Dual plots can be a challenge to write as they can intertwine and oppose each other like sparring stallions. Which plot will win and provide the ending? Or can they both win? The ending point can be the most challenging part of your research. Finding the point where both plots intersect at the end and resolve the conflict to end the story in a rich and meaningful way that leaves the reader satisfied that it was worth the money they spent on your novel. It is important to choose the model that fits your story and makes the best use of your research.
There are several basic models from which you can choose to write a dual plot novel:
Model 1:
Plot A: Present time (specific place and persons)
Plot B: Past time (specific place and persons, ancestors of Plot A persons?)
Ending: Crossing paths with family history, an item, historical event, secret family recipe for dumplings. You get the idea; it can be anything that brings the two plots together and makes sense in the setting of both plots. Example: The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
Model 2:
Plot A: Past time (specific location and people)
Plot B: Past time (different location and people)
Ending: Family members and an outside element, both sides of a historic event ends by crossing paths of both plots to tie up the end. Example: The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah.
Model 3:
Plot A: Future time (specific time and location)
Plot B: Past time (specific time and location)
Ending: A cross of Sci Fi and Historical Fiction where a future event is based on an event in the past and helps resolve the issue in the future. This model is rarely used because it is so difficult to make it work. However, if used correctly it can be excellent. Example: Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home where they return to the present to repopulate whales in the future to respond to an alien probe. This film also made an early environmental statement about the possible consequences of allowing a species to go extinct. They were ahead of their time on this concept.
Discussion: Please add examples you like and why they work. Also, add examples that don’t work and how you would fix them. This can help you understand how the concept relates to the other pieces of the larger puzzle of your novel. I look forward to reading your responses.