book at last. The process this time has been really strange as the book/characters keep taking over and sending things in new directions. So far, it's working. Right now I'm in a slight quandry as, with half the book completed, the protagonist's (charming but often annoying) sidekick/love interest has decided he'd like a Dual Protagonist role. I like the idea - and have been told it's a good direction - but am having trouble changing the emphasis. He needs interesting scenes - but I don't want to take the "good stuff" away from my first protag. Also, developing his story line requires a lot more research. For now, I'm going along with the Dual plan but not 100% convinced yet.
I'm writing a contemporary adventure Middle Grade about pirates I'm calling "Malamander meets The Goonies" (yes! I'm so bad at naming my stories I've given up and am using the comp title as a working title)!
And it's going great... which is a first. I usually freak out somewhere in the middle. But not this time!
I really appreciate the advice about the do not disturb sign! I’m usually home alone now but when people are home I get interrupted quite a bit, and I’ll get annoyed but usually just go with it. It’s important for us to respect our writing time, which includes asking our family and housemates to do the same!
I'm working on finishing the first draft, for the 1st of a 4 book Fantasy Romance series. I'm about 1/3rd of the way through chapter 21/28, and I'm on about 90,000 words.
I'm working on the character arcs for a fantasy plot I am going to write. I'm absolutely in love with it and character development is one of the most fun and exciting things ever, especially for the characters of this one.
I’ve never been this early-
Flyingfishro K same! I’m so glad
That's my story
Hey Abbie. No clue if you will ever see this but...
My name is Jadyn. I’m 13, and I love to write. At the beginning of summer I had a book idea. It’s dystopian/romance. I really like the idea, but here lately I’ve been finding it hard to feel inspired to write. I feel like I’m not writing it in a way that is interesting to other people. I’m also writing it on a chrome book, so software updates are limited.
Yet every time I watch your videos, I WANT to write. You help me feel better about my writing, and I can’t even begin to explain how much you have helped me. You have even inspired my mom to write. Thank you for all your support and help. Because of you, I have seriously considered being a writer in my future. You have changed my world in so many ways that you will never understand. I love you, I love your book, and I will always support you just as you have supported me.
Jadyn, your kind words mean so much to me. I am so thrilled that my videos have helped to encourage you to write and chase your dreams! Keep going...no matter what! Write that story.
Abbie Emmons thank you, I will!
I'm writing about two brothers who get stuck in another world, the outline is going pretty smooth, thanks to your great videos😍
I'm writing about a shy teenager trying to figure out who she is and struggling with people putting her inside a box
When I saw notification: wait.. whatttt!
Then: ok😌😌😌
Tip for Sarah: Listen to "Aaron Burr, Sir" from Hamilton
I love your videos❤️❤️They help a lot❤️❤️