Pits

How many "pitfalls" are acceptable in a novel?

Good question, friend. Good question.

It's the Pits. 

First off, let's define it.

A pitfall, as defined by our questioner, is an error. It's a flaw in the story, sometimes referred to as a plot hole. It's when the writer "screwed up" and forgot to answer a question, or when a fundamental error is made in the story.

And at least 85% of the books I've ever read have these pitfalls hiding in their narrative.

1. A single pitfall... 

Isn't a bad thing. Generally, I like to leave at least one pitfall in my story. Having a pitfall can help you to create a sequel, to keep the story going even longer (and I so enjoy my series'). So don't freak out if you publish your book and you find a pitfall hiding in there. Find a way to use the slip up to your advantage, and to make a positive spin on it.

2. Twice the errors... 

Two pitfalls, unfortunately, usually end up being a big thing. Two pitfalls generally means that there's a gaping hole in the story, something so huge that can't be resolved even in a sequel -- and we want to avoid that happening.

So while one pitfall can be used to your advantage, if you have two of them you'll be treading dangerous water.

3. Triple threat... 

I'm going to say this as nicely as I can, but it's not a very nice thing to say.

If you have three pitfalls in your story, you should either rewrite the story or forget this story ever existed. Or if you can't bear to do either one, send it to a professional editor. Don't send it to your friend, don't send it to your neighbor, send it to an editor. They'll be able to give you the professional advice you need in order to mend your novel and remove the gaps.


I hope this helps, and that you'll now have a better idea of why some holes are okay and others aren't.

[love]

{Rani D.}