Dear Jennifer…
Stop approaching this numerically. Instead of pitching a “manuscript with two points of view,” pitch a story with conflicting points of view. What’s the nature of that conflict? What is one guy not saying/admitting/dealing with that the other guy must handle or shed light upon? How are those characters at odds? How does each push the story forward— and push each other to grow? That’s what makes your story unique and juicy. In your pitch, state the (1) main characters, (2) overall conflict of the story, and (3) way in which the individual journeys conflict with each other for fab overall tension, plotting, and emotional impact. Same with the trilogy fact: Plug the overall themes and arc of the trilogy, then state how Book 1 accomplishes a key task in that arc.
Happy writing!
The Editor
LOVE this advice. I copied it into my notes for the multiple viewpoint YA I’m tackling.
A good reminder not to get caught up in the fine details, but to present the emotion, the tension, and the fear–that which will IMPACT the reader.
Good tip.
Such a great reminder!
Good ideas as I have a dual POV story. Conflict or intrigue can also be set and pitched when one of the characters has a crucial piece of information that the other is seeking.
This is great advice, Deborah. Queries are always a nightmare. You make it sound so easy lol Why didn’t I just do this with mine? 😀
Great reminder that query letters and pitches are not about the story, they are the story. We need to focus on the good stuff within and not the writing mechanics that got us there.
I’m working on a 3-POV story and this advice will certainly come in handy. Thanks! 😀
I too have a story that needs this advice… Great post!
So glad this advice is proving timely for so many! Thanks for asking this question, Jennifer. Clearly a subject that’s on a lot of minds.
Brilliant take! I’d never thought about that. It makes sense. A writer needs to use everything and turn it into a conflict.
I just decided yesterday to make my WIP multi-POV. I wrote the first scene today. You have no idea how timely this post is. Thank you!
I must admit. This advice is perfect for me. I’ve been looking to revamp my query letter. Thank you!!
Glad to hear this hits the spot, Sheri. Good luck with your query and submission!