Crafting "By the Lines": A Journey from Reality to Fiction

An update on my novel writing journey

Nov 18, 2023

Welcome to another edition of my blog that chronicles my progress and activities in the world of literature. Many of you will know by now that I have taken on a major challenge and decided to try my hand at writing a full-length novel. I am still working hard on it and today thought I’d share some of the considerations that have gone into the work so far.

Inception of the Idea

The spark of inspiration for "By the Lines" ignited during a conversation with friends whose daughter had achieved remarkable success in showjumping at an early age. The idea of transforming this real-life tale into a novel captivated me, and I eagerly dived into the challenge. However, as I delved deeper into the family's experiences, I encountered personal events that deserved privacy. After a thoughtful discussion with the family, we collectively decided to transition from a true story to a work of fiction. This shift not only protected their privacy but also opened the door to explore new narrative directions. It was a liberating decision, allowing the story to evolve in unexpected and exciting ways.

Protecting Personal Information

Respecting the family's privacy became a cornerstone in the development of "By the Lines." Knowing the individuals personally, I wanted them to feel proud of their contribution to the story while maintaining their right to privacy. This decision wasn't just about safeguarding personal details but also about creating a narrative that resonates within the genre. Drawing inspiration from similar successful books, I realized that personal stories, while deeply meaningful to those involved, might not always capture the broader audience's attention. Striking this balance was essential to ensure the novel's future success and align it with the expectations of readers in the genre.

Weaving Plot Twists

The novel's plot twists are like hidden gems, waiting to be discovered as the story unfolds. While I won't reveal them now to avoid spoilers, the beauty lies in their potential to captivate readers. The shift to fiction has given me the creative freedom to introduce twists that weren't part of the original narrative. These unexpected turns add layers of intrigue and excitement, transforming a compelling true story into a riveting work of fiction. As the novel matures, readers can look forward to surprises that will keep them on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning each page.

Protagonist's Character Traits

In crafting the protagonist, based on the young show-jumping prodigy, I made intentional deviations to enhance the fictional narrative. While the real-life inspiration may not possess certain traits, the fictional character's heightened sensitivity becomes a catalyst for extreme reactions, adding depth and complexity to the story. Balancing authenticity with creative liberties, I aimed to create a protagonist who not only reflects elements of the real individual but also serves as a dynamic and engaging focal point for readers.

Setting and Atmosphere

The novel's settings, rooted in the local charm of Berkshire and the grandeur of equestrian competition venues like Olympia and Hickstead, play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative tone. While it's too early to pinpoint specific scenes, these locations promise to infuse the story with a unique atmosphere. The tension in the prologue, heightened by the sheer scale of the venue, sets the stage for a story that seamlessly blends the everyday with the extraordinary. As the narrative unfolds, readers can anticipate a visual and emotional journey through meticulously crafted settings that enhance the overall reading experience, or at least I hope so.

Challenges in Non-linear Storytelling

Navigating a non-linear narrative poses its challenges, but the writing journey has been significantly eased using Scrivener. This powerful tool allows me to seamlessly jump between different parts of the story, ensuring that every hook finds its proper place. The corkboard mode provides a bird's-eye view, aiding in maintaining the coherence of the intricate narrative. Scrivener has become an indispensable companion, helping me manage the complexity of the plot and ensuring that the story unfolds seamlessly, hook after hook.

Triumphs in Writing

One triumph that stands out for me so far in the writing process is the mastery of engaging dialogue. The realization that books don't mirror real-life conversations was a turning point (it took a lot of YouTube videos to learn this!). Learning to convey authentic, readable dialogue while capturing the essence of communication has been pivotal for effective storytelling. Every stretch of smooth storytelling and flowing dialogue is celebrated as a triumph, reinforcing the notion that writing, though challenging, is a rewarding and evolving craft.

Favourite Scene Dynamics

Among the many scenes taking shape in "By the Lines," one that holds a special place is the confrontation at the school, which happens quite early on in the story. The challenge was to create a scene charged with tension, where an angry and irrational father is confronted by a powerful figure. The dynamics of control and lack of control conflicting with each other were carefully woven into the dialogue, creating a moment that not only absorbed me as the writer but promises to captivate readers. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, where the writer becomes an active observer in the world they've created.

Have Your Say

As I embark on this exhilarating journey of crafting "By the Lines," I invite you to join me in this adventure. Share your thoughts on the blog, letting me know what aspects of the creative process intrigue you the most. Have you ever found yourself captivated by a novel that seamlessly blends reality with fiction? Your insights are invaluable, and I look forward to building a community of readers who appreciate the art of storytelling. Stay tuned for more updates, surprises, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of "By the Lines."