How to write a book from NOT the main character's POV and then organically switch the main character
How can you write a book from the point of view of a character who is not the main character and introduce the main character later on, who you want the story to focus on? How do I do this in an organic and yet plot twisty way so that the audience says wait he's the main character?!
If you need any more explanation let me know.
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Select a secondary character who has a strong voice and a unique viewpoint on the world. This character should have their own goals, conflicts, and motivations that drive the narrative forward.
Ensure the narrator has a relevant connection to the main character. This could be a friend, sibling, coworker, or even an adversary. Their perspective should provide insights into the main character's life without overshadowing their story.
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I have two suggestions:
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Classical approach by chapter: First chapter is an exhibition or prelude from the villain's POV. Where the MC maybe has a role in it, so the reader is introduced to him. Some thing about him should be identifiable.
The next chapter then jumps to the MC. And here you can use the identifying thing to establish that the reader is now in a different role.
But keep in mind: You can "surprise" the reader surely, but if you downright "lie" in their face over large parts of the story and then midway of the book switch characters, this might lead to frustration. The reader invested time and kept reading because he thought this char was interesting. It should be stringent who plays the main role from some point on.
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Unconventional approach: Use two colors. With this you can even have inner monologue or direct dialog between them in one passage.
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The "main character" is a side character narrating events from their perspective. Gradually reveal the main character's importance through his actions, conflicts, or pivotal events. A sudden twist, like a hidden strength, secret, or heroic act, can change the spotlight. The audience realizes the story was always about them, refocusing the narrative organically.
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