The Girl on the Train is an excellent example of how a story can be structured using the hook, first plot point, first pinch point, midpoint, second pinch point, second plot point, and final resolution as described by Larry Brooks. The strong opening, well-crafted plot, and effective use of tension and suspense all contribute to the novel’s success, and the clear structure provides a framework for the compelling narrative. It is also a great example of how a novel might be outlined using more than one of the many established story structures such as those presented here.

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The final resolution of a novel is the point where the main conflict is resolved, and the story draws to what may feel like an inevitable conclusion – or not – depending on the author’s intent. It’s the moment when the protagonist achieves their goal or fails to achieve it, and the loose ends of the story are tied up. The final resolution can take many forms depending on the type of story and the author’s intent. It may involve a dramatic showdown between the protagonist and the antagonist, a moment of self-discovery or realization, or a quiet moment of reflection and acceptance.

The second plot point in a novel is a critical plot point that occurs toward the end of the story, usually around 90% or more into the book. It is the final major turning point before the climax and resolution of the story. There may be a final injection of new information that will once again change the game. A final piece of the puzzle may fall into place, and the protagonist may come to a conclusion as to what must happen. The protagonist will risk everything in this last attempt to win. The protagonist can no longer remain passive or wait for someone else to come to the rescue.

In Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere , the second pinch point occurs when Mia Warren, one of the novel’s main characters, is revealed to have a secret past that threatens her relationship with her daughter Pearl and puts her in danger of losing custody. This is a moment of increased tension, as Mia’s past catches up with her and she must fight to protect her daughter and her own autonomy.

The first pinch point usually comes after the protagonist has made some progress in their journey, but before they have fully committed to the final push toward their goal. It serves as a reminder of the obstacles and challenges that still stand in the way of the protagonist and helps to increase the sense of urgency and tension in the story.

For example, in Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl, the first pinch point occurs when Nick Dunne, the protagonist, is arrested for the murder of his wife, Amy.

In George Orwell’s 1984, the first plot point occurs when Winston Smith begins his forbidden affair with Julia. Up until this point, Winston has been a loyal Party member who follows the rules and accepts the Party’s propaganda without question. But his growing feelings for Julia, and his desire to rebel against the Party’s oppressive regime, mark a major turning point in the story. Winston’s decision to start a secret relationship with Julia sets in motion a chain of events that will lead him to question everything he once believed in and will ultimately put his life in danger.

In novel writing, a “hook” refers to a technique used by writers to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into the story from the very beginning. A hook is usually found at the opening of a book and serves to create intrigue or suspense that makes the reader want to continue reading. Hooks can take many forms, but they are often a type of statement or situation that creates an emotional response in the reader, such as curiosity, shock, or empathy. Some common types of hooks include starting the story with a dramatic event, a powerful image, a memorable quote, or an unusual setting.

Brooks is a writing coach, author, and speaker known for his expertise in the craft of storytelling. He is the author of several books on writing, including Story Engineering: Mastering the 6 Core Competencies of Successful Writing, Story Physics: Harnessing the Underlying Forces of Storytelling, and Great Stories Don't Write Themselves: Criteria-Driven Strategies for More Effective Fiction. Brooks is also the founder of Storyfix.com, a website dedicated to helping writers develop their storytelling skills. Brooks' approach to writing emphasizes the importance of structure, character development, and genre expectations. He believes that successful stories must meet certain criteria, and that writers who understand these criteria can create stories that are more engaging, satisfying, and marketable.

According to Brooks, the story structure is the backbone of your story.

American Gods follows the “Creation Myth” structure by exploring the concept of gods and myths and how they are created and sustained through human belief and worship. The novel presents a complex and multifaceted world of gods and creatures, with their own histories and mythologies and explores the challenges and opportunities of adapting to a changing world. The epic conflict between the old and new gods provides a sense of high stakes and drama, while the transformative journey of the protagonist adds emotional depth and resonance to the story.

The Girl on the Train follows the “Which Way Is Up?” story structure by presenting the protagonist with a confusing and disorienting situation, forcing her to question her own memories and perceptions. The plot twists and turns keep the reader engaged and unsure of what will happen next, creating a sense of tension and suspense throughout the novel.

Gone Girl follows the “From Bad to Worse” structure by presenting the protagonist with a challenging situation that goes from bad to worse, forcing him to struggle and confront his own limitations and flaws. The plot twists and turns keep the reader engaged and unsure of what will happen next, creating a sense of tension and suspense throughout the novel.

The 1996 movie Independence Day starring Will Smith is arguably one of the best holiday films ever produced. This movie follows a classic three-act story structure with a clear setup, escalating conflict, and a satisfying resolution. What is your favorite holiday movie? Favorite Will Smith movie?

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green follows the “Boy Meets Girl” structure by presenting the two protagonists who meet, fall in love, and face obstacles that threaten to keep them apart. Their journey together teaches them important life lessons and leads to a transformative experience for both of them.

One example of a contemporary novel that uses the "Man in a Hole" story structure is The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins :

Act 1: Set-Up

• The novel introduces the protagonist Rachel, a divorced alcoholic who is struggling to cope with her life.

• Rachel takes the same train every day and becomes obsessed with watching a couple she sees from the train window, imagining their perfect life.

• When Rachel sees something shocking on one of her train rides, she becomes entangled in a mystery involving the couple she has been watching.

Act 2: Confrontation…

Children of Blood and Bone exemplifies the Hero's Journey structure through Zélie's transformation from a young girl with suppressed power to a fierce warrior and leader. The novel follows her journey of self-discovery, facing trials, gathering allies, and ultimately fighting for justice and freedom for her people.

This in media res outline captures the non-linear structure of Station Eleven, starting in the post-apocalyptic world and then weaving together the past and present lives of the characters. It highlights the interconnectedness of their experiences and explores themes of survival, art, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of catastrophe.

This Save the Cat outline captures the core elements and structure of Red Clocks, highlighting the characters’ struggles against oppressive reproductive laws and their journey to find agency and freedom. It emphasizes the central themes of choice, resilience, and the power of community while providing a satisfying narrative arc.

This Fichtean curve outline captures the progression of suspense and horror in The Shining. It follows the rising tension as the characters are subjected to the hotel's malevolent influence, leading to a climactic showdown and a resolution that offers a sense of closure and escape from the horrors they have faced.

This five-act outline follows the general structure of Queenie's story, highlighting her challenges, conflicts, and personal growth throughout the novel. It allows for the progression of the narrative and the resolution of the character's internal and external struggles.

The following is an outline of A Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum using the three-act story structure:

ACT I:

1. Introduction - The story begins with the introduction of the protagonist, Isra, a young Palestinian woman living in Palestine. She dreams of marrying for love but is instead married off to a Palestinian man named Adam, who lives in Brooklyn, New York.