The protagonist figures out what to do about it.Why? Well, the basic plot of a ghost story goes something like this: Ghost stories have a certain inexorable quality that can be particularly helpful for a first-time novel writer. Unsure what to write next? Not sure where the plot of your novel is headed? Tormented by writerly self-doubt? Please allow me to make a suggestion that might change your whole life: Try writing a ghost story.Īs I found out for myself while writing my first novel, which also happens to be a ghost story, obeying the old “every page must advance the plot” adage becomes much easier when there’s a ghost or other spooky presence pushing things along-or chasing someone around. Why Every First Novel Should Be a Ghost Story We’re thrilled she’s with us today to talk about how the clear-cut steps for writing a ghost story can apply to other works as well.Ĭonnect with Siobhan on her Website, Facebook, and Twitter.

Set in Texas, in present day, and at the turn of the twentieth century, the novel is a riveting emotional tale that also explores work and feminism. Her debut novel, The Barter, is a ghost story and a love story about two deeply conflicted mothers-separated by 100 years-and the impossible barter that ultimately binds them. She has worked as a writer and editor for Epicurious,, , and The Knot among other digital publishers. Today’s guest is author Siobhan Adcock. She received her MFA in fiction from Cornell University, and her short fiction has appeared in several literary magazines.

Ghost story by peter straub summary