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I’m currently working on a novel idea that I want to take through NaNoWriMo. I’m already brainstorming and sort of outlining, and hope to finish the first draft by end of December (goal: 60k words). This is not my first novel premise ever, but it is one that I am taking the most seriously and actually hope to bring to completion (rather than giving up after five chapters).

This WIP is about a young noblewoman who has received a ‘fortune’, which is her dowry and key to a successful marriage. A misunderstanding puts her into a secret society which focuses on serving the poor and giving, but she strikes a deal with them so that she can retain her fortune. Ultimately my hope for the story is not just to make a case for charity but for genuine friendship, selflessness, and sacrifice.

The story is set in a fantasy world that is based off Ancient China, and was inspired by a Chinese classic I sort-of read last year. There is no magic present, however, but instead a strong system of mythology and religion, of which a minor sect is based off of Christianity, although imperfectly. My protagonist is going to be learning from people related to this branch of religion, in which I hope to portray the heart of Christianity (obedience because of the love of a higher being) in a fresh perspective. There is no Son of God who died for the sins of the world, though, and I hope to reference this inconsistency in one of the conversations between the MC — who never consciously converts — and a side character.

I hope that whole spiel of religion makes sense, and if any of you feel that this track for my novel is either morally wrong or anti-biblical, please let me know!

I like this story because it’s based off a culture that is part of my heritage, because I can relate to my MC, and because I hope to speak to people through the thematic conclusions and exploring the religious side of things. Also, because secret societies are cool 🙂