Relationship Graph
See how characters, factions, events, and foreshadowing connect at a glance. NovelThread offers an interactive relationship graph with a dozen-plus relation types and layer-by-layer expansion to untangle a sprawling cast.
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Steps
- In the Asset Library, switch to the "Relations" tab, or open the "Asset Relationship Graph" from any card to lay out its web centered on that asset.
- Create relations between assets — Knows, Family, Enemy, Ally, Belongs to, Owns, Located in, Appears in, Caused by, Foreshadows, Custom — and NovelThread suggests fitting labels based on the two endpoint types.
- Adjust the expansion depth (1–5 layers), from "single-layer focus" out to a larger network.
- Scroll to zoom and drag to pan; click a node for details, and double-click a node to "Re-center" the graph on it.
- The expanded "Network Explorer" view adds a minimap, a type legend, and a node-detail rail to help you find your way in a big graph.
To keep track of motivations and changing relationships, explore character profiles and relationships and record the changes you have confirmed.
A worked example
A character sheet records who Mara is and what she wants. A story bible also records locations, objects and world rules. A relationship records a connection: Mara owes the lighthouse keeper a favor, but suspects him of hiding the letter. After Chapter 3, update the connection to uneasy cooperation and link the change to the chapter.
Download the writing worksheet (Markdown)Review the result
A graph shows the relationships you record. It does not automatically establish every connection in the manuscript. Update motives and links after plot changes, and verify any AI suggestion against the chapter.
Read the complete writing guide