MRU are motivation reaction units, the building blocks of story. Something happens which triggers a reaction in your character. A story is a domino of these MRUs. Understanding what they are and how to harness them will help you effectively add subtext, emotional resonance, and meaning to your story.
Alice is a Canadian fantasy writer based in the UK. She’s fascinated by the spaces where identity and belonging intersect and explores these in her writing. A recovering lawyer and xiaolongbao enthusiast, she knits to soothe anxiety and has a deep abiding love for Hobonichi planners and kawaii planner stickers.
She lives in London with her historical geo-enthusiast hubby, chatterbox daughter, and sweet rescue pup. She’s grateful for the support of the Canada Council for the Arts. Her debut novel SHANGHAI IMMORTAL is out 1 June 2023 from Hodderscape. Find her online at aychao.com and on Twitter and Instagram at @ay_chao.