I'm working on my first novel and have only just realised that i have two sub-plots going on. The main story is about the MC workplace, but also she has a budding romance and her mothers illness going on in the background.

Do you think this is too much?

I do read a fair bit myself and am wracking my brains to think of how many sub plots i have come across before. The only thing is, talented novelists have a knack of not making you realise you are reading a sub plot, damn them , so my mind is blank!

Thanks in advance of any advice/opinions.

Andi, I'd say that was fine, specially since they're obviously well-woven into each other. In fact, if they're all centred on your main character, I'd almost not count them as subplots at all, depending.

Emma

Thanks for your speedy reply Emma, you are probably right about them not being sub plots at all, I think i just panicked when i was writing a few notes on the story and realised how many arrows were coming from my MC name!

By the way - I just wanted to say congratulations on your book, i know we havent 'spoken' much (I dont post often, but read regularly) but I feel really proud of 'knowing' you! Daft i know but there you go.

Andie.

Andie,

if you go back to page 3 of this technique forum, there's s whole thread on subplots and how important they are.

Casey

Thanks Casey - will have a look now,
Andie

Andi, thank you! BTW, I remember that sub-plot thread, it was a good one.

Emma