What do we expect from a title?

by ELSIE BYRON
21st November 2017

Hi all. To begin with I'm absolutely rubbish at thinking of titles. But recently I started another story and almost immediately gave it it's title, 'Sex 'n' Drugs & Northern Souls', It's all of the above but only when the story demands it. I do wonder though. With this title would a reader expect it to be almost pornographic with lots of back street dealing? It is the story of ordinary people with these things going on in their own lives and actually begins with drug dealers making threats. Should I use this title or find another less provocative? Thank you.

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Souls, not Soul

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Annie
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Annie Faux-Pas
23/11/2017

I really like the title 'Sex 'n' Drugs & Northern Souls'. It's catchy and sounds like it would work with what you've told us so far. Or 'Sex 'n' Drugs 'n' Northern Souls', or maybe 'Sex, Drugs 'n' Northern Soul.' It's intriguing.

I picked up 'From Rusholme with Love' because of the title - I'm not a bond fan, just liked the way it flowed. It was a good book too.

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Annie
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Annie Faux-Pas
23/11/2017

Hi Adrian. The idea is based on a rundown Greater Manchester council estate. It portrays the lives of three families and there own downward spiraling lives. Drugs, sex, alcohol and betrayal are all part of it. I like the idea of putting 'sin' or 'sins' into the title I hadn't thought of that. Back to the drawing board I think. Thanks again.

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ELSIE
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ELSIE BYRON
22/11/2017