Setting: Deal-Maker or Deal-Breaker?

When selecting a book to read or buy, like most folks, my eyes automatically scan the cover for telltale clues as to what the book’s about.

Many times, if the cover art is intriguing, it’ll cause me to give the book a second glance and I’ll at least peruse the book a little longer. I’ll probably read the back cover copy and get a feel for the story, the setting, and the characters.

The deciding factor in reading or purchasing the book (for me) will ultimately be the story.

If the plot doesn’t appeal, the setting won’t matter. In my opinion, the plot is the “glue” and the setting is the “glitter.”

However, I have to be honest. I’ll be less likely to crack open the book in the first place if the setting is too far-fetched, off-the-wall, or simply unappealing. For instance, stories set in prisons, deserts, or morgues probably aren’t going to capture my interest. (Although…one of my favorite Bible heroes did spend a lot of time in prison, and to this day, his story remains one of my all time favorites.)

When I’ve talked about settings before, you may remember me mentioning that I’m very fascinated by architecture. I appreciate interesting lines, fascinating angles, and attention to detail. I prefer the old rather than new. I’m partial to native stone, winding staircases, and big rooms with tall ceilings. And I especially like homes and buildings rich in history and steeped in charm.

Places of yesteryear hold a certain nostalgia for me.

When I step through the doors of a time-worn structure, I can close my eyes and almost be whisked away to how life must have been there.  I like seeing how others have lived and getting a sense of what was important to them. I suppose that’s why I pay special attention to the settings I create for the characters in my novels. As I read and write, I try to immerse myself within the story walking in the characters’ shoes, or at the very least, ambling up beside them.

In the fictional, faith-based romance series I’m creating, the geographical setting is one that I’m familiar with and one that holds sweet memories for this born-and-bred Ozarkian gal.

The vibrant foothills of the Missouri Ozarks is the colorful backdrop for where my characters live. The types of homes they live in play an integral role to each story. Some of their abodes are just like they are: simple and down-to-earth and as comfy as a favorite quilt fresh out of the cedar chest. Other characters’ dwellings might be a little more mysterious with secrets begging to be told, and perhaps, a few puzzles needing solved. Then there are the stately mansions, appealing to the eye, but their bones may be tired and in need of a realignment–somewhat like their new owners.

Though the setting of a novel can’t take the place of a great story, it can enhance it and paint a visual to create a more exciting ride.

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In fiction, what are your favorite types of settings?

What appeals to you the most as a reader? As a writer?

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Reminder:

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Blessings Always,