Novel Words . . .

Things I wish I'd said and some I wish I hadn't ....

2011-10-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

Any good writer is an observer of others. We are students of the people, relationships and body language all around us; the words said and unsaid with the subtle flick of a lock of hair over the shoulder, the compulsive bending of a fingernail or the skittering glance of the eyes toward a telling point of insight or intelligence about the plot afoot ...

Yes, it's important to take in all these details so we can accurately portray emotions on the page for the reader.

Reading isn't visual or tactile or auditory (well, sometimes), it's contextual. We have to create all the above with words. Words are powerful. I know this. So, why didn't I remember it Saturday night??

I've been married a long time, 23 years to be exact, with the same guy who I dated for 4 years before we were engaged. So, I guess in some circles, that makes me an expert of sorts. (Which I completely disagree with, however ...) This weekend, I happened to run into a friend I hadn't seen since High School.

Beautiful, sweet, personable. And newly engaged to Fiance #3 (or #4?, I didn't ask). So, since she's known me since Jr. High, she asked how my hubby and I managed to look as happy today as we did all those years ago when we were newly engaged.

And like the brutally honest person I am (yes, it's my greatest strength and my greatest weakness!) I tell her the truth. WHAT WAS I THINKING????

I think I said something like this: Well, we're generally happy people. But marriage is about compromise. You gotta know what you're willing to throw down for and what you're willing to let go. You can't compromise on something that will fundamentally change you as a person.

Bad enough, I know... If I'd only stopped there, but noooooooo. Read on:

I said, We've been there. But in the end we always manage to work things out. Besides, it's too expensive to divorce. I might as well keep him.

I wish I could blame it on the wine. But I was still working my first glass. What I wish I'd said was this:

I really don't think there's any one thing I could point to. We're generally happy people. We met really early which gave us the chance to grow up together and luckily, we grew into each other. We fill in the gaps for each other, where I'm weak, he's strong and vice-versa. Manners are important; please, thank you, you're welcome, etc. And separate bathrooms make me really happy. My answer would be to speak softly and try to do something nice for each other every day. Congratulations on your engagement!

So, now I just feel like an ass. Honesty can be a bludgeon or a scalpel. Wish I'd used the scalpel ... *sigh*

Sabbatical, anyone?

2011-10-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

It's been almost two years since I posted to this blog. Hard to believe it's been that long but there it is. I can't say if it was any one thing that made me take a Time Out on my writing. I had work, family, finances, the usual black holes of an aspiring writer. I just know there came a time where I felt utterly defeated by the industry as a whole and the genre of romance.

That's unusual for me. I tend to be the cheerleader. But I couldn't muster the positive attitude needed to continue on my publishing journey. Yes, I'd published a book with a small but respected digital press. And it was doing well in the limited distribution it received. But I knew deep inside it was time to take a step back; to regroup. Did I really want to continue beating my head against that wall? To what eventual outcome?

As any writer who's been writing for a while will tell you, there are no guarantees in publishing. You have no control over the market, the publisher, the editors, or anything else for that matter, except the writing itself. So, I went back to school to pursue my business degree. It was a big "incomplete" hanging over my head and it, at least, was something I could control.

Going back has been amazing. The challenge of wrapping my head around business, economics and accounting has pushed me in directions I didn't believe possible. (You're groaning but it is and has been a total and complete departure from my Arts background and I needed the break.)

This past March, I became a full-time student and part-time bookkeeper. I'm still pursuing my degree but now, with a little more control over my schedule, my mind has been whirling with plots and dialogue and characters. It seems their voices are calling me back.

Maybe I'm not finished with writing. Maybe I still have some stories to tell.

More Inspiration for Writers

2009-11-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

Does this look like the "Entity" from Lost?

This Van has a story to tell ...

2009-11-08T09:13:00.000-08:00

People ask where writers get their inspiration. I was checking email (read: avoiding the time-hole that is Face Book) and found this pic on Yahoo.

It's a 1965 Volkswagen van that was stolen 44!! years ago from Spokane, Washington. It was recovered on Oct. 19, 2009, from a shipping container at the Port of Los Angeles bound for The Netherlands.

Inspiration can be as simple and compelling as a photo of something from the past. In this case, the van shouldn't have been where it was found. My writer's brain says something's up. The shiny paint. The mint condition of the fenders. The pristine interior. My muse says this van has been hiding in a shipping container for 44 years at the whim of a crook who would now like it shipped to the Netherlands. BTW, the Netherlands don't extradite criminals.

The possibilities for the truth are endless. This van was rolling off the line the same year I was born! What are the chances the container and the van are the same age? Someone had to be paying attention and colluding with the criminal mastermind who pulled this off to make sure the van was moved around for the last 44 years and made it to that specific container for shipping. Right? The big question is why. And more importantly; who? (Yes, I'm intrigued. And impressed that someone has successfully hidden the van and the truth for 44 years.) Mystery/Suspense genre writers could easily build a story around this premise.

If you live on the Far Side of reality and enjoy writing Science Fiction/Fantasy, who's to say the van didn't materialize into that container from another dimension?? Hey, it was found in LA, remember? (Home of the spaciest people on the planet.) Or if you're really into the whoo-whoo, what if aliens beamed it up from a country back road in Spokane and decided to return it? Now? 44 years later?? Why?? Hey, stranger things have happened in California.

I could go on and on but you get the picture. I'm writing today. Have a great one!

Girls Night

2009-10-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is girl's night out. It's such a treat to be able to hang out with the women who are my "sisters" in so much. So, here's a tribute to all the "Girls" out there; wild girls, funny girls, smart girls, stuffy girls, sporty girls, girly-girls, tall girls, short girls, loud girls, quiet girls, young girls, young at heart girls, demure girls, rambunctious girls, goody-two-shoes girls and oh-so-bad-girls, casual girls, glamourous girls, rich girls, poor girls, famous girls, wannabe-famous girls and the infamous girls, girls who need a reason to get together and those who make no excuses for having fun.

Salute!

Celebration Time!!

2009-10-03T12:13:00.000-07:00

I have no reason for posting this picture of Ben Browder. Just felt like staring at him for a couple of minutes. :) Okay, back to business, unless you need a couple more minutes with Ben (which I totally understand).

As some of you know, I've been serving as the PRO Liaison to RWA's Board of Directors for the last two years. It's been such a big part of my life but I'm happy to turn it over to the newly elected liaison. It was a great experience and I loved representing PROs within the organization. But it's time to move over and let someone else have a go at it. Good luck, Cyndi Morgan! You'll do a great job as PRO Liaison.

So, what does this mean for me next?

Writing!! Yes, I'm excited to use my spare time working on the projects I have circulating. Alas, my agent hunt as of this writing, is still fruitless. But I am ever hopeful of the right project landing on the right desk at the right time.

My new romantic thriller, Witness for the Damned, is coming along nicely. I've sent out Fool Me Once to an e-publisher and am waiting to hear back from the editor. In the meantime, it's out to a beta reader for a continuity read. I'm also working on revisions for Breaking All the Rules, short romantic comedy and a "re-vision" of Residuals, my urban fantasy. So, it's not like I don't have things to do, right?

My last article for the RWR is out this month and in it I thank all the people who helped me over the last 24 months. But I forgot some people ...

MY AWESOME CRITIQUE PARTNERS AND BFFs!!! I love you guys (girls). You kept me sane through some very hectic times. And you never let me forget what it was really all about. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, (etc., inifite and beyond).

Sandra Ferguson
LA Mitchell
Mary Karlik
Delores Shaffer
(You can check out their blogs listed on the right under "Author Blogs")

Until next time, Happy writing!

FlashFoward

2009-09-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

This week, ABC added the latest entry of genre-bending Science fiction-time travel to its line up with FlashForward.

Following in the footsteps of Lost, this series seems to be more finely tuned. The characters have specific goals, other than survival, and the writers have managed to add emotional conflicts to support the external conflict of waking up after a world-wide two minute blackout.

I also like the pendulum of possibilites with the visions. The over-arching story is circling around why, which is a biggee. But this is a story which needs an ending. It was so obvious six months in to LOST that the writers had no idea where the plot was going. We all suffered through the growing pains of the plot right along with them. And I'm still not satisfied with how they ended it and definitely unsatisfied with the wrap up and re-vision of the series (and the year-long wait!).

However, I'm willing to suspend disbelief for now with FlashForward. I'm very interested in what the young suicidal doctor saw for his vision. And I'm wondering what was so bad that he wanted to die. I'd also like to know what the Benfer kid saw in her dream. And why she made the friendship bracelet for dad. The kangaroo jumping through the street was crazy! (very surreal) And of course, the guy walking around in the Utah stadium ...

I'm hopeful this will be a great show and sometime in April (29th or 30th?) We'll see the reason for all the chaos created. The next question is; will the show then switch gears and develop into a deeper conflict of who are the bad guys and can they be stopped?

Jump in, add your thoughts. And what would you do if you got a glimpse of your future?

Feeding the Muse ...

2009-09-15T07:35:00.000-07:00

I took a break for a couple of weeks and now I'm working on my new wip, Witness for the Damned, a romantic suspense/thriller. This was a book I wrote a partial for last summer and plotted all the way through to the end; which was a good plan.

A lot of writers work on the fly but that's not me. With the list of other committments on my plate, my actual writing time is limited to weekends and the random evening when my kids have (graciously) done all their homework before they get home.

My hope was to spend the month of August and the first couple weeks of September getting the kids ready for school, aclimated to their new sleep schedules and firmly ensconsed in a routine so I could begin the fast draft to the end of this book.

But I'm finding it difficult, to say the least.

Sometimes, the muse just doesn't want to play nice. In fact, the muse doesn't want to play at all. So having a fully developed synopsis is a must-have.

So, how do you write?

What makes a couple a couple?

2009-08-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

I'm revising a short rom-com this weekend and wondered what kind of cues establish "couplehood". I mean, when do you know you're a couple?? For the purposes of the book, I need to establish why my hero isn't into the whole state of "couplehood" and why he finds the process ridiculous. (It'll matter later when he arcs.)

(Yes, I know this is straight from the land of Mundania but there's not much else to do as I'm home with a stomach bug! Yuck! No solid food for the last 36 hours.)

So, I decided to put together some cues from my own "couplehood". Some are hokey. Some are sweet. Some are just plain weird. Feel free to add your own. I'd love to hear what others consider as a sign.

Here's what I have so far:

cutesy names for one another
connected at the shoulder (or hip)
matching sweaters (yuck!)

The Dreaded Synopsis

2009-05-21T23:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I sent my baby to a trusted cp for a continuity read. Got it back. And revised once again. I can truly say the ms is as tight as I can make it at this point in time.

In fact, I was so excited I was ready to send it off with the synopsis. Thank God I decided to take another look at the synopsis. Eleven pages of mediocre writing.

Depressing, to say the least.

I had to start from scratch. It's taken me two full weeks to carve out the synopsis for a book that's complete. And the darn thing's only seven pages (single-spaced). That's a good thing, I think.

Anyway, the query is sent to my favorite agent. Hopefully, I'll hear back that she wants to read the partial; or better yet, the full.

Until then, Happy Writing.

Never give up! Never surrender!

I'm done! I'm done! I'm done!

2009-04-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

Whooo,hoooo!!!

I finished the revision of Fool Me Once, my dark romantic comedy. As a reward, I bought myself a special coffee cup, which is why I chose this photo. (It makes me want to run out to Bion Journa Coffee House, right now.)

One desperate ex-housewife. One bad boy undercover. One dead ex-husband. Makes for one strange menage-a-trouble!

Yes, I thought that up all by myself. :) Now, it's off to my critique partners for a continuity read and a final once over. Here's crossing my fingers it's in as good a shape as I believe it is, then it's off to agents, (in the hopes of acquiring one to represent me) and to one special publisher who I promised to submit the final product.

Wish me luck and happy writing,
Sherry

Disturbing Britney

2009-04-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

That's the title of my next dark, romantic comedy.

Just kidding. It's this picture that has my brain churning. Is it just me? Or does this circa 1930's woman in the picture have a strong resemblance to Britney Spears? Seriously, take a minute and really look at her.

humming to self

Okay, do you see it? Right around.the eyes? The pout on the bow-tie mouth? The porcelain-like skin? I was seriously a little distrubed when I saw it. Her image literally jumped off the page. Which made me wonder if it was a coincidence by the artist or if there was, perhaps, another "Britney", circa 1930's who modeled for the artist.

My friend, LA Mitchell, writes stories about twisted time. Maybe she's rubbing off on me. Maybe it's my writer's brain thinking up all the possibilities of a plot where Britney is suddenly sucked from her narcissistic existence in the 21st century and deposited in to 1930.

Think about it. No paparazzi following her every move, no screaming-wailing fans to pander to her ego, no minions to order around ... Can you imagine the shock for Britney when faced with the simple life?

Modest dresses. No makeup. A corset worn only under her clothing? Underwear at all times! No tatoos. No piercings. No internet? No Facebook? Unfortunately, if she'd been a hollywood starlet, she'd have found plenty of wild times with alcohol and herione, the most popular drugs of the day.

The Britney from the pictures looks as if she's far from the temptations of Tinsel Town. I just wonder how our Britney from 2009 would fare in such a situation?

You're wondering now, too. Aren't you?

Dreamin' in Dallas

2009-04-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

I've been working on revising my single title, Fool Me Once, this past month in preparation for this writing conference in Dallas this weekend. Nothing like a hard deadline to give you a good kick in the pants to finish.

Fool Me Once is this great dark romantic comedy. The logline: One desperate ex-housewife, one bad boy undercover and one dead ex-husband make for one strange menage-a-trouble!

If you're in the area, check out the booksigning on Friday, April 3 at 7:00p. It's open to the public and the proceeds go to a good cause.

Dreamin in Dallas 2009

I'll also be signing (firsttime!) Here Comes the Bribe. I'm so excited! I've driven myself completely nuts with all the hypothetical questions. How long did it take you to write it? How do you come up with your ideas? and of course the dreaded How did you write those love scenes? Followed by, Great blocking, by the way. I didn't know that was even possible. (blush)

Okay, enough head games. The reason I'm revising Fool Me Once is because I want to submit it to an editor who'll be at the conference. If you've been to a conference, you know this is the goal for all serious writers. You can't sell a book you don't submit. And writing conferences are great for making contact with an editor or agent you've targeted for your manuscript. There are so many stories from writers who've sold this way. I would love to be able to share the same success story.

Anyway, long story short, I'm putting out a call to all the writing fairies in the universe to sprinkle a little fairy dust on me :)
So, if you know any fairies or have an "in" with a leprachaun or other magical creature, can you lend me some magic? Please??

Spring Break!!

2009-03-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

I just got back from San Diego a couple of days ago. And while I was dreading the trip (work related), I'm so glad I went. The sun and air in San Diego was just the right prescription to evaporate the chilly cobwebs still clinging to my psyche. There was even a whale in the bay, though I didn't see him. The news made daily reports on his progress and speculated as to his intent and condition. They had no idea why he'd chosen to visit the bay area. Perhaps he came out of curiosity and then, like me, was reluctant to leave. I completely understand. It's a grand place.

So many ships and sloops and a couple of sizeable aircraft carriers (trust me, they're immense) and the maritime museum. The water alternated between glassy smooth and gentle waves. The boardwalk had everything from hawkers to magicians to psychics with on-the-spot readings. All in all, it was a true escape from my every day and just what I needed to take that step outside myself and gain some perspective.

Can you believe it? We made it through an incredibly depressing winter, political change overs, economic down turn and wintry blasts frigid enough to crack any writer's enthusiasm.

But now Spring is just around the corner. The sun is fighting its way through the clouds. The days are longer. The grass is greening up (that's a Texanism) and I'm hopeful, once again, that all will be well. Eventually.

And I'm writing again, after a long dry spell due to too many other things that took precedence over my free time. I only wish I had time to go to the beach this week. Guess I'll settle for a trip to Six Flags with the kids and the Dallas World Aquarium. And I'll dream about long lazy walks on the beach and that perferct tan ...

What's on your Spring Break schedule?

Writing Articles

2008-12-13T14:06:00.000-08:00

Hello, I just turned in another article to the RWR, Romance Writers of Americas national magazine. Slated for the February publication, I enthusiastically chose to compile twenty-eight items (one for each day) of romantic inspirations for the month.

May I just say, that along #17, I was ready to slash my wrists.

Um. Someone please stop me the next time I try to compile a list of anything longer than the digits on one hand. Seriously, people. It was ugly, ugly, ugly. I looked like something from a Greek Tragedy when I was finished. The ends of my hair were smoking. I think I burst a blood-vessel in my eye. All for the sake of inspiration, which I chose because my own was running so abysmally low.

The silver lining in all this? The editor graciously wrote me back and said it was a great article. That she'd personally found some inspiration. That made my day :)

So, after spending the morning Christmas shopping, I'm off to put the tree together. Hang up lights. Do up the house, the yard and any other room that needs a little Christmas tweak.

Here's a link for all of you who need a little inspiration: The Write Attitude

Happy Writing and Happy Holidays

Nothing :)

2008-12-02T21:32:00.000-08:00

That's right; I've got nothing.

I'm blogging so late b/c I've been working so FRACKING (yes, I love the word. Love the show -- BATTLESTAR GALACTICA FOREVER!!!) hard on every thing that has nothing to do with my personal writing or my goal to become a working/self-supporting writer, that I had to do it.

Blog, that is.

Thus, the header is a warning and a hook to stimulate my right brain (write brain).

I'm currently reading Cherry Adair's EDGE OF FEAR. It's the second in her T-FLAC series and it's good. I'm noticing right up front how well she really gets into the emotion of the central character.

She uses a series of intangibles to draw the reader in to her world. And at this moment, I both love and hate her. (And I mean that in the nicest way possible, dear Cherry.)

Example from pg. 1: Paragraph 3: (yes, 3)

Bam! Caleb felt as though someone had punched him in the solar plexus, grabbed his heart, and squeezed.
Hard.
That's what Heather Shaw looked like.

His internal monologue is to his partner/handler. Very telling. Suffice it to say, my new goal is to blurt it all out there, stop worrying if I'm getting the words conveyed succinctly on the page.

I've always prided myself on being able to use the least amount of words to convey the tone/content of the character's goal or the scene. But maybe, just maybe, I have it all wrong.

What do you think?

Okay, so maybe this blog isn't about nothing. It's about something.

My Apologies ...

2008-11-23T18:28:00.000-08:00

Ahem ... My apologies for the prolonged final chapter in character development. Where was I??

Oh, yeah. We've reached the part where we turn respect into love. So, here goes:

This arc is all about the sublety of change. And it has alot to do with dun-dun-dun Sacrifice.

Now we know these two characters know what they're doing and what they want. They each have an external goal which seemed oh-so-important at the beginning of the story. The only thing which has changed is that each of them has allowed the other a tiny sliver of themselves. They've given away a piece of their stake to the one person who they believed couldn't possible matter.

This is a problem.

You see, once the character has given of themself, with or without the expectation of any reciprocation (I actually like it best when they expect nothing. I'm evil that way)something happens which the character doesn't anticipate.

They care.

Of course they don't want to care. In fact, it comes almost without conscious thought or effort. Against every fiber of their internal and external code. They think: "This was not supposed to happen. Caring is a mistake."

The velvet noose has slipped so effortlessly around their throats they didn't notice until it was too late. Caring for the other is messy and frought with all kinds of emotional dangers.

So, they lie.

To themselves. To the object of their affection. To anyone who gets close enough to listen. Because hey, if they say it isn't so, it isn't. Right? Wrong. Then comes the denial followed by anger. A close third is mourning for blessed detachment and finally acceptance and a renewed resolve to "get back" to wherever they were before Mr. or Ms. Potentially Right gravitated toward their universe.

I realize I've hit these fairly quickly but I just thought, since it has been soooooo long since I started this blog post that I shouldn't drag it out. Sorry for the whiplash :)

Anyway, once the characters care about each other, they still aren't ready for love. They can only realize the strongest of emotional growth after they've lost the one thing they had no idea they wanted in the first place.

Neither the hero nor the heroine can truly recognize this deeper emotion until it's been taken from them -- physically and emotionally.

True love requires a sacrifice on the deepest level.

Sometimes, love is thrown away by the hero or heroine in an attempt to backtrack to emotional safety. But unless both your hero and heroine are well motivated this just doesn't work for a satisfying ending. It comes off as contrived and just plain silly. It falls under the same lame excuse as "misunderstandings" which can be cleared up with a conversation. The reader loses faith and wonders if the characters actually deserve a happily ever after.

You have to make your hero and heroine suffer if you want the reader to believe. (It's okay. This is fiction, people.)

Okay, so your characters have finally gotten real with themselves and each other. They don't know what this thing is between them but they can't walk away at the moment. Until ... the unthinkable occurs. One or both have withheld something from the other -- either emotionally or physically-- which has kept the other from reaching their external goal.

All seems lost. The odds against righting the wrong seem insurmountable until the betrayed party agrees to accept the help of the betrayer. Each feels betrayed by the other and their own emotions. How could they have let their guard down? Trusted the other with so much?

Then, somehow, some way, the goal is met. It's over. Goal reached. Time to say goodbye and go back to the status quo of life as usual. But how can they go back when so much has changed? They have been changed by the experience and the object of their begrudging affection. They aren't the same person. They are both more and less. How can they return to the same world without the piece of themselves they gave away?

Is it possible they were in the wrong? Maybe things didn't have to end so wrong. Is it possible the object of their affection feels the same regret? The same emptiness? If so, doesn't it give validation to what they shared? Can they trust their own feelings?

Questions require answers. Inquiring minds want to know but inquiring hearts need to know. Even if the outcome spells potential rejection and possible life-long trauma, the truth of the heart must be found.

So you put your hero and heroine in the same room. Each has been emotionally battered, bruised and compromised. Yet there's only one thing each wants; the love of the one person they've come to respect and trust.

Here's where they both have to tell the truth. Truth, wether it's what the hero or heroine wants to hear, will beget respect. Respect will lead again to trust. Trust, in each other, in their understanding of their own emotions, will lead to love and what every romance reader desires for two characters who've proved they deserve each other: Unconditional love. And of course, we call that the Happily, Ever After.

Happy Writing

Building Respect Into Trust

2008-08-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

No easy task, there. This usually happens gradually over many chapters. Two steps forward. One step back. There are any number of reasons for characters to show or give respect.

But in order to show the evolution of respect, you have to first establish the absense of respect.

This is fairly easy to do when you have a first meet in a novel. The characters don't really know each other. They have little or no reason to offer kudos on anything. That's why it's important to draw them in to a situation which requires action in practice or in theory.

Find a scene which requires your characters to work together at a task. Not just any task but something which will show how they differ in opinions or morality. They must each have a stake or personal belief which comes in to question.

Maybe it's something as simple as washing the dog, who knows?

Let's say the dog is dirty and shaggy with maybe a few mats. Whatever. The point is, the hero believes the dog's mats have to be cut off before the dog can be washed. The heroine believes exactly the opposite; clean the dog then cut the mats.

Sounds simple? Then we have to do better! grin

Let's say the hero is a dog bounty hunter. He sees the dog as a pay day. He doesn't believe every dog has to be rescued(unlike the herione). He's simply here to do a job and shaving the mats will answer the question of whether or not he's found the right dog. Washing is optional.

The heroine is a vet who believes, whether the dog is worth a little or a lot, it deserves to be shaved, cleaned and fed, along with a safe place to sleep. She tells our hero why his attitude is wrong, inspiring the hero's guilt at his own callousness. (*Self-analyzation makes him open to change. She mirrors his former self-the one who cared about the dogs he found.)

While the heroine truly believes everything she's espousing, she hears what the hero says about focusing on the bottom line. This causes her own inner-analyzation and sparks her own begrudging respect of his good business sense. (*An area which she knows she's lacking). If she'd spent a little more time finding paying customers she wouldn't be in danger of losing her business.

Her Dog Rescue operation is operating on a shoestring and she's behind on the building's rent. Shaving the mats will get her a little of what she needs but convincing the bounty hunter to pay for a bath, shave, food and a night's stay will get her a lot closer. She agrees to do it his way but charges him an outrageous fee.

The hero realizes she's taken his advice about her financial situation. (She's given him a meager portion of respect.) Because of this turnaround, he allows her to part him from his money and springs for the works. He respects her because she's operating a worthy cause and she's willing to listen and implement his ideas.

Now that they respect each other (to a degree) each is more willing to trust the other with deeper opinions and emotions. But to do that, you have to find a way to keep the hero and herione together for an extended period.

That's Part 2. Stay tuned!

Twists & Turns: Part 2

2008-08-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

Another thing about twists and turns is that you can't see what's coming. And let's face it; who wants to see every knook and cranny before the last chapter? Not me.

This is a great place to build in red herrings in each of the plot lines so the reader thinks they know what will happen next. Something which gives them a little smugness yet completely delivers a "gotcha" on the back end.

This can be something as small as a pay off for the hero or heroine followed by the rug being pulled out from under them. The only rule I follow here is to never, ever, allow my character to get comfortable in a scene.

Today, I wrote about my heroine's need to control her emotions in order to acheive her goal of following the serial killer's trail. She's fairly certain she's convinced the DA she's innocent and he's ready to release her to go about her business. Which is exactly what happens. Sort of.

The condition of her release is that she has to take a partner. Yes, the reader knows instinctively the DA is going to insist the hero (the one who we know betrayed her by telling her secrets) be her partner. And while she's good at hiding her emotions from the DA, her ex-lover presents more of a problem. Now, she has to make a choice; take a partner or sit out the investigation in a cell.

Her head understands that sitting out the investigation would send a message to the killer that the police have who they believe is the killer; he's safe. Now she has a personal stake in finding the bad guy (can't tell you what it is). If the killer isn't caught, the DA has enough circumstantial evidence to indict her for the murders. A partner is a real problem for a woman who doesn't trust anyone but herself(for obvious reasons). There is a part of her that wants to prove herself. Should she go with her head and play it safe or lead with her heart and accept the consequences, whatever they may be?

No matter what she chooses, she's forced to reveal a part of herself to the man who betrayed her. (Can't say what that is but it's a biggee and propels the hero into his own mini-crisis).

Happy Writing :)

Twists and Turns aka Turning Points

2008-08-25T06:28:00.000-07:00

I'm working on Witness FTD at the end of Chapter 3. This is where the hero and heroine must decide they need each other and pledge to put aside their differences to work together to find the killer.

It's a tough spot, otherwise known as the first major turning point. Finding the correct balance is essential.

Turning points are important in the story. If done correctly, they serve to propel the plot and ratchet up the tension between the main characters. More importantly, they force the reader to make a choice: read on or put the book aside for something more riveting.

How do I do that? Carefully.

First, decide what's at stake. I like to plot on levels. Level 1 is the romance (for obvious reasons). Level 2 is the internal plot (or character--what each of the main players bring to the story). Level 3 is the external plot (what happens and why).

Without going in to a lot of detail, (Because hey, I want you to read the book when it's finished) it's important to braid these three factors together in every scene. One cannot stand without the others. Or, they shouldn't. You'll know why if you've ever read a book that didn't engage your senses.

Start with the romance. These two characters have a history. They loved and trusted each other. But he betrayed her. It cost her a life long dream of becoming a cop. He didn't come away unscathed. His betrayal cost him a piece of himself. It changed his life and now, he thinks, he's found a way to justify it and live with the consequences. (We all lie to ourselves, right? And that's one of my underlying themes for this character. He has to get honest about what really matters.)

Okay, so on to braiding the plots, as I like to call it.

The Romance:

Love is a twisted path. I like to follow these three simple emotional rules: respect +trust= love.

Building respect between my two main characters is the first step on their emotional journey. They each have to make a choice at this turning point in order to be able to work together. There are several ways to do that. Sometimes it involves a head-on confrontation between the characters, which always involves a ratcheting of the sexual tension. Other times, I'll allow a secondary character to reveal a deeper depth to the hero or herione to provoke a thoughtful retrospective. But always, the outcome is a begrudging respect the hero or herione offer one another. It's an olive branch to further their own internal/external goal. The goal is what's at stake. Make it important.

I won't tell you how I do that. You'll just have to read the book :)

Next Blog: Building Respect into Trust

More Kudos for Here Comes the Bribe

2008-08-24T09:20:00.000-07:00

My romcom is a featured Best Seller on the front page of Fictionwise!!

Click on the link below to see my author page :) It's crazy! The good kind.

Fictionwise.com

Music as Inspiration for Characters

2008-08-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

I'm working on WFTD today, framing my hero and forming his character ticks and dialogue. I like to choose specific music to listen to while I'm in a particular character's head. Sometimes, I'll even choose a particular song to emphasize the tone and mood of a particular scene.

Today, I'm writing in my hero's head. Trace Rios is a quiet guy for the most part. Intelligent and cautious, he excels at his investigative career because he's learned to detach his emotions in order to see the bigger picture. He's learned to connect the invisible dots of a case and solve it. Unfortunately, it's also made him a little too judgemental and a lot cynical about people in general. He keeps his emotions buried below the surface.

But my herione, Kris represents a bridge to his past wrongs. Okay, so long story short, I think I've finally found the right song to personify the hero and herione's love story!!

I'm listening to Crossfade's song Cold. It's the perfect song about regrets and things left unsaid. How he never got it right. Too wrapped up in things that never really meant anything. He never meant to be so "Cold".

Okay, your turn. What do you do to help define your characters?

Another great reveiw!!!

2008-08-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

The Romance Studio

Ms. Sherry A. Davis has done a good job of presenting a plot with a twist which involved several characters who seemed to each add depth to the storyline. She showed the independence of Cole and Andi, but she also demonstrated their vulnerability. She developed their relationship amid circumstances which involved a range of emotions. I shed tears. I laughed. The sexual connotations were well written but not offensive to anyone.

I thoroughly enjoyed this great story and believe anyone would. Great job, Ms. Davis.

Overall rating: (FIVE HEARTS)
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
August 11, 2008

Thank you, Ms. Brenda Talley for a great review :)

Off to write!

The New WIP

2008-08-15T10:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, I loved the hamsters on the hula hoop but it's time for a change and an update. I'm working on my new WIP, working title Witness for the Damned.

It's a 60k(I hope)romantic suspense targeted to Harlequin Intrigue. I know, I know. I said I wouldn't submit anything else to them until they came looking for me. Yeah, well.

It's a really cool book, my herione is a PI accused of three serial killings in Historic Fort Worth. The only one who believes she didn't do it is the hero, her ex-lover. He's an ex-FBI agent, now Tarrant County Sheriff, who puts his job on the line to protect her and help her find the real killer.

So, it's back to work for me on the thing I love to do best: Writing!

Happy Writing, Friends :)

Expect the Unexpected

2008-07-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

Long and Short Reveiws has given HERE COMES THE BRIBE 4 Books out of 5.

Yes, I expected to be reviewed. But not for months! This unexpected attention has completely taken me by surprise. Like hamsters and hula hoops!

I love this story and am truly happy for the great reviews by friends and family, it amazes me each time to read that someone found pleasure and enjoyment in reading about Cole and Andi. I can't wait to submit my next romcom, Breaking All the Rules!!

It's the classic best friends turn lovers story, but with a couple of unexpected (and sexy!) twists thrown in along the way. It was the first book I ever wrote that I actually laughed out loud while writing it.

Of course, it needs some revisions. Hopefully, they won't take too long.

My first Website Review!!!

2008-07-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

Here Comes the Bribe received 5 starts from Night Owl Romance.

The review is dated July 10, 2008 by Reviewer Diana Coyle!!! Thanks, Diana :)

I'm So Excited!!!

2008-07-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

Isn't she adorable?? Everything seems to be written all over her face. EXCITEMENT

And I feel the same way. Thanks to some really great reviews and a posse of pals and relatives willing to buy my debut novel, Here Comes the Bribe , it has quickly climbed into the Bestsellers list of The Wild Rose Press and hasn't left since it's release date on June 27. Honestly, three weeks was so much more than I hoped for. I'm sending out a big THANK YOU to everyone who's stood behind me and encouraged me to reach for this dream. Your support has truly meant more to me than a few feeble words on this blog could possibly hope to express.

UNBELIEVABLE!

If you visit the home page link below, and look to the right hand side of the page, they list the Current Bestsellers in their inventory. HCB is riding at #2 overall, in all lines/catagories offered by the publisher, The Wild Rose Press.

Here Comes the Bribe is listed as #1 among the four Contemporary Lines and #1 in my catagory, Champagne Rose! Amazing!!!

If you're interested in the reviews of HCB, link here

And feel free to post your own review of Here Comes the Bribe.

Again, my most heartfelt thanks.

Sherry

Got Acronyms?

2008-07-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

I read an AP article on acronyms today, sort of a "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader" fodder type article. So, being Independence Day and determined to kick back and think about something other than the ba-gillion things I could be doing, I tested my knowledge.

Hmm. Surprising.

Did you know the word NOPE was originally an acronym? I didn't. Apparently, it's one of those words whose usefulness transcended fad and became a word on its own merit. Originally, it was intended to mean "not on this planet". Appropriate, to say the least.

How about WWILF? It began as "what was I looking for" but has morphed into the British slang WILFING, which means aimless internet searching (esp. at work).

Here's one with a negative connotation: BSO. It's stands for "bright, shiny object" and is commonly used to imply a distraction. I'm sooo going to use that one :)

My favorite for the day was BIMBO. Yes, it's been around for a long time. We all know what it means because, like NOPE, it's transcended its original purpose to become a word of its own. But did you know it originated from the Italian word for baby: bambino? From there, it morphed into the acronym BIMBO. It's meaning: "body impressive. Brain optional." Appropo
These acronyms have so much more meaning for me, now.

If you'd like to learn more about this fascinating subject, check out the article at http://www.att.net/s/editorial.dll?eetype=Article&eeid=5946005&render=y&ck=&Table=&_lid=332&_lnm=yahoo+todayslink+acronyms
Happy Writing,
Sherry

Finally!!

2008-06-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

Finally, HERE COMES THE BRIBE is released today at
The Wild Rose Press.

I'm so excited!! Please go over and take a peek :)http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=870&zenid=670df9942935cddd295aca518b893374

Inspiration ala Ben Browder

2008-06-14T09:31:00.001-07:00

I know, I know. I'm working on the PROMO stuff, really. I just needed a little "Ben Time". He was the actor who played one of my favorite character, John Crighton from Farscape. Any Scapers out there? Great show! He played an astronaut working on wormhole technology. The only way to test his theory was to volunteer for the flight. Unfortunately, it worked.

Shot through a wormhole to the other side of the galaxy with no way of getting home. His headlong flight into oblivion was stopped by a ship who inadvertantly intersected his path. The other ship is obliterated and we find out within moments that it carried the brother of a most feared general who witnessed the incident.

John's shuttle is fired on, his actions taken as an act of war. The only other ship is an organic Leviathin, a prison ship taken over by 7 escapees. They want to stay off the general's radar but the Leviathin senses John Crighton and when the FTL powers up to jump, she takes John's shuttle with her. Now they're all on the run. The galaxy outcasts and John, who believes he can find a way home, eventually.

Great conflict. (more applauds, please)

My other consideration to have a hot hunk occassionally grace my blog was a promo site which said the hot-ticket hunk to add traffic to your blog was Alan Rickman. And I want to put a picture of Alan. I love him! I just can't decide which era Rickman to post. So, for now, I'll list him in my labels. (another must-do in PROMO)

Okay, enough. Back to promo and branding. Have a great one!

The End ...

2008-06-09T21:31:00.000-07:00

... of the Writing Challenge.

That's right. After careful consideration, I've ended the writing challenge. But I did learn a thing or two along the way:

1. 90 days is way toooooo loooonnnnnggggg to keep a challenge going.
Too many pot holes and sticking points along the way that are impossible to see until you're in the middle of it all.

2. Guilt is a powerful motivator but a poor inspiration.
Yes, you need motivation to keep writing every day, keep pushing to meet your word count. But when life steps in to side-track your best intentions, you need to be able to shift gears without beating yourself up.

3. Some things were not meant to be bent to a time schedule. The muse is one of those things. The harder you try to fit it into the box the more unweildy it becomes until all you have is a broken box. Allow yourself the space to zig instead of zag.

On a positive note, I just found out the digital release of Here Comes the Bribe has been moved up to June 27!!! That's a couple of weeks, folks. So maybe it's best that the challenge has been ended. It's time to focus on a promo strike.

I'm off to hit the PROMO-Ho's Website and soak up some lessons on branding before my release date and the first reviews start coming in.

Here's to a good writing (or not) week to all of you.

Writing Challenge: Day 65

2008-06-04T06:45:00.001-07:00

Ever feel like you're going nowhere fast? That's what this new draft of Residuals feels like. The pages are slow and methodical. The characterization is deeper and the imagery more pronounced. I'm learning new things about myself and the craft but there is one thing I cannot get out of my head:

I'm reworking a manuscript without any guarantee this draft will be any more marketable than the original.

Such is the life of a writer.

I chose this stairway, stretching out before me long and twisting with no forseable end because it reminds me that I'm cutting my own path. When you step into a path, there are no guarantees but the hope of dreams of reaching the goals you set for yourself. My way is unclear and treacherous. It requires me to take one step at a time. Through stumbles and restarts I've sustained bruises and abrasions to my ego and fortitude. But I've also gained strength and determination and a deeper understanding I didn't believe possible.

On any journey, rest and reflexion is required at certain points. I believe I've reached mine, a crook in the road on this winding path in which I have a decision to make about which way to go next. Do I take the clear path, made safe by so many before me? Or do I continue to cut my own path, hacking away at the underbrush until I find a foothold I can trust?

I don't know. That's why I'm taking a writing sabatical to ponder at this personal turning point.

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 63

2008-06-02T07:10:00.000-07:00

Psychic Fair, anyone?

That's right. In observance of our own LA Mitchell's birthday, we decided to celebrate by attending a psychic fair. Dallas hosts the event the first Sunday of each month in the ballroom of the Holiday Inn Select at Josey Ln and 635.

We saw everything from Tarot, Mahjong, Psychics, Numerologists, Astrologists, Crystal balls, rune stones, crystals, Chakra Healing, Raiki, Past Life Specialists, Palm Readers, you name it. We each decided to split up and register for as many different mediums as possible. Then we went to dinner to pow-wow on what we'd learned throughout the day.

It was a very enlightening afternoon (no pun intended :). I'll let the fair goers post their experiences on their own blogs. As for me, I found the Mahjong and Numerology to my liking.

I'm a big fan of Numerology, as some of you may know. I was stunned by how fast this woman put a chart together (it takes me hours). She hit on a lot of targets for me. I also was enamored with the Mahjong cards. They're beautifully depicted and I'm tempted to get myself a deck to study them. The reader did a very good job with them. She was kind enough to let me pick her brain with questions about her gift and initiation into the practice. Thanks, Carol!

So, maybe we can find another Sunday to have another adventure at the Psychic Fair. Anyone want to join us?

Writing Challenge: Day 58

2008-05-28T06:41:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day Daze?

That about sums it up. 20 hours in a car is not conducive to relaxation and/or embueing the muse. However, I did jump back on the wagon last night and eeked out 250 new words. I have no idea what my word count is as most of my revisions have been in long hand. I haven't done this much actual writing (with a pen!)since college. It is cathartic, however. Very different from my usual break-neck typing pace.

And it's alleviating the burnout on this book. So, how do you avoid the dreaded burnout?

Writing Challenge: Day 53

2008-05-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

You know what to do! Hope your writing day has been successful :)

Writing Challenge: Day 51

2008-05-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

Hey, it's hump day :) (I just wanted to say that! hehehe)

I love it that we have a three-day holiday this weekend. Whoooo-hoooo! I'm headed to my nephew's wedding in Topeka, KS. This kid was my ring bearer 20 years ago. I can't believe he's 26. But what a great man he's turned into. And he's chosen a honey of a bride. I'm so proud and happy for both of them.

I'm taking the weekend off. We're headed for a resort hotel for the weekend and I intend to take some time to ponder on the heart and romance. I'm filling up the well, girls!

Hope every single one of you has a great, restful (or productive, whichever suits you) weekend.

Cheers!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 50

2008-05-20T18:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's day 50 !!

Sorry for going AWOL. The weekend was so busy ferrying the kids around to birthday parties and concerts that I needed a complete mental break from my computer. I also thought I might have the dreaded STREP THROAT so I took Monday and Tuesday to clean and rest.

I'm back now. :)

How's the challenge going? Well, I've added eleven pages of handwritten scenes I now have to transpose into my computer. Because, for some reason, spending seven hours a day in front of my work computer makes coming home to spend more hours in front of my writing laptop um ... not so appealing.

So, dish! Where are YOU in the writing process?

Writing Challenge: Day 46

2008-05-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

Chaos!!!

Well, I've bitten the bullet and am writing new pages today while I'm tending to Strep Throat boy :( He's in a lot of pain. His tonsils look like the leftovers from a meat grinder. We narrowly avoided a repeat of Porcelain Bowl Worship service this morning. (not so lucky last night, though!)

For now, Guitar Hero on the PS3 seems to be an immense help.

I felt a little queasy myself this morning after I decided that the rewrite would have to be on clean, white pages. No salvaging the first three chapters. My heroine has evolved into a whole different character. (good for the story, bad for my timeline.) My new goal is to be finished with the rough draft before RWA's National Convention at the end of July. (sigh)

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 45

2008-05-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

Trial by fire, that's a writer's life. I thought this pic was appropriate as we've now reached the halfway point in our challenge. It's amazing how things can change in the space of six weeks, isn't it? But, that's a writer's life.

Keep writing! (or revising, whatever the case may be :)

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 44

2008-05-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

I should be writing but my brain is thinking about Battlestar Galactica and who is the freaking 5th Cylon???

My vote is for Gaeta. He's the 5th!

Happy Writing,

Sherry - who got some great revision work done last night with the BEST cp on the planet.

Thanks, Sandy!!
Check out her blog at www.lone-star-meanderings.com

Writing Challenge: Day 43

2008-05-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

Good Morning. Here's a cuppa to get you all started on this Tuesday morning.

My apologies for being out of pocket for the last few days. Frankly, Mother's Day was exhausting. Why do they call it a holiday if everyone is required to work so hard?

It's back to the challenge today. I've edited around 50 pages, cutting and snipping and streamlining. I guess that makes my new count 12,500 approximately.

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 39

2008-05-09T07:39:00.000-07:00

By all rights, I should have around 39k of my ms in rough draft. I wish that were the case. Through stumbles and falls, I have less than half of what I wanted. ARGGGGGGG!

So be it. I have to put the current aside and concentrate on Book I to make it brilliant.

Time is evil.

Back to work, now.

Writing Challenge: Day 38

2008-05-08T06:57:00.001-07:00

It's quiet around the blog. It feels a little spooky, like this empty dugout. I hope that means everyone is so busy writing and/or revising they just don't have time to check in and be counted.

I've begun the dreaded revisions of Book I. I've decided to cut 10k, give or take.

I printed off the first 8 chapters and found myself a crazy pen. I'm reading through with an eye to deepening the world through speech and specific metaphors. I'm making lists of every plot line, character and their goals. I'm streamlining, taking out anything that doesn't propel the main plot line and the romance.

Yes (sigh). After much angst and deliberation, I've decided to make this book a romance.

There are specific reasons why I didn't but now I see the reasons for beefing up the romance to an "optimistic" ending are stronger. So, there you go.

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 37

2008-05-07T06:28:00.000-07:00

The spring storms knocked me out! Literally. My head was so stuffed up, no amount of decongestant could save my muse. I ended up going to bed at 8:30p and getting no words on the page :(

More storms are expected tonight.

I hope everyone else is writing up a storm! Except LA, who should be relaxing on the beach until the weekend.

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 36

2008-05-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hey, it's writing time again :)

Happy Tuesday,

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 35

2008-05-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

Good morning writers :)

I hope everyone had a productive weekend. I didn't get much work on the WIP done. I revised Chapter One but pretty much ended with the same work count.

I received a great rejection, though. The agent asked me to revise and resubmit. So, for me, I'll be putting aside Book II to take another look at Book I. Not a bad idea since I'd been playing with the idea of pulling the subs from Sourcebooks and Tor to streamline the plot and beef up the romance element (which is exactly what the agent recommended).

At least I don't have to waffle anymore over whether it's the right direction or not. I know.

Here's some beefcake inspiration

Happy Writing,

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 33

2008-05-03T07:04:00.001-07:00

Good Morning, it's the weekend again. Mine is a little by-polar; a funeral today and a baby shower tomorrow. I'll be working sporadically, to say the least. I plan to post my totals Monday morning on Challenge Day 35.

Here's to a productive writing weekend to all of us :)

Writing Challenge: Day 32

2008-05-02T08:02:00.001-07:00

I thought this summed up my "transitions" I worked on last night.

Happy Writing,

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 31

2008-05-01T06:26:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's already May. This is called the Cape May Butterfly. I thought it was lovely and wanted to share it with all of you.

I got up at the crack of dawn, unable to sleep, because I hadn't met my word count for yesterday. I did manage to hit it and it was so nice to be up when the house was quiet and the day was new. My mind was fresh and the story seems to have more cohesion.

Tonight, my goal (besides the word count) is to make it to the Champagne Rose Chat over at The Wild Rose Press. It will be my first "official chat" and I hope to post my book cover and advertise the release date.

I hope you all have a great writing day.

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 30

2008-04-30T06:35:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Mary on your awesome word count yesterday :)

I'm sucking wind over here :( The end of the school year is so crazy. They try to pack so much into the last six weeks. I got zero words added to my word count last night. Unfortunately, I need a quiet, contemplative atmosphere to create. Not so much when editing, but during the initial creation I can't have any distractions. My ADD brain can't take it.

Tonight, it's work, work, work!

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 29

2008-04-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the tardy post!! I'm celebrating my friend Ardent Reason's b-day today :)

I did manage 4 pages of not so much crap-- possibly very good plot development and character possibilities.

Tracy, I'm so impressed with your word count. I can't wait to read it :)

Write on, friends!

Writing Challenge: Day 28

2008-04-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

Here's hoping everyone had a great weekend and productive writing time. Chances are, you had a whole lot of distractions. Me, too.

I did manage to add around 3000 words over the weekend. My total word count is hovering around 8k.

Transitions are the hardest for me. I worked on a really tough scene and sequel with a transition involving a previous character who doubled as friend and enemy in the last book. He'll play a major role in book 2 so it had to be done. I thought this great picture sort of explained my characters developing relationship with the character. Everything around her is unclear at this point.

What did everyone else work on?

Writing Challenge: Day 25

2008-04-25T06:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, I added around 400 words and deleted around 600. Not exactly a forward momentum Thursday :(

So, since it's the weekend (or soon will be) my goal is to get to that hallowed 10000 word (total. I know, I should be at 25k but it's not happening. Yet!

Here's to a great writing day or weekend for all.

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 24

2008-04-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

Good Morning :)

More storms here in North Texas last night. I bet there were plenty of computers NOT running or facilitating the brilliant writers working through their challenges :(

So... life happens, right?

Here's some fairy dust to help you create twice the word count today.

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 23

2008-04-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

Good Morning all you future NYT Bestselling Authors!

I'm still waning from the migraine but I'm standing upright today. Trust me, it's an improvement.

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 22

2008-04-22T07:16:00.000-07:00

I'm home today with a migraine :( Everything is an irrantant. Smells. Sounds. Textures. Light.

I think I'll pick out a dark scene and work on that today.

Thanks for the crystal link, Tracy. I'll check it out.

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 21

2008-04-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

Here's a little inspiration for this Monday writing day :)

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 20

2008-04-20T08:09:00.000-07:00

Wow. Anyone coming up on the 20k mark? Tracy? Mary? Laura?

Hey, I think Sandra will be joining us this week. She's back from a long-term subbing position so we need to rally behind her and cheer her on to the finish line. She's so close to the end.

I'm almost finished with the new plot-line (for now) and ready to put some new words on the page.

Happy Writing,
Sherry -

Writing Challenge: Day 19

2008-04-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

Here's the post. Sorry it's so late. I worked on my synopsis again this morning and completely forgot to post!

You know what to do.

Happy Writing!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 18

2008-04-18T06:48:00.000-07:00

I'm nowhere close to 18k words but I'm pushing forward. The local storms knocked out my muse last night but I found something I'd lost. My original hand-written synopsis of book 2!!

I feel like Karma just smacked me up side the head :) May you all be struck by it (gently, of course).

Off to write,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 17

2008-04-17T06:43:00.000-07:00

I wrote four more pages long hand last night :) I don't know how many words there are but I'm pumped. I think I'm finally far enough into the wip that I can "hear" my main character's voice, again.

I'd thought I'd lost it. There's something about pen in hand that stimulates my brain to reach deep inside.

What do you to do when you're stuck?

Writing Challenge: Day 16

2008-04-16T06:47:00.001-07:00

I thought this was such a positive theme, I wanted to share it.

Write on!

Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 15

2008-04-15T06:33:00.001-07:00

Here's some inspiration for reaching the end of your own personal rainbow.

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 14

2008-04-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

Oops! I skipped 13. The camping trip was a lot of fun but very cooolllllddddd. Remind me not to go camping in early April.

Congratulations on the awesome word counts :)

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 12

2008-04-12T09:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm down on word count but up on plotting. I'm shooting for the mid-point (again) after some great comments and assistance from my critique group. It's taken me a couple of weeks to wrangle the new elements into my pre-existing vision for Soul Gatherers but I think it's better.

How do you plot?

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 11

2008-04-11T06:44:00.000-07:00

Inspiration comes in many forms. Here are a few of mine while working on the fast draft of Residuals II: Soul Gatherers.

Tell me what inspires you?

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 10

2008-04-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

Hooray! Day 10 is a milestone day. I'm hovering at 3500 but hope to double it over the weekend.

Nice job, Mary! I hope agent Pam Strickler loves your mss. Which one are you sending off?

LA also has a request. I'll let her tell you all about it. (come on, LA. Tell!!)

Congratulations, Tracy. I think you're in the lead so far.

I've rewritten my submission/sample pages for Avon. All I have to do is mail off Residuals first thing in the morning to Cindy Hwang at Berkley.

I'm thinking good thoughts and sending positive energy out to everyone on the blog loop.

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge Day 9

2008-04-09T06:46:00.000-07:00

Here's the challenge post for Day 9. I'm working on submissions for requests I received at Dreamin' In Dallas last weekend.

Editor Esi Sogah of Avon requested a query and sample pages of Fool Me Once. Sr. Executive Editor Cindy Hwang of Berkley requested a partial of Residuals: The Mender. Whoo-hooo!

Anyone else prepping manuscripts for publishers or editors? Post your news!

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Challenge Day 8

2008-04-08T12:36:00.001-07:00

I'm running behind today :( Hope everyone has had a great writing day.

No work on the wip last night but I did write an article for the RWR and a report. I'm hoping to catch up tonight.

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 7

2008-04-07T06:54:00.001-07:00

Okay, I should have around 6000 words this morning. Instead, I'm hovering around 3700 which means I have to kick this into gear.

One of the great things about writing every day is that it keeps the story immediate in the mind. Even after you've turned off the computer and gone about your day or evening, your subconscious continues to plot and write.

Another trick to help you get started each night is to end the scene in the middle. Try it!

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Back to the Challenge

2008-04-06T11:11:00.001-07:00

I had a great weekend at the Dreamin' in Dallas Conference this past weekend. Saw some great friends. Bought a load of books at the booksigning and took some pics of my buddies signing their first books.

Nancy Haddock's La Vida Vampire from Berkley
Jax Cassidy's The Lotus Blossom Chronicles
LA Mitchell, Mary Malcolm, Gina Lee Nelson, Nikki Holloway and Christine Crocker signed their Anthology Love, Texas Style.

I also took the opportunity to catch up with good friends and meet a couple of new ones while attending lots of great workshops with speakers Lori Foster, Kresley Cole, PC Cast, Gena Showalter, Candace Havens and too many others to count. In all, it was a great weekend. I learned a lot. Filled up the well, which was in a sad state. Really sad.

So, now it's time to get back to work on the WIP. Post your word counts here. If anyone has any pics of DiD they'd like to share, email them to me and I'll post them on the side bar!

Happy Writing,
Sherry

Writing Challenge: Day 3

2008-04-03T06:26:00.000-07:00

You know what to do. Post your word count in the comment section. Don't give up. I'm at 2500 words so far for anyone interested.

**Pssst! Gotta secret. I'm gathering up prizes for the "I completed my first draft" drawing on July 1st. The prize bucket includes a 2G mp3 player loaded with the entire 2007 RWA Conference Workshops.

Happy Writing :)

Writing Challenge: Day 2

2008-04-02T20:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, sorry I'm late. I thought I posted this early this morning but apparently the virtual fairies are against me. :(

Post your word count in the comment section.

Happy Writing,

Sherry

Challenge Day 1

2008-04-01T12:56:00.001-07:00

Ready, set, go!!

Today is race day. If you've joined us for the challenge, post your title and word count in the comments section.

If you didn't make your count, post anyway or just leave a congrats for the others :)

Sherry

Writing Challenge Countdown

2008-03-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

Only a few days left to go! It's time to get your materials together. Break out the plot board. Whip out that outline. Gather up your note cards and research materials.

Here's a few tips: Don't forget to explain to the family about your challenge. Get them involved in your succeess. Take some time this weekend to plan out the week's dinner menus. Make it easy. Make it fun so no one feels abandoned by your muse and you don't have to tolerate the Guilt-Fairy. She likes to perch right beside your internal editor.

Note: Send the Guilt-Fairy and the Internal Editor on a vacation until June 30!! (Longer, if you need it.) And don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for plot help.

If you get stuck, just write "and something wonderful/awful/scary/etc. happens here" and move on to the next part you know. Sometimes there will be a gap. It's okay. Just come back later and fill it in. It usually only takes a good night's sleep for your subconscious to figure out what's missing. The goal is to get to the end. Fix it all later in revisions. (Example: Love scenes are complicated for me to write. I usually do an outline with the emotional stake/outcome, then come back in revisions and flesh it out to a fully developed scene with all the bells and whistles.)

Obviously, some of us only need 60k or 70k. Some of you are targeting 100k. (Me, too.) Whatever. If you need a longer challenge, do it! Or amp up your word count to fit the timeline. Whatever it takes, right?

Here's the best part--at the end of the challenge, you'll have another manuscript to pitch at National or to your agent or editor. :)

Every minute of pre-planning you do now will make the actual writing go smoother. So, get busy. See you on Tuesday.

Sherry

NEW WRITING CHALLENGE BEGINS APRIL 1

2008-03-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

Here’s something for everyone. I’m hosting a Writing Challenge for myself and anyone interested.

1000 words a day for ninety days.

The goal is to complete the rough draft of a 80k fiction novel. Obviously, I’ve added in some “fudge” days. There are 10 days you can use to goof off, get sick or just play hookie 

What to do until April 1?

Make a rough draft of the five to eight major turning points/ plot points of your novel.

Work on Character Development/Character Arcs. *Know what your character wants and why.

Fast draft outlines of 7-20 scenes you can’t wait to write. (Target the turning points. These will get you unstuck when the going gets tough.)

When April 1 arrives, I’ll post here each day. Anyone who’d like the added accountability is welcome to post as well in the comments section.

Ready. Set. Go!

Here Comes Peter Cottontail ...

2008-03-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

I thought this was really cute. But then I began to wonder, why chicks? What do they have to do with Easter? And how did that darn Bunny reap all the attention on what should be a sacred holiday?

Got answers? Post them in the comment section.

Happy Easter!!

My Website is back up :)

2008-03-10T22:48:00.000-07:00

For the curious (or the confused) I've put my website back online.

You can now find me at www.sherryadavis.com

Be a friend and give me some feedback.

Thanks,
Sherry

Upcoming Chat at Coffee Time Romance

2008-03-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Here's more dish on my upcoming release, Here Comes the Bribe.

I'll be joining the WRP Champagne Authors on Friday, March 15 in the Latte Room of Coffee Time Romance, a review site for romance readers. If you're interested in joining the fun, link here.

Hope to see you there!

http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/board/forumdisplay.php?f=99

Man in the Coffee Beans -- Brain Test

2008-01-24T16:33:00.000-08:00

I thought this was interesting. Take a break and try this brain teaser :)

Doctors have concluded that if you find the man in 3 seconds, then the right half of your brain is better developed than most people.

If you find the man between 3 seconds and one minute, then your right half of the brain is developed normally.

If you find the man between one minute and 3 minutes, then the right half of your brain is functioning slowly and you need to eat more protein.

If you have not found the man after 3 minutes, the right half of your brain is a mess, and the only advice is to look for more of these types of exercises to make that part of the brain stronger.

The man is really there. Keep looking!

Tagged with a MEME

2008-01-23T16:21:00.000-08:00

My dear friend and cp, LA Mitchell has tagged me for a MEME. Apparently, she wants to know seven random facts about me. I don't even remember seven unrandom facts. Seriously, I counted. Twice.

Obviously, the situation calls for alcohol. (Pinot Noir to the rescue!)

Rules of the MEME:
Link to the person who tagged you.
Leave a comment on their blog, so their readers can visit you.
Post the rules on your blog.
Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
Tag 7 random people at the end of your blog.
Include links to their blogs and let each of them know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Okay, so here goes:

1. I like to think I know about wines. No, really. My romantic fantasy is to kidnap my husband for a wine country tour, ala my favorite movie French Kiss, just the two of us. So I've been educating myself on wines for the last few years.

2. Well, okay. I guess the above was two random facts. I actually learned about writing romance from the movie French Kiss with Kevin Kline and Meg Ryan. They were such complete opposites with nothing in common that I fell in love with both of them and then fell in love with the movie. I only later realized after I'd read Chris Vogler's Writer's Journey that the screenplay followed it perfectly. So, I gave a workshop on it, convinced everyone would love it the way I did. (Sorry, my friends. Thanks for putting up with me.)

3. I, like LA, also had an NDE. I was sixteen and out to dinner with my brothers and parents at a local steak house when I choked on a popcorn shrimp. No white light. But I do remember I actually floated up out of my body. I was looking down on the scene when my older brother performed the Heimlich (sp?). I kep the secret for nearly twenty years. It took me until after my dad died to actually confront and face what had happened.

4. I have a TV addiction. I excuse it by telling myself I'm studying the dialogue/setting/character/whatever. But it's an addiction, all the same. Especially sci-fi/fantasy. (I'm a serious SCI-FI channel kinda-girl!) Ben Browder as John Crighton in Farscape is the only man I'd EVER leave my husband for. Since I'm confessing, I also "study" crime drama and relationship dramas.

5. Are we at seven, yet? Hmm. Okay, here's something not widely known about me. When my kids were little, I made extra money working weekends at fairs and carnivals as a face-painting clown. I actually went to a clown school. :)

6. I've never been stalked. Never had a prison inmate read one of my books and request an article of my clothing as memorabilia. Never committed a federal crime (speeding through the red light doesn't count). I've only had sex with one guy. And that's the way I like it. Monogomous to the end. (except for that one fictional hero--see #4)

7. My most serious injury was when fell through the attic in our house.

That's it :) Now it's time to tag (Mwah, hah, hah--evil laughing).

Fun Story

2008-01-21T14:57:00.000-08:00

Hey, check out the Sparkle This! blog. We've started a round-robin story and it's so much fun :) You have to read the entries. They're all so different.

Happy Writing

Happy New Year 2008!

2008-01-02T19:46:00.000-08:00

If any of you are into Numerology, this is my 2 year. Year 2 is all about growth and advancement but in a slow, steady and reflective manner. If you want to find out what year this is for you, simply add the month and day of your birth and reduce it to a single number (ie: 11 and 17 equal 28. 2 and 8 equal 10. 10 is equal to 1.) Then add the year, 2008. 2-0-0-8 equals 10 equals 1.

This is from my favorite book on the subject: by Hanz Decoz and Tom Monte - Numerology: Key to Your Inner Self: A Complete Guide to Understanding and Using Your Numbers of Destiny. (It sounds so woo-woo!)

This is a year to carefully protect and nurture your plans. You will be like a mother watching over her children, conscious of every threat, real or imagined. You need tact and cooperation to keep yourself moving forward. There will likely be confrontations with others, requiring a subtle and gentle approach. You will have to stay focused on your goals, yet use intelligent persuasion. Being forceful may work against you; compromise will work in your favor.

You will be unusually sensitive ,and you may wonder at times what happened to the drive and momentum you felt last year. This year requires something else from you: a delicate sense of balance, and a willingness to go around obstacles without losing sight of your goal.

You may experience some emotional depressions and frustrations. The year is marked with struggle but there are many opportunities to advance your plans.

This is a year of slow growth which requires patience.

In all honesty, this picture best reflects my feelings for 2008. I can't see anything. I have an anticipation for the coming months because I know I've put in a lot of hard work this past year. I have several projects out circulating. I have a new book coming out, for Pete's sake. That's something to cheer about (and I am, really!) It's just that I have this great pause building inside me, as if there's a fork in the road and I'll have to make a choice which road to travel.

The way isn't clear. Which path do I follow? Do I make my own new path? Risk breaking out of my comfort zone?

In the picture above the clear blue sky gives me hope to keep pushing through the grass. The vivid green grass tells me there is sustenance near, if I can only keep the faith and continue to move forward. But my mind is still searching for the sign post that reads "This way to the water!"

Here's hoping it's a nice gentle lake and not a raging river :)

Elements of RWA Chapter

2007-11-07T17:35:00.000-08:00

Wow! I just went to the Elements Chapter's Website and I'm listed, along with my cover, on their published author's link.

This sounds crazy but I can't believe it. I can't believe it's my name and my cover! On the published page! With my cover (still oh-so-bee-uu-tee-fuulllll!)on their site!!

(speechless)

The Finish Line

2007-10-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

Yeah! I just finished my first round of edits for HCB. It took about 7 weeks to edit and add around 10k words but it's done and now I can catch up on some other things while I wait for my editor to read it through.

Halloween is here! The leaves are falling. The clock is changing and it's time to soak up some sun before Winter settles in. So, take a page from my book (see? I'm a writer) and go do something fun today.

Happy Writing

Here Comes the Bribe

2007-10-17T19:50:00.001-07:00

Here's a teaser of my romantic comedy, due out from The Wild Rose Press in 2008.

A single administrative assistant accepts her temporary boss’s offer to masquerade as his fiancée to keep his matchmaking grandmother out of his personal life and out of the way while he negotiates a high-profile merger for his family-owned company. In exchange, she’ll get the down payment for the loan she needs to keep her ex from selling her condo out from under her.

But neither of them counted on the lines blurring between real and pretend--or for the temporary arrangement to leave them both longing for something more permanent.

You can find HCB by going to The Wild Rose Press and clicking on the "Coming Soon" in the upper right hand corner. From there, navigate to the General Contemporary section and click on my title and name.

Thanks!

My Beautiful Cover!!

2007-10-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's my beautiful new cover of my romantic comedy due out next year!!

Why Enter Contests?

2007-10-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

Why Enter Contests?

IMO, contests offer a valuable stepping stone for writers. It acts as a first step of faith for a writer to submit their work. Not everyone is ready to submit to an agent or editor.

While some writers are blessed with a great critique group to submit their work on a weekly basis, a lot of writers don't have that option. They live too far off the beaten path or don't have access to an online writers group. Many writers just aren't ready to commit to a critique group or to have their work critiqued on a regular basis.

In the beginning, and I'm speaking from experience, it's terrifying process to submit your work to other writers. You have to sit there and watch their faces and listen to their comments. Try not to turn the whole process into a defense for your work. It can be an emotional beating.

Let’s face it; not all critiques are friendly or professional. Relationships play into a face to face critique. Sometimes, the best part of entering a contest can be the anonymous factor.

Anonymous means the exchange is gratuitous. There’s no agenda for the judge to low-ball the score. They don’t get any kind of compensation for writing glowing comments on your entry. Judging in itself can be a tremendous opportunity to learn from the process. You as the writer have no obligation to receive the comments as gospel. Take it as you will. If you agree with the judge, use the information to make the story better. If not, don’t. They didn’t get it.

Anonymity means you can both walk away without hurting anyone's feelings.

But be honest with yourself. Remember, there’s no agenda on the judge’s side. They don’t know who you are. You don’t know who they are. In other words, if they took the time to write a comment, take a hard look before you discount it.

Contests, at least for me, offer something I can't get from my critique group. Fresh eyes.

It's invaluable to me to get that first impression of the work after I've polished it. I have a critique group of professional and friendly (and uber-talented) women I critique with. But after they’ve seen the same story month after month, they lose that freshness. They also know me so well they can fill in the "intention" of my writing. They "know" what I mean on the page.

(Some writers use beta-readers for this process. In fact, that’s what the term means. Published writers have their agent. I don't have that option. Yet!)

A contest judge has no clue of your intention. For that reason, their comments force me to work a little harder to make certain my intent is clear to everyone, not just my critique group.

So, the $25 fee isn't just to get my work in front of the final round agent or editor, or to place or win. It's to gain commentary on the overall submission. This is, after all, what will go out to the various editors and agents on my list.

That's why I always send my work out to contests before I submit it anywhere else.

Just my $.02 worth. Take it as you will.

Happy Writing

Hump Day and a New Round of Edits

2007-09-19T16:10:00.001-07:00

I know why they call the middle of the week a hump. (No! Get your mind out of the gutter. Well, okay. Wallow for a minute or two then come on out.)

Is it me or did Starbuck's forget to add the shot of espresso? I think they faked it because I'm really dragging here. I'm exercising pretty much every day, due to the inspiration of the newest offering from the Biggest Loser. Such a great show. (I balled on the premier last week!) I love to lift weights while I'm watching or do pushups during the commercials. My big goal is to be able to do fifty by January 1. I'm up to 15-16.

As for the writing, I'm retooling Here Comes the Bribe for Wild Rose Press. This is pretty exciting, though. There's a big difference in editing a manuscript and editing a manuscript for immiment publication. My head is in a whole different place. So is my heart.

The pressure is on to really do justice for my characters and the story, as well as my publisher and my editor who've put so much faith in me. It's very humbling and I'm giving it a 110%. (Yes, I love that movie--Bedazzled--with Brendan Frasier, too :) )

Okay, so give a 110%!

Happy Writing

It's Official . . .

2007-08-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

I sold my first book to Wild Rose Press!!!

Here Comes the Bribe will be a Champagne Rose release. No dates yet. There is much to do! Contract. Edits. Art. Promo. But it feels pretty darn great :)

More later . . .

Wednesday Blog

2007-08-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

Hi,
If you're looking for me, I'm blogging today at Sparkle This!

Come on over and leave a comment or an opinion of what YOU think makes a book "sparkle".

Happy Writing

Moving on to Fast Draft . . .

2007-08-17T20:25:00.000-07:00

. . . and on to Book II. Yiipppeeeee!!!!!

I recently started plotting the second book in my urban fantasy series and I'm having a great time with it. I'm pushing through the working synopsis so I'll be ready to FAST DRAFT on Monday.

For those of you who've never heard of FAST DRAFT, please go to CandyHavens.com. She's a wonderful writing buddy, (author of the Charmed & Dangerous series about a witch who provides Secret Service type protection for the Prime Minister) and she has a free online continuous-running writers workshop.

One of the workshops is to put people together to do Fast Draft, a venue for motivated writers to hack out a first draft of their novel in two weeks. Yes, two weeks! Each writer commits to a certain # of pages(usually 20) per day. They band together in groups to report their daily totals in an accountability to the muse.

Whatever # of pages you choose to commit to, there are writers there to support one another and push each other to meet their page count, answer questions, brainstorm, etc.

The point of FAST DRAFT is to turn off the internal editor. You're not allowed to edit the words on the page until the challenge period is over. This is to help you meet the daily goal and to help you free the creative side. This first draft is just for you. And if you push your page count, even by a couple of pages, and write even after you really would rather stop for the day, you'll find the gold. Something magic happens when we just "let go" of that control and dig deep inside ourselves.

The workshop is also a great way get involved and meet other writers, find out how they get through the tough spots in a novel. Sometimes, the hardest part is putting that first word on the page.

Happy Writing :)

Edgy Fantasy Artist - Timothy Lantz

2007-08-11T13:49:00.000-07:00

I found this great fantasy artist who does bookcover art for Juno Books. He's AWESOME. Yes, I realize I sound like a teenager but the guy's work is really incredible. Take a look for yourself.

www.stygiandarkness.com

My Day :)

2007-08-09T12:07:00.000-07:00

Wednesday was my night to blog over at Sparkle This! If you're looking for me, please come on over and leave a comment.

Sherry

What Makes a Book Sparkle?

2007-08-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty tired tonight. But I haven't blogged in five days and the guilt is beginning to pile up! So, I hope this makes sense. I'm sure I'll take another look in the morning an decide this is drek and delete it. But until the sun comes up, on with the blog.

I've been "blog moonlighting" on Wednesdays at the community blog Sparkle This on the subject of finding an agent. Which is completely relevant since I'm in the midst of finding my very own. And I realized, I've never blogged here about why we felt the need to come together as a group in order to "Find the Sparkle."

You know when you're carelessly ambling around the bookstore in your favorite section, sifting through the books on the shelf? You skim the first paragraphs in quick succession until something jumps out and grabs your attention? Well, the invisible tentacles wrapped around your throat can now be defined as "The Sparkle", the intangible quality a writer embues into their work that gives the story a life of its own.

There are elements we could name like tone, voice, setting, etc., that might effectively convey the generality of "sparkledom". But, quite frankly, if you knew nothing about writing and possessed only a modicum of education, you'd be capable of discerning the indefinable pull of sparkle.

I actually think this is what some Editorial Interns or Editorial Assistants do. They don't know why the submission is good or bad, but they know what they like.

Okay, so now that you know what Sparkle is, how do we find/develop it in our own writing? Where do we begin?

Within the long list of the elements we're required to master in crafting a saleable novel, each of us seem to have been given or developed a writing muscle stronger in one area than another. You grasp onto it and use it to pull yourself along while you muck through the crap-phase--the years of learning all the other elements of story. It's so important during this time to know you're doing something right. You may even leave this initial element behind as you gain other tools of writing or match it with another element or two that develops into a trifecta of sparkling writing. Congratulations. Please don't berate the rest of us who are still working at it. :)

So, whether you have one or three elements (or more), you still have to polish the prose to make it shiny. Here's where the search for the sparkle begins.

Let's start with Dialogue.

I truly respect a literary tone or beautiful prose or emotion which effortlessly sinks inside my soul. I have to work hard for those elements. They require pass after pass of revisions before I feel satisfied I've done my best.

The stories that really "get me" are those with dialogue so razor sharp to the gut it forces me to keep turning the page. Dialogue is where I try to make my work sparkle the brightest. Dialogue in and of itself can encompass every other facet. Dialogue. Emotion. Plot. There's my own trifecta, if you're interested.

Dust off some books from your keeper shelf and turn to a dialogue run.

Is it realistic? Poignant? Relevant? Subtextual? Sometimes the most important dialogue on the page is what the characters DON'T say to each other. A look. A touch. Even an involuntary action can act as dialogue. Especially an involuntary action.

Now, turn to a dialogue run from your wip. Ask yourself the same questions about the dialogue you've written on the page. Now, put yourself inside the scene by drawing emotions from your own experience.

Have you ever said the opposite of what you meant? What emotion motivated the fib? Was it a little one or a big one? Who was protected by it? What was revealed? (I love the contrast in hiding to reveal.) Who was hurt because you didn't trust someone with the truth? Close your eyes and relive this scene. Pay special attention to your body language, heart rate, hand motions, facial expressions. Use all your five senses.

Now go back and rewrite the dialogue/scene from your wip using your new tricks. This time, add the beats of pause and action/reaction your characters experienced. (If you don't know about these, check out Story by Robert McKee.)

Was it better? Did you feel as if you were reliving the scene with the characters? Did it sparkle?

I bet it did. Now, go back through the entire book and revise the places where you missed an opportunity to make it sparkle.

And I would love to see some revised samples!

Until then,
Happy Writing

2007-08-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

Here we are before the Gala Event.

This is LA Mitchell (GH Finalist/Romantic Elements) with her hubby and meteorologist for the NWS, Eric. He was such a good sport! And he looks great in a suit. :) Who do we call to get this guy a gig reporting the local weather???

Here we are with our chapter buddies. (L-R) Jenny Gardiner(American Title III Winner!), Andrea Geist, Rosemary Clement-Moore (Prom Dates from Hell), Shannon Canard, Mindy Obenhaus, Sherry Davis, Sandra Ferguson (Harm's Way), Jayliss Karlik.

The ladies of the "Feet" photo. After the Gala in front of the fountain. There were at least twenty tables laden with desserts and at least that many free-standing bars. Nice evening. (Back to front and left to right) Sandra Ferguson, Sherry Davis, Laura Bradford (Bradford Lit.), Andrea Geist, LA Mitchell(GH Finalist), Delores Shaffer, Jayliss Karlik, Teresa Southwick (The Shiek's Contract Bride/Harlequin).

Here's LA grousing about her hair. Hey, we're from Texas. It's what we do.
Great conference. Great friends.

A Little Game of Guess Who?

2007-07-31T20:59:00.000-07:00

Before I post the final pictures of the conference, I thought it would be fun to play a little game. Can you guess which stylish heel belongs to which lady?

No cheating allowed! Just post your answers and I'll reveal the winner. Maybe a little surprise, too :)

This picture was taken after the Golden Heart/Rita Awards Ceremony on Saturday evening, the last night of RWA's Dallas Conference.

DFW Tea sponsored by Fresh Fiction at RWA Convention

2007-07-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some great pictures of the Saturday afternoon event. We met some great authors, including Jane Porter, Lorraine Heath, Karen Kelley, Tracy Garrett and lots of others.

More Fun at RWA National Convention in Dallas

2007-07-29T20:08:00.000-07:00

This happens to be the only picture I took of Friday. A pity, because Friday was by far the funnest day :) My friend Sandra Ferguson and I started out hunkered down outside the ballroom where agent/editor appointments were taking place. We practiced out pitches until they called our names. Did our thing, then queued for the Publisher sponsored booksignings. Avon was first on the Docket. They're a large publishing house with a strong romance line. They've also recently opened to Women's Fiction in the last year.

The place was packed so we each headed in opposite directions. When we left, we each had a full box of books. We also picked up a couple of flash drives in Avon's signature pink. Cool.

I headed for the Passionate Ink Luncheon where I ran into friends. Great luncheon. Everyone walked out with goody bags full of more books and animal print cowgirl hats. All I need now is a stripper pole in my bedroom!

We finished out the evening by going to dinner, which is where the photo from above was taken. (Please ignore the wine bottle and empty glasses on the table!) Shannon had to beg off due to a migraine. (Shannon, you were missed!) And Mary was at the Harlequin Bash with Terry. (I've heard that was quite a party.)

Needless to say, it was an adventure. We had a very good time. I laughed so hard my jaws ached. There were also a couple of happy tears. I love these women. We've come a long way. There was a lot to celebrate. And with our Laura a Golden Heart Finalist, it just made it a perfect night.

More later.

More from RWA

2007-07-27T16:35:00.001-07:00

Here are more pictures from Thursday. We're all decked out for the Welcome Reception. After, we caught up with friends Ron Campbell, our Aussie friends Bernice and John Sibberas. In the next picture, Kim Campbell dishing about writing and Delores, Shannon and Ron conferring on the publishing industry in general.

More tomorrow :)