Hey All!!!
I was recently doing some reading online and happened upon this Korean teen drama series called Boys Over Flowers (Forever Young Adult has a good review on the series here). It seemed right up my alley: a little nutty, a lot of fun, and full of teenaged-dramatic-goodness.
While I was reading the plot online a light bulb went off in my brain. I realized that this story has all the ingredients for a fun YA novel:
1) Smart, nice, cute and mouthy main character goes to private school on scholarship? Check!
2) Meets a cute group of boys that are all major douches? Check!
3) Boys all fall madly in love for our wonderfully lovable heroine and all chaos ensues? Double Check!
For my purposes, I'll probably want to add in a dash of the supernatural with my own bit of flair...but I think it may be something special.
I never know when a good idea will hit me, or where I'll get my next inspiring thought, so I always keep an open mind for whatever may come. I'll be pocketing this idea, along with slew of others I have locked away in my handy-dandy notebook, for later use. Until then, I have about 24 hours worth of Korean teen drama to catch up on!
On a different note, I recently heard from my editor with Evernight Teen and have been working on my first round of edits for about a week now. I'm about halfway through and am so excited I may bust!
Happy reading and writing!
Showing posts with label editing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label editing. Show all posts
Monday, October 28, 2013
Thursday, September 5, 2013
MOOD MUSIC AND WRITING
Hey All!!!
Like many others, I recently watched the MTV VMA's. I gawked at the mess that is Miley Cyrus, was in awe of the wonder that is Justin Timberlake, and squealed like the girl that I'm not when *NSYNC came on stage for all of 30 seconds (and YES I would pay anything to go to a reunion concert). So, I was happily caught up the next morning when all of the post award show buzz on the Kidd Kraddick Show was going on. Or so I thought.
Smack in the middle of the round up, they started gushing over Bruno Mars performance and I felt a little lost. It wasn't that I didn't see it. I caught a bit of it after my evening shower. By that point the show had gone on a bit long for me and I'd already caught the section I'd really wanted to see (Justin/*NSYNC) so I was winding down for the night. I didn't really pay attention to the song Bruno Mars was singing, but remembered thinking it had a catchy tune. But when Kelly Raspberry went on about how it was an orgasmic experience, well, I HAD to figure out what all of the hype was about.
I immediately downloaded it right then and there in the car...and was completely blown away!
Gorilla by Bruno Mars is gritty, raw, sensual, and completely awesome! And it put my brain in such a perfect mood to write romance and sexy-time that I had a writing breakthrough that night.
That's the great thing about music and creating. The right song can completely shift your mood, bringing about feelings and emotions that you can use for your writing. And depending on your life experiences, the music and words can even draw upon the familiar emotions you felt long ago.
Lately as I've been writing, I've been able to evoke all of those hot and lusty feelings of the initial attraction one can have for a potential love interest - and I believe it's made my first few chapters of my new NA story even better!
How does music effect your reading and writing experience? Are you someone who likes complete silence when you throw yourself into a tale or writing? Or do you like to have a little mood music to guide your way?
Happy reading and writing!
Like many others, I recently watched the MTV VMA's. I gawked at the mess that is Miley Cyrus, was in awe of the wonder that is Justin Timberlake, and squealed like the girl that I'm not when *NSYNC came on stage for all of 30 seconds (and YES I would pay anything to go to a reunion concert). So, I was happily caught up the next morning when all of the post award show buzz on the Kidd Kraddick Show was going on. Or so I thought.
Smack in the middle of the round up, they started gushing over Bruno Mars performance and I felt a little lost. It wasn't that I didn't see it. I caught a bit of it after my evening shower. By that point the show had gone on a bit long for me and I'd already caught the section I'd really wanted to see (Justin/*NSYNC) so I was winding down for the night. I didn't really pay attention to the song Bruno Mars was singing, but remembered thinking it had a catchy tune. But when Kelly Raspberry went on about how it was an orgasmic experience, well, I HAD to figure out what all of the hype was about.
I immediately downloaded it right then and there in the car...and was completely blown away!
Gorilla by Bruno Mars is gritty, raw, sensual, and completely awesome! And it put my brain in such a perfect mood to write romance and sexy-time that I had a writing breakthrough that night.
That's the great thing about music and creating. The right song can completely shift your mood, bringing about feelings and emotions that you can use for your writing. And depending on your life experiences, the music and words can even draw upon the familiar emotions you felt long ago.
Lately as I've been writing, I've been able to evoke all of those hot and lusty feelings of the initial attraction one can have for a potential love interest - and I believe it's made my first few chapters of my new NA story even better!
How does music effect your reading and writing experience? Are you someone who likes complete silence when you throw yourself into a tale or writing? Or do you like to have a little mood music to guide your way?
Happy reading and writing!
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
THE DRAW OF ROMANCE NOVELS
Hey All!!!
So, I've got a confession to make. I've developed a serious taste for romance novels. Paranormal Romance to be precise.
And when I say taste, what I really mean is a totally-bad-for-you, call-the-doctor-because-I'm-going-to-need-help-really-soon addiction for the stuff.
I don't know what happened. I was doing my YA and NA reading thing, when I suddenly got a taste for a bit more sexy-time. I picked up one - and I do mean one - novel with vampires and hot, hot, hotness between the pages...and became hooked.
I can't put them down. And I mean that. I've tried. Well, maybe I haven't tried hard enough.
So, I'll be adding some of those books into the reviews I'm working on for this week. The series I'm hooked on, if you're interested, is the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series. Not sure how J.R. Ward does it, but she completely grabs you with this intricate world she's built. The voice, the characters, the stories are all fantastic. And if you like sexy-time, you'll get plenty of that. A vividly hot plethora of sexy-time. The differing points of view don't even bother me. Well, except for the bad guys...I could be completely okay without having them in my head.
In other news, I'm in heavy editing mode as well. After 2.5 weeks of illness, I finally feel well enough to do some actual writing work! Hopefully the editor likes what I'm doing with the novel. I guess all there is to do is wait and see.
Happy reading and writing!
So, I've got a confession to make. I've developed a serious taste for romance novels. Paranormal Romance to be precise.
And when I say taste, what I really mean is a totally-bad-for-you, call-the-doctor-because-I'm-going-to-need-help-really-soon addiction for the stuff.
I don't know what happened. I was doing my YA and NA reading thing, when I suddenly got a taste for a bit more sexy-time. I picked up one - and I do mean one - novel with vampires and hot, hot, hotness between the pages...and became hooked.
I can't put them down. And I mean that. I've tried. Well, maybe I haven't tried hard enough.
So, I'll be adding some of those books into the reviews I'm working on for this week. The series I'm hooked on, if you're interested, is the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series. Not sure how J.R. Ward does it, but she completely grabs you with this intricate world she's built. The voice, the characters, the stories are all fantastic. And if you like sexy-time, you'll get plenty of that. A vividly hot plethora of sexy-time. The differing points of view don't even bother me. Well, except for the bad guys...I could be completely okay without having them in my head.
In other news, I'm in heavy editing mode as well. After 2.5 weeks of illness, I finally feel well enough to do some actual writing work! Hopefully the editor likes what I'm doing with the novel. I guess all there is to do is wait and see.
Happy reading and writing!
Monday, May 13, 2013
GOING WITH THE FLOW OF LIFE
Hey All!!!
So, last week was a real mess. I was all geared up to put the finishing touches on the first sixty pages of my manuscript for the Children's Brains Are Yummy publishing contest when disaster struck in the form of an nasty allergic reaction. If you've never had an allergic reaction before, let me tell you...don't. It was one of the most uncomfortable and icky experiences I've ever gone through and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy (well, I think I wouldn't).
Basically, the days I set aside to finish up all of my hard work and coast towards that finish line were a complete wash. So, what did I did? Well, I had to go with the flow and work with it. I spent my weekend doing the work I'd hoped to complete during the week and will be looking over the final product tonight.
When it comes to writing and life you can't waste time crying over the small stuff. Sure, it's easy to get overwhelmed and to spend time sulking, just don't let too much time go by doing that. Typically, I'll give myself a few hours tops to do my, "Woe is me" thing before picking myself up, rolling up my sleeves, and getting back to it.
You have to go with the flow of life and never quite...and that's the good and honest truth!
So, last week was a real mess. I was all geared up to put the finishing touches on the first sixty pages of my manuscript for the Children's Brains Are Yummy publishing contest when disaster struck in the form of an nasty allergic reaction. If you've never had an allergic reaction before, let me tell you...don't. It was one of the most uncomfortable and icky experiences I've ever gone through and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy (well, I think I wouldn't).
Basically, the days I set aside to finish up all of my hard work and coast towards that finish line were a complete wash. So, what did I did? Well, I had to go with the flow and work with it. I spent my weekend doing the work I'd hoped to complete during the week and will be looking over the final product tonight.
When it comes to writing and life you can't waste time crying over the small stuff. Sure, it's easy to get overwhelmed and to spend time sulking, just don't let too much time go by doing that. Typically, I'll give myself a few hours tops to do my, "Woe is me" thing before picking myself up, rolling up my sleeves, and getting back to it.
You have to go with the flow of life and never quite...and that's the good and honest truth!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
SHOW ME YOU LOVE ME: DETERMINING NEW WAYS TO CONVEY FALLING IN LOVE IN WRITING
Hey All!!!
So, I'm working on edits for the first sixty or so pages of my manuscript and the editor I'm working with gave me a unique challenge. He wanted me to find new, innovative ways to show that my main character, Jazz, is falling in love with her team member Khan.
See, I read a good deal of YA and what I'm used to seeing is a mixture of the below:
When the editor came at me with this challenge I was a bit at a loss for what to do. I'm so used to seeing the heart fluttering and just understanding what it means. How was I going to break the habit of using these tried and true wordings to convey what I wanted to say?
So, what did I do? I sat down with the BF, my friends, my family and myself, and asked one key question: How did it feel when you were falling in love?
It's simple, but to the point. And so far I've gotten a variety of answers. Everything from, " I knew because I realized that you were a constant thought on my mind," to, "I felt an open pit in the middle of my chest and was always longing for my significant other." And I'm still gathering intel.
And if that wasn't enough - as if the Big-Man-Upstairs heard my question - YA Highway posted this today!
Love is a difficult beast to wrestle in writing, but if done properly I believe it's a universal concept that we all can relate to with a warm and happy familiarity. Why do you think Romance has always been, and will always be, hot!
Happy Writing!
So, I'm working on edits for the first sixty or so pages of my manuscript and the editor I'm working with gave me a unique challenge. He wanted me to find new, innovative ways to show that my main character, Jazz, is falling in love with her team member Khan.
See, I read a good deal of YA and what I'm used to seeing is a mixture of the below:
- Heart fluttering
- Heart pounding
- Breath catching
- Tingles running up some body part
When the editor came at me with this challenge I was a bit at a loss for what to do. I'm so used to seeing the heart fluttering and just understanding what it means. How was I going to break the habit of using these tried and true wordings to convey what I wanted to say?
So, what did I do? I sat down with the BF, my friends, my family and myself, and asked one key question: How did it feel when you were falling in love?
It's simple, but to the point. And so far I've gotten a variety of answers. Everything from, " I knew because I realized that you were a constant thought on my mind," to, "I felt an open pit in the middle of my chest and was always longing for my significant other." And I'm still gathering intel.
And if that wasn't enough - as if the Big-Man-Upstairs heard my question - YA Highway posted this today!
Love is a difficult beast to wrestle in writing, but if done properly I believe it's a universal concept that we all can relate to with a warm and happy familiarity. Why do you think Romance has always been, and will always be, hot!
Happy Writing!
Monday, March 25, 2013
WHAT IT'S LIKE EDITING ON A DEADLINE
Hey All!!!
For the past few weeks I've been crazily focused on the edits for my book. This is nothing new. Dealing with hours of editing kind of comes with the territory of writing. But what's different about THESE edits is that they're on a hard deadline...one that's quickly approaching.
See, I'm a finalist for a writing contest with Children's Brains Are Yummy Books, an independent publisher of middle-grade and young adult novels based out of Austin, Texas! One of the major perks of being a finalist for this contest is that you get a line critique done by one of their editors. Then you have a few months - it was three and a half for me - to make the necessary changes before a portion of the book is posted online for wonderful folks like you all to vote on.
So what's it like editing with a deadline:
1) You're super excited at first because an editor has read your entire book and actually took the time to give you insight into what's good and not so good about it.
2) You dive into the editorial letter and notes, and see how the changes make your story really take on a polished and professional feel. In the process, you realize that not only is your story getting better, but your abilities as a writer are improving as well.
3) After weeks of going through your chapters, your editing engine slows down as you realize that going through 250 pages of line edits can be more than a bit grueling.
4) In an effort to maintain your sanity, you take some time to do other things you love to decompress, like reading a steamy romance for fun, because your eyes begin to bleed from even the thought of looking at your story.
5) You stay focused and push through - even though there are times when you don't want to - because you can see that you're story is getting better and better.
6) You have more than a few moments of yelling, "My writing sucks!"
7) After much pain and with an exhausted brain, you end up with a wonderfully polished story that you hope your editor will love as well.
8) You get more edits and start all over again!
Now, I'm assuming this is the case for number 8...since I haven't gotten to this part yet. I'm sending my first round of edited material over at the end of this week.
All in all, editing with an industry professional is an exhilarating and humbling experience that I hope to get to repeat for many years to come!
Happy Writing!!!
For the past few weeks I've been crazily focused on the edits for my book. This is nothing new. Dealing with hours of editing kind of comes with the territory of writing. But what's different about THESE edits is that they're on a hard deadline...one that's quickly approaching.
See, I'm a finalist for a writing contest with Children's Brains Are Yummy Books, an independent publisher of middle-grade and young adult novels based out of Austin, Texas! One of the major perks of being a finalist for this contest is that you get a line critique done by one of their editors. Then you have a few months - it was three and a half for me - to make the necessary changes before a portion of the book is posted online for wonderful folks like you all to vote on.
So what's it like editing with a deadline:
1) You're super excited at first because an editor has read your entire book and actually took the time to give you insight into what's good and not so good about it.
2) You dive into the editorial letter and notes, and see how the changes make your story really take on a polished and professional feel. In the process, you realize that not only is your story getting better, but your abilities as a writer are improving as well.
3) After weeks of going through your chapters, your editing engine slows down as you realize that going through 250 pages of line edits can be more than a bit grueling.
4) In an effort to maintain your sanity, you take some time to do other things you love to decompress, like reading a steamy romance for fun, because your eyes begin to bleed from even the thought of looking at your story.
5) You stay focused and push through - even though there are times when you don't want to - because you can see that you're story is getting better and better.
6) You have more than a few moments of yelling, "My writing sucks!"
7) After much pain and with an exhausted brain, you end up with a wonderfully polished story that you hope your editor will love as well.
8) You get more edits and start all over again!
Now, I'm assuming this is the case for number 8...since I haven't gotten to this part yet. I'm sending my first round of edited material over at the end of this week.
All in all, editing with an industry professional is an exhilarating and humbling experience that I hope to get to repeat for many years to come!
Happy Writing!!!
Monday, February 4, 2013
DIET COKE VS. PEPSI
Hey All!!!
In the past week I've had two different responses to my story from editors for independent presses. These got me thinking on just how subjective this whole writing business is.
On the one hand, an editor decided to pass on my work. The email was full of praise for my writing ability and skill, but the editor didn't fully connect with my main character. She felt that Jazz was a bit too reckless for her liking and not well-rounded enough. All in all the email was a good one. I mean, if you're going to get rejected you want to hear that you're doing good job at your craft while experiencing it. But in the end it still was a no.
Not even twenty-four hours later I got notes from a different editor. In this case, I'm a finalist in a contest for Children's Brains Are Yummy books and a part of that process involves having one of their editors do line edits on your entire manuscript before posting a portion of it to be voted on by the public. At the beginning of my editorial letter, one of the first things he said was how he enjoyed the fact that Jazz was such a well-rounded character and how he could relate to her conflict.
Two editors.
Both specialize in Young Adult/Middle Grade fiction.
Both read the same book.
Two differing reactions to my main character and the conflict she faces throughout my story.
When it comes down to it, a large part of making it in this business is being lucky enough to find the editor or agent who can understand the particular song you're singing. Sure, having the talent and a killer storyline is also key, but that lucky meeting with someone who can see your story for the awesomeness that it is...well, that's like finding a long buried treasure.
So when you get those rejections don't fret. It may having nothing to do with your actual writing ability - and everything to do with the fact that you sent the editor/agent a story that was Diet Coke, when s/he prefers Pepsi.
Happy Writing!!!
In the past week I've had two different responses to my story from editors for independent presses. These got me thinking on just how subjective this whole writing business is.
On the one hand, an editor decided to pass on my work. The email was full of praise for my writing ability and skill, but the editor didn't fully connect with my main character. She felt that Jazz was a bit too reckless for her liking and not well-rounded enough. All in all the email was a good one. I mean, if you're going to get rejected you want to hear that you're doing good job at your craft while experiencing it. But in the end it still was a no.
Not even twenty-four hours later I got notes from a different editor. In this case, I'm a finalist in a contest for Children's Brains Are Yummy books and a part of that process involves having one of their editors do line edits on your entire manuscript before posting a portion of it to be voted on by the public. At the beginning of my editorial letter, one of the first things he said was how he enjoyed the fact that Jazz was such a well-rounded character and how he could relate to her conflict.
Two editors.
Both specialize in Young Adult/Middle Grade fiction.
Both read the same book.
Two differing reactions to my main character and the conflict she faces throughout my story.
When it comes down to it, a large part of making it in this business is being lucky enough to find the editor or agent who can understand the particular song you're singing. Sure, having the talent and a killer storyline is also key, but that lucky meeting with someone who can see your story for the awesomeness that it is...well, that's like finding a long buried treasure.
So when you get those rejections don't fret. It may having nothing to do with your actual writing ability - and everything to do with the fact that you sent the editor/agent a story that was Diet Coke, when s/he prefers Pepsi.
Happy Writing!!!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
THE BALANCING GAME
Hey All!!!
So, I've been thinking about the balancing game that every writer who works a 9 to 5 has to play - the one where you divvy out time to work your full-time job, while making time to write, eat, workout, and live life all in one crammed day.
For some it's an up and down roller coaster ride, filled with irritation. There are few out there who can afford to write full-time, and having to wake up every morning and go to a J-O-B can be really difficult when all you want to do is spend your time with your nose in a good book, or creating a fantastic story of your own.
But for others, yours truly included, it's a rewarding venture that keeps life interesting. I have a good career in HR, which provides me with more than my share of interesting war stories to keep my creative juices flowing. I also have a passion for writing, which makes me happy overall. I can do both. I just have to plan like a crazy person to make sure that everything gets done that has to get done.
So how do I do it? Well, it's not without some sacrifices. I go to work and do my thing for 8 hours. Then I make sure to write, edit, or submit for at least half an hour during my lunch break. I have an hour set aside for working out when I get off. And then I make sure to schedule at least an hour of writing in the evenings when I get home. Not to mention that I try to spend a big chunk of my weekend being productive with my craft as well. There are a lot of fun things that I don't get to do every day, but the fulfillment I get when I finish a new tale more than makes up for it.
When it comes down to it, working while writing is a difficult juggle to perform, but if you plan correctly and are diligent about it, it's more than doable.
Happy Writing!!!
So, I've been thinking about the balancing game that every writer who works a 9 to 5 has to play - the one where you divvy out time to work your full-time job, while making time to write, eat, workout, and live life all in one crammed day.
For some it's an up and down roller coaster ride, filled with irritation. There are few out there who can afford to write full-time, and having to wake up every morning and go to a J-O-B can be really difficult when all you want to do is spend your time with your nose in a good book, or creating a fantastic story of your own.
But for others, yours truly included, it's a rewarding venture that keeps life interesting. I have a good career in HR, which provides me with more than my share of interesting war stories to keep my creative juices flowing. I also have a passion for writing, which makes me happy overall. I can do both. I just have to plan like a crazy person to make sure that everything gets done that has to get done.
So how do I do it? Well, it's not without some sacrifices. I go to work and do my thing for 8 hours. Then I make sure to write, edit, or submit for at least half an hour during my lunch break. I have an hour set aside for working out when I get off. And then I make sure to schedule at least an hour of writing in the evenings when I get home. Not to mention that I try to spend a big chunk of my weekend being productive with my craft as well. There are a lot of fun things that I don't get to do every day, but the fulfillment I get when I finish a new tale more than makes up for it.
When it comes down to it, working while writing is a difficult juggle to perform, but if you plan correctly and are diligent about it, it's more than doable.
Happy Writing!!!
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
THE AWESOMENESS OF A GREAT CRITIQUE GROUP
Hey All!!!
I'd been writing the first draft of my new book (currently untitled, but I have a few ideas that are bouncing around in my brain), while submitting and now editing my third book (Cursed). And I'd found that I was having a difficult time connecting with my main character. It wasn't like it had been with Jazz in Cursed. Jazz was hard core and such a loud voice in my head that writing in her point of view was easy for me. Alana, on the other hand, is more of a quiet being - softer. And after the clarity of Jazz I found it difficult to adjust to the quiet subtleties of Alana.
So, what did I do...I brought my problems to my critique group.
Some of the things that my group does for me (and that I do for them) are:
-They keep me focused/motivated on writing.
-They help me to keep on track with plot, structure, and pacing.
-They point out things in the story that don't make sense.
One of the great benefits of having a group of fellow writers who surround and support you on a consistent basis is that you can go to them when those writing blocks take hold. Maybe it's just me, but talking out my blocks is what helps me get to the other side.
To make a long story short, I was able to get past my distance with Alana and get a better understanding of who she is as a person. And getting past that blockade also helped me to understand her world and the background of her people better as well. So, it was a win-win.
Every writer comes to a point in their career where they need to engage with others who are on this crazy writing roller coaster. Not only has my group helped me to spot points in my stories where my plot wasn't where it needed to be or grammar mishaps, but they also support and motivate me in times when I need that extra push. All in all, my critique group makes me a better writer.
Do you have a critique group? What made you decide to get one or not? What makes your group great?
Happy Writing!!!
I'd been writing the first draft of my new book (currently untitled, but I have a few ideas that are bouncing around in my brain), while submitting and now editing my third book (Cursed). And I'd found that I was having a difficult time connecting with my main character. It wasn't like it had been with Jazz in Cursed. Jazz was hard core and such a loud voice in my head that writing in her point of view was easy for me. Alana, on the other hand, is more of a quiet being - softer. And after the clarity of Jazz I found it difficult to adjust to the quiet subtleties of Alana.
So, what did I do...I brought my problems to my critique group.
Some of the things that my group does for me (and that I do for them) are:
-They keep me focused/motivated on writing.
-They help me to keep on track with plot, structure, and pacing.
-They point out things in the story that don't make sense.
One of the great benefits of having a group of fellow writers who surround and support you on a consistent basis is that you can go to them when those writing blocks take hold. Maybe it's just me, but talking out my blocks is what helps me get to the other side.
To make a long story short, I was able to get past my distance with Alana and get a better understanding of who she is as a person. And getting past that blockade also helped me to understand her world and the background of her people better as well. So, it was a win-win.
Every writer comes to a point in their career where they need to engage with others who are on this crazy writing roller coaster. Not only has my group helped me to spot points in my stories where my plot wasn't where it needed to be or grammar mishaps, but they also support and motivate me in times when I need that extra push. All in all, my critique group makes me a better writer.
Do you have a critique group? What made you decide to get one or not? What makes your group great?
Happy Writing!!!
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
GETTING THAT SECOND WIND
Hello All!!!
In the race that is the publishing process, we all come to a point where we can get tired. It makes perfect sense when you think about it. Even a professional runner can only go for so long before exhausting him or herself. The trick in any race is to have a carefully thought out plan of action for dealing with the many hurdles and hills that you're bound to encounter.
I've been thinking of that lately and in my query plan of action I've decided to place in brief moments of rest so I can get a second wind. Rest and encouragement from my loved ones really help me to stay focused and on track, something invaluable to every writer.
This week I had a point where I became tired, so last night I took a break and just relaxed a bit. I talked with my bestie, who just happened to remind me of how awesome I am (no kidding, she literally just happened to call to tell me how she'd read this book and how mine is just as great and it's only a matter of time for me). That small amount of encouragement and rest was exactly what I needed to get back on my grind. And today I researched at least two independent publishers that I feel Cursed will be a great addition to, and have even had a spark of an urg to write again.
Since my new story has a shiny, new outline it might be time to get my writing hat on!!! All in all, I'm feeling refreshed and ready to go!!!
How do you all get your second wind?
Happy writing!!!
In the race that is the publishing process, we all come to a point where we can get tired. It makes perfect sense when you think about it. Even a professional runner can only go for so long before exhausting him or herself. The trick in any race is to have a carefully thought out plan of action for dealing with the many hurdles and hills that you're bound to encounter.
I've been thinking of that lately and in my query plan of action I've decided to place in brief moments of rest so I can get a second wind. Rest and encouragement from my loved ones really help me to stay focused and on track, something invaluable to every writer.
This week I had a point where I became tired, so last night I took a break and just relaxed a bit. I talked with my bestie, who just happened to remind me of how awesome I am (no kidding, she literally just happened to call to tell me how she'd read this book and how mine is just as great and it's only a matter of time for me). That small amount of encouragement and rest was exactly what I needed to get back on my grind. And today I researched at least two independent publishers that I feel Cursed will be a great addition to, and have even had a spark of an urg to write again.
Since my new story has a shiny, new outline it might be time to get my writing hat on!!! All in all, I'm feeling refreshed and ready to go!!!
How do you all get your second wind?
Happy writing!!!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
GETTING MY GROOVE BACK: PART DEUX
Hey All!
So, things have been slowly coming into place in my life and it got me thinking on writing and how it's hard to get a routine down once you've lost it. See, a year ago I was on a roll. I had this cushy job that provided me with a good amount of time to write in between busy spurts, not to mention those hour long lunch breaks that I'd take at my desk either reading some inspiring tale or, better yet, writing a gut wrenching story of my own. It was great. It was glorious. I was a writing machine!!!
But then I moved to New York, and my focus shifted from creating to worrying about finding a new job. That anxiety crushed my creativity like a beast taking out a delicate butterfly. Though I tried day in and out, it was hard to be productive when I didn't know how I would pay my bills in a few months.
Then things fell apart (Thankfully!) and I was back in Houston, still job searching, still worrying about my finances. Then, as if that wasn't difficult enough, I had to deal with the loss of my relationship. If my anxiety crushed my creativity, then combining it with my emotions completely tore my writing ability to shreds. I was completely unproductive. And the worst thing was I had a killer story in my head, just waiting to get out. But I couldn't write.
Then something turned around for me. It was slow at first, each piece coming into place bit by bit, but I started to see light at the end of my tunnel again.
I got a job. It wasn't perfect, and still isn't, but I slowly began to feel secure again in my finances. I met this guy friend who actually got me excited about the possibility of dating again. My friends here started dragging me out more and more, reminding me that life is out there, waiting for you to experience it. And slowly, ever so slowly, I began to want to write again.
Now it was hard as hell. And I don't know what I would've have done without my critique group and other friends encouraging me along the way, but I'm finally at peace with life now. And that's when I started to think about the routine of writing. It's hard to get to that place...to find that groove where you write almost every day and you don't have other pesky things interfering with your muse, but I'm slowly getting there.
And the only thing I have to say to the universe is that the writing gods better get ready...cause, like Stella and her groove revival, I'm back!!!
Happy writing everyone!
So, things have been slowly coming into place in my life and it got me thinking on writing and how it's hard to get a routine down once you've lost it. See, a year ago I was on a roll. I had this cushy job that provided me with a good amount of time to write in between busy spurts, not to mention those hour long lunch breaks that I'd take at my desk either reading some inspiring tale or, better yet, writing a gut wrenching story of my own. It was great. It was glorious. I was a writing machine!!!
But then I moved to New York, and my focus shifted from creating to worrying about finding a new job. That anxiety crushed my creativity like a beast taking out a delicate butterfly. Though I tried day in and out, it was hard to be productive when I didn't know how I would pay my bills in a few months.
Then things fell apart (Thankfully!) and I was back in Houston, still job searching, still worrying about my finances. Then, as if that wasn't difficult enough, I had to deal with the loss of my relationship. If my anxiety crushed my creativity, then combining it with my emotions completely tore my writing ability to shreds. I was completely unproductive. And the worst thing was I had a killer story in my head, just waiting to get out. But I couldn't write.
Then something turned around for me. It was slow at first, each piece coming into place bit by bit, but I started to see light at the end of my tunnel again.
I got a job. It wasn't perfect, and still isn't, but I slowly began to feel secure again in my finances. I met this guy friend who actually got me excited about the possibility of dating again. My friends here started dragging me out more and more, reminding me that life is out there, waiting for you to experience it. And slowly, ever so slowly, I began to want to write again.
Now it was hard as hell. And I don't know what I would've have done without my critique group and other friends encouraging me along the way, but I'm finally at peace with life now. And that's when I started to think about the routine of writing. It's hard to get to that place...to find that groove where you write almost every day and you don't have other pesky things interfering with your muse, but I'm slowly getting there.
And the only thing I have to say to the universe is that the writing gods better get ready...cause, like Stella and her groove revival, I'm back!!!
Happy writing everyone!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
MAKE EVERY MOMENT COUNT
Hello All,
I wanted to take a moment to reflect on making every moment count when it comes to your writing. As writers, we often think that if we can't get in one solid hour of page filling work, then we've been completely useless. We've all done it. Hell, I've gone through the roller coaster of self-hatred when I just couldn't get any words on the page...no matter what I tried. But I think it's time to let go of that archaic thinking and expand our minds to be more forgiving and more open.
Last night, I was at work until 4:00 pm, I had to miss my workout, and then I had my lovely (and yet rowdy) niece with me until my mom came to relieve me around 8:00 pm. With eating, de-stressing, and evening rituals to do, I thought there would be no way for me to get in the hour of writing time I'd planned for. But instead of pouting and beating myself up, I sat down and got in thirty minutes. It wasn't much, and I only got through about three pages of work, but it was farther along than when I woke up that morning...and it was enough work to get me to the next scene of my story, which I'm really excited to write.
Then it hit me...even a few moments of quiet writing time, on top of one another, is better than none. I need to evolve and do something if I truly want to be productive. I can't always wait around for the perfect conditions. Sometimes I have to push forward.
I went to sleep last night feeling good, with a new mindset for the future.
Happy Writing!!!
I wanted to take a moment to reflect on making every moment count when it comes to your writing. As writers, we often think that if we can't get in one solid hour of page filling work, then we've been completely useless. We've all done it. Hell, I've gone through the roller coaster of self-hatred when I just couldn't get any words on the page...no matter what I tried. But I think it's time to let go of that archaic thinking and expand our minds to be more forgiving and more open.
Last night, I was at work until 4:00 pm, I had to miss my workout, and then I had my lovely (and yet rowdy) niece with me until my mom came to relieve me around 8:00 pm. With eating, de-stressing, and evening rituals to do, I thought there would be no way for me to get in the hour of writing time I'd planned for. But instead of pouting and beating myself up, I sat down and got in thirty minutes. It wasn't much, and I only got through about three pages of work, but it was farther along than when I woke up that morning...and it was enough work to get me to the next scene of my story, which I'm really excited to write.
Then it hit me...even a few moments of quiet writing time, on top of one another, is better than none. I need to evolve and do something if I truly want to be productive. I can't always wait around for the perfect conditions. Sometimes I have to push forward.
I went to sleep last night feeling good, with a new mindset for the future.
Happy Writing!!!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
EMOTIONS AND WRITING
Hello All!
This weekend I got to thinking on the different factors that affect a person's writing. In this industry there are so many hurdles for a writer to consider. Not only do you have to write a killer manuscript, but you have to go to conference and network, you have to work hard to get an agent, hopefully get picked up by an editor, and then you have to network and get the word out on your story to get that books off the shelves. It's a crazy and intense process that only the dedicated can even think on messing with.
If all of these hills and roadblocks aren't enough, writers have to deal with the everyday distractions that often can interrupt the flow of one's writing process. Let's see, there's the television, internet, the constant need to be reassured of one's talent....and normal things, like sleeping, eating, working out, etc. Hell, life is a constant distraction. But the one thing that can uproot the entire writing process is a writer's emotions.
Yep, I said it. Feelings can completely ruin the entire process. For me, it's hard to be creative when I'm feeling like shit. When nothing seems to be going right, it's difficult to focus on characterization and storylines. All I want to do is mope and quietly watch television...which is completely unproductive.
I remember reading about this happening to Stephenie Meyers when she was writing Midnight Sun, which was supposed to be the story of Twilight told from Edward's point of view. Her unedited and unfinished manuscript had been leaked on the web and Mrs. Meyers was so distraught that she couldn't finish writing it. She wrote on her website how writing while she was in that emotional state could change the entire makeup of the story, that the bad guys would beat Edward, and Bella would end up dead at the end. At the time I didn't get it. I mean, the book was already written. Couldn't she just take that outline and make it work. Forget her emotions, we were all salivating for Edwards point of view!!!!
Now that I've recently gone through my own bout of craziness, I'm realizing how futile it is to try to force myself to write when my heart isn't in it. For me, it's better to wait it out and let the bad mood pass. Then, I can get to work and move forward.
Does this happen to you guys? And how do you handle writing when your emotions are going bananas?
Happy writing!!!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
MOVING FORWARD
Hey All,
For those of you who don't know me, recently my life had been turned upside down. I'm serious...it really went to shit for a while. I moved back to Texas (both a good and bad thing, depending on how you see it, but it definitely wasn't in the plan). As of today's date, I've found a new job (thankfully, because the market is definiately a beast). And I'm having to re-sketch all of the plans I thought had been finalized in my life. During that time of intense change and re-evaluation, I was forced to deal with an idea that I had hoped and prayed I wouldn't have to deal with - the idea of moving forward, of making a decision to strive for something more and leaping into the void to get it.
It's a topic that I think interconnects with many aspects of life, including writing.
There's that moment when you look at a manuscript and think, "Where do I go from here?" There's the constant fear of it never being good enough, and always, always, always cornering yourself in revisions, trying to smooth out every single hitch in the plot. There's the time when you think it's great, and someone else reads it and tells you it's shit!
When you come across these moments, it's important to be able to see the bigger picture - to be able to look outside your fear and make a calculated decision that goes in line with your overall goals. Now, I know that this is much easier said than done, but we all have to push through these moments. I, myself, have to get off my butt and finish reading through my first manuscript and be brave enough to begin sending it out...again. It's hard to decide if a story is good enough - to know that you'll be rejected time and time again...and to still press on. But you have to do it!!!
So, make the decision. Move forward with your goals. Send out that manuscript that you've revised over and over again. Because though you might've been pushed down and beat up many times, this may be YOUR time.
Happy writing!!!
For those of you who don't know me, recently my life had been turned upside down. I'm serious...it really went to shit for a while. I moved back to Texas (both a good and bad thing, depending on how you see it, but it definitely wasn't in the plan). As of today's date, I've found a new job (thankfully, because the market is definiately a beast). And I'm having to re-sketch all of the plans I thought had been finalized in my life. During that time of intense change and re-evaluation, I was forced to deal with an idea that I had hoped and prayed I wouldn't have to deal with - the idea of moving forward, of making a decision to strive for something more and leaping into the void to get it.
It's a topic that I think interconnects with many aspects of life, including writing.
There's that moment when you look at a manuscript and think, "Where do I go from here?" There's the constant fear of it never being good enough, and always, always, always cornering yourself in revisions, trying to smooth out every single hitch in the plot. There's the time when you think it's great, and someone else reads it and tells you it's shit!
When you come across these moments, it's important to be able to see the bigger picture - to be able to look outside your fear and make a calculated decision that goes in line with your overall goals. Now, I know that this is much easier said than done, but we all have to push through these moments. I, myself, have to get off my butt and finish reading through my first manuscript and be brave enough to begin sending it out...again. It's hard to decide if a story is good enough - to know that you'll be rejected time and time again...and to still press on. But you have to do it!!!
So, make the decision. Move forward with your goals. Send out that manuscript that you've revised over and over again. Because though you might've been pushed down and beat up many times, this may be YOUR time.
Happy writing!!!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
THE TRUTH ABOUT EDITING
All writers share the same dream - to be published. And though it seems impossible at times, we continue to strive for it with vigor and determination. But what many aspiring writers don't realize is that there's much more to writing than just putting together a great story, with interesting and realistic characters, and an engaging plot...it's a lot of seriously hard work. That work comes in various stages, one of the most important being the ability to edit.
Now, it's one thing to take others suggestions like adding description to a scene or developing a character more, but it's an entirely different thing when you come to the place where you to have to look at your work and slash it apart.
I just had to deal with this on Sunday. I was going through my ms, trying to polish it up before I start to make the rounds with my query. I came upon a section where the main character is going to the movies with her best friend and afterwards is attacked by Cerberus. It's a pivotal section of the story filled with lots of tension and excitement, but something wasn't quite right with it. After looking it over, I realized that the pacing was off. I spent the first four paragraphs of the chapter describing the main characters trip to downtown Houston, the theater district, and the movie she and her friend saw. While the section was beautifully written and I loved the pictures it brought to my mind, I couldn't ignore the fact that it didn't do anything for the story. It didn't move the plot forward. It didn't add anything necessary to story. It just wasn't needed. So, I cut it.
And though it was scary as hell to do, I felt good when it was done. When it comes down to it, being a writer is all about making the tough decisions when it comes to your work. The ability of someone to look at their story and see what isn't necessary is vital in the publishing industry. For me, the moment that I was able to look past my own ego to see what was best for the ms, that was the moment that I was closer to my goal of being a serious writer - and not someone who just dreams of being one.
Now, it's one thing to take others suggestions like adding description to a scene or developing a character more, but it's an entirely different thing when you come to the place where you to have to look at your work and slash it apart.
I just had to deal with this on Sunday. I was going through my ms, trying to polish it up before I start to make the rounds with my query. I came upon a section where the main character is going to the movies with her best friend and afterwards is attacked by Cerberus. It's a pivotal section of the story filled with lots of tension and excitement, but something wasn't quite right with it. After looking it over, I realized that the pacing was off. I spent the first four paragraphs of the chapter describing the main characters trip to downtown Houston, the theater district, and the movie she and her friend saw. While the section was beautifully written and I loved the pictures it brought to my mind, I couldn't ignore the fact that it didn't do anything for the story. It didn't move the plot forward. It didn't add anything necessary to story. It just wasn't needed. So, I cut it.
And though it was scary as hell to do, I felt good when it was done. When it comes down to it, being a writer is all about making the tough decisions when it comes to your work. The ability of someone to look at their story and see what isn't necessary is vital in the publishing industry. For me, the moment that I was able to look past my own ego to see what was best for the ms, that was the moment that I was closer to my goal of being a serious writer - and not someone who just dreams of being one.
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