Krista Darrach

Time out for Writers!

2011-09-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

20^th Annual ANWA Writers Conference

February 23, 24 & 25, 2012

Time Out for Writers

Hilton Hotel, 1011 W. Holmes Avenue, Mesa, AZ 85210

480-833-5555

www.hiltonphoenixeast.com

Registration opens October 1, 2011

See the ANWA Website at http://www.ANWA-lds.com

Space is limited so register early

STAY TUNED..... We will have MORE information for you!!

Mandy's Miracle

2011-05-20T21:50:00.000-07:00

Alright!
Yes, I've been working on the next book in the series! This one has been a bit more challenging - in the creative process. Writing Riley's Gift was such a learning experience - now it's time to put all those things I've learned into writing this one. Hopefully with LESS re-writing and edits. IS that possible???
NO. Probably not...
I've already redone the first section of it - a FEW times.
At any rate... here is the latest and greatest..... tell me what you think! (keep in mind - it's NOT edited!!! Because I'm not supposed to be editing - I'm supposed to be writing! :)

Mandy's Miracle - Excerpt of Chapter One

Amanda Phillips couldn’t remember the last time she felt this beautiful. Looking down at her dress she gasped … it was covered in diamonds, tiny flexs of diamonds. She sparkled and glowed like a princess. Her fingers were perfectly manicured and the gorgeous ring on her finger caused her to look across from her. The carriage she sat in rocked slowly as she gazed into the blue pools of dreaminess smiling back at her. Gosh, he was gorgeous. Kyle Lund personified prince charming. His white suit made him look even tanner than he actually was. Maybe things were going to be okay afterall. Amanda’s shoulders releaxed as she gazed up toward the cloudless sky. She felt her tiara slide back and she reached up to hold it in place and giggled.

Kyle’s warm fingers found her arm. “You are so beautiful.”

His voice echoed in her head and she felt like she was floating. Several birds flew above them in a collective stream as rose pedals fell from their beaks. Glancing at the driver of the carriage she noticed it was a young boy. He turned back to look at her she felt the sickly twinge in her stomach. No, this was real, this had to be real. Squeezing her eyes shut she ran her fingers along the material covering her seat and she gripped at her dress. It was real. It had to be. Holding her breath she opened one eye and glanced at Kyle, he was still handsome as ever and smiling at her. For a brief moment the small child caught her eye and he mouthed the words ‘Pay Attention, Mandy’. Ignoring the child-driver she steadied her breathing and refused to take her eyes off her gorgeous companion. He opened his mouth and said, “You are so beautiful … I can’t believe you would be so stupid…”

Kyle’s golden flexs of hair slowly darkened as his beautiful blue eyes sunk to a deep green. The crisp white suit transformed into black leather and the comforting voice became scolding, “… to trust a low life like Kyle Lund. Jeez, Amanda- he doesn’t want you- it’s over…”

In one swoop Amanda felt as though she were falling, swirling round and round… with Shawn Cohen’s penetrating green eyes judging her.

“It’s over!” echoing, bouncing off the walls of her brain.

She covered her face, but that didn’t help. She covered her ears but no use. She continued to hear the yelling.

“It’s over!”

A loud crashing sound caused her to sit up in her bed. Breathing heavily she looked around in a panic. Another nightmare. When would it end? Did she have to be reminded not only in real life but also in her dreams? Kyle Lund dumped her thanks to Shawn Cohen—The last person she wanted to ever see. And if that wasn’t bad enough, why did her brother Joey always have to make an appearance in her dreams?

“It’s over, Sandy.”

Amanda’s stomach did a flip hearing the audible voice outside her dreams. She glanced toward the door and listened carefully.

“I’m sick of it, Sandy! What do you expect me to do?” Her father’s voice bounced off the walls in the hallway.

Amanda rolled over in bed and wished she was back at the Baker’s for Christmas. But Christmas was over and now they were moving toward New Year’s. Another year of the same depressing life. Her parents had been fighting since they’d returned from Uncle Johnny’s house, and since she hadn’t gone with them, she wasn’t sure what exactly happened. Usually they ignored each other. But now, Amanda didn’t know what to think, or what to do.

“I’m done. It’s over!” Her dad’s voice seemed different-- serious.

Amanda rolled out of bed and peaked out the door. Her dad held a suitcase, his face looked beyond angry.

“You can’t leave us.” Her mom stood holding her stomach.

This wasn’t happening. Could her life get any worse? Seriously?

Her dad walked up to his wife and held her shoulder. “I’m not leaving Amanda. I’m leaving you. I can’t take it anymore, Sandy, for seven years I’ve watched you destroy our family and I’m not going to do it anymore.”

“Me? I didn’t kill our son. You did!” Her mothers voice reverberated pain.

Doug Phillips raised his hand and Amanda gasped as both her parents turned toward her. She felt as though she would throw up right there and the hand covering her mouth was not going to help. She took a step back and closed the door.

“See what you’ve done now? And for God’s sake, it was an accident. Stop blaming me. Thanks for making it crystal clear of why I have to leave you.”

Amanda slid down and sat on the floor, her pajamas twisted under her. Her breathing grew heavy as her eyes scanned her room looking through everything. First I lose Joey, now my dad. She pulled her legs up and wrapped her arms around her knees burying her head. She cried. Through her sobs she heard a rumbling, sounded like kids beating on a trash dumpster. The noise got louder … Amanda finally glanced up, it wasn’t coming from outside her room. Her ceiling had transformed into a storm-- swirling clouds, flashes of light and the unbelievable sound of pouring rain. This was a new phenomenon for Amanda, and one she wasn’t excited about. She felt crazy. At least she finally figured out that she was the only one who saw these strange things. But nonetheless it was totally annoying. Out of nowhere storms blow into her life and she’s always left wondering why.

“Why? What did I do to deserve this?” She whispered.

You were stupid enough to overdose on pills and end up in a coma—that’s why. Now nothing is ever going to be the same. It wasn’t, that was a fact. She hadn’t tried to commit suicide like her friends had thought. She just wanted to sleep-- didn’t want to be reminded of how awful it felt for Kyle to toss her aside. It was an accident, and now she was paying for it. Just like she was still paying for Joey’s accident.

“Mandy! Are you there?” Her mother’s voice came through the door.

“Yes, mom.” Amanda wiped her eyes with her sleeve and got up.

Guest Author - Anna del C. Dye

2011-04-05T21:44:00.001-07:00

Today, my guest author is Anna del C. Dye, author of two fantasy trilogies.

I love fantasy!!! So tell me, Anna, how long have you been writing and why did you start?

About seven years ago I started because my husband wanted to live to the ripe age of fifty. He thought my imagination would be the end of his days. He actually ordered me to. He is awesome.

What are your books titled?

In the order they were published, they are:

The Silent Warrior Trilogy

Book 1 - The Elf and the Princess

Book 2 - Trouble in the Elf City

Book 3 - Elfs in a conquered Realm

and now:

Curse of the Elfs

Do you write your books in chronological order?

The Trilogy, I started in the beginning. Curse of the Elfs came to me in the middle, then it took form toward the front and the back. I am not sure why… it just happened.

What inspired you to write this story?

The last movie of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. I wanted to know more about the character’s lives and couldn’t find enough. My husband said, “Why don’t you write your own.” I answered, “Yah right!” But his answer haunted me and in three days I had the draft of The Elf and the Princess in my mind. When I told him the story he came back with a laptop and told me to write it. The rest is history.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Never give up!!! Join a writer's chapter close to you, and learn the craft from them.

Anna, do you write with music playing? If so, is the music likely to be songs with lyrics or only instrumentals?

I do have music on, though I love quiet. I have my favorite tunes in the computer where I write. Lots of them have lyrics but a few don’t.

What is the coolest thing about being an author?

Meeting great people and other authors.

What would you say is the most challenging part about being an author?

Spending hours promoting my books while I would like to be writing another.

Do you have a particular goal you aim to achieve with your writing?

To take people to a wonderful world where they can forget reality’s cold hand and safely enjoy fantasy. Life is tough and we need something to help us make it more fun and worth living. Fantasy is the way I choose to do it.

You once told me that English was your second language. What sort of challenges did you meet in trying to write your books, if any?

Not many, really. I write and my editor has to figure out what I am trying to say. (If I can't figure how a word goes in English, I put it in Spanish...he speaks Spanish very well.) We have a lot of fun when we edit the books because of my English mess ups.

If you could give your book to only one person, who would it be and why?

A teenager in trouble...in the hope that he/she could discover the power they have deep inside to change and become better. I want them to see that nothing is impossible if we put our minds to it.

Can you share with your fans how can you describe so well your battle scenes and the sword's playing action?

We found a medieval sword fighting class at the local high school and my husband and I took it. My husband liked it so much he has taken it for a few years now and has even earned two different belts with the clan.

Where can we purchase a copy of your books?

www.amazon.com

www.barnesandnoble.com

www.annadelc.com

Thank you for this opportunity to visit with you and your friends.

When an Immortal race ceases to be immortal, woe to the land.

Ancient legend tells of elfs crossing paths with a dying wizard named Zoltan. The Old Sorcerer’s unrepentant deeds had caused the wizarding school to chastise him severely. On his deathbed Zoltan asked the elfs for help. Losing patience in his delirium, he cursed them. Now, the immortal elfin race is slowly, but surely dying.

Their only hope lies in a servant of kings who must learn to love the elfs before he will attempt to save them. But no one, elf or mankind, has ever heard of this man. Can the healer be found before their race is gone forever?

Bio

Anna del C. Dye was born in Valparaiso, Chile, amongst some of the world’s most famous beaches.

After meeting Rodney, a native of Idaho, in her hometown, Anna traveled to Utah on Christmas Eve and married him two weeks later. Their love story, Why Him? was published by Covenant in the book entitled Tender Mercies. Anna and Rodney reside in Taylorsville, Utah and are the parents of three princes and a princess.

Anna is an accomplished, multi-award winning author. One of her short stories entitled Amerine—Fairy Princess won an award in the Oquirrh Writers contest. The first book in her new YA Romance Series entitled “A Kingdom By The Sea” also won an award. Anna’s works also include The Silent Warrior Trilogy, the beginning saga of her YA Elf Series.

For more information contact Anna at www.annadelc.com.

Can you end a sentence with a preposition?

2011-03-26T21:39:00.001-07:00

I've always wanted to know this- Ya gotta love the Grammar Girl--

One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is whether it’s acceptable to end a sentence with a preposition.

I know many of you were taught that you shouldn’t end a sentence with a preposition, but it’s a myth. In fact, I consider it one of the top ten grammar myths because many people believe it’s true, but because nearly all grammarians disagree, at least in some cases (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8).

So before I lose you, let's back up. What is a preposition?

What Is a Preposition?

A preposition is a word that creates a relationship between other words. It's been said that prepositions often deal with space and time (1), which always makes me think of Star Trek. For example, the prepositions “above,” “by,” and “over” all say something about a position in space; the prepositions “before,” “after,” and “since” all say something about time.

When Can a Sentence End with a Preposition?

Here's an example of a sentence that can end with a preposition: What did you step on? A key point is that the sentence doesn't work if you leave off the preposition. You can't say, “What did you step?” You need to say, “What did you step on?” to make a grammatical sentence.

I can hear some of you gnashing your teeth right now, while you think, “What about saying, 'On what did you step?'” But really, have you ever heard anyone talk that way? I've read long, contorted arguments from noted grammarians about why it's OK to end sentences with prepositions when the preposition isn't extraneous (1), but the driving point still seems to be, “Nobody in their right mind talks this way.” Yes, you could say, “On what did you step?” but not even grammarians think you should. It sounds pedantic.

When Can't You End a Sentence with a Preposition?

But, you can't always end sentences with prepositions. When you could leave off the preposition and it wouldn't change the meaning, you should leave it off. Here is a cell phone commercial that gets on my nerves.

[Where you at?]

For the purposes of today’s discussion, let’s ignore the fact that they left out the verb “are” because I’ve definitely heard people ask, “Where are you at?”

The problem is that “Where are you at?” doesn't need the preposition at the end. If you say “Where are you?” it means the same thing. So the "at" is unnecessary. You should leave it off.

Unnecessary Prepositions

The problem with unnecessary prepositions doesn't happen just at the end of sentences. People often throw extraneous prepositions into the middle of sentences, and they shouldn't (2). Instead of saying “Squiggly jumped off of the dock,” it's better to say “Squiggly jumped off the dock.” You see? You don't need to say “off of the dock”; “off the dock” says the same thing without the preposition.

Another example is “outside of” when “outside” by itself would do just fine. You should say, “He's outside the door,” not, “He's outside of the door.”

Sentences Can End with Prepositions from Phrasal Verbs

So far, my examples of prepositions at the end of sentences have all been questions. Lest you think they’re a special case, we’ll look at some sentences that aren’t questions.

English has a type of verb called a phrasal verb. These are verbs made up of multiple words, and one is always a preposition. “Cheer up,” “run over,” “log on,” and “leave off” are all examples of phrasal verbs, and often sentences that use phrasal verbs end with a preposition:

I wish he would cheer up.
You should leave it off.

Those are perfectly acceptable sentences.

Comma w/ Participial Phrases?

2011-03-19T21:31:00.001-07:00

Taken from the Grammar Girl:

Sometimes You Need a Comma With Participial Phrases, and Sometimes You Don’t

Today, we’re revisiting the concept of restrictive versus nonrestrictive elements. In past Grammar Girl episodes, I’ve talked about how to use the words “which” and “that” with restrictive and nonrestrictive elements. This time, we’ll help you figure out what the concepts of restrictive and nonrestrictive have to do with participial phrases such as “making me cry” and “banging his nose” and when to use a comma before such phrases.

What’s the Difference Between Restrictive and Nonrestrictive Clauses?

In case you’re not up on the concepts of restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses, here’s a quick review so we’re all on the same page. “A restrictive clause is just part of a sentence that you can't get rid of because it specifically restricts some other part of the sentence” (1). You could say, “The boy who threw up on Space Mountain wished he had stayed home.” Here, the “who” clause is restrictive: It defines which particular boy wished he had stayed home, so you can’t delete the clause, nor do you use commas around it.

On the other hand, “a nonrestrictive clause is something that can be left off without changing the meaning of the sentence. You can think of a nonrestrictive clause as simply additional information” (1). Such clauses “are usually surrounded by, or preceded by, commas” (1). An example is the “which” clause in this sentence: “The town, which lies thirty miles from the capital, is famous for its potato festival.” The “which” clause is surrounded by commas. It contains additional information that is not necessary to understand the sentence, so you can delete the clause if you want.

It can be easy to get confused about restrictive and nonrestrictive elements, so remember this: If it’s extra information, use extra commas.

Know your Audience- How to keep their attention!

2011-03-12T21:27:00.000-07:00

The class was given by Rebecca Shelley, author of Red Dragon Codex and Brass Dragon Codex.
The first thing we covered was Know Your Audience - who are you writing to?
When it comes to kids, there are two major types of readers - the reluctant reader and the avid reader:
Reluctant Reader have their brains in the fast lain

Brains wire for information age- able to process lare amounts of information quickly
Super Smashbrothers vs. Space Invaders - she talked about how when most of us remember playing games that are slow paced such as Space Invaders these kids are able to keep up with fast paced very involving games such as Super Smashbrothers.
Twenty-minute TV plotlines - if it is too complicated, they’ll loose interest - it has to keep moving quickly
YouTube entertainment - Reading should be entertainment
Intimidated by thick books and large chunks of text

Avid Readers: The Harry Potter generation

Have developed neural pathways for deep reading.
Are confident in their reading ability
Are a growing demographic, but still a minority

Remember they are different audiences and to experiment and practice writing for both.
When writing for the younger audiences the paragraphs have to be shorter.
Focusing on writing for the Reluctant Reader:
Formatting:

Lots of white space
Short, varied paragraphs
Varied sentence lengths
Proper word choices
Plenty of plot-moving dialogue

Characterization - for reluctant readers it is like a caricature - in fact she would often refer to caricaturization

The Mona Lisa vs the Ninja Turtles - She talked about giving characters a only few defining traits that would be memorable. The example of Ninja Turtles went to how each turtle had a specific color and how it related to their temperment - the read one was the angry one, etc. - another illustration she made was how it was done in Spiderwick - there are little portraits that tell the kids exactly what the characters look like, saving pages of detail for kids who would be impatient with it.
Complex characters expressed in digest

Pacing:

Hook and twist every two to four pages

Clear and vital character motivation and emotions - she repeated a few times the ever important “clear and vital character motivation” - going back to the characterization class I wrote about yesterday - Motivations are SO IMPORTANT!!
Proper grounding (setting expressed by sensory details through close 3rd person point of view)

Be sure to use ALL five senses - we most often rely on sight and sound, and she stressed focusing on touch, smell, and taste as well.
The reader needs to be inside the character and experiencing their world through their senses. By using all 5 senses every 2-4 pages, and in the beginning of every scene, the reader will be grounded and hooked.

Twist - something has to change every 2 pages - snappy dialogue, humor, conflict, action, revelation, danger - keep it moving

Physical Action

Slapstick, battles, chase scenes, etc.
More action, less sitting around thinking and planning
Action must be interlaced with setting and character to be meaningful

Cliff hangers: Bait and Hook
She gave the comparison of fishing. A fisherman waits for the nibble and then jerks the pool, hooking the fish. The end of the chapter is like throwing the bait in the water, the beginning of the next chapter is the hook so we can reel them in.

Physical threat cliff hanger
Emotional cliffhanger
Puzzle cliff hanger
Mystery cliff hanger

Write to your strengths and understand you audience:
Recognizing what kind of writer you are will help you find your market.

WOW!

2011-02-28T20:39:00.002-07:00

WOW!
What an incredible CONFERENCE.
Writing at the speed of life.
I am so excited to have been a part of putting this conference together. We had SUPER classes, AWESOME agents, a VERY knowledgeable and extremely friendly editor, Kirk Shaw from Covenant - and we even had the PITCH Guru, Elena Johnson.

I think everyone had a great time. So much of a great time we are all SOOOOOOO tired. But it was worth it. I know for me I learned tons, got to rub shoulders with some HIGHLY intelligent and well known people. I got help from the pitch guru- and I even had a great conversation with Kirk Shaw.

So those of you who missed it - REALLY MISSED OUT.
But there is always next year, and many other conferences.
The important part is .... I'm fired up about writing - about recommitting myself and dedicating myself to what I really do LOVE -- Writing. Creating and tapping into that place ..... you know the one --- that ZONE - only us writers have any idea of what I'm talking about. It's a GREAT place

Thanks ANWA and all those who helped make the 2011 conference a rejuvenater of talents.

Writing event of 2011!!!

2011-02-13T00:03:00.000-07:00

Are you going!!?!?!?!? TO the Writing event of the year???????

Here are some of the classes we've got - Something great for everyone!

2011 ANWA Writers Conference - "Writing at the Speed of Life"

Here is a tentative class list for the 2011 ANWA Writers Conference. Friday workshops are interactive and hands-on. Titles of classes that will be presented twice are followed by an asterisk (*).

Writing A Killer Query Letter (Friday Workshop)
Elana Johnson, author of Possessions, and query letter guru
Every submission, whether for a publisher or a literary agent, starts with a query letter. You can craft a query letter that will hook an editor or agent to request more material in just a few steps. Bring your one-page query letter to share, receive feedback, and leave this two-hour workshop with a killer query letter that will generate requests.

Sonoran Desert Tales—Making Nonfiction Fun for Young Readers (Friday Workshop)
Conrad J. Storad, author of Don't Call Me a Pig (A Javelina Story), and Rattlesnake Rules
To become a better writer one must write. Then write more. (Class includes writing exercises, discussion, sharing of exercises, handouts, prizes, and a demonstration of how to present non-fiction to your readers in an entertaining manner. NOT a session on how to get a children's book published. BRING paper and pen or other writing tool from which you can read your class work.)

Pitching to Agents, Editors, and Publishers (Friday Workshop)
Elana Johnson
So you think you want to pitch to an agent or editor? You don't need a 90 mph fastball, just a clear picture of how to talk to another human being about your book. Come learn how to say all the right things in all the right places that will impress an agent or editor enough to generate a request.

Read Me A Story—Reading Aloud to Cultivate the Art of Listening (Friday Workshop)
Conrad J. Storad
The art of listening is an acquired one. It must be taught and cultivated gradually—it doesn't happen overnight.

A Match Made in Heaven: Finding the Right Publisher and Convincing Them It's So (How to Submit)
Kirk Shaw, senior editor at Covenant Communications, Inc.; and freelance editor for David R. Godine, Publisher; Northwestern University Press; and other publishers
Finding the right publisher is like courting a potential mate: both need to feel it's the right move. How does an author narrow down all the possibilities to find the best option for her/his manuscript, and then go about proving she/he is a fine fit for the publisher?

Unlocking the Mystery of Writing YOUR History: Discover Your Roots and Strengthen the Branches of Your Family Tree
Carolyn Murphy, Phoenix Genealogy Examiner for Examiner.com, and founder of www.FamilyTreeQuest.com
Explore a wide-variety of easy tips and tools that make it plausible to integrate Personal History and Family History writing into your already busy schedule. Writing Personal or Family Histories can seem mysterious. Where do I begin? What do I do? How do I maintain my motivation? The task may seem mountainous—too big to undertake, too daunting to attempt to explore. The good news is that, in today's world, there are time-saving ideas and tools that simplify the challenge. Unlocking the mystery is simply a matter of gaining knowledge, "zeroing in" on choosing a specific task (whether large or small), working it into your routine, then maintaining your commitment and momentum.

The Three P's of Publishing, Promotion, and Publicity; or How to make Your Writing Pay, Pay, Pay! *
Cecily Markland, owner of Inglestone Pubishing, editor of The Beehive Newspaper, and a published author
So many choices, so little time? Learn the practices, principles and important pointers for publishing smart in today's market. Discover how to map out a publishing plan, decipher the pros and cons of the various publishing options, and create a publicity program that pays off.

Avoiding Childish Mistakes When Writing for Children
Kelly Sonnack, agent from Andrea Brown Literary Agency
What are some of the mistakes writers make when writing for children, and how can you avoid them? What are the things that make editors and agents cringe and stop reading? Kelly will discuss the pitfalls to avoid when writing your childrenâ€™s book.

Ten Tips for Terrific Talking: Dialogue and Humor *
Janette Rallison, national YA author
Good dialogue advances your plot, reveals characterization, adds tension, and can enchant—or if you do it wrong—bore your reader. Learn ten helpful techniques for doing it right. But wait, there's more! Come to Janette's class and you'll receive information about humor at no extra charge! Some rules and restrictions apply. Void where prohibited by law . . .

How to Start a Book and Get it Finished
Laurie Schnebly Campbell, author of Believable Characters: Creating with Enneagrams and noted teacher of online courses
For writers anywhere in the process from imagining a book to completing the final chapter, this class looks at how, when and why to start writing, roadblocks and solutions along the way, and what to do after reaching The End.

Barnes & Noble: Who Are We? *
J. Paul Deason, Community Relations Manager, Barnes & Noble
Barnes and Noble's roles in the book world, and the changes in book publishing. Avenues to take to get your book published and out there.

Write What You Know: Gleaning from Reality to Make Characters Breathe *
Angela Morrison, author of YA novels Sing Me to Sleep and Taken by Storm
Gather, delve into, and create, using Angela's favorite techniques to turn what we know, love, learn, and yearn for into living characters to populate our scenes.

Beginning Songwriting For The Versatile Writer In You
Chava Cannon, award-winning singer-songwriter and member of BMI
Calling all story-tellers! Did you know that songwriting is story-telling set to music? After this 1 hour class, you too will have the skills to write a song. You will learn basic song formatting, do's and don'ts, and how to get started. Pre-requisite: NONE. No musical skill required, just the willingness to step outside the "Novel" box. Come join in the FA LA LA and add songwriting to your resume.

Perils of Publishing: Extreme Makeover—Editing Edition
Kelly Gottuso Mortimer, agent and owner of Mortimer Literary Agency

Block-busting: Putting the Joy Back in Writing
Laurie Schnebly Campbell
At some point, almost all writers suffer from the inability to tell the story they want. Part of writer's block is a lack of joy in the process, so counselor Laurie Schnebly Campbell looks at the causes—including exhaustion, boredom and fear of success—and the benefits of this block. Take home new awareness of what works for you, and renewed inspiration for returning to the craft you love.

Write What You Live
Chris Stewart, best-selling author of The Great and Terrible series, and other books
There are a couple of things you really can't fake your way through, like rock climbing, flying airplanes, surgery, and yes . . . writing. That's why it's so important to write about the things you really know. The things you really feel. The things that matter to you most.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT ANWA AT:

http://anwa-lds.com/conference.html

Writing at the Speed of Life

2010-11-06T21:47:00.000-07:00

19th Annual ANWA Writers Conference
"Writing at the Speed of Life"

American Night Writers Association
will hold its 19th Annual Writers Conference
in Phoenix, Arizona on February 25 & 26, 2011, with

KEYNOTE SPEAKER Chris Stewart

Author of "The Great and Terrible" fiction series, The Fourth War,
Missionary Miracles: Stories and Letters from the Field, and other works

Make the ANWA Conference your two-day Writer's Getaway. Come to the Friday afternoon and evening workshops, and spend the rest of the evening at the "Meet & Greet," where you will rub shoulders with the agents, editor, and authors. Enjoy the heated pool and jacuzzi, then wake up refreshed and ready for a great day at the conference. Hotel room discount is available if you book by February 2, 2011.

This Conference is open to the General Public as well as ANWA Members.
Book sellers must be conference attendees,
but the Book Signing is open to everyone. Please invite book buyers,
and publicize the Signing through your websites, blogs or tweets. Here's the link to the ANWA website: http://anwa-lds.com/conference.html

Questions for your Novel!

2010-09-09T19:10:00.001-07:00

At the AWESOME ANWA writers retreat - the fabulous Jennifer Griffith gave an OUTSTANDING class on Conflict. Check out the ANWA newsletter for a recap (if you're a member). BUT.....I taught the lesson on Wed at my chapter meeting and here are the questions Jennifer outlined - They have TOTALLY helped me with my 2nd novel - Mandy's Miracle.

Here you go! Enjoy!

MC + G+O=C (Main Character + Goal + Opposition = Conflict)

CONSIDER: the main character in my WIP wants __________________ and will __________________________ to get it.

CONSIDER: The secondary character in my WIP wants _____________________ and will ____________________ to get it.

CONSIDER: In my WIP, the opposition character’s strength is _____________________ compared to my MC. I could make the disparity between them greater by making the opposition ____________________________.

CONSIDER: In *my* WIP, the adhesive is _____________________________, and it could potentially be stronger by ____________________________.

CONSIDER: The worst thing that could happen to my MC is _______________________. The only way it could be made worse than that is if _____________________________. [ this is the climax]

CONSIDER: In my WIP, _________________________________ is at stake for the MC, and __________________________________is also at stake. ________________________________ will happen if MC does not achieve this goal.

CONSIDER: In my WIP, for the MC, _________________________________ is at stake. The stakes could be raised if ______________________________________, and then _____________________________________________.

CONSIDER: Have I re-examined the dialogue in my novel to see that it is in conflict, conveys revelations of character, and is surprising? To make it more of these things I could ____________________________________________________.

CLAW

2010-09-05T19:35:00.001-07:00

C - Check off basic editing checklist

L - Let someone else read it (actually, three someones)

A - Always print out a hard copy and read it

W - Walk away and leave it for a while before your final review

That's it! Then you're done. Be careful not to edit our projects to death. Stop there, send it out and move on with your life.

Easier said then done ... isn't it?

Riley's Gift- Chapter 3

2010-08-27T23:47:00.000-07:00

There were four different outfits on her bed. Riley tried them all on … twice. She finally decided on black jeans, a cute blue scoop neck shirt, with a cream colored lacy undershirt and the perfect black shoes.

Her phone vibrated in her pocket she opened it.

Matt: Hey sexy, I’m here, bring a coat.

“Wow he’s early.” Riley grabbed her jacket and grinned in the mirror.

She opened the passenger door and sat down, he held out a box of roses to her.

Oh my gosh flowers!

“Matt, they’re beautiful. Thank you.”

His blue eyes danced as he flashed her a smile that could melt a glacier. “I wanted you to know… I’m glad we’re goin’ out.”

Maybe he really likes me.

Outside her window, the Arizona sunset looked like vibrant pastel marshmallows swirled together. They pulled into the driveway of an older home, well maintained with several flower beds planted under shuttered windows.

“I thought we were going for pizza?” Riley turned toward him as he took the key out of the ignition.

“Hey… I have the night planned…okay?” His half-smile once again melted her resistance.

“Fine.” She returned the smile. “But I better have a good time.”

“Hey babe, you leave that up to me.”

He grabbed her hand and led her toward the detached garage, stopping at the door he kissed her. The butterflies returned, and he eased away from her holding her gaze.

“I hope you know there isn’t anywhere I’d rather be, or anyone else I’d rather be with.”

“Me too.” Riley’s response was barely audible.

“Let’s go.” He playfully pulled her into the garage, and flipped on the light. Riley gasped as she felt her heart plummet toward her feet.

Oh no.

The acid in her stomach began to crawl into her throat, causing a burning sensation. Nausea rocketed her insides, and the hair on the back of her neck stood up.

“What’s wrong?”

“I’m not sure about this Matt,” Riley whispered looking at the concrete floor.

He put his arm around her. “It’s ok Ri, I’ve practiced a lot, I’ve got my license and my dad says I’m ready for passengers. I want to take you for a ride. It’ll be so much fun and I’ve packed us an awesome dinner, even dessert.”

Riley stepped away from him, rubbing her sweaty palms on her jeans. “Matt, my father w-w-would kill me if I got on a motorcycle. I- I don’t think you understand, he’s made me promise to never get on one.”

“We aren’t going far. Just a short ride, and then we’ll come back. Trust me, it’ll be okay.”

Matt’s half smile returned, he pulled her close and lifted her chin. “Hey, babe don’t be scared. It’s so awesome to feel the wind blow through your hair and be part of the road. I want to share that with you Ri. No one else, just you.”

Riley put her head down again looking at the floor. His warm hands embraced her cheeks as his soft lips kissed her forehead. “I’ll just go up the street and back, and if you don’t like it we’ll come back and take the car. Okay?”

Maybe my dad is making a big deal out of this. What if Uncle Bobby had been killed by a bus … would that mean I couldn’t take the bus? What harm would a little ride to the end of the street be?

Riley looked at him. “Okay, I guess I can do that.”

“Awesome. Come on, babe … I know you’re gonna love it.” Matt walked the bike to the driveway. He pointed out a few safety things to Riley, but due to the loud palpitation of her heart, she couldn’t focus on anything he said.

“What about a helmet?”

“Relax, we’re just going to the end of the street.”

He mounted the bike and steadied it while she climbed on. He fired up the engine and the vibration startled Riley into wrapping her arms around him. She pressed her head against his back and closed her eyes.

Matt patted her hands and looked over his shoulder. “You don’t have to hold on so tight.” He chuckled. “I need to be able to breathe.”

“Sorry.” She loosened her grip.

“I’m gonna go real slow.” Matt took off easy and Riley opened one eye seeing the pavement pass under her. We’re moving, we’re moving. I’m on a motorcycle and I haven’t died yet.

Before she knew it they were at the end of the street. Matt slowed the bike and put his feet down to stop.

“See, it’s not very scary is it? Wanna go to the other end of the street?”

It’s not so bad. “Okay.”

Once again she clutched her arms around him and closed her eyes. But this time she didn’t keep them closed for long, just the initial take off. The wind in her hair felt good.

All too soon, they stopped again and Matt’s feet hit the ground.

She wasn’t ready for it to be over. “Do it again, go to the other end of the street.”

“I’m gonna go a little quicker okay?”

“Okay,” Riley said with her head buried in Matt’s back. She giggled at the increase in speed. Dads crazy! This isn’t dangerous—it’s fun!

He pulled into the driveway. “See, it’s fun isn’t it?” He turned to look at her.“So you think you’re up for a longer ride?”

The knot remained in her stomach, but excitement overrode anxiety.

He’ll be careful. And he wants to do this… with me! Only me. But Dad… if he finds out, he’ll kill me.

Matt took her hands and leaned down making eye contact with her. “Babe … I knew you belonged on that bike with me.”

She caught her breath. He just said I belong with him.

“Just a short ride, okay?” Riley bit her lip as her anxiety heightened.

“Alright, hold on, I’m gonna go get the backpack and then we’ll head out.”

Riley’s legs held the bike up as her heart raced. She struggled to breathe, watched him run over to the garage and grab the backpack. She had difficulty swallowing and struggled to breathe. You don’t have to do this, it’s dangerous. I want to though. I think.

He returned, holding the pack. “Are you okay wearing this? Or should I?”

Riley nodded and Matt slipped the pack over her arms and fastened the chest clamp. He passed her a helmet. She squeezed her head into it, and then lifted the visor. “I don’t like the helmet, it’s really tight.”

“You gotta wear it, I’m not gonna take you for a ride without it. You wanna try mine?” He sat down in front of her..

“No.” She flipped the visor down.

Her arms wrapped around him, as he fired up the bike again.

“Ready?” Matt asked as he revved the engine.

“What?” She couldn’t hear anything with the helmet on.

He gave her a thumbs up sign, and she returned it. He slowly pulled out, only this time Riley never closed her eyes … watching the scenery as houses passed by. .

The bike accelerated— instinctively her arms squeezed tight around him. She couldn’t stop smiling. This is so totally fun! I could hold onto him all night.

She snuggled up against him until he pulled into a gas station and stopped the bike. Matt lifted his visor and turned towards her.

“Are you okay?”

She flipped her visor up. “Yeah. What’s up?”

“Just wanted to make sure you were okay before I kept going.”

“Where are we going?”

“I wanted to go up by the river. It’s a pretty fun road, I think you’ll like it.”

“Sounds good to me.”

He turned on the headlight, and they took off a road that wound around a series of hills. Their bodies moved with the bike as they took each curve. Excitement warmed her body, even as the cold wind nipped at her hands.

***

Matt pulled onto a dirt road and stopped at a day camp area. Once off the bike he removed the backpack from her shoulders.

The full moon illuminated the area. Riley walked to the shoreline and looked across to the other side enjoying the soothing sound of the water against the rocks. When she turned around, Matt had laid down a sheet for them to sit on. Plates covered with food were illuminated by a single glowing candle.

“Wow.” She took off her coat and sat down next to him, surprised that it didn’t seem cold.

“Come on, let’s eat.”

They ate pizza and Matt pulled a bottle of champagne and two plastic glasses from the bag. He smiled at Riley. “I want to celebrate you being my girlfriend.”

Just relax, calm down. He’s trying so hard to make up for being such a jerk. You didn’t want to get on the bike and that ended okay. What’s wrong with one glass of Champagne? He just said girlfriend … you’re his girlfriend. Just one glass, it’s only champagne.

Matt popped the cork and it gushed out – he put the bottle to his lips, spilling quite a bit on himself. Riley couldn’t help chuckling. He poured both glasses and handed her one.

“Babe … I think you’re awesome. You’re not like any other girl I’ve dated. Thanks for giving me another chance.” He tilted his head back and downed the drink.

Riley stared at the cup, watching the bubbles float to the surface. She wanted to toss it behind her, and would if she thought he wouldn’t notice.

“It’s just champagne, it’s not a big deal, not like you’re gonna get drunk.”

“I know. I’ve just never drank alcohol.”

“And you’d never ridden a motorcycle either.” He smiled at her, the flicker of the candle dancing on his cheekbones.

She took a sip, it didn’t taste bad and before she knew it he’d refilled both cups.

They chatted about school and music and Matt talked about all the places he’d been riding and how much he liked the road up to the river. “Ever since I came up here, I wanted to bring you. I knew you’d like it.”

Somehow they’d both ended up lying beside each other on the sheet. Matt propped his head on his hand, and looked down at her. “I’m glad you came. I wanted to share this with you.”

Gosh, this is like a dream.

Riley felt her heart melt. She pulled him towards her, urgent to kiss him. His lips were full and soft. She ran her hands over his muscular arms as he held her close.

He pulled away from her. “I knew you belonged on the bike with me.”

How did I get so lucky? I can’t believe he likes me.

Matt leaned in and kissed her again. She kissed him back her fingers tangled in his curly hair.

“Babe, you’re the only one for me,” He breathed in her ear then kissed her neck.

A knot formed in her stomach. How could this moment be wrong, Matt is everything I want. He’s really likes me. Jeez ….stop being a worrywart.

Sweet Success!

2010-08-02T13:17:00.002-07:00

The retreat was a great success and such a bummer it ended too soon.
We were blessed to have such great classes given by awesome women.
I'll update a little later... since I'm trying to get back to life and work and callings....
WHEW....
I think I need another retreat.... already.
Stay posted!

Laptops Abound!

2010-07-29T14:26:00.001-07:00

I'm having an excellent time here at the ANWA Writers retreat.
It took A LOT of work and effort getting all the food here, moving around the rooms furniture and just PREPARING AND PREPARING for all the attendee's to come! :)

But now everyone's been arriving and I've spent the last TWO nights staying up writing. I've finally gotten over the hurdle and I'm LOVING my Work in Progress. YAY!!!!

The facilities here are awesome, we have a basement and an entire first floor with several rooms. Of course I'm buried down in the COOL basement and have set up my computer and I'm loving it!

There is nothing like being surrounded around a bunch of writers, laptops everywhere, and creative juices flowing rapidly throughout the place. :)
Well ... I'm going to stop blogging so I can go and work on Mandy's Miracle!
:)

Anticipating the ANWA Retreat!

2010-07-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited to head to the mountains next week and surround myself with people who "GET IT".
Women who think 'somewhat' like me.
Who have voices in their heads.
Who LOVE to write.
Who are taking take away from their families and life to rub shoulders with fellow writers.

We have several classes planned and LOTS of writing time.
I've been so out of sorts lately still greiving and trying to figure out how to function in life. I'm really looking forward to getting away from all the stresses in my life and focusing on what I love- Writing!

Hopefully this is exactly what I need to RECHARGE my 2nd book. I've been a little perplexed and percolating for plot and where to go from here.
I'm thrilled and looking forward to some great inspiration and socializing with awesome women.
Life is good.

Don't Begin at the Beginning!!

2010-07-09T21:29:00.001-07:00

I found this on a great website http://www.dailywritingtips.com/ and this article is called - don't begin at the Beginining by Simon Kewin

If you’re a fiction writer, you’ll be aware of the need to grab a reader’s attention as early as possible; to hook them, preferably, on your very first page. One key technique for doing this is to start your story in medias res.

The Latin expression in medias res means “into the midst of things”. Used as a literary term, it refers to starting a story by jumping straight into the middle of the conflict or action.
It’s often a temptation for writers to start by providing all the background information for their story, all the character and location detail they’ve laboriously worked out. But this exposition or “infodump” can be very boring.

A better approach is to skip the exposition, at least temporarily, and dramatize your work’s central conflict from the beginning. As well as immediately involving the reader, this helps set up narrative tension : the reader wants to know why the described conflict is happening. Explaining too much up front can deflate this intrigue. Over time you can slowly reveal the explanation in what will, hopefully, be a satisfying and engrossing process for the reader.

Filling in the back-story can be achieved in several ways : via flashback, for example, or by having your characters recall prior events. The skill is in providing the reader with just the information they need, without either overwhelming them or leaving them bemused. The best approach is to reveal your back-story in dribs and drabs so that a lot of the time, your readers aren’t even aware they are being informed.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with writing long sections of factual information for your own use, as you work out the details of your setting. In many ways, this is a good thing. Just don’t expect your readers to wade through all that before they reach your actual story.

Glimpse of Riley

2010-07-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

Here's a snippet into the BEGINNING of Riley's Gift.

Riley clutched her backpack as she watched the winding road from the backseat of the Honda Civic. Her heart beat in rhythm to the rock music. Why did Derek have to drive so fast? Maneuvering the vehicle through each turn, his knee held the wheel steady as he air drummed. Stacey sat beside him in the front seat, her head nodding to the music.

Leaning forward, Riley straining to read the speedometer: eighty-five miles an hour. Holding her breath, she bit her lip and closed her eyes.

“Relax, Riley.” Matt Morgan’s soothing voice echoed in her head. She cast a sideways glance at him, his curly brown hair framed his handsome face. Now she remembered why she sat in this death trap. He gave her a half-smile, fracturing all logical thinking. Her grip loosened on the canvas bag as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. The heat radiating from his body somehow traveled to her cheeks. She looked away from him. Derek’s invisible drumsticks smashed into several air cymbals. Riley flinched again.

“Don’t be nervous.” Matt squeezed her.

“I’m not nervous.”

“You’re always nervous. You gotta loosen up a little.”

She didn’t need to loosen up. She needed to be back at school taking the algebra test. Why’d she bother studying for three hours with Chris? No doubt, he’d hassle her about ditching. But Matt won. She’d decided to come with him, even though it defied her better judgment.

A shrillness cut through the music. A siren?

Matt pulled his arm away from her, and looked out the back window. “Dude! There’s a cop behind you!”

Derek looked through the rear view mirror. He slammed his hand against the steering wheel and blurted out several unidentifiable words before turning off the music.

“Stay calm!” Stacey glanced back from the front seat. “We’re cool, we tossed that twelve pack, right? So they can’t bust us for drinking and driving.”

Bust us? Oh, why didn’t I stay at school?

Derek didn’t slow down. “They’re gonna bust me for underage drinking, driving, and speeding.” He used a few choice words. “I’ll lose my license ‘til who knows when.” He hesitated; then accelerated. “I’m gonna outrun ‘um.”

Stacey looked back at Riley, her green eyes wide and face pale, then focused on Derek. “Are you crazy? I’m not going to die today. Pull over!”

Riley’s knuckles were white as she clung onto her backpack, and she jumped as Matt lunged forward. “Dude, calm down man, you got this.” Soothing didn’t describe his voice now.

Riley glanced out the window the scenery flew by in a blur, making her dizzy. Putting her head in her hands, she closed her eyes and began rocking.

“Derek. Floor it man.” Matt yelled.

The siren unsettled her. Every hair raised on the back of her neck. Please stop the car. Please stop the car.

She was thrown forward— luckily the seat belt caught her. Bracing herself she struggled to breathe. The car swerved and skidded to a stop in front of a gas station.

Derek put the car in park and shoved his hand in his pocket. He bounced as if there were a bee in his pants as he pulled out a baggie filled with something. Grabbing a lever below the steering wheel, he adjusted it up and stuffed the bag into the crevice. In a quick motion, he dropped the steering wheel back down to its original place.

Great he’s done this before.

Glancing in the rear-view mirror, Derek took a deep breath and turned toward them, his cheeks flushed. “No one say anything … okay?”

Matt leaned forward. “Dude—”

“Shut up!” Derek cut him off.

Before Matt could respond, a stocky officer approached Derek’s door. He leaned over and knocked on the window.

Perspiration beaded on Riley’s forehead. She couldn’t remember a time when she’d spoken to a police officer, let alone been pulled over.

Derek fumbled the buttons to roll the window down. Red blotches began to appear all over his neck. He muttered under his breath as the window descended.

“Please step out of the vehicle,” the burly officer ordered.

I’m gonna throw up. I know I am.

Derek got out of the car and allowed the cop to walk him to the back of the car.

Riley stared at Matt, who cursed under his breath as he watched Derek. Stacey and Riley both jumped when a loud knock came from outside the car.

An officer, much younger than his partner, shouted through the passenger window, “We need all of you to step out of the vehicle.”

Riley reached for Matt’s arm. “I can’t go to jail.”

The blood from his beautiful golden skin drained, leaving him ghostlike. “You and me both.”

Where to start?

2010-07-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

There are many differing opinions on how to start a novel. Everyone has a different route to the end result.

The snowflake method, charting, character driven via complete run down of character traits.

I love the quote:

"Writing is like driving at night in the fog. You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way." E.L. Doctorow

That's kinda my method. I believe in following the narrative. For the most part I know where I'm starting, and I know the vicinity where I'm ending - but I have no idea what pit stops I'll make in the process.

But... I have considered changing my way...and incorporating some new things I've learned.

At any rate... I'm happy to be diving back into my work in progress and to feel that AWESOME drive that comes from writing. OH how great that feeling is. AHHHHHH

Okay... I'm diving in...

*splash*

Tickling Tuesday!

2010-06-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

Okay... thought I'd try to do a regular post of exerpts of Riley's Gift.

When Wade turned the headlights off, darkness enveloped the Mustang. The clock on the dash gave off just enough light to see her surroundings. She tried to look back through her peripheral vision to see what Don and Stacey were doing. No use, she couldn’t see anything. It didn’t take long to hear what they were doing. Oh my Gosh. How could Stacey do this to me? Okay, breathe, don’t panic.

The windows fogged up from the heat in the backseat. Wade and Riley each cracked their windows as awkward silence lingered between them. Riley opened her mouth and swallowed “So, um, nice car…”

Wade turned his entire body towards her; the clock light gave his eyes an evil glow. “Thanks.”

This guy is so creepy, how can Stacey think he’s cute?

“Check this out.” Wade pushed the power button on the dash, music erupted as he showed off the speakers.

Riley racked her brain for something else to talk about, trying to ignore the noises coming from the back seat. Wade put the bottle he’d been drinking from between his legs and leaned his head back, closing his eyes.

Maybe he’ll fall asleep and leave me alone.

Wade turned up the radio, and then turned around and spoke to Don. It was meant as a whisper, but Riley heard every word.

“Dude, what should I do?”

Don chuckled under his breath. “Wade, come on, just put your arm around her and kiss her.”

What! Oh no. Riley’s eyes grew big and her heart pounded in her chest.

He is not kissing me, he is not touching me. What am I gonna do?

Wade turned back around and sat down; he put his head in his hands and sat still for a moment.

Think of something to say, think.

He turned around again and continued to whine. “I can’t, I don’t know how man.”

Oh thank you, thank you … please just turn around, start the car and let’s get out of here. Please…

“Dude, I’m gonna slug you. Just do it.”

It’s your own fault. You put yourself in this situation. Maybe this is what I deserve. Then, as if on cue, she heard the words again. Riley you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to, it’s that simple. – I don’t want to be here. I wanna go home.

Riley clutched her purse in one hand, released her seatbelt with the other. Unlocked the car door, and rested her hand on her leg, ready to reach for the handle.

Wade sat forward and hugged the steering wheel, banging his forehead against it. He took a deep breath and blew it out, then he sat back and rubbed the palms of his hands down his legs.

With her eyes wide open she prayed for courage. Wade moved toward her in slow motion, his arm reaching behind her shoulders. Riley clutched the door handle and pushed as hard as she could. Barely escaping Wade’s grasp, she flung the door open and thrust herself out.

The cold breeze blew through her hair as she made her way toward the park. Tears burned her eyes. “I can’t believe this is happening to me.”

Voices in my head

2010-06-26T04:06:00.001-07:00

Do you have voices in your head? Do they talk to you?
Chances are if your a writer - you have voices in your head. I believe this is normal. :)

I have different ways my characters talk to me, sometimes it's just plain outright. Other times its more a feeling, a nudging to get going and move the story along. But the MAIN way my characters talk to me is through songs. When I hear a song and it starts to talk to me... it's amazing that I can hear the character's voice.

When I wrote Riley's Gift I had an entire playlist of songs - I know this is common among writers. But at the time.. I had no idea. I just know that music is a HUGE part of my life and it's also a huge part of my writing. So I embrace the voices ... I'm not crazy... I'm perfectly normal .... for a writer. *wink*

So ... how do your characters talk to you?

I love Writing!

2010-06-22T10:14:00.000-07:00

Okay....

So after 100's of version of my pitch, I came home and after two weeks of processing the last two months of my life - I was able to just sit down and out it flowed.... a great pitch. Saying everything I wanted to say and didn't know how. GASP!

I only asked ONE person for their opinion. I think you start asking SOOO many people - it becomes grueling and trying to figure out who to listen to. Thus I get overwhelmed.

So I put my pitch together and low and behold I even sent out some query letters.
WOW! I guess I am back.

Also I've been helping my wonderful friend AMANDA WASHINGTON edit her 2nd book and it's been a blast. Sometimes you're lucky enough to meet that person who complements you and their strengths are my weaknesses and vice versa. It works out really well. It's also helped me to get my brain working and back in the grove of the narrative and plots and sequencing... and sequencing.. .did I mention sequencing? I love watching the story come together!!

PS... I even submitted my book to a publisher!! GASP
Wow... I guess I'm really doing it...
Now... back to start on Mandy's Miracle...and listen to the voices in my head!
I love writing!!!

I'm baaaaaaaaackkkk

2010-06-17T10:04:00.002-07:00

Okay... Just wanted to send a shout out that I'm back.
Finally starting to get my life back in order and IT FEELS GOOD.

I'm still greiving over the loss of my dad - (for all the details you'll have to visit my family blog - http://www.darrachdelights.blogspot.com/

But rest assured that I'm itching to write... and talk about writing and DIG IN.

On hold

2010-05-05T01:19:00.001-07:00

So My writing blog is on hiatus right now....
If you like to know what's going on with Krista Darrach - you'll have to travel over to my family blog:
http://darrachdelights.blogspot.com/

It's got all the updates and I can only handle one blog right now.
Needless to say I'm not writing much - but I have cracked open Riley's Gift and am finishing a few edits from a wonderful friend. Then if my life calms down or rather WHEN my life calms down - I'll get back at submitting query letters - if I can even get my query letter right.

Writing Music

2010-04-11T14:45:00.001-07:00

I LOVE this song. It's one of my favorites - well, I LOVE move scores - and this is one of my favorite movies, scores - and I found this video - it's awesome!

I did it!

2010-04-03T03:58:00.001-07:00

Okay... it's official. I cracked open Book Two in my Silver Lining Series!
WOO HOO!

I've had a TON of anxiety in starting...and maybe it's NOT all gone... but at least I'm moving forward.
It's hard to write when you know what your doing! Talk about pressure.
Not that I KNOW what I'm doing...but I know MORE than the last book I wrote. TONS MORE!!
Thank you ANWA!!!!

Anyway... thought I'd throw that out there and let y'all know Mandy's Miracle is up and running - or at least.... I should re-phrase = it's up and started. I'll let you know if it's actually RUNNING.
=)

Interview with Joyce Di Pastena

2010-03-28T18:39:00.002-07:00

Today I'm soooo excited to have Joyce Di Pastena as my guest today! I'm currently reading her latest book -

Illuminations of the Heart and I'm LOVING it.

Welcome Joyce!!

What genre do you write and why?

I write medieval romances, although I tend to include so much additional plot alongside the romance that I had an agent tell me I don’t really write romances at all. But they’re all romances to me. There may be a lot of other stuff going on…mysteries, assassination attempts, medieval politics…but at the heart of each story is a man and a woman falling in love against all the odds around them.

Where do you get your inspiration to write? Many different sources. Sometimes it comes from a book I’ve written before. For example, my first published book, Loyalty’s Web, was based on characters from that first unpublished novel I wrote in college. The hero and heroine of Loyalty’s Web were an elderly married couple in that early romance, and I became curious to find out how they had met and fallen in love, so I wrote Loyalty’s Web to find out the answer.

Sometimes bits and pieces of research will fascinate me and influence how I draw a character’s background. For my second published romance, Illuminations of the Heart, I became interested in the subject of medieval illumination and decided to combine that interest with my new heroine, the daughter of a medieval illuminator from

Italy

. (Although the novel itself is set in

France

, like Loyalty’s Web.) During the writing of Illuminations of the Heart, I became interested in the subject of medieval troubadours. So that’s a subject I’m incorporating into the novel I’m writing right now.

Do you ever get writer’s block? What helps you to overcome it?

The thing that has worked best for me through the years is to set a timer for a specific length of time (an hour, two hours, whatever you can set it for) and tell myself that I don’t have to write anything, but I do have to sit at the computer until the timer goes off. I can’t go get a snack, I can’t play any games, I can’t turn on the TV, I can’t do anything except either stare at my blank computer screen or type something. And that “something” has to have something to do with my new story! Sometimes I only type a handful of words, sometimes I’ll end up typing a stream, but whether out of boredom or inspiration, I don’t think I’ve ever not written something before the timer goes off. And no matter how terrible what I wrote might seem at the time, it almost always ends up moving my story along no matter how microscopically. And I always feel better about myself just for trying.

Where can readers find a copy of Illuminations of the Heart?
Illuminations of the Heart is available in Deseret Bookstores and some Arizona Barnes & Nobles. It can be ordered directly through Barnes & Noble and Borders bookstores, or ordered online at DeseretBook.com (http://deseretbook.com) Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com), BarnesandNoble.com (http://www.barnesandnoble.com), and Borders.com (http://www.borders.com).

What is your next project?

Right now, I’m just calling it “my troubadour book”. It’s based on a character from my second book, Illuminations of the Heart, and once again is set in medieval France.

Favorite food? Chocolate chip cookies

Favorite dessert? Umm…chocolate chip cookies

Jeans and T-shirt, or designer clothes? Both! (Well, not really “designer”, but I also like fun, “nice” clothes.)

Guilty pleasure? Chocolate. (If only I felt more guilt than pleasure from it!)

One word that describes you? Shy. Why do you think this interview is taking place on a blog?

Favorite flower? Snapdragons

Favorite sport? If I absolutely, positively MUST be forced to watch a sport, then I’ll choose figure skating.

Thanks so much Joyce for joining me today - I'm going to and finish reading Illuminations of the Heart!

How to find Joyce:
www.joyce-dipastena.com

http://jdp-news.blogspot.com

http://medievalresearch.blogspot.com

http://medievalvignettes.blogspot.com

Eclipse Trailer

2010-03-24T00:00:00.001-07:00

I LOVED Twilight (the book). The movie was okay. I'm not a crazy psycho critic or anything. I appreciate books and when people make movies out of them... I don't expect it to be like I imagined. So I just try to enjoy it for what it's worth. Anyway.... Here's the new trailer for the 3rd book in the Twilight Series (and strangely enough ... I can't even remember this book! HA HA)

Nicole Giles is my guest author today!

2010-03-15T22:24:00.000-07:00

D.N. Giles was born in Nevada, and moved with her parents to a number of cities in and around the Midwest, mostly staying in Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and snatches of time in Texas. Her future aspirations include adding a tropical island to her growing list of locations. For now, she plans to travel to as many tropical locations as possible, scouting for her future home in paradise.

Nichole Giles’ early career plans included become a megastar actress or a rock star, but she decided instead to have a family and then become a writer, in that order. Writing is her passion, but she also loves to spend time with her family, travel, drive in the rain with the convertible top down, and play music at full volume so she can sing along. She is co-author of Mormon Mishaps and Mischief, an anthology of humorous anecdotes, which was released December 2009. Some of her other work has been published in Highlights for Children, The Freind, and Boys’ Quest.

Nicole’s newest book “The Sharp Edge of a Knife” falls into the newest genre:Reality Fiction.

Welcome Nichole. I met you at the ANWA Writers Conference on February 27th 2010. I was intrigued by your book “The Sharp Edge of a Knife because it is based on a true story. How did you find out about it?

This is actually a family story. The main character is my grandpa. I remember hearing during my childhood that he’d been kidnapped in the past. Actually, he was kidnapped or held hostage three times total in his life, which makes the story all that much more interesting to me.

What made you want to write the story?

After my grandpa died, I was reading his life history and this particular incident really stood out to me. I decided to write it as an article at first, but there was so much information, and so much research involved when it came to finding the facts, that it turned into a book.

That is soooo awesome.....How much research?

I started out with a handful of newspaper articles and about two pages worth of journal accounts from my grandpa, and somewhere in the mix there was a court subpoena. From there I called the police departments involved, but because the case was so old—fifty years—they referred me to the national archives in Denver. From there, I was able to get someone to help me track down the case and all the evidence and court documents. Interestingly, the knife used in the kidnapping, as well of some of the other evidence, is still there, and will remain there forever. Or at least, that’s what I’m told.

That’s a lot of research. Did you have to do anything else?

No, I didn’t have to, but I felt a need to so I actually did some more digging and tracked down one of the kidnappers. I wrote him a letter, asking him about the situation, and not really expecting a response. So, I was completely shocked when a week later this guy called me and talked to me on the phone for about an hour, telling me his side of things. He was very remorseful and teary. Very apologetic. It was probably the most profound conversation I’ve ever had.

Wow! That is amazing. How long did it take you to actually write this book?

It was actually a fairly long process all things considered. From beginning to end, it took me almost three years to get from the inception of the idea to publication. And there was a lot that happened in between, including me working on two other major projects at the same time. All in all, though, I’m thrilled with how it turned out.

Where can we learn more about The Sharp Edge of a Knife?

You can read the first chapter at my website. My author bio is also there, with a few interesting facts pertaining to the story.

And where can this book be purchased?

Right now it’s definitely available on Amazon, and I’m told it will be in stores sometime in the next few weeks, if not already. My official book launch promotion is scheduled for March 27^th from 1-3:oo pm at Eborn books in the Provo Towne Center mall in Provo Utah. It’s open to the public, and going to be lots of fun.

That’s exciting. Thanks for visiting with me today.

Feeling the pull

2010-03-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

I've done so many rounds of edits on Riley's Gift and been working like a slave on my pitch. The wretched pitch! That I think I'm going to let it percolate a while - maybe. Or I might just start sending it off to agents.
Who knows.
What I do know is ... the itching has started. It's bugging me, gnawing at me... calling my name...
W R I T E....... Write something new ...... Start on Book two of your series.

This is my dilemma .... when I start a project - it's not a project... it's an obsession. I say goodbye to normalcy-- Wait! That would imply my life is normal, hmmmm not possible.
But I do, I become absorbed into my fictional world and every breath and thought is dedicated to it's creation.
I mentioned to my husband I was going to start working on Mandy's Miracle. His response: "See you in a year."
Which is ridiculous- it will probably be 6 months!!! But then the editing begins. *SIGH*

I'm curious as I begin this NEW journey. I've acquired so many tools in the last 2 years that this new project must be smoother than the first. I'm excited, because I absolutely love the art of writing, the way my brain works... and how the narrative of the plot and characters develop into their own.

Okay.... I'm seriously considering it.
*SIGH*
Hopefully I'll continue to blog... and my entire life doesn't blow by the wayside.
Stay tuned....

The fabulous Sarah Eden is my guest today! =)

2010-03-01T07:32:00.004-07:00

I'm SOOOO excited to have Sarah Eden as my guest today!! She's a gorgeous redhead, not to mention a hillarious lady and I PERSONALLY know her! =) With several notable awards to her credit, she is debuting a new book, "Courting Miss Lancaster" which pairs her delicious humor with her gift for raising the heart rate of her readers. But we'll let Sarah explain.

I LOVE your sense of humor! Where did that come from?

My family has lived in the arid deserts of Arizona since before the invention of air conditioning. So insanity runs in my family. Not something most people would include on a resume, but it's great for an author. Writing requires a certain degree of mental instability. And a tendency toward insomnia. I write a lot at night and while my kids are at school and any time I am supposed to be cleaning my house. My 6-year-old describes my books this way: “Kissy, romantic books where the people lived a long time ago and talked funny.” Yep, pretty much. I write clean romances that take place in Regency England (think the first two decades of the 1800s: Napoleon, Jane Austen, Mad King George). The endings are always happy, the characters are usually funny and my mom thinks they are amazing.

I read a little something about the source of your inspiration. Rather than having me try to paraphrase, explain your inspiration to my readers.

Perhaps the single greatest source of inspiration for me lies in the fact that writing gives me an excuse to avoid responsible things. “Wow, I have very large piles of dishes on the counters (yes, plural) of my kitchen. Sorry. I need to write.” “The PTA is hoping I will bake 6 dozen cupcakes for the bake sale in a half-hour. Sorry. I need to write.” “What is that, children? You want dinner? There are frozen waffles in the freezer. Mom needs to write.” Inspiration? Check.

Any challenges to getting your thoughts on paper?

I have a deep and unshakable need to consume large quantities of unnecessary and useless calories (and by this I mean Cheetos). This need creates another need—to exercise my backside, hips and gut off. These very real needs often get in the way of my writing. To my joy, I have managed to invent, in many different versions, a contraption made up of very large books, packing tape and the back of the sofa in my living room which allows me to type while spending some quality time with my elliptical machine while burning calories to which I'd rather not become too permanently attached. I would take a picture, but it's pretty embarrassing. Embarrassingly awesome! I am also developing a system by which I can type and eat at the same time. I call it “Click, click, click, chew.” Fascinating. I'm thinking of writing a book about it.

So, where do you begin?

My books always begin with a character, oddly enough. The plot and setting develop around him or her. I write romances, so the next step is deciding what kind of person would be the love-interest for that character. Then I flesh out where and exactly when within my time period these people live, their circumstances, etc. Those things which come in the way of their being together are usually obvious at this point—if not, I figure that out. So, my ideas come from people. This is probably the primary reason I have no friends—everyone is afraid they'll end up in my next book. It probably doesn't help that I tell them about this possibility.

Your most recent Regency-era romance is Courting Miss Lancaster. What's it about?

About 200 pages.
Oh... wait. I get what you mean. Let me refer to the oh-so-handy back of the book:

Harry Windover adores blonde, green-eyed Athena Lancaster, but alas, a penniless man like himself has no hope of winning a young noblewoman's hand. To add insult to injury, Athena's brother-in-law and guardian, the Duke of Kielder, has asked Harry to assist Athena in finding the gentleman of her dreams. But the lovesick Harry is cunning as well: as the weeks pass, he introduces Athena to suitors who are horrifically boring, alarmingly attached to their mothers, downright rude, astoundingly self-absorbed, and utterly ridiculous.

Athena can't comprehend why she is having so little success meeting eligible and acceptable gentlemen. Indeed, her circle of admirers couldn't be less admirable--nothing like the loyal, gentle friend she's found in Harry.

But how long can Harry's scheme be hidden before it is discovered? And what will Athena do when she uncovers Harry's deception?

Here is the Trailer:

What are you working on right now?

I am currently writing a sort-of-sequel to Courting Miss Lancaster. It follows the misadventures of another Lancaster sister—timid and uncertain Daphne—as she attempts to find love despite almost overwhelming obstacles. She comes up against snooty Peers, selfish matrons and even the dreaded “Love Triangle!” Now, that's gonna be an amazing story!

Other than writing, what else do you do with your time.

When my daughter was in preschool, she made me a Mothers Day card in which she answered several questions about me. Her answer to the question “What does your mom like to do most?” was “Not cook.” So, there you go.

I also enjoy reading and music and not sleeping (though “enjoy” isn't precisely the right word for that last one—more like “accept begrudgingly”).

In all my free time, (rolling my eyes), I am a regular contributor at mormonmommyblogs.blogspot.com, a presenter at various writing conferences, a Mommy-Taxi and an interviewer-extraordinaire for my recurring blog segment “I Need Friends Friday” at http://www.sarahmeden.com/

Where can readers buy Courting Miss Lancaster?

Courting Miss Lancaster can be found at Deseret Book stores and Seagull bookstores. A link to purchase online can be found at my website, http://www.sarahmeden.com/

Thanks for stopping by, Sarah. "Courting Miss Lancaster" sounds so awesome! I know it will be a huge success! *hugs*

Interview with Laurie Lewis!

2010-02-24T21:38:00.000-07:00

This week I'm interviewing Laurie Lewis.

Laurie was born and raised in rural Maryland, surrounded by the history-rich cities of Philadelphia, Washington and Baltimore which provide the settings for her books. She is also a popular historical speaker and workshop presenter.

Laruie is a member of the LDStorymakers authors’ group as well as ANWA, a writing group for LDS women. She currently serves in her stake as the LDS Seminary Supervisor, working with the youth and Seminary teachers. She now combines all her loves—Church and American history, people, family and interesting locations—to produce family and historical dramas.

Laurie, how many kids do you have?
I had four kids in six years. Life was crazy wonderful. They're all grown now. Three are married, and they've collectively blessed me with four grandchildren with a fifth on the way. I always loved to write, but I waited until I was 46 to submit my first manuscript, "Unspoken." By then the oldest was married with a baby, and my youngest was a freshman at college.

Where do you currently live?
Tom and I still live in a little town called Mount Airy in Carroll County, Maryland, where we raised our family. We've lived here for 26 years.

Who are your books published through?
It's a little crazy around here because I currently have books under three publishers right now. I'm under contract with Covenant who published my first novel, "Unspoken" and the first two volumes of my "Free Men and Dreamers" series, "Dark Sky at Dawn" and "Twilight's Last Gleaming." They pulled out of the series, but readers wrote, asking me to finish the story, so I published volume three, "Dawn's Early Light" through an Amazon affiliate. I also submitted a romance to Covenant, but they don't handle literary romances, so I submitted it to Leatherwood Press who is about to launch it this spring.

This link, (http://laurielclewis.com/books.html ) will take you to preview chapters, reviews, etc.

After writing your first book, how long did it take you to get published?
I got really lucky on "Unspoken." Covenant was the first place I submitted it, and they sent it back, asking me to rework some things. I resubmitted it a few months later and it was accepted. The process from first submission to it's debut on the shelves was probably about eighteen months.

How did you celebrate your first published novel?
I remember this so clearly. My daughter was a student at Utah State in Logan. I was visiting her at Easter time when the call came through. I was so nervous I walked outside so no one would see me melt down if the call was a rejection. When the senior editor said those words, "We've decided to accept your manuscript for publication," I screamed! My daughter Amanda, and all her room mates, cheered for me, then I called my husband and the other kids. It was awesome. Equally splendid was the day the box arrived with the first copies of the book inside. It was magical and surreal. I felt like a new mommy again!

Are your upcoming novels also about the Civil War era?
This will be a very busy year. My romance, (we are nailing down the title tonight) debuts in April. It's a story of a recently widowed LDS woman named Avery, from Baltimore, and an anti-religion widower from Anna Maria Island named Gabriel. Both of them see trouble brewing in their respective families, and they each seek a change of scenery in which to heal themselves and their children. But Avery's new neighbors are an ex-rodeo couple from Texas who run a real estate company. When Rider and Teddie arrange for the pair to "swap" homes for the summer, Avery's and Gabriel's tidy, private lives are invaded by a host of quirky characters who teach them to laugh and love again, and most importantly, they discover what things truly last.

Also, book four of "Free Men and Dreamers" my War of 1812 saga, is set to debut in July of this year. I'm trying to get the completed series out and on the shelves in time for the Bicentennial celebrations of the Star Spangled Banner.

WOW you're a very busy woman--how do you juggle all of your responsibilities and still make time to write?
First, I try to keep a good balance between the temporal and the spiritual. When I neglect my spiritual side, including family time, nothing else goes well for me. I write best when I have order in my life, so I can only neglect home and hearth for so long before my mind becomes distracted. It's as if I can hear the laundry calling out, "Wash me! Fold me!" That's when I need to set my writing aside for a time. Still, I tend to be most productive under stress. I like having definite deadlines and goals. And I need to turn off the Internet sometimes. I'm too easily distracted.

I couldn't agree more with you!!! Thank you Laurie for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this interview!

Blog Contest!!!!

2010-02-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

Elana Johnson's blog <--click here has a GREAT contest on her blog...

The chance to win a query letter critique. You read it right. A. Query. Letter. Critique. In a writer's wildest dreams that is what they want most of all. A query letter critique.

But by whom, you may ask?

Only by one of these top five literary agents!

1. Kate Testerman-Shafer of KT Literary (critique will be posted on her blog, Ask Daphne)
2. Michelle Andelman of Lynn C. Franklin Associates (my fabulous agent!)
3. Mary Kole of Andrea Brown Literary Agency
4. Michelle Wolfson of Wolfson Literary Agency
5. Joanna Volpe of Nancy Coffey Literary & Media Representation

The link above will take you to her site. Look for Pay it Forward Query Critique Contest for all the sweet details.

Her blog contest also links to another great blog contest and blog scavenger hunt at Shelli Johannes-Wells blog. Way awesome prizes for writers here, too--daily prizes and a grand prize involving marketing and agent critiqes!!

Interview with Donna Hatch!

2010-01-31T21:28:00.001-07:00

Welcome Donna! I'm so excited to interview you, I'm a huge fan! No time to waste--Tell us about your release, The Stranger She Married. (I absolutely loved this book!!!)

Okay, here's my "elevator pitch"

“The Stranger She Married” is Book of the Rogue Hearts Series. Torn between a disfigured war hero with the heart of a poet, and a handsome libertine who may not be all he seems, impoverished Alicia must marry by the end of the month. Despite a murder threat looming over her, learning to love the stranger she married may pose the greatest danger of all … to her heart.

Did I mention I love this book? The cover is gorgeous! Can you tell us a little about how covers come into being? Do you have input into the process?

Most publishers don't let the authors have any input, but I was lucky. I filled out a questionnaire with character descriptions and a concept of what I'd pictured. The finished result was nothing like I'd imagined, and the hero looks nothing like the cover, but they got the heroine spot-on right down to the eye color. And I do like it, too. (ME TOO!!!)

What are you working on now?

I'm finalizing the edits on book 3 of the Rogue Heart's Series which isn't titled yet. (Gulp.) Book 2, "The Guise of a Gentleman" will be out in April. Each book is a stand-alone book, about a different brother of the Amesbury family, and the family members wander in and out of each other's books.

You've got a ton of kiddos, how do you find time to write? How do you balance family with writing?

Yes, with 6 children, making time to write is very challenging. I do much of my writing at night after they are in bed, or during nap time, but when I'm on a roll, I write instead of unimportant things like fix dinner. I haven't dusted since last Christmas and I gave up scrap booking. This year, my youngest child just started kindergarten, so now I can write after they all leave for school. I also work in an office part time every afternoon, so that really cuts into my writing but I'm very focused, (or obsessed) so I keep at it at odd times of the day. And night. (I wouldn't know anything about obsession- *wink*)

What is the coolest thing about being an author?

A huge rush came when I got my contract and I was giddy about it for months. But I have to say that was nothing compared to the day my book came out and I saw it on the home page of my publisher. The euphoria was almost a surreal experience. The giddiness is still with me and I've noticed people inching away from me when my grin gets a bit too happy. I guess I scare people. And now I do it without even opening my mouth.

What has surprised you about being a published author?

How excited my friends and family were for me. I knew they'd be supportive, but I had no idea how they'd rally around me and help me promote it like they have. My niece even set up a fan of The Stranger She Married fan page!

What do you like to do when you aren't writing?

I love to read more than almost anything else. And I love music; I sing, play the harp, and am the choir director for church. I also like to swim, water ski, snow ski, and dance. I’m totally uncoordinated, so I don’t play any team sports and sports worldwide thank me for it. And, sappy as it sounds, I love to spend time with my husband, talking, walking, playing racquetball, or just cuddling.

THANKS so much for stopping by Donna!!!

http://www.donnahatch.com
http://donnahatch.blogspot. com/
http://historicalhussies.blogspot. com/

Ordering information:

Order on line at www.thewildrosepress.com

Here's the link to the ebook and the print book.

http://www.thewildr osepress. com/index. php?main_ page=advanced_ search_result&search_in_descripti on=1&zenid=8974d2c73f666 f647ceb6b44792c3 ebc&keyword=donna+ hatch

Interview with Christine Thackeray

2010-01-27T17:49:00.001-07:00

Welcome, Christine!

~ Thank You!!!!

Did I hear you have just moved?

~ Yes. We recently moved and I’m suddenly HOMESCHOOLING. And my husband is home full time. I thought toddlers were time consuming.

True. I get nothing done when my husband's home. Okay, books. You published two last year. Correct? Tell us a little about it.

~ Last year I had my first two books published. The first was fiction entitled “Crayon Messages: A Visiting Teacher Adventure.” It’s about a woman who is given the worst visiting teaching route ever and how it becomes her greatest blessing. You can still purchase it from the publisher, CFI, and it is still in some stores.

Tell us about the second.

~ The second was a collaborative non-fiction work that I did with my sister Dr. Marianna Richardson called, “C. S. Lewis: Latter Day Truths in Narnia.” We were fascinated to find out that C. S. Lewis had been quoted hundreds of times in church magazines and General Conferences so we worked to define C. S. Lewis’s themes in terms of what he intended versus what has been said of him. I thinks it’s an intriguing study and the end of the book contains a complete index of Lewis’s quotes by topic and who he has been quoted by. It’s a great resource for lesson preparation.

Now I would be very interested to read that! I enjoy C.S. Lewis and I too find his topics interesting. Don't you have another book coming out this year?

~ Yes. For Mother’s Day 2010 look out for a small gift book entitled, “Could You Be An Angel Today?” It’s a fun story about a typical Mom who has an angel come to her asking for a day off. The woman agrees to take on the angel’s responsibilities for one day and through that experience realizes that anyone can be an angel- even her.

You have an entire line-up here! And they all look so awesome! What are you working on now?

~ Lastly, my next visiting teaching adventure is on the way. It should be out by this summer and is called, “Lipstick Wars.” It’s the story of a young mother with an escaping toddler. Her son’s escapades take her to the door of a reclusive artist and together these women make miracles happen.

What fun!!! I look forward to reading all of these! Thanks Christine!

~ Thank you for the opportunity.

You can visit Christine at her website,

http://www.christinethackeray.com/ ,

or on her blog,http://www.christinethackeray.blogspot.com/ .

Cna yuo raed tihs?

2010-01-26T11:11:00.001-07:00

JUST FOR FUN!

Only great minds can read this

This is weird, but interesting!

fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too

Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe out of 100 can.

I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs forwrad it

I love it! I was surprised to not only read it... BUT read it quickly!

How did you do?

Song for Haiti

2010-01-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

I have to share this video with you.
My nineteen year old son wrote this song in two days. He was inspired by the destruction in Haiti.
He's just plain amazing. I stand in awe of his talents, and I'm happy to have him as my son.
Enjoy and share with your friends.

Interview with Anna del C. Dye

2010-01-18T20:01:00.000-07:00

Anna, what are your books’ names?
The Silent Warrior Trilogy
Book one "The Elf and the Princess"
Book two "Trouble in the Elf City"
Book Three "Elfs in a Conquered Realm"

What was your inspiration?
Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings"

What is the setting of your books?
A medieval fantasy land.

Who are your main characters?
Princess Adren: the last survivor of her massacred mankind kingdom.
Prince Paletin: The prince of Adren's kingdom sister city. He discovers the dead realm and takes her in.
The Silent Warrior: Adren's champion and mute companion.
Dellin: The Elf captain archer who falls in-love with Adren.
Tadren: The elf commander and Dellin's father.
Tahitans: Bloody and lazy people.
Orks: A wizard's dark inventions.

In what ways do you think you are like them?
Adren lost everything she knew and has to start over with new people, customs and language.
I left... grant you by my own will... everything I knew, including my family, thirty years ago for a new people, customs, and language.

In what ways are you different?
I'm much less athletic than she is. lol
What is your favorite scene in the book?
When Adren and Dellin discover each other. An 8' tall man with a 5' girl. That has to be a sight. (lol) But they say love is blind.

After you wrote book one, how long did it take you to get it published?
Four years

Do you consider your work fan-fiction for Tolkien?
No. I consider my work inspired by Tolkien but not fan fiction. I don't use the same characters he has. I do use Orks, Elfs, dwarfs, trolls, gnomes and many more... but they are universal characters and used in many books besides Tolkien's without being fan fiction.

Is there a book trailer for any of your books?
Yes, two of my first book and one of the second, none for the third yet. They are on my website, youtube and also under my profile in facebook.

Book #1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYu3J24mpSo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fckxI9WBRo&NR=1

Book #2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2otpPaXvUw

Do you have any advice for authors trying to break into the industry?

NEVER give up. Find the writers' group closest to you and join. They are a fountain of wisdom and ideas at your fingertips. Also get your name out... start blogs and participate in forums-- especially the genre you write for. Enter short story contests and do online magazine reviews.

What are your plans to write next?
The Silent Warrior Trilogy is just the doorway to my elf series. You can expect in the future at least four more titles in that series. All of them will have new characters and plots that are not related to the Trilogy.

Anna if you could give your book to only one person, who would it be and why?
A teenager in trouble ... in the hope that he/she could discover the power they have deep inside to change and become better. I want them to see that nothing is impossible if we put our minds to it.

Where can we purchase a copy of your books?
Any online book store, including my site where you can purchase signed copies, including book #3 for less and you will find a promotion for the Trilogy.
http://www.annadelc.com/, http://www.amazon.com/, http://www.barnes&noble.com/
Thanks so much for inviting me to be a guest this week.
Anna del C. Dye.

YEP! You need this!

2010-01-18T11:48:00.001-07:00

AND... you want this!!!

The Very Awesome VALERIE IPSON is posting a contest on her blog...
Where you could win a GORGEOUS bookshelf. Who doesn't need a bookshelf? Um.. everyone does!

So PLEASE go to her blog http://valerieipson.blogspot.com/2010/01/win-something-you-really-want-and-maybe.html and follow the instructions to win!

ALSO... let me add.. she does vinyl lettering. AND she just did a FABULOUS lettering for me, and I've just go to paint the board and then apply the lettering - I'm so totally excited!!!! (in case your wondering, the lettering says: Our Greatest Blessings call us Papa and Nana--- awwww!!!!)

Go enter.. so you can win!!!!

Interview with Margaret Turley

2010-01-12T07:18:00.003-07:00

Margaret grew up nursing the family’s pets and farm animals. Margaret started writing when she was in elementary school. She has published her nursing memoirs and articles in nursing magazines. Save the child is her first published novel for adults. She enjoys writing and reading in almost every genre, music, playing violin, cooking, and spending time with family. She is the mother of one daughter and a son. She has three granddaughters.

Margaret, is Save the Child non-fiction, or fiction?

Fiction

What was your inspiration?

Upon hearing the Parker Jensen Story out of Utah in 2003 where parents were not wanting to have their child subjected to chemotherapy - I started doing more research. I was appalled to find out that here in the land of the free - parents are not allowed to choose different treatment. Every child is under the authority of the State until the age of majority. I strongly endorse that every patient including and especially pediatrics should have the choice of being able to incorporate these methods into their regimen.

What is the setting of your book?

I have set the book in Gilbert Arizona and created a fictional hospital so that I could avoid casting any dispersion against established Medical institutions and doctors.

Who are your main characters?

The Johnson family. Robert Johnson is the Father and is changing careers. He works part time in a law office and is attending ASU Law School. Nancy Johnson is the mother. Abby is 15. Sharon - the daughter with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is 8 years old, and Ben is 5. The grandmother is Phyllis Lundgren - widow of Greg Lundgren MD.

In what ways do you think you are like them?

I am a fierce Momma Bear when it comes to my children and grandchildren and patients I’ve care for – like Nancy Johnson.

In what ways are you different?

Robert is a much more understanding and supportive spouse than I have experienced. He does have his faults – because of his choice to change careers their family is financially challenged – like many families are due to the recession at this time.

What is your favorite scene in the book?

Sharon is based on my niece. The Easter Nativity Scene that I posted on Margaret’s Blog at http://margaretlarsen.com is based on an actual event at my mother’s home.

After you wrote the book, how long did it take you to get it published?

I started writing this book in 2003. Due to illness and disability I’ve been delayed. It gives me a great sense of achievement to finally have the manuscript completed.

Have you been published before?

Yes. I’ve published three volumes of my nursing memoirs under a penname. I’ve had articles published in magazines.

How did the publisher let you know your book was being considered for publication?

I signed up for a writing course with Pamela Goodfellow, Crafting the Character Based Novel with the goal in mind to get this work published. She is producing the book. Her mentoring, instructions and editing are wonderful. She coaches the writer all the way through the process from beginning to end and assists you prepare your marketing plan.

What did you do when you found out your book was being published?

Sighed with relief.

Please share a brief description of your book.

The Johnson’s reside in Gilbert Arizona. Nancy and Robert’s middle child Sharon develops Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Nancy wants to use alternative medicine to treat the child. She strongly opposes chemotherapy. Robert is changing careers mid-life and attending the last year of law school and works part time at law firm. They have run out of Cobra insurance and are very tight financially. Abby uses the family car to try to meet a date she makes via the internet and has a tragic accident. She ends up in a coma and is hospitalized amidst the medical and legal battle for Sharon. Phyllis is Nancy’s mother—ongoing struggles between mother and daughter heighten the drama.

Where can we purchase a copy of your book?

On my website http://margaretturley.com or Pamela’s http://www.goodfellowpublishing.com/ ,

at Amazon.com and by request to order from any local bookstore after its release at the end of next month.

Save the Child will come out the end of February 2010

I've started posting blogs on the Save the Child Website @ http://www.margaretturley.com/

The Untold Scripture Stories coming later this year by Margaret Larsen with original artwork by Kali Higgins

http://margaretlarsen.wordpress.com/

I will soon have Ribbons and Bows: multiple births memory books ready to market DBA http://www.sophiawynott.com/

From an Expert!

2010-01-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

What advice does the person who discovered Stephen King and John Grisham give to an undiscovered novelist or short story writer? During a recent telephone interview, Bill Thompson offered five points that can help get you started in the right direction.

Find a niche. “I think writers must specialize more today, which is a change from the time when Stephen King broke in. I once gave him some advice- that he avoid typecasting by trying his hand in something other than horror- but he, fortunately, didn’t take it. That same advice now would probably be inappropriate for a new fiction writer. Your best chance at break in is to pick a genre that you like and are comfortable with- mystery, suspense, romance, horror, science fiction, etc.- and concentrate on making your mark there.”

Get the job done. “Take a disciplined, professional approach to your work. Write something every day you possibly can, even when you’d rather do anything else but write. It’s tough work, and the only compensation is a feeling of satisfaction as you watch those pages pile up. Then, once that first draft is completed, you can really begin to work toward an even more satisfying end- rewriting, revising, and organizing the manuscript into a finished product. But don’t make the mistake of sending your book to an agent or publisher before it’s actually ready. Your story line may be interesting, but it doesn’t translate into potential sales until it’s wrapped up in a full-size, polished, marketable manuscript. Then you have something to offer.”

Become a student of the market. “I believe a writer must travel two paths- one that’s creative and ends with a finished manuscript, and one in the real world of business that leads to opportunities to sell your work. Keep up-to-date on what’s happening in publishing through Publisher’s Weekly and other trade papers and journals. Look for any trends in the best-seller lists- such as female detectives, books on angels, political exposes, etc.- and try to anticipate what might be next. And if you don’t get it right, don’t worry. Publishers have been trying to figure it out for years.

“Also study The Literary Marketplace, which lists not only publishers, but book packagers, agents and other players in the publishing industry. Write to a number of publishers- those that seem to you the best bets for your manuscript- and ask for submission guidelines. And always remember to include an SASE when writing to an agent or publisher.”

Start small. “Sure, it’s possible that you’ll write a blockbuster, get a top agent, sign a three-book contract with a major publisher, land a lucrative movie deal, and be set for life. But that’s a good example of the fantasy category, and while there’s nothing to prevent your trying for the jackpot, you’ll probably enhance your chance of publication if you also investigate the small presses and regional publishers who can’t pay much, but who care a great deal about their writers. Just be very wary of an offer from the publisher who loves your work, but wants you to pay for its publication.”

Finally, stick to it. "Perseverance is vital in any worthwhile endeavor, but particularly in the writing of fiction. Stephen King is an excellent example. He sent several manuscripts to Doubleday without success, and was on the verge of giving up. But he decided to give one more try to a manuscript that essentially even he had rejected. That manuscript evolved into Carrie, and it signaled the beginning of a phenomenal career.”

Looking for a good book?

2010-01-03T16:00:00.005-07:00

What's on my list of reading? How about....

BY LOVE OR BY SEA

by: Rachel Rager

Here's a sneek peak (aka- book trailer)

Rachel Rager is the author of clean romance novels.

Here is a bit about Rachel:

Rachel currently lives in Casper, Wyoming with her handsome husband – the love of her life – where she enjoys curling up by a blazing fire with a good book, getting her own creative thoughts on paper, and singing until the coyotes start howling. She loves picnics in the park and being the mom to three future starlets.

Website and Blog - http://www.rachelrager.com and
http://rachelrager.blogspot. com

Interview:

When did you first start to think of yourself as a writer?

An author? Who? Me? I guess that I still don't see myself as a writer. It's more of a hobby. Yes, I have a book published but I started writing just to see if I could do it. When I accomplished that goal, I tried to publish it, just to see if I could. I finally published By Love or By Sea in April of 2009 with Cedar Fort, Inc., six years after I started writing. But am I a writer? I always thought writing was a job but to me it's my release; my escape. So, I guess I'm a writer but I really just create the stories for me!

How do you write your rough drafts--computer, typewriter, pen…? Have you always done it that way? If not, why did you switch?

I always write on the computer. However, I have notebooks everywhere – the car, my purse, my bedroom – I just never know when an idea will strike and if I don't write it down then I forget. I have often written several pages of notes or even entire scenes on paper but then I put them in the computer when I get the chance. It's so much easier on my hands to type.

What surprised you about being a writer?

How much work was involved after the book was written. I had no idea! I thought authors were so talented to fit everything together just right. And many are. But what I never realized was how much work goes into the editing, publishing and marketing aspects. Just the marketing could take over your life if you let it! But what a fun adventure it has all been!

What was your inspiration?

I was writing my second story and was in the shower one day when I came up with the idea for By Love or By Sea. (By Love or By Sea is the third story I wrote. The first and second are prequels to By Love or By Sea but not published.)I wrote down some notes and when I was done with the one I was working on, I began By Love or By Sea. It wasn't until I was part-way done that I decided to use piracy. Of course, then I sat in front of the computer every day for an entire month trying to figure out a way to solve the problem I'd created! All lot of research came into play!
I guess I should fess up to one little secret. Caleb Newman was inspired by my little brother. Though my brother is quite different than Caleb, he has a similar build and attitude. My brother once dropped a plant in his bedroom, spilling soil all over the carpet while he was talking on the phone to a girl he didn't particularly care for. And, not wanting my mother to hang him for making a mess on the carpet, but not knowing how to get off the phone with the girl, he decided to vacuum up the mess while on the phone! That made me laugh so hard and it just felt like something Caleb would do (if he lived in today's world!) So, there you have it!

Don't you wanna grab a copy? I thought so!

By Love or By Sea can be purchased at....
~Segullbook, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, Cedar Fort, Inc.

Interview with author Tanya Parker Mills

2009-12-14T17:26:00.003-07:00

I'm featuring a great interview with Tanya Parker Mills - Author of "The Reckoning" Here is the Trailer:

INTERVIEW:

What is your book’s name?
"The Reckoning."

Is your book fiction or non-fiction?
Fiction

Please share a brief description of your book.
When journalist Theresa Fuller is captured inside Iraq in August 2002, and imprisoned by Iraq's secret police, visions of her childhood in Baghdad begin to haunt her. Tormented by the relentless Colonel Badr, she only finds relief in her growing attraction to Tariq al-Awali, the Iraqi captain who took charge of her capture. Before American bombs begin to fall, Theresa must find a way to escape the cruelty of an oppressive regime and save those she cares for most.

What was your inspiration?
My own childhood in Baghdad, Iraq (and my father's undercover work in that country), as well as the approaching war.

What is the setting of your book?
Northern Iraq and Baghdad in the months leading up to the U.S. invasion.

Who are your main characters?
American journalist, Theresa Fuller; her Canadian cameraman, Peter; and their Iraqi captor, Captain Tariq al-Awali.

In what ways do you think you are like them?

I'm like Theresa in terms of sharing a childhood in Baghdad and having epilepsy...also her affinity for solitude; I'm not much like Peter; and, as for Tariq, I also have an appreciation for other cultures besides my own.

In what ways are you different?
I'm not questioning my faith in God, as Theresa does; I'm not superstitious like Peter; and I like to think I would never have worked for Iraq's secret police as Tariq did, regardless of the circumstances.

What is your favorite scene in the book?
Towards the end, when Tariq's grandfather stands up to the bad guy, Colonel Badr.

After you wrote the book, how long did it take you to get it published?
Five years...I came close to getting a traditional publisher once, but it fell through, so I finally decided to publish it myself.

Have you been published before?
No, except for newspaper and trade publication features.

Where can we purchase a copy of your book?
You can purchase "The Reckoning" at Amazon.com, and an eBook version is also available on Kindle. Unfortunately, it's not available in bookstores...yet.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
You can get a lot of information off of my website at www.tanyaparkermills.com (including my photo, a link to my book trailer, a description of my book, "The Reckoning," and an author bio). I also have a blog called "Seized by Words" at http://tpmills.wordpress.com which I try to update weekly.

Deconstructing the Puzzle!

2009-12-11T10:39:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I feel like my this is my book - ABOVE in the picture. I have all these pieces - and in my mind they fit together in a CERTAIN way. I wrote my book - chapter by chapter - scene by scene. Now, it's true everyone writes differently. Some people write scenes, various, random scenes then put them all together. I'm really into sequencing. My book has a lot of cause and effect, so it's only right that it all go a specific way.

I've gone to several classes and read writing tips and how to books. I've rubbed shoulders with many different writers and also joined a website filled with aspiring authors. I've learned much. One thing I've learned is that your "inciting incident" needs to happen within the first 30 pages of your novel. Some would even say to START your novel with this incident.

There are really no rules - but there are suggestions to help you present your book to an agent or publisher in the correct format. So when they read your pitch (which includes the plot catalyst (inciting incident)) they will ask you for sample pages.

My inciting incident happed on page 67 - which was chapter 7. I knew I needed to do something. Make my incident happen sooner. But my problem is I LOVE the beginning of my book. What did I do?

I prayed, and I prayed. Asking for some kind of knowledge, some way to make it work. I pondered, and I percolated. First I tried a flash forward - starting with a glimpse into the incident. This did NOT work. I really wanted it to, but even as I was writing it - I knew it was wrong. I was resisting the solution.

I finally sat down - with at least 8 hours to spare - and I started cutting, and cutting (pasting into a word file mind you). I moved chapter seven to chapter three - I moved chapter 2-6 all around. I kept the pacing, the tension, and even managed to have enough character development to pull it off (or so I'm told). I have NO idea how it all worked. But it did. My incident is exactly on page 30. YAY!

It took me two days and endless processing. My little brain was on overload. Thrilled could not even come close to a description of how pleased I am that it all worked. In fact some of the scenes that I moved... fit perfectly in their new places. As if they were meant to be there all along.

As always we don't get to know the end from the beginning. My ideas usually are ground level ideas, when I join forces with my wonderful writer friends, and then add to it the inspiration and power of the spirit - amazing things happen. This is quite the journey I'm on. For I know this talent I have is from my creator - The greatest Creator of all. Without Him, I'd be lost.

2010 ANWA Writers Conference!

2009-12-10T15:40:00.002-07:00

The 2010 ANWA Writers Conference,

Saturday, February 27, 2010.

Open to all writers

The Best Western Dobson Ranch Inn

1666 South Dobson Road

Mesa AZ 85202-5699

480-831-7000 or 1-800-528-1356

http://www.dobsonranchinn.com/

If you are serious about your writing, and ready for the next step,

this is the place to be!

J. Scott Savage, author of the “Farworld” Series is the Keynote speaker.

Other presenters are:

Aprilynne Pike, New York Times best-selling Author of “Wings”

Doug Johnston, Publicist Extraordinaire

Nancy E. Turner, Author of “These is My Words”

Dr. Pamela Goodfellow, Writing Coach, Editor and Owner of Goodfellow Publishing Services

Sara Fujimura, Author and Magazine Writer

Helen Bair, Counselor and Author of “Finding the Healer in Me”

Arizona’s very own illustrious Marsha Ward, author of the “Owen Family”

Book signings at end of conference

Internet (available to book online starting Wednesday, Dec 9)

Go to the hotel website at www.dobsonranchinn.com

At the bottom of the "Reserve Your Stay" box, click on "Groups"

Enter the password - ANWA-Dec

Complete your reservation

For questions contact, the ANWA 2010 Conference Chair Person, Cindy R. Williams at cindywilliams@q.com or

Conference Registrar, Krista Darrach at kristadarrach@yahoo.com

Executive Treasurer

2009-11-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

I have been asked to be the Executive Treasurer for my writing organization. Which is:
American Night Writers Association (ANWA)

ANWA is a unique network for LDS women interested in writing. It was organized in Arizona by Marsha Ward in October, 1986. The purpose of our Association is to encourage, assist, and motivate members to write, and if they desire, to publish their work. LDS women writers, from beginners to published authors, are invited to join.

I am humbled to hold this office. I know the blessings will outweigh the work. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be of service and rub elbows with some awesome women.
I am a little nervous ... hoping I will be able to handle all that is on my plate.
Here's to ANWA and the opportunity to grow and learn.

Editing! Editing!

2009-11-19T15:55:00.003-07:00

Does it EVER end? I don't think so.

I am very grateful for friends. I've been lucky enough to find someone on Authonomy who balances me so well. She is the queen of tightening, and I'm the queen of...um.... well I guess the opposite (continuity, details, texture, characterization, reactions)

I've helped her with her book - and now she is helping me with mine. She is helping me cut and cut and cut!!! It's amazing! I'm shocked at how much we are cutting. AND... I'm learning a ton.

I use tooo many words. AND - I repeat things too much.

So, the work continues, the editing remains.
Maybe someday....I'll be done with this thing - and I might even get it sent off to a publisher.
Just maybe.

Balancing Act

2009-09-02T07:26:00.004-07:00

HELP!
I'm trapped in a computer and I can't get out.
Anyone have this problem? Or is it just me?

The world is most certainly a different place than it was 10 years ago, how about 3 years ago?
Technology has taken over and social networking sites are booming. It's more than a craze. It can be an addiction.

I'm guilty as charged. The thought of losing the connection to my virtual world causes me more fear than the thought of not paying my mortgage ... what's wrong with this picture? *grin*

My virtual world consists of:
Internet
Email (which I have forwarded to my phone)
Facebook
Blogging
Authonomy (my highly new addiction- replacing all of the above)

Where is the balance? Well, with someone like me, who knows? I'm obsessive / compulsive – moderation does not come easy for me. Really I've only got one hope... to focus on what's important and let God back in charge, because I keep messing it up. LOL

At any rate... are you overexposed to this Virtual World? It brings a whole set of problems for sure. But it really does make life a whole lot easier and more efficient (except that you've now learned how to waste an entire day clicking away).
Balance … it’s a constant battle for me.

ANWA Retreat!

2009-07-23T11:29:00.003-07:00

What can I say? It was wonderful, inspiring, productive, and NEEDED.

Those who presented classes were excellent, and I have filled my cup of knowledge. Helping me to LOVE my characters, and LOVE my manuscript. Can you tell the theme of the retreat was Romancing the Story?

So... I'm ready to dive into the world of writing, again (not as if I've ever left it, mind you). I got a lot written at the retreat and I'm starting to feel the bite of the narrative.

With this 2nd book I've been working on - the ONLY reason I started writing this book (since I'm not done editing Riley's Gift)-- is that this book overlaps with Riley's Gift - thus I must be sure to keep everything correct.

I must say though, it's been so much fun to go back and write scenes from another character's Point of View and expound upon them. So ... I'm filling in the blanks of Riley's Gift ... things you heard about, and wondered exactly what happened. Well, now the reader gets to find out. (and more importantly ... so do I!) LOL

Okay... back to my life, which these days is completely insane. I live for the moments to escape to my computer and become reclusive and absorb myself into the world of teenage confusion and drama.

My poor family. Pray for them.

Till next time....

Book in a Month

2009-07-01T07:17:00.004-07:00

Where oh where has Krista been?

Well life has been busy these days. Too busy to blog? It would seem that way.

I have actually started writing my 2nd novel - Mandy's Miracle - and well everyone knows when that happens....everything stops. (as my husband says- "I know, I lose my wife now.")

Well to make matters worse... I've committed to the Book in a month (BIAM). I have committed to write for the month of July- 9000 words a week. Now my writers group likes this to be a "daily" thing. I'm not hip on daily. But we'll see how it goes.

I seem to have quite a bit of fear starting this book. The doubts are back...I won't say in "full force" as they were when I was writing Riley's Gift. But nonetheless, I have such doubt that I will be able to pull off writing a novel. As if the first one was a fluke, some special power/ability that enabled me to blow out a full fledged novel, complete with an actual plot and romance.

I push these thoughts away and try to keep them contained. I know I need to be in greater tune (spiritually) This alone will help me tap into the drive that I call writing.

Anyway... I will try to post my results, probably not daily, but regularly.

Authonomy

2009-06-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

I've found this website dedicated to writers, authors, and book lovers. Filled with all various types of people. It's called Authonomy...a site run by Harper Collins (UK publisher). They are trying to: "flush out the brightest, freshest, new writing talent around."

Every month Harper Collins chooses the top five (peer chosen) books. They are delivered to the desks of an editorial board made up of international HarperCollins editors. The board read at least 10,000 words and deliver feedback to the author. Also has a chance at being published.

This is how it works...

You become a member.
You have a bookshelf where you can post books you like (or "back" them)
You can upload your book. (don't have to have a book to become a member)
You as a person are given a rating (spotter rating)
Your book is given a rating (usually what number book you are in the group)
If people "back" or "shelf" your book - your rating comes down
(the lower the number the better - the goal is to be the #1 through #5 spot)

If you back a book that starts to fly - meaning other people back it and their number drops substantially - your personal rating drops. (meaning you become a great talent spotter).

If a talent spotter backs your book - you get lots of points taken off your ranking.
If a newbie backs your book - not so many points. (you want to become a top talent spotter - then people will back your book- simply so you will back theirs)

To get people to back your book, you need to read their books, leave comments and ask them to look at yours. There are a lot of good writers on this site. They give great constructive criticism and some even give detailed responses of what they liked about your book. (or didn't like).
It is some PR work, but you put in as much effort as you want.

I'm having a blast! Way too much fun watching my number drop.
I uploaded my book on 6/22/09 - my number was around 3000 (I think)....in one week I was down to 850. Today I'm at 655.
On the Young Adult - Weekly Chart - I'm #9 (out of at least a few hundred! Maybe more)
I don't put too much stock in this system, for it's rather competitive, and you've got to work at it to have people back your book, but it's fun! For sure.

There are lots of great book to read on the site....all kinds of genres. I love to read the comments people leave. I know my book is nowhere near perfect, I have lots of typos and I'm in the process of having someone go through it for grammar and punctuation. (thank goodness). At any rate.... check out my little space on Authonomy.

http://www.authonomy.com/ViewBook.aspx?bookid=9899

Stage Three

2009-06-16T07:45:00.002-07:00

So I've finished the 2nd draft revisions of my 1st book - Riley's Gift.
I've been sitting - trying to leave it alone.
I have a writer/schoolteacher reading it - I'm excited to hear her remarks. I’m going to have a few others go through it for grammar/punctuation etc…

I've been percolating about the sequel – and my mind has been inundated with various thoughts and ideas for the journey of Miracles. I love the creative process, it’s so much fun.

I’m hoping to be able to start the process to publication – by the end of the summer. Well see.
I’m unfamiliar to that process, so it will be a learning experience, hopefully a good one.

Keep writing and reading...it's food for the brain

Where the Wild Things Are

2009-06-12T14:35:00.003-07:00

I think EVERYONE loved this book as a kid! I'm so excited it's now going to be a movie!

ANWA Meeting

2009-06-11T14:19:00.001-07:00

We had our monthly ANWA meeting on Wednesday and I was lucky enough to make it this week. It was such a great meeting, even though we had several who were unable to attend.

For our lesson we did an activity - the presenter put on various types of music and then had everyone write something / anything while the music played. It was very interesting to hear what people wrote.

I'm a big HUGE fan of writing to music. Some people can't do it. I MUST write to music - and all kinds. I have several playlists made - one of just instrumental/movie score (which plays on this blog) and another one of just "LOVE" songs. There is also internet radio's that you can use - Pandora.com - lastfm.com. What great tools. Music really does have a huge impact on my life - which includes my writing.

Several people read - which was awesome. Our group is so diverse, I love listening to everyones work in progress. It's fun.

Anyway... I haven't posted much mainly because I've been out of commission for the past two week - not feeling well at all. But now...I'm back to my usual self. So look forward to seeing more from me.

I'm still editing my book - Riley's Gift - I'm currently working on punctuation and then I'm going to print a few copies and go through it again... it's much easier to see the errors when they are in print. But I'm getting closer to publication....or at least submitting to publication.

I WON!

2009-06-03T15:55:00.003-07:00

I won the grand prize for my entry titled: Open Windows (it's below dated: 5/20/09)

This is the email I received:

"Roundup of Memories" Contest Winner Announced

We are excited to announce the following winner will receive an autographed copy of Liz Adair's Counting the Cost, a copy of Liz's booklet "Using Family History in Fiction," and a "gold bag" of chocolates:

The grand prize winner will receive all of the above plus a $10 gift certificate to Amazon.com.

Our Grand Prize Winner is:

Krista Darrach

Please visit the Inglestone Publishing site at www.inglestonepublishing.com and click on the Contest Entries tab to read all of the entries. Then, after you've had a chance to take a look we'd love to have you post a comment on our blog (click on Blog tab) to let us know what you think! Thanks!

I'm so excited...I can't stand it...it's not even about what I won...but THAT I won.

I wasn't even going to enter...just decided to at the last minute.

It made my day!

Willing to Bear with

2009-06-01T14:17:00.003-07:00

I submitted this for Cup of Comfort- which is a book series - like Chicken Soup for the Soul. The entry was on "Mothers". This was my contribution:

Willing to Bear With

“You’re not my mom! I don’t have to listen to you,” screamed the defiant seven-year old, as she stomped her feet. I stood in the kitchen, my lips pressed together, if for no other reason then to muzzle the retaliating thoughts running through my mind. We stood toe to toe. Her arms folded in front of her, my eyes narrowed scouring her from top to bottom.

It was as if someone knocked some sense into me when a voice projected in my head, You’re the adult, act like it. My face softened, I stretched my fingers and I eased back from my headstrong step-daughter. “You’re right my dear, I’m not your mom, and I’m not trying to be. I just thought it would be nice to have a clean house when your dad gets home. But I’m not going to make you clean if don’t want to help.” I forced a smile and walked away ignoring the derogatory comment she’d made when I turned my back.

Had I bitten off more than I could chew? I knew people who lived in blended families. Why didn’t they tell me it would be this hard? I loved my husband dearly and I was prepared to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, till death to us part. What I hadn’t been prepared for were his four young children and an ex-wife who brought new meaning to the word dysfunctional.

Our home was a battleground for contention. Challenging would be an understatement when you take into account that these children spent fifty percent of their time with a mother who lacked discipline and personal accountability. The other fifty percent was spent in our home, where there were rules, standards, and values.

There were times I felt as though I couldn’t endure it. On many occasions I drove around in my car, tears streaming down my face unable to summon the courage to walk back into that battlefield. During one of these difficult times I picked up a magazine and an article caught my eye, “Are we not all Mothers?” by Sheri Dew.

“Look around. Who needs you and your influence? If we really want to make a difference, it will happen as we mother those we have born and those we are willing to bear with. If we will stay right with our youth—meaning, if we will love them—in most cases they will stay right with us—meaning, they will let us lead them.”

Her words made an impression deep within my soul changing my perspective. These kids didn’t have a fair chance. I needed to be the best mother I could be. My influence might make a difference. It occurred to me that I became willing to “bear with these children” the day I chose their dad. I decided that day - I would do my best to make a difference in their lives.

It wasn’t a cake walk by any means. Standing up for what I believed and sticking to the standards became my mission. My husband helped to demonstrate respect toward one another, and set the example. I was in it for the long haul. I knew that the fruits of my labors wouldn’t be seen in the immediate future, but I hoped that my example would somehow impact them in the coming years.

I had to demonstrate love and practice unbelievable amounts of patience and hold my tongue when wanting to retaliate. I continually reminded myself I was the parent; I had to be the bigger person. I grew some tough skin and demonstrated it on a regular basis. Becoming easily offended was not an option. I tried my hardest to regulate fairness, and to understand each child’s perspective. I grew to love each of them and appreciate their individual qualities that made our family unique.

There were times when I felt no matter how hard I tried I wasn’t getting through, many times I wanted to give up. But then there were times when tender mercies would show up, when I would see that I was getting through even if just for a moment.

On one occasion, I drove my 14 year old stepson, Sam, and his mother to the store. She and I were on good terms. She actually appreciated me for helping to raise her children. As we drove Sam chatted to his mom about a magazine that he wished he could subscribe to.

His mom said, “Oh, all you have to do is fill out this card, and check “bill me” and they’ll send you a couple of magazines, and when they don’t get your money, they’ll stop sending you the magazine.”

I cringed, absorbing the poor example she was setting for her son. I didn’t have a moment to interrupt. Much to my surprise, Sam blurted out, “Mom! Krista would never let me do that, because it’s wrong and dishonest.”

I grabbed onto that moment and relished it. Just maybe he was paying attention. Maybe I was actually getting through. It was moments such as these, when it all was worth it. My example was making an impact, no matter how small it might be, it was worth all the effort involved. I knew then that, parenting wasn’t about instant gratification. I would settle for the sporadic little mercies given to me, the ones that deeply touched my heart.

Today they are all grown and have left our home to start their own families. I love each and everyone one of them beyond measure. They all have, in their own way, shown a great appreciation over the years for all my efforts. There have been countless Mother’s Days where I have been moved to tears, from their love and kindness.

This has been by far one of the greatest challenges of my life, which has also been the most rewarding. Today I know, it’s not about how much I can endure, it’s about making a difference in the lives of those we’ve born, and are willing to bear with.

Writing Tip Thursday!

2009-05-28T11:20:00.001-07:00

I love hearing what "real" Authors suggest doing....
As always...take what you like and leave the rest.

Kurt Vonnegut Jr. :Absurd and wonderful scifi writer, on short stories

1. Use the time of a total stranger in such a way that he or she will not feel the time was wasted.
2. Give the reader at least one character he or she can root for.
3. Every character should want something, even if it is only a glass of water.
4. Every sentence must do one of two things -- reveal character or advance the action.
5. Start as close to the end as possible.
6. Be a sadist. No matter how sweet and innocent your leading characters, make awful things happen to them -- in order that the reader may see what they are made of.
7. Write to please just one person. If you open a window and make love to the world, so to speak, your story will get pneumonia.
8. Give your readers as much information as possible as soon as possible. To heck with suspense. Readers should have such complete understanding of what is going on, where and why, that they could finish the story themselves, should cockroaches eat the last few pages.

Open Windows

2009-05-20T07:11:00.003-07:00

I entered a contest to win a book (who doesn't want a free book?).

Really it was just an excuse to write something. :-)
Actually I think it’s just a drawing, so if you have a fun family memory and would like a chance at a free book check out the website – I think they extended the date to 5.25.09.
http://inglestonepublishing.com/index.php?cmd=newsview&id=2
Share your favorite memory or family history story.
Here's one of mine:

Open Windows

It’s such blessing to have a window to the past. Where families can come to know, and appreciate those who have paved the way before them. My window, is a journal kept by Ruth Shackelford my third Great Grandmother. She wrote her heart out in a covered wagon from Missouri to California in 1865. By putting pen to paper she created the world from her eyes and also painted a portrait of the greatest American hero.

William Franklin Shackleford was born August 10, 1835. His friends knew him as Frank, the Baptist minister who had a heart of gold. Ruth was sick much of the trip so she wrote countless entries from the uncomfortable wagon bed. Many included Frank, her husband, displaying determination, perseverance and love for his family. “Frank is…on guard, washing, cooking, putting the fire out, going for water, shoeing the cattle, finding the mean oxen, fixing the wagons and harnesses, curing beef, digging graves, building coffins and making tombstones.” He did it all and was the great American man.

Late in their journey, Frank’s sister, Ann fell ill and died in Fillmore Utah on September 18th. Ruth's journal entry’s from the 19-25 read: “Frank is making Ann’s coffin, lined inside. He couldn’t get anything to cover it with. Frank and Att took the tombstone down to put on Ann’s grave. She was buried a mile and a half from Fillmore at the grave yard.”

Fast forward 135 years. Thunderclouds collected above the Fillmore cemetery. I searched the rows as a few rain drops began to fall on my windblown hair. I saw it. It was unlike any marker around. I stood over the weathered grave, unable to read the inscription due to the clouds. I crouched down reveling in the moment, wishing I could capture it. As if on command the clouds parted and a ray of light shone on the marker. I snapped a picture as a tear ran down my cheek. I smiled and muttered, “Thanks.” The sun disappeared leaving me in the shadows. I closed my eyes, breathing in the scent of the rain close at hand. Running my fingers over each carved word, I imaged the hero who carved and placed this tiny stone out of love for his sister. I said a silent prayer, thankful for the knowledge that I would in fact, meet these amazing people one day.

A gust of wind blew through me as the rain began to fall. I stood up, teary-eyed feeling connected to Ann and her trials. I was thankful to Frank for the excellent example he was for his posterity. However, I’m most grateful for Ruth and the window she left open for me.

~Krista Darrach

What's waiting for you?

2009-05-18T08:43:00.004-07:00

Do you remember those “imagination” commercials? Where a kid unlocks a door and opens it, seeing a beautiful world that took your breath away just from a glance.
I was trying to describe my adventure of writing to a friend yesterday, and that was how I described it.

I’ve only been going at it hard for the past year, learning everything I can about writing. It’s as if I embarked on a journey, destination unknown, but that didn’t matter. The throttle was full speed, with creativity and imagination at the wheel. The force that beset me was empowering and addictive.

"Who knew?" Was her response and I would have to agree.
Who knew that I had a world waiting for me, beyond my wildest imagination? Who knew that I had a gift from above waiting to be developed and magnified?
The answer is…My mom. (she would have me tell you).

Our lesson in church yesterday was on gifts of the spirit. It made me wonder, what other gifts have I been given that lay dormant? (not sure I could handle more).

This year I am really trying to develop compassion and act on promptings when inspired. Not sure if that is a talent, but I think for some people it is.

Anyway….ask yourself…what gifts or talents have I been given that are waiting for me. You might be surprised!

Quotes from Writers

2009-05-16T14:29:00.001-07:00

17 Writing Secrets

2009-05-07T08:51:00.001-07:00

I found this on Writers Digest (love that place).
One author shares his tried-and-true principles for making good writing better.
By: Steven Goldsberry

1. Never save your best for last. Start with your best. Expend yourself immediately, then see what happens. The better you do at the beginning, the better you continue to do.

2. The opening paragraph, sentence, line, phrase, word, title—the beginning is the most important part of the work. It sets the tone and lets the readers know you're a commanding writer.

3. The first duty of a writer is to entertain. Readers lose interest with exposition and abstract philosophy. They want to be entertained. But they feel cheated if, in the course of entertaining, you haven't taught them something.

4. Show, don't tell or editorialize. "Not ideas about the thing, but the thing itself."—Wallace Stevens

5. Voice is more important than image. "Poetry is not a thing, but a way of saying it."—A.E. Housman

6. Story is more important than anything. Readers (and publishers) care a lot less about craft than content. The question they ask isn't, "How accomplished is the writer?" but, "How good is the story?"

7. These rules, pressed far enough, contradict each other. Such is the nature of rules for art.

8. All writing records conflict. Give the opposition quality attention and good lines. The power of the the antagonists should equal that of the protagonists.

9. Shift focus often. Vary sentence structure and type; jump back and forth in time and place; make a good mix of narration, description, exposition and dialogue.

10. Be careful of your diction. A single word, like a drop of iodine in a gallon of water, can change the color of your entire manuscript.

11. Provide readers with closure. The last sentences of the novel echo something that happened earlier. Life comes full circle. "If I have a pistol in my first chapter, a pistol ends the book."—Ann Rule

12. By the end of the work, the conflict should reach some satisfactory resolution. Not always a "happily ever after" ending, but something should be finalized.

13. Revise, revise. You never get it on the first try. Art shows up in rewriting.

14. Avoid excessive use of adjectives and adverbs; trust the precision of your nouns and verbs. Verb form: the shorter the better. Avoid helping verbs and progressives. Avoid passive voice. Avoid cliche and stock phrases.

15. Be interesting with every sentence. Be brief. Hemingway's first editor at the Kansas City Star gave him this style sheet: "Use short sentences. Use short first paragraphs. Use vigorous English. Be positive, not negative." Hemingway later referred to that list as "the best rules I ever learned for the business of writing."

16. If you can be misread, you will be.

17. There are no rules for good writing. Those who break the "rules" successfully are the true artists. But: learn, practice and master the rules first. "You cannot transcend what you do not know."—Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj -->

Novelist Steven Goldsberry is a professor of English at the University of Hawaii and an instructor at the Maui Writers Retreat.

Driven to Create

2009-05-04T09:18:00.003-07:00

DRIVE:
to send, expel, or otherwise cause to move by force or compulsion:
to impel; constrain; urge; compel.
to carry vigorously through

There really isn’t a better word to describe how I feel about writing. It’s a drive. One that up until a year ago I didn’t even know existed within me. (Which is odd if you really think that I made it through 37 years without knowing I had this HUGE drive/gift/blessing/talent). This weekend I caught the bug again (or rather – got in the ZONE).

The past three weeks my mind has been percolating with the idea to revise the beginning of my novel…and cut out a few things. So thus started the frenzy….

My weekend writing schedule:
Friday – 6pm-3am
Saturday- 7pm-5:30am
Sunday- 12-6pm

I completely changed the first two chapters of my book. Changed someone’s name, deleted a character, whom I loved, but didn’t NEED in the story to move it along. I dropped my word count from 144,000 to 138,000. (still to big) Then I went through all my chapters – and restructured them, checking for hooks and cliffhangers. Then I did a word check for “repeated words & expressions” (such as eye rolling (thanks Joyce!), stomach turning, etc).

Some of my favorite words are, “almost” “just” “noticed” "then"….and there are others. It’s a force like nothing else I’ve ever experienced. I can’t even describe it, all I know is I LOVE it.

Verb - That's what's happening!

2009-04-30T09:20:00.003-07:00

I love Verbs...I have an awesome book that breaks them out (verbs of sight...etc..) - it's the greatest! This little video teaches all kinds of things about Verbs...

Tuesday Tip - Revising!

2009-04-28T08:05:00.005-07:00

REVISE, REVISE, REVISE!

I've been editing and revising and rewriting for MONTHS...seems never ending. Since I didn't really educate myself before writing my novel, there has been soooooo much that I've had to fix.

At least I know I'm not alone, I know there are many who go through the same thing, or at least revise a lot. (not to many of us sit down and blow out a perfect piece of work) Thank goodness for belonging to a writing group. I'm grateful for "writer" friends who are willing to read through your copy and point out things (Thanks Shawnette!). Once you look at your work for so long, it's hard to see the things that need to be changed.

Here's a tip (I found online) to help make your revision time more productive. Take a piece of paper and list the problems you hope to discover and correct. Your list could look something like this:

1. Look for unnecessary bits that don't move your story forward.
2. Check the first paragraph of each chapter for "hooks."
3. Check the end of each chapter for "cliffhangers."
4. Examine each page for balance between dialogue, action, introspection and description.
5. Find places to build in more character traits.
6. Look for inconsistencies.
7. Look for repetition, words (and ideas) repeated too often, too close to each other. (I even do a word find for (just, almost, then....and many others too that I can't think of now)
8. Find typos and grammatical errors.

Each time you sit down to reread your manuscript, choose one point from the list to look for; ignore everything else (that's the hard part). Every rereading needs to accomplish something specific.

*Hint: Always save typo hunting for last. Rereading leads to rewriting, and rewriting leads to more typos.

Unpack your Adjectives!

2009-04-23T09:39:00.005-07:00

I've gotta give credit where it's due....Schoolhouse Rock helped me to LOVE ....Nouns, Adjectives, Verbs, Adverbs, Interjections, Conjunctions.....
Need I say more?
This is my favorite...(although I think I'll be posting them all over time).

I was so excited when Damian was a younger to find a computer "game" called Grammar Rock... he loved watching them all....thus following in my footsteps... (20 years later).

How to write a synopsis

2009-04-21T07:29:00.005-07:00

I must admit although I’m not at the point where I would be writing a synopsis (yet) – I’ve heard much talk about them and how much authors struggle putting one together. Needless to say…they scare me. (Because when people ask me what my book is about, I stumble and can't put it into words, so I KNOW this is going to be a challenage for me, I'm just glad I'm not alone!) So rather than giving in to fear, I thought I’d learn a little about them today.

The following is take from an article, "How to write a Synopsis." I found it on a writing world website. It is written by Marg Gilks. It's such a great article, I didn't want to condense it too much, so it's rather long, enjoy!

The synopsis is the most important part of your submission package and, as such, it has to be developed and sweated over and polished with the same attention you devoted to the novel itself. Along with the cover letter, the synopsis is what sells the editor on the manuscript. If they don't see anything they like in the synopsis, they won't even glance at your chapter samples.

The synopsis is your sales pitch. Think of it as the jacket blurb for your novel (the synopsis is often used in writing this, and by the publisher's art and advertising departments, if the novel is purchased), and write it as though you're trying to entice a casual bookstore browser to buy the novel and read it. Which isn't too far from actuality.
One Step at a Time
Rather than being daunted by the enormity of such a task, break it down. Do it step by step.
The first step, of course, is realizing that you're going to have to write a synopsis -- if you intend to market your novel, that is. The best time to realize this… is when you declare the thing completed.
Sit down to that final reading with a pen and paper beside you. As you finish reading each chapter, write down a one- or two-paragraph summary of what happened where, and to which character, in that chapter.

Notice any themes running through your chapters as you're reading? Symbolism you didn't realize. Take note of themes, too. You may just discover your one-line story summary that agents and editors like so much.
What you will have when you are done is a chapter-by-chapter novel outline, what I call my author's outline. This is pretty dry reading. This will likely remain one of your most valuable writing tools, and that's about it. Don't throw this away when you've done your synopsis, either. You may know the story intimately now, but you do forget details over time. Reading an outline is much easier than leafing through or rereading an entire novel.

There is an immediate use for that outline. So, you pinpoint the most important plot points in that outline, and you put them into a synopsis. We're talking about only those events and motivations that moved the story forward in a major way. We're talking about only the most important characters, the ones your reader will ultimately care about, not the bit players. Right now, we are striving for bare-bones.
"Yup," you say, "that's bare-bones, all right, and just as boring as ever."
Yes, it is. It's also probably still too long, but don't worry about that right now.

Let's See Some Enthusiasm!
Now I want you to envision one or two things while you rework that synopsis:
Imagine that you're writing a jacket blurb for the novel, one that will pique the casual browser's curiosity and make him or her want to buy the book to see what happens. Read a few jacket blurbs, to get a feel for how it's done.

You've just seen a terrific movie. You're describing it to your friend. You're not saying, "The good guy chased the bad guy and shot him and that was the end." That doesn't sound very enthusiastic, that sounds like your synopsis as it stands right now! No, you say things like, "The good guy is wounded, but he knows if he doesn't stop the evil Dr. Death, the whole world is in danger, so he staggers after Dr. Death, falls, somehow gets to his feet again, and at last zaps him with the Good Guy Death-ray to save the world."

That's how your synopsis is going to sound, when you're done: enthusiastic. Enticing. A description that makes the reader want to pick up the manuscript and find out how this happens!

How can you make your synopsis unique, exciting? Start with the main character and his or her crisis. Include snippets of dialogue or quote briefly from the novel itself. Don't neglect to reveal the character's emotions and motivations, those points that explain why a character does something, but keep it brief. If the setting is exotic, inject a taste of it into the synopsis with a brief paragraph. This includes any background information that is absolutely necessary for the reader to understand the story. Build excitement as you near the conclusion of the story summary by using shorter sentences and paragraphs. The synopsis is a sample of your writing; it is a taste of what reading the actual novel will be like, so give it your all.

Don't forget that one- or two-sentence story line, or the theme of the story that you discovered. It should go in your synopsis, or in your cover letter. Editors and agents like having this distillation. It's also something you can use, the next time someone politely asks you, "What's your novel about?"
"Wow," you say at last, "this is pretty good! It reads almost as good as the novel!"

Shalts and Shalt Nots

First, acceptable length. One guideline is to allow one synopsis page for every twenty-five pages of manuscript, but even that could be longer than most editors and agents want to see. Most editors and agents, busy people that they are, prefer short synopses -- two to ten pages. The busier ones like five pages at most. I personally consider two pages ideal, and have distilled synopses down to a single tight page. If you've written a thoroughly intriguing synopsis, don't worry if it's ten or more pages long -- but it had better be gripping.

Edit, edit, edit, if you have to! Always keeping in mind that the synopsis must remain interesting and supply the necessary information. Yes, this is the hardest part. Don't know what to cut? Lose the adjectives and adverbs; keep the motivation and "flavor" of the story.

You have to tell the entire story in your synopsis. Don't send the first three chapters and then start the synopsis at chapter four. Don't leave out the ending, hoping to entice the editor or agent to request the full manuscript in order to find out what happens. What they will do is decide you're an amateur.

No matter what tense your novel was written in, the synopsis is always written in present tense (Jerry goes to the bullfight as opposed to Jerry went to the bullfight.)

Format: there seems to be disagreement as to whether you should single- or double-space your synopsis. To be on the safe side, double-space; it's easier to read. In terms of layout, format your synopsis much as you did your novel, or a short story.

The first time you use a character's name in the synopsis, type it in CAPITAL letters. Do this only the first time. Avoid confusion by referring to a character the same way throughout (not "Dr. Evans" the first time, "Jerry" the next, and "the doctor" another time). It's also advisable to identify which character(s) is the point of view character by typing "(POV)" after the first instance of the character's name. Yes, writing a good synopsis is a lot of work, but think of it this way: not only are you creating a vital marketing tool, but you're honing your writing skills at the same time.

Taken from: http://www.writing-world.com/publish/synopsis.shtml

Creativity vs Scrutiny

2009-04-17T11:05:00.004-07:00

These two things have been in the forefront of my mind lately. The last few months I’ve been in the editing process of my HUGE book (which I have cut in half). I haven’t delved into the creative mode for a while, aside from little things.

I’m so black and white, and extremely obsessive. I do very well on task, however I fear getting off task. Therefore I stay focused until I complete things – (I revel in completion, It makes me happy).

I almost think I shut off the creativity to get through the scrutiny/editing, but I’m not sure. I would like to write a sequel to my book, and have had fleeing thoughts – but haven’t allowed myself to “go there” because I’ve got to “complete” phase one first. I wonder if this is a bad thing. I'm learing that my mind always works in processes - a time and place for everything, one step at a time.

I hear that writers should keep a notebook available to jot down ideas. Many dream of ideas (because our minds are more active between 2-4am) and scribble them out in the wee hours of the morning. I don’t do this. Why? Is it because I’ve turned off the creative part? Hmmmm.

I love that there isn’t a recipe to becoming a great author. What works for one person, may never work for another. Which leads me to this thought…..

I wrote a book, had no idea I could. Don’t even know where the knowledge or talent (for lack of a better word) came from. But I know that God wanted me to write it. I was compelled to write it and now I’m compelled to edit it….thus COMPLETE it.

Everything in it’s own time…that is my thought for today. Pondering is good….but trusting is better. Today I trust in the process of my unknown journey, waiting with bated breath for the next turn.

One of my favorite quotes on writing (describes me perfectly):

“Writing a novel is like driving a car at night. You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the entire journey that way.” E.L. Doctrow

Tuesday's Tip - From George Orwell

2009-04-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

George Orwell was a defender of good writing. I thought I'd share something I found... of his writing tips:

A scrupulous writer, in every sentence that he writes, will ask himself at least four questions, thus:

What am I trying to say?
What words will express it?
What image or idiom will make it clearer?
Is this image fresh enough to have an effect?
And he will probably ask himself two more:

Could I put it more shortly?
Have I said anything that is avoidably ugly?
One can often be in doubt about the effect of a word or a phrase, and one needs rules that one can rely on when instinct fails. I think the following rules will cover most cases:

Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.
Never use a long word where a short one will do.
If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
Never use the passive where you can use the active.
Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word, or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.

* From Orwell's essay“Politics and the English Language”

Book Giveaway!

2009-04-09T19:31:00.004-07:00

Rachel Rager (an ANWA Author) is doing a contest to giveaway her new book, "By Love or By Sea". You have until June 1st to put in your entry. It's the cutest contest - just leave a comment on her blog telling your favorite kissing experience. I posted mine, which I think is so adorable, I'm posting it right here too...(see below)

Anyway... go check out Rachel's site and post your favorite kiss:

http://rachelrager.blogspot.com/2009/04/by-love-or-by-sea-give-away.html

My favorite kiss story:

In an effort to set the stage, I have to back up 2 years before THE KISS….
His name was Jim; he fell in love with me at first sight. I on the other hand did not in any way shape or form, have an attraction to him. We had several mutual friends and therefore spent a lot of time in the same circles.
Jim was always upfront about his feelings. “I’m going to spend the rest of my life with you. I know it.” These are the things he would tell me. I of course thought he was crazy, and had no problem voicing this to him.

He dated a lot of girls; a lot of girls dated him. We began to hang out. We met for lunches, had dinner’s and even swam in the pool. It was casual we were just friends.

On one occasion we went to dinner, then to a movie. I repeated several times, “This isn’t a date”. I tried to pay for my dinner, and open my own doors. I asked him to stop looking at me THAT way, my tone was serious, not encouraging. He drove me home, walked me to the door. I felt my stomach sink, my heart pounded.
“Can I have a kiss goodnight?”
“NO! Jim this isn’t a date, and you know I don’t feel that way about you.”

Fast Forward…..2 years later…

The arrow made its way through my heart around the first of June. It was in a quiet swimming pool, we were playing around. He swam toward me, I was much quicker then he was, but he was stronger. He caught me, I looked into those deep blue eyes and it was then that I felt the penetration of the arrow. I would never be the same.

I fought the feelings for Jim for 2 weeks. He wasn’t my type, I’d never liked him, but he was always there. He always showed up whenever I needed someone. He loved me for exactly who I was.

It took days to plan it. I was terrified. We arrived at the restaurant, my heart was pounding, I couldn’t stop smiling. He asked me over and over if I was okay. We placed our order and I reached in my purse and held the envelope. I swallowed hard, closed my eyes and handed it to him.

“What’s this?” he asked in complete oblivion
He opened the letter, his cheeks flushed and his eyes danced as he read the words that could not pass beyond my lips. He beamed almost angelically and put the letter down.
“Does this mean I can kiss you now?”
I nodded.
He leaned forward; his warm hand slipped through my hair and pulled me toward him. Our lips met, it was electrifying and time stopping.
That was seventeen years ago….and he was right…He is spending the rest of his life with me (and eternity too)…thank goodness!

Dialog

2009-04-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had our monthly ANWA meeting and it was wonderful as usual. I could stay there all night and feel the wonderful creativity and inspiration emitting from all those wonderful women!

Shawnette gave the lesson - it was on dialog and was very informative. We went around and shared things to watch out for when using dialog. These were some of the things that were said:

Use it sparingly

Don't speak in full sentences / use phrases

Watch out for tag lines/ less is more

Get rid of the "ly" words

Be realistic, not flowery or heavy

Be cautious of authentic reactions

What's the point? Make sure it moves the story along

Stay away from rambling

Use dialog appropriately / age appropriate

Use dialog to help reveal and give detail

We read a few pages from a harlequin novel with heavy, awful dialog. What really hit me was the "tone" of the voice. I've heard over and over about - "voice" and never really got it. After reading that....I got it.

I use a lot of dialog in the book I just finished, I LOVE dialog and when I read it's what I wait for. I don't really like long paragraphs that describe and give a million details (which I don't do much of either) I know some people love this, I on the other hand don't.

It was a great evening and I left uplifted and ready to get back at it. Thank goodness for the world of writing, and ANWA!

Tuesday's Tip!

2009-04-07T11:43:00.002-07:00

Tuesday's tip.

Every writer should invest in a good set of reference books—dictionary, thesaurus, and style guide. Learn how to use them. Use them often.

Dictionary: The type of dictionary you need depends on the type of writing you are doing and the type of information you most commonly need. Of course, there's always dictionary.com, which is better than nothing but their definitions are sometimes incomplete. It's always nice to actually have a book to grab.

Thesaurus: Mark Twain said, "The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter—it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning." A thesaurus can help you find the right word. On line, there's thesaurus.com or pick up a good one at a second hand bookstore, they usually have tons of them.

Style Guides: The style guide you use depends upon the style of writing you're doing. My favorite, hands down, is the Chicago Manual of Style. .If you're writing LDS books, you must have a copy of the LDS Style Guide to Publications. This is going to help you with capitalization, hyphenation and other style forms specific to the LDS Church. And it's cheap!

I found an awesome book called the Word Menu - by Random House - AWESOME! Part thesaurus, part dictionary, part glossary, part vocabulary builder, part logophile's delight, this unique wordbook can be used productively for both quick reference and browsing. It's a must have for a writer!

Get them and use them! They are wonderful...

Charactor Interaction Circle

2009-04-05T11:59:00.002-07:00

Here is a tip I got from the book, "The Plot Thickens":

Take all of the characters in your work and put their names in one giant circle. Draw lines that connect the characters who interact with each other- a stright line if they are freiends (or on the same side), and a wavy line if antagonists. What revelations come to light?

Do A and B only interact with C and D?
Who else might b an interesting person for a or B to interact with?
Who interacts the most?
The least?
What are the strong parts of the circle?
The weak parts?

There is no proper answer, no correct route, but it is essential that you have an overview, since getting a handle isnt as obvious as it seems and can especially be difficult in longer and more heavily populated works.

Finished - Phase II

2009-03-29T12:20:00.001-07:00

Well I finished last night! What you may ask?
My 2nd Draft…..
After I’d wrote my book – and joined ANWA….I met Connie, who willingly became my mentor (she is the best!). She made me aware of point of view issues and the fact that I was “telling” instead of showing. Boy was I telling. Because it was WAY to long…I’m talking over 250,000 words!

So I opened a new document and began transferring over chapter by chapter and revising it, with these things in mind:
Removing taglines (he said, she said)
Replacing the telling with showing
Cutting out anything that didn’t move the story along.

I am really glad to have it all transferred over and into a new file. I’ve still go to go through it with Connie (we’re on Ch 24), but at least it’s all transferred. I went from 67 chapters to 47, and I now am at 152,000 words. So I’ve still got to cut more, it’s too long.

What to do now?

I’m going to make a new scene list, since my old one isn’t going to work for me. I’m also going to chart conflict and resolutions. Then I’m going to try to figure out which scenes can be cut.

I’m up for suggestions too, I certainly don’t know it all!