Unwrap the Secrets to Writing a Festive, Holiday Novel
We're sharing our complete guide on how to write a book in a fictional genre that continues to grow in popularity.
The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with excitement, love, and cheer. So, it’s no surprise that many writers choose to write stories that are set during this festive time. A holiday-themed novel can capture the spirit of the season and transport readers to a world of wonder and joy.
But how do you write a festive holiday-themed novel that resonates with readers? Today, we’re exploring why you should write a holiday-themed novel, how to develop your setting, characters, and plot, and what makes a good holiday novel.
Why Write a Holiday-Themed Novel?
The holiday season is a time of year that is steeped in tradition and nostalgia. Families and friends gather together, exchange gifts, and communities come together to celebrate. By writing a holiday-themed novel, you tap into that sense of connection. Your readers will be able to relate to the characters and the setting, and they'll be transported to a world that is familiar, yet magical.
Additionally, a holiday-themed novel can be a great way to write about themes of love, family, and forgiveness. The holidays are a time when people often reflect on their lives and relationships, and a well-crafted story can explore these emotions and resonate with readers.
Developing Your Setting for a Holiday Novel
When it comes to setting, a holiday-themed novel offers a wealth of possibilities. You could set your story in a small town that goes all out for the holidays (think Hallmark Channel), a bustling city that is transformed by the season, or a cozy cabin in the woods. The key is to create a setting that feels authentic and immersive to you and your future readers.
To develop your setting, start by doing research. Look at photos of holiday decorations, read about holiday traditions, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the season. Think about how you can incorporate those elements into your story. For example, if you're writing a story set in a small town, you might include scenes of the local Christmas parade or the town’s Christmas tree lighting.
How to Develop Characters for a Holiday Novel?
The characters in your holiday novel should be relatable and authentic. Think about the people in your life and the emotions they experience during the holidays. Use these insights to create characters that feel real and multi-dimensional.
When developing your characters, consider their relationships with one another. The holidays are often a time when families come together, and this can create tension and conflict. Use this to your advantage by creating characters who have complex relationships and histories with one another.
How Long Should a Holiday Novel Be?
The length of your holiday novel will depend on your story and your goals as a writer. Novels typically range from 70,000 to 100,000 words.
What Makes a Good Holiday Novel?
A good holiday novel should capture the spirit of the season while also telling a compelling story. It should be heartwarming and uplifting, but also authentic and emotionally resonant. Your characters should come across as real and relatable, and your setting should be immersive.
Additionally, a good holiday novel should offer something unique. There are many holiday-themed novels out there, so it's important to find a fresh angle or a unique twist to make your story stand out from the others. This could be a new take on a classic holiday tale, a fresh setting or characters, or a unique plot twist.
Final Thoughts
Writing a holiday-themed novel can be a wonderful way to capture the magic and wonder of the season. By developing your setting, characters, and plot, you can create a story that resonates with readers and transports them to a world of joy and warmth. So why not give it a try? Who knows, you might just create a holiday classic that readers will cherish for years to come.
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