Welcome back to my series "So you want to write a book"!
The first post covered the inspiration part, and the second went over how long it takes to write a novel. This post is all about "Finding the Time" to write that book of yours.
I purposely put "Finding the Time" in quotes on purpose. There is no such thing as finding time. Whether it is for working out, crafting, or writing. You will never find the time to do something new. Even something that you love. Finding is not what you're going to have to do. If you want to accomplish anything you're going to have to "Make" the time.
There will always be something (and often times multiple somethings) pulling for your attention. Kids, spouse, work, friends, other hobbies. Everything suddenly needs your attention as soon as you decide you want to learn something new, or to finally sit down and work on a long overdue project.
I get it, I have balanced work, writing, friends, family and working out. It is NOT easy. But then again nothing worth having in life is. If I haven't scared you off yet, below are some of the tips and tricks that I have learned over the years at balancing everything.
1. Utilize breaks at work or school to their fullest. I mean it! If you get breaks and a lunch at work, that's just bonus time! Even if you only get a 30 min lunch, take 15-20 and write, brainstorm, daydream. Just take that time and use it to work on your work. Do you commute on a bus or train? Great! Once again there is extra time, use it to its fullest potential!
2. When you do have time to work on writing, focus. Tune out your surroundings, however you can. Go into a different room, use music with personal earbuds, or sit at a different table in the lunch room. Make sure that when you sit down to work, you're focusing on work.
3. Tell people about your goal, and set a deadline. By telling people you have set this goal, you are creating people that will hold you accountable. Heck, you might even find people who want to do the same thing. You need to find support anywhere you can. Join a writing group, join the NaNoWriMo site. NaNoWriMo is held every year in November. It is when thousands of people around the world band together and agree to spend the month of November writing a novel. It's a great organization that has wonderful communities.
Showing posts with label blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blog. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Bringing it Back
Here's a random thought for you:
If you could bring back a TV show from when you were a kid, what would it be?
There are several answers I could give, but the one that popped out to me immediately was the show Zoids. I have no idea why, but lately I have been wanting to watch this show again. I remember it playing on weeknights after school, and begging my mom to let me finish just one more episode before dinner. (This was pre-dvr'ing capabilities, and we only had one VCR and it was the adult TV that had it) She usually gave in because thankfully this show only ran a half hour at a time.
If you don't remember what Zoids was, I don't blame you. I don't think it was a very popular show. The show centered around these giant robots called - you guessed it!-zoids. The zoids are essentially a large machine robot in the shape of an animal. Most being based on designs of lions, tigers or even dinosaurs.
From what I can remember these robots or Mech were not only used as transportation they were used for battles. Mainly between warring factions. It might be more 90's/00's cartoon/anime crap, but from what I can remember I loved it and would often draw, design, and write stories about my own "zoid". This and a few other series really helped to cultivate my creativity, and sometimes I miss these older shows.
What about you? Was there a TV show that you would bring back if you could?
If you could bring back a TV show from when you were a kid, what would it be?
There are several answers I could give, but the one that popped out to me immediately was the show Zoids. I have no idea why, but lately I have been wanting to watch this show again. I remember it playing on weeknights after school, and begging my mom to let me finish just one more episode before dinner. (This was pre-dvr'ing capabilities, and we only had one VCR and it was the adult TV that had it) She usually gave in because thankfully this show only ran a half hour at a time.
If you don't remember what Zoids was, I don't blame you. I don't think it was a very popular show. The show centered around these giant robots called - you guessed it!-zoids. The zoids are essentially a large machine robot in the shape of an animal. Most being based on designs of lions, tigers or even dinosaurs.
From what I can remember these robots or Mech were not only used as transportation they were used for battles. Mainly between warring factions. It might be more 90's/00's cartoon/anime crap, but from what I can remember I loved it and would often draw, design, and write stories about my own "zoid". This and a few other series really helped to cultivate my creativity, and sometimes I miss these older shows.
What about you? Was there a TV show that you would bring back if you could?
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Misconceptions about Horses in Books
So, you want to put a horse in the story you are writing? Congratulations! You've chosen one of the most loyal, useful, intelligent, and interesting animals to add to your story. They truly are impressive. From the large eventing bred horse, to the little backyard pony. All of them are magnificent and each has a story to tell. I have been lucky to have spent over a decade not only riding, but training, giving lessons, and caring for these wonderful animals. I even owned two of them and handled most, if not all, of their training.
When I read books with horses in them, often they are portrayed akin to a motorcycle. You pull it out, saddle it, ride around for untold hours, and when you're done it goes back. What writers often miss are the myriad of nuances that makes up horses, their care, and their uses.
The first thing I would like to address is that horses need a lot of care. They require trimming their feet, health checks, grooming, and the most time consuming of all: training. Even a good minded horse needs long rides and wet saddle blankets. They want to be around people as well. They need that connection as the rider or handler has replaced their natural herd order. Horses like to know where they stand in the herd, and need to be a part of one. Even if it's a herd of the horse and its handler.
Most often I read stories of people simply pulling the horse out for use, and not putting in an effort to care for them. In certain situations this makes sense, such as a horse that may be traded in every tavern for a fresh one. But they still, at the end of a riding day, require attention and care.
The second is that there are many different kinds of horses, and their characteristics often change based on where their breed originates from. An example? The Friesian horse from the Netherlands. These animals are large, with an impressively arched neck. They are usually jet black with a flowing mane and tail. Very athletic, built uphill, their movements are sweeping and large. These horses were bred for war, and could easily carry a knight in full armor. Opposite the Friesian horse is the Shetland pony. Shetland's hail from the very north of Scotland, standing from 28inches to 46 inches at the withers. They are small. Their feet end in tiny hooves, they have copious amounts of hair all over their body for warmth, and with short sturdy legs are built for packing or pulling heavy loads. You would not put a knight a Shetland. It just doesn't fit. Before placing a horse in your story, think about how they will be used, and then pick a breed or type that best suits those needs.
The third, and one that drives me crazy, is color. There are in fact "brown" horses. They tend to be rare, and some colors just don't show up in some breeds at all. Here are just a few of the colors a horse can be: black, bay, white, chestnut, grey, palomino, buckskin, dun, gruella, albino, blue or red roan, and brown. Within some of those "colors" there are further variations that set them apart. A horse's fur color is just like a person's hair. Color is a multi-gene controlled aspect, and as such there are large variations and distinctions. Which means that a horse breed, such as the Friesian listed above may not even be capable of being a certain color. I was reading a book that a horse was of Spanish origin and was described as a buckskin, but later was mentioned that she had a dorsal strip. This horse would actually be considered a dun because of this. Buckskins cannot have a dorsal strip.
The fourth, and last one that I am explaining today is usually the LARGEST misconception. A horse can not gallop all day. Even over grassy plains they can't let, alone galloping through a forest or mountains. In fact, if the ground is rocky and rough, the horse should go no faster than a walk or a trot to ensure the safety of horse and rider. If you ever watch a horse on uneven surfaces they pick their way carefully. It's not easy to get back up when you're over a thousand pounds, and it's worse if you have a hundred some pound rider and supplies on your back. Horses, just like people need rest. A person can't run all day, so why would a writer make a horse? They also need to stop to graze frequently. Horses do not eat three square meals a day. They are grazers, and need time to eat smaller amounts throughout the day and night. When going on a long trip to give the horse some rest and time to graze, have the characters stop for lunch. Or even walk alongside the horses on their way.
Horses are not machines, they are living breathing beings that operate in and obey our natural laws. Now, if the story takes place in some magical realm and there is a solid reason why a horse has attributes that one on our planet wouldn't, THEN EXPLAIN why. Otherwise do some research, talk to someone who knows and understands them. The extra time will be well worth it.
When I read books with horses in them, often they are portrayed akin to a motorcycle. You pull it out, saddle it, ride around for untold hours, and when you're done it goes back. What writers often miss are the myriad of nuances that makes up horses, their care, and their uses.
The first thing I would like to address is that horses need a lot of care. They require trimming their feet, health checks, grooming, and the most time consuming of all: training. Even a good minded horse needs long rides and wet saddle blankets. They want to be around people as well. They need that connection as the rider or handler has replaced their natural herd order. Horses like to know where they stand in the herd, and need to be a part of one. Even if it's a herd of the horse and its handler.
Most often I read stories of people simply pulling the horse out for use, and not putting in an effort to care for them. In certain situations this makes sense, such as a horse that may be traded in every tavern for a fresh one. But they still, at the end of a riding day, require attention and care.
The second is that there are many different kinds of horses, and their characteristics often change based on where their breed originates from. An example? The Friesian horse from the Netherlands. These animals are large, with an impressively arched neck. They are usually jet black with a flowing mane and tail. Very athletic, built uphill, their movements are sweeping and large. These horses were bred for war, and could easily carry a knight in full armor. Opposite the Friesian horse is the Shetland pony. Shetland's hail from the very north of Scotland, standing from 28inches to 46 inches at the withers. They are small. Their feet end in tiny hooves, they have copious amounts of hair all over their body for warmth, and with short sturdy legs are built for packing or pulling heavy loads. You would not put a knight a Shetland. It just doesn't fit. Before placing a horse in your story, think about how they will be used, and then pick a breed or type that best suits those needs.
The third, and one that drives me crazy, is color. There are in fact "brown" horses. They tend to be rare, and some colors just don't show up in some breeds at all. Here are just a few of the colors a horse can be: black, bay, white, chestnut, grey, palomino, buckskin, dun, gruella, albino, blue or red roan, and brown. Within some of those "colors" there are further variations that set them apart. A horse's fur color is just like a person's hair. Color is a multi-gene controlled aspect, and as such there are large variations and distinctions. Which means that a horse breed, such as the Friesian listed above may not even be capable of being a certain color. I was reading a book that a horse was of Spanish origin and was described as a buckskin, but later was mentioned that she had a dorsal strip. This horse would actually be considered a dun because of this. Buckskins cannot have a dorsal strip.
The fourth, and last one that I am explaining today is usually the LARGEST misconception. A horse can not gallop all day. Even over grassy plains they can't let, alone galloping through a forest or mountains. In fact, if the ground is rocky and rough, the horse should go no faster than a walk or a trot to ensure the safety of horse and rider. If you ever watch a horse on uneven surfaces they pick their way carefully. It's not easy to get back up when you're over a thousand pounds, and it's worse if you have a hundred some pound rider and supplies on your back. Horses, just like people need rest. A person can't run all day, so why would a writer make a horse? They also need to stop to graze frequently. Horses do not eat three square meals a day. They are grazers, and need time to eat smaller amounts throughout the day and night. When going on a long trip to give the horse some rest and time to graze, have the characters stop for lunch. Or even walk alongside the horses on their way.
Horses are not machines, they are living breathing beings that operate in and obey our natural laws. Now, if the story takes place in some magical realm and there is a solid reason why a horse has attributes that one on our planet wouldn't, THEN EXPLAIN why. Otherwise do some research, talk to someone who knows and understands them. The extra time will be well worth it.
Sunday, April 3, 2016
April Review- Self-Published Book
Once again, this is a book that I learned about at the Madison Writer's Conference this past year (2015). The author just needed a table to sit at, and he happened to choose the one that Rebekah Bryan and I were at. Of course conversation was struck up, and cards were exchanged.
When I first heard about The Heir of Olympus and the Forest Realm by Zachary Howe, I was a bit skeptical to be honest. I have read the Percy Jackson series (The Lightning Thief) and really enjoyed it. I did not want to read a knockoff, and went in to this book full of doubt.
Within the first few chapters I knew that this book was different. Zach really knows his mythology. As someone who loves mythology, and took several courses on it in college, I can attest that he knows his stuff. Using that rich history, and of course the personality of the gods themselves, Zach has created a wonderful world of adventure and intrigue that is unique.
Yes the big players are there: Zeus, Hera, Apollo, Artemis, Chiron, Hercules, Hades, (etc) all of the characters one thinks of when the Greek Pantheon is mentioned. However, he has molded them into a new rendition without losing the characteristics we know and love. The action came and went in waves, and boy was that ending a doozy!
There were a few things that didn't thrill me. Zach clearly has a large vocabulary, and he likes to use it. Often it felt that the words were not that of a 16 year old boy, and it pulled me away from the story. At times the conversations between the characters came off as "cutesy" or contrived, but I also haven't been a teenage boy so I can't say for sure if this isn't just how they think and talk. I also spotted a few typos, and sometimes the sentence structure was rough. But that comes with the territory of self publishing. Most of them were easily glossed over and did not interfere with the flow of the story. The action built slowly, I really didn't get super hooked until the a little over halfway through, but near the end I couldn't stop!
I was pleasantly surprised at one of the creatures Gordie (Gordon Leonhart) has to face, I hadn't really seen one in Greek mythology much. He did not take after the Percy Jackson books in the main character's relation to the gods, but rather something unique. Gordie has all the hallmarks of an early hero, (including being impatient-which is an awesome trouble making characteristic) and I can't wait to read more of his adventures.
Now, I am waiting for something spectacular to come from his little girlfriend...like she's related to the gods as well. But I think I'll just keep hoping!
Overall I would give this book a strong 4/5 stars.
The links to Zach's webpage, and Good Reads page is below. I can't wait for the next installment, and hope maybe I can be a beta reader! ;)
http://heirofolympus.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/12175485.Zachary_Howe
He is also very active on Twitter, and replies regularly to tweets! Please add him and keep up with all the hilarity that ensues!
https://twitter.com/ZackEHowe
Friday, April 1, 2016
April Fools Day!
Happy April Fools Day!
UGH It's such a tragedy that one of my favorite months, and my birthday month, starts off with this.
Ever since high school I have disliked this day tremendously. I don't have a problem with this day since the meaning started out so different. What I dislike is that people use it as an excuse to be cruel. In school there were many a times I saw kids crying and hurt over "harmless pranks". April Fools Day was not meant to be like that.
Across many cultures one day a year was often set aside to break the decorum of normal society. It was a day of fun, and frivolity. Historically these events were not pranks that would cause someone serious mental harm. In England the jokes stopped at mid day. In fact if someone did not, they were then dubbed the "april fool". In Ireland and Scotland the traditional prank is giving someone a signed and sealed letter and telling them to deliver it. When it is delivered the person receiving the letter finds instructions to not laugh or smile, but to tell the messenger that they can only help them if they then run to a different person first. In this way the person being "pranked" just runs messages around meaning nothing.
Today, or at least in the school days I had, I remember such pranks as:
If a guy found out a girl liked him, he'd ask her out. Once she said yes, he'd yell April Fools.
Hiding someone's personal property or books.
Calling each other nasty names, or saying they hated someone.
Putting putty or some other substance on the chairs of unsuspecting girls.
Girls spreading rumors about other girls.
Cracking into someone's locker and either removing items, or messing it up.
Egging someone's car. (Saran wrapping it, or other destructive ideas)
Without fail the kids in the cafeteria would try to start a food fight.
Putting a bucket of water, or confetti balanced on the top of a door.
If any of this looks familiar, it's because it's the crap that goes on everyday of the school year. Except on April Fools the kids get away with more. I always dreaded the day, and was relieved if it was on a weekend. If it happened to fall on a week day I had three options. Option one: Keep my head down, and be aware of everything and everyone around me. Option two: Pretend to be sick so I could stay home. Option three: Bargain with my mother to let me stay home. (usually option three worked since I was an honor roll student and never fell behind on work and studying).
So if you happen to be an unfortunate person like me who dislikes this holiday, good luck to you!
UGH It's such a tragedy that one of my favorite months, and my birthday month, starts off with this.
Ever since high school I have disliked this day tremendously. I don't have a problem with this day since the meaning started out so different. What I dislike is that people use it as an excuse to be cruel. In school there were many a times I saw kids crying and hurt over "harmless pranks". April Fools Day was not meant to be like that.
Across many cultures one day a year was often set aside to break the decorum of normal society. It was a day of fun, and frivolity. Historically these events were not pranks that would cause someone serious mental harm. In England the jokes stopped at mid day. In fact if someone did not, they were then dubbed the "april fool". In Ireland and Scotland the traditional prank is giving someone a signed and sealed letter and telling them to deliver it. When it is delivered the person receiving the letter finds instructions to not laugh or smile, but to tell the messenger that they can only help them if they then run to a different person first. In this way the person being "pranked" just runs messages around meaning nothing.
Today, or at least in the school days I had, I remember such pranks as:
If a guy found out a girl liked him, he'd ask her out. Once she said yes, he'd yell April Fools.
Hiding someone's personal property or books.
Calling each other nasty names, or saying they hated someone.
Putting putty or some other substance on the chairs of unsuspecting girls.
Girls spreading rumors about other girls.
Cracking into someone's locker and either removing items, or messing it up.
Egging someone's car. (Saran wrapping it, or other destructive ideas)
Without fail the kids in the cafeteria would try to start a food fight.
Putting a bucket of water, or confetti balanced on the top of a door.
If any of this looks familiar, it's because it's the crap that goes on everyday of the school year. Except on April Fools the kids get away with more. I always dreaded the day, and was relieved if it was on a weekend. If it happened to fall on a week day I had three options. Option one: Keep my head down, and be aware of everything and everyone around me. Option two: Pretend to be sick so I could stay home. Option three: Bargain with my mother to let me stay home. (usually option three worked since I was an honor roll student and never fell behind on work and studying).
So if you happen to be an unfortunate person like me who dislikes this holiday, good luck to you!
Friday, February 12, 2016
15 Valentines date/gift ideas for the Writer in your life
1. Take them to a book store and let them pick out something new to read. (or maybe three)
2. Give them time alone to read.
3. Read the same book as them and discuss.
4. Watch their favorite movie that is based on a book or author.
5. A book they may have mentioned wanting/needing.
6. Do not be alarmed at the tears and squeals of joy when said book is produced.
7. Book scented candle...'nough said.
8. Time to write/brainstorm their next project, without interruption.
9. A meal prepared while they get distracted by said writing time.
10. Inquire how their latest project is going, and actually listen.
11. Fingerless gloves for writing on those cold days. (or if the heat hasn't been turned on yet)
12. Caffeine, in their preferred form of course. Coffee, Tea, Hot chocolate...
13. A laptop desk.
14. A new coffee mug or mouse pad.
15. Any book related jewelry.
2. Give them time alone to read.
3. Read the same book as them and discuss.
4. Watch their favorite movie that is based on a book or author.
5. A book they may have mentioned wanting/needing.
6. Do not be alarmed at the tears and squeals of joy when said book is produced.
7. Book scented candle...'nough said.
8. Time to write/brainstorm their next project, without interruption.
9. A meal prepared while they get distracted by said writing time.
10. Inquire how their latest project is going, and actually listen.
11. Fingerless gloves for writing on those cold days. (or if the heat hasn't been turned on yet)
12. Caffeine, in their preferred form of course. Coffee, Tea, Hot chocolate...
13. A laptop desk.
14. A new coffee mug or mouse pad.
15. Any book related jewelry.
Friday, February 5, 2016
New Books Released, and a Book Sale!
Hello All!
I am very excited to announce that book two in the Incalescent Trilogy has been released!!
Across the Sea and Hills is available, and I am delighted to be able to share the next chapter in these character's stories! I was also able to release a novella containing not one, but TWO brand new short stories. Each one explores an event mentioned in the first two books. One follows Riona, and one centers on Aiden. Each recounts a key moment in their lives.
Aren't the covers awesome? Once again the artist did a fabulous job with bringing the characters to life.
The links to buy Across the Sea and Hills, as well as Fire and Snow are below and in the bibliography tab at the top of the blog.
http://www.amazon.com/Across-Sea-Hills-Chronicles-Incalescent/dp/1517286239/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-2&keywords=malinda+Andrews
http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Snow-Dragon-Tales-Vol-ebook/dp/B01BAQ889W/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-4&keywords=malinda+Andrews
Also! If you have not yet read the first book, Through the Mountains, it is on sale! The Kindle version is currently $.99! So go check it out at the link below :)
http://www.amazon.com/Through-Mountains-Chronicles-Incalescent-Trilogy/dp/1512254967/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451313397&sr=8-1&keywords=through+the+mountains
I am very excited to announce that book two in the Incalescent Trilogy has been released!!
Across the Sea and Hills is available, and I am delighted to be able to share the next chapter in these character's stories! I was also able to release a novella containing not one, but TWO brand new short stories. Each one explores an event mentioned in the first two books. One follows Riona, and one centers on Aiden. Each recounts a key moment in their lives.
Aren't the covers awesome? Once again the artist did a fabulous job with bringing the characters to life.
The links to buy Across the Sea and Hills, as well as Fire and Snow are below and in the bibliography tab at the top of the blog.
http://www.amazon.com/Across-Sea-Hills-Chronicles-Incalescent/dp/1517286239/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-2&keywords=malinda+Andrews
http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Snow-Dragon-Tales-Vol-ebook/dp/B01BAQ889W/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-4&keywords=malinda+Andrews
Also! If you have not yet read the first book, Through the Mountains, it is on sale! The Kindle version is currently $.99! So go check it out at the link below :)
http://www.amazon.com/Through-Mountains-Chronicles-Incalescent-Trilogy/dp/1512254967/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451313397&sr=8-1&keywords=through+the+mountains
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Almost a new years post?
Welcome back everyone! Well, I guess welcome back mostly to me. I took last week off of blogging so that I could concentrate on enjoying the holiday with my family, and my soon to be husband. We all had such a wonderful time, and I hope that you had a good week as well.
Lately I've been doing a lot of thinking on how I want this blog to appear in the new year. Not only its aesthetic, or its message, but what kind of posts I want to have on it. I really like the idea of a series. Currently I do a "Whats up Wednesday", and then most times a random post on Friday. I think I will continue posting on Wednesdays and Fridays, and make it a goal to put out at least two posts a week through 2016. Wednesdays may become "Writer-ly Wednesdays", but we'll see what I ultimately decide.
I really would like to build this into a bigger and broader community. To promote that I want to bring on some guest bloggers as well as encourage you lovely readers to comment on the blogs. Let's start a conversation or three and get to know one another. Even if we're just "Internet friends".
Something that I would also like to add monthly to the blog is a book review. I really want to showcase self published authors, but there will probably be some traditionally published ones as well. I am thinking of having it on the first Sunday of the month.
My hope is not only to share my journey with writing and life, but to encourage others in their walks.
If you have any suggestions on topics you would like to see, would like to be involved in the guest blogging, or have suggestions on self published authors for review, please feel free to comment down below or message me using my email: andrewsmalinda@gmail.com
I pray that everyone has a blessed new year! See you in 2016 ;)
Lately I've been doing a lot of thinking on how I want this blog to appear in the new year. Not only its aesthetic, or its message, but what kind of posts I want to have on it. I really like the idea of a series. Currently I do a "Whats up Wednesday", and then most times a random post on Friday. I think I will continue posting on Wednesdays and Fridays, and make it a goal to put out at least two posts a week through 2016. Wednesdays may become "Writer-ly Wednesdays", but we'll see what I ultimately decide.
I really would like to build this into a bigger and broader community. To promote that I want to bring on some guest bloggers as well as encourage you lovely readers to comment on the blogs. Let's start a conversation or three and get to know one another. Even if we're just "Internet friends".
Something that I would also like to add monthly to the blog is a book review. I really want to showcase self published authors, but there will probably be some traditionally published ones as well. I am thinking of having it on the first Sunday of the month.
My hope is not only to share my journey with writing and life, but to encourage others in their walks.
If you have any suggestions on topics you would like to see, would like to be involved in the guest blogging, or have suggestions on self published authors for review, please feel free to comment down below or message me using my email: andrewsmalinda@gmail.com
I pray that everyone has a blessed new year! See you in 2016 ;)
Friday, December 18, 2015
Dealing with your inner "nay-sayer"
During NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) writers are told to lock up their inner editor, and to throw caution, and negative thoughts, to the wind and just get your words on paper.
But what happens the other elven months of the year if you are a serious writer? How do you deal with the negativity that often comes from your own mind when you don't have the huge community behind you?
This is such a critical element for many writers. Especially writers that may just be getting started on their journey. Often they are left staring at the blank screen, or page, and are intimidated by it. What if their work isn't good? What if no one likes their story or characters?
If you are really serious about your work, you simply cannot let this be the end of the road.
Fortunately, thanks to NaNoWriMo, and the tag #amwriting (Twitter and Instagram)many people are able to find, and build, an online community of writers. Many of these writers write not only during the month of NaNo, but throughout the year! They can be an invaluable source of commiseration and support. Each person helps to hold the others accountable. Sometimes you literally have to build your cheerleading section yourself! Just remember to be just as supportive to the others as they are to you! Everyone needs help and cheer every now and then.
But what happens if your cheering section grows dim, and the negative thoughts about your work creep in?
Reading about other writer's struggles can actually help. Often it helps to know that you are NOT alone in these feelings. They are completely valid, and everyone has them. The trick is to get them to be silent long enough to get words down on the page.
I will let those thoughts out only in small doses. I acknowledge them, validate what I am feeling, and then tell them to kindly go away, I'm working. That little negativity can actually help me be a better writer, it forces me to pay attention to certain aspects of my writing. However, the negativity that I allow back in during the editing and rewriting process HAS to be CONSTRUCTIVE.
Any thoughts that just claim that you suck, your writing is uninspired, and that your plot is uninteresting are not allowed. Maybe you do have those problems, but the comments must be able to be used for bettering the work. Not to bring you down. In order to have the best story you could, sometimes things need to be changed or altered. There is nothing wrong in this. I had completely re-written Through the Mountains at least three times before it was where I wanted it to be.
You cannot only listen to the negative. You must work to turn it into a situation where good can come of it. And you need that person in your corner that is going to support you, and you will at times need to lean on them. There is nothing wrong with that. Just keep moving forward, even if it's a baby step. It's a step in the right direction.
If you need someone in your corner, or are just building your online writing community, feel free to add me on Twitter and/or Instagram, my handle is @OnADragonsWing2.
Until next time, keep writing my friends!
But what happens the other elven months of the year if you are a serious writer? How do you deal with the negativity that often comes from your own mind when you don't have the huge community behind you?
This is such a critical element for many writers. Especially writers that may just be getting started on their journey. Often they are left staring at the blank screen, or page, and are intimidated by it. What if their work isn't good? What if no one likes their story or characters?
If you are really serious about your work, you simply cannot let this be the end of the road.
Fortunately, thanks to NaNoWriMo, and the tag #amwriting (Twitter and Instagram)many people are able to find, and build, an online community of writers. Many of these writers write not only during the month of NaNo, but throughout the year! They can be an invaluable source of commiseration and support. Each person helps to hold the others accountable. Sometimes you literally have to build your cheerleading section yourself! Just remember to be just as supportive to the others as they are to you! Everyone needs help and cheer every now and then.
But what happens if your cheering section grows dim, and the negative thoughts about your work creep in?
Reading about other writer's struggles can actually help. Often it helps to know that you are NOT alone in these feelings. They are completely valid, and everyone has them. The trick is to get them to be silent long enough to get words down on the page.
I will let those thoughts out only in small doses. I acknowledge them, validate what I am feeling, and then tell them to kindly go away, I'm working. That little negativity can actually help me be a better writer, it forces me to pay attention to certain aspects of my writing. However, the negativity that I allow back in during the editing and rewriting process HAS to be CONSTRUCTIVE.
Any thoughts that just claim that you suck, your writing is uninspired, and that your plot is uninteresting are not allowed. Maybe you do have those problems, but the comments must be able to be used for bettering the work. Not to bring you down. In order to have the best story you could, sometimes things need to be changed or altered. There is nothing wrong in this. I had completely re-written Through the Mountains at least three times before it was where I wanted it to be.
You cannot only listen to the negative. You must work to turn it into a situation where good can come of it. And you need that person in your corner that is going to support you, and you will at times need to lean on them. There is nothing wrong with that. Just keep moving forward, even if it's a baby step. It's a step in the right direction.
If you need someone in your corner, or are just building your online writing community, feel free to add me on Twitter and/or Instagram, my handle is @OnADragonsWing2.
Until next time, keep writing my friends!
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Being a "Reader"
So the other day I had someone come up to me say, "You read a lot, don't you? I always see you with a book."
Again, as with other things that people have come up to me just blurted out, I wasn't sure how to respond. Thankfully in this instance that moment passed within a few seconds, because I was reading this book with a purpose, and not just to enjoy the story.
At that moment I happened with be reading The Silver Chair by C.S. Lewis. Now I have read all of the Narnia books many times, years before. Like in elementary/middle school, so I was pretty familiar with the stories. My purpose in reading them around this time was because I had had an idea for a middle grade/YA Christian fiction, and I wanted to be sure that it was significantly different than Lewis' stories. Thankfully they are, and I am excited to start brainstorming for a new project.
So I explained that to him, and he seemed satisfied with that answer and we moved onto other topics.
But what got to me is that his tone seemed different. Not condescending, but rather like he didn't understand why I would want to read so much. Or why I always have a book with me.
I love to read. Since my mother taught me at a young age, I have loved it. In school I always excelled at the reading and comprehension classes. I can read something and retain it, which is pretty cool. I like getting lost in the worlds that the authors create. Caring about the characters, and what happens to them in their fictional lives. It doesn't matter if I'm reading about children in Narnia, Dragons that speak, mice and woodland creatures that fight, or a detective and her case. Getting out of my head into someone else's has always been fun.
I always carry a book with me. You never know when something may come up that you have to wait for. Be it a doctor visit, a bus, before church service. I even read on lunch and before work if I'm early enough. It takes me to another place, and gives me time to escape from my life. It gets my imagination going, and inspires me to write better. To craft better characters or plots, to be better not only for myself but for my readers.
There is a love of books that some people have, and some don't. And not all readers are writers. But we share a common love for the written word, and that makes us into something larger than ourselves.
Let me know if you agree, disagree, or just if you love books too!
Again, as with other things that people have come up to me just blurted out, I wasn't sure how to respond. Thankfully in this instance that moment passed within a few seconds, because I was reading this book with a purpose, and not just to enjoy the story.
At that moment I happened with be reading The Silver Chair by C.S. Lewis. Now I have read all of the Narnia books many times, years before. Like in elementary/middle school, so I was pretty familiar with the stories. My purpose in reading them around this time was because I had had an idea for a middle grade/YA Christian fiction, and I wanted to be sure that it was significantly different than Lewis' stories. Thankfully they are, and I am excited to start brainstorming for a new project.
So I explained that to him, and he seemed satisfied with that answer and we moved onto other topics.
But what got to me is that his tone seemed different. Not condescending, but rather like he didn't understand why I would want to read so much. Or why I always have a book with me.
I love to read. Since my mother taught me at a young age, I have loved it. In school I always excelled at the reading and comprehension classes. I can read something and retain it, which is pretty cool. I like getting lost in the worlds that the authors create. Caring about the characters, and what happens to them in their fictional lives. It doesn't matter if I'm reading about children in Narnia, Dragons that speak, mice and woodland creatures that fight, or a detective and her case. Getting out of my head into someone else's has always been fun.
I always carry a book with me. You never know when something may come up that you have to wait for. Be it a doctor visit, a bus, before church service. I even read on lunch and before work if I'm early enough. It takes me to another place, and gives me time to escape from my life. It gets my imagination going, and inspires me to write better. To craft better characters or plots, to be better not only for myself but for my readers.
There is a love of books that some people have, and some don't. And not all readers are writers. But we share a common love for the written word, and that makes us into something larger than ourselves.
Let me know if you agree, disagree, or just if you love books too!
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
3 Biggest Distractions from Writing- WuW
Who here seems to struggle with getting distracted from writing?
*raises both hands*
Some days I can come to the computer with laser like focus and within seconds (at least it feels like) I have whole chapters written and things are going smoothly. Then other days its like nails on a chalkboard getting myself to focus. Everything is suddenly more interesting than my characters, world, and plot.
But the top 3 things that are the worst for distraction for me even on a good writing day are:
Movies! I just want to sit and watch movies, this includes TV shows on Netflix. I love them, I think that there is so much, both positive, and negative that writers can learn from watching movies and TV shows. Especially if a writer marathons a series. You get to see the whole story arc and character development! That is something that writers need to see and understand well.
Other Books! I literally own about 40 books that I haven't read yet. They cry and call out to me, begging to be picked up and loved. I recently started using Goodreads, and I love updating my progress when I'm reading a book. There is such a sense of accomplishment to it. And when you get to mark it as read? Oh it's just so exciting, I want to do it again and again and again!
The internetz. It is every writers friend until it comes time to actually write a book. Then it becomes this rabbit hole of YouTube, blogs, memes, and cat videos. And yes, I have been known to go down that rabbit hole a time or two. It's just entertaining to see what is out there; what people like you and me are creating and sharing with the world.
So with these three big distractions, how do I ever get anything accomplished?
I work hard at making time for everything. When I'm really buckling down and writing or editing, like during a NaNo month (November, April, and July) I won't read at all. I also severely limit my time watching TV or movies. In fact I often use them as a reward for getting my words, or pages edited in.
And how do I tackle the internetz? A lot of my friends use programs to turn off the internet for a set amount of time during the day. But I find that too restricting. Often I need to look something up quickly for reference, so I don't like the idea that I'd have to have a place holder until later. What I do instead is set a block amount of time for work, and then I allow myself to check/cruise the internet for a few minutes before going back to work. Usually I am most productive in 30 minute chunks.
What works for you? Do you have the same distractions? How do you handle them?
Comment and share below!
*raises both hands*
Some days I can come to the computer with laser like focus and within seconds (at least it feels like) I have whole chapters written and things are going smoothly. Then other days its like nails on a chalkboard getting myself to focus. Everything is suddenly more interesting than my characters, world, and plot.
But the top 3 things that are the worst for distraction for me even on a good writing day are:
Movies! I just want to sit and watch movies, this includes TV shows on Netflix. I love them, I think that there is so much, both positive, and negative that writers can learn from watching movies and TV shows. Especially if a writer marathons a series. You get to see the whole story arc and character development! That is something that writers need to see and understand well.
Other Books! I literally own about 40 books that I haven't read yet. They cry and call out to me, begging to be picked up and loved. I recently started using Goodreads, and I love updating my progress when I'm reading a book. There is such a sense of accomplishment to it. And when you get to mark it as read? Oh it's just so exciting, I want to do it again and again and again!
The internetz. It is every writers friend until it comes time to actually write a book. Then it becomes this rabbit hole of YouTube, blogs, memes, and cat videos. And yes, I have been known to go down that rabbit hole a time or two. It's just entertaining to see what is out there; what people like you and me are creating and sharing with the world.
So with these three big distractions, how do I ever get anything accomplished?
I work hard at making time for everything. When I'm really buckling down and writing or editing, like during a NaNo month (November, April, and July) I won't read at all. I also severely limit my time watching TV or movies. In fact I often use them as a reward for getting my words, or pages edited in.
And how do I tackle the internetz? A lot of my friends use programs to turn off the internet for a set amount of time during the day. But I find that too restricting. Often I need to look something up quickly for reference, so I don't like the idea that I'd have to have a place holder until later. What I do instead is set a block amount of time for work, and then I allow myself to check/cruise the internet for a few minutes before going back to work. Usually I am most productive in 30 minute chunks.
What works for you? Do you have the same distractions? How do you handle them?
Comment and share below!
Friday, December 4, 2015
How NaNoWriMo went this year for me. . .
Happy Post Nano!
Hopefully everyone made their goal for the month, either by hitting that 50k goal, or simply writing everyday. To me everyone who participates in NaNo comes away a winner.
This was my third year participating, and it was one of the most challenging thus far! The first two days I tried to get ahead as much as possible, but it wasn't much of a lead. I'm not sure if it was doubt about my self published book not really selling, my doubt in my writing abilities, or the story itself. But getting those 1,667 words in every day was like pulling teeth on most days. Some scenes flew by, and were easy to write. I also had fun with some of the characters. But most of the time it was hard to put myself in the midset to write.
I really think it had to do with my own doubts, and not as much to do with the story itself. Honestly I had a bit of a break down and a cry one of the last few days. My fiancé was wonderful and put things into perspective once again with a steady shoulder for tears, and words of encouragement. If not for him I would probably have quit this year.
The end of the story was easily the best part about this book. It's the second in a trilogy, so almost every scene attempts to increase the tension for the third book while building on the themes and events from the first. I really am excited to continue to work on the trilogy...after a break so I can come back with fresh eyes.
During that break, I am going to be working on things for this blog. New series, possible writer interviews, reviews of books, just a lot of ideas that I have for this blog for the new year.
If you have any ideas, or things that you would like to see happen on this blog, please let me know!
How did NaNoWriMo go for you? Did you hit the full 50K? Or did have you a different goal? Please share in the comments below!
Hopefully everyone made their goal for the month, either by hitting that 50k goal, or simply writing everyday. To me everyone who participates in NaNo comes away a winner.
This was my third year participating, and it was one of the most challenging thus far! The first two days I tried to get ahead as much as possible, but it wasn't much of a lead. I'm not sure if it was doubt about my self published book not really selling, my doubt in my writing abilities, or the story itself. But getting those 1,667 words in every day was like pulling teeth on most days. Some scenes flew by, and were easy to write. I also had fun with some of the characters. But most of the time it was hard to put myself in the midset to write.
I really think it had to do with my own doubts, and not as much to do with the story itself. Honestly I had a bit of a break down and a cry one of the last few days. My fiancé was wonderful and put things into perspective once again with a steady shoulder for tears, and words of encouragement. If not for him I would probably have quit this year.
The end of the story was easily the best part about this book. It's the second in a trilogy, so almost every scene attempts to increase the tension for the third book while building on the themes and events from the first. I really am excited to continue to work on the trilogy...after a break so I can come back with fresh eyes.
During that break, I am going to be working on things for this blog. New series, possible writer interviews, reviews of books, just a lot of ideas that I have for this blog for the new year.
If you have any ideas, or things that you would like to see happen on this blog, please let me know!
How did NaNoWriMo go for you? Did you hit the full 50K? Or did have you a different goal? Please share in the comments below!
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Now that NaNo is over...-WuW
Welcome to the post NaNo slump. A time to not only slack off, but to *gasp* make plans to review your monstrosity that is a first draft. It's okay if you fear going back to look at the hideous beast you've created; the goal of NaNoWriMo is to tell your inner editor "see you later", not to banish him/her forever. Eventually you want to let them out of the cage, and release them on your manuscript.
Just don't be afraid to look back, you might be surprised at what you've put down on the page. But don't be too hard on yourself. The whole job of that first draft is simply to exist. It doesn't have to be perfect, or even OK. You can only edit words on a page; you can't fix something that isn't there.
Usually after NaNo, I let the manuscript rest, at least until the new year. I go away and work on something else for awhile to gain perspective. And the first time I read it through, I only fix the obvious errors, like a missing word, or simple spelling. Or maybe I couldn't remember the name of something in the middle of a word war and need to look it up after having a place holder. But regardless, the first read through is to reacquaint myself with the book, and usually I have a glass of wine when I start. It makes the process more fun. It is actually FUN to see what you had to come up with in a short amount of time.
The next pass through is when I break out the red pen. And I am brutal to my own work. It's actually amazing I've "finished" editing a piece at all! This is the part where I get picky about details, about events, plot lines, and characterization. I make sure all of that lines up, and that there aren't any scenes missing. Once I fix all of that, then I let it rest for a little while before giving it another look over. After a third time, then it's ready for my editor, and my first beta reader.
Writing, I have found, is the easy part. After writing, most authors give their manuscript up. Saved to their hard drive, it collects electronic dust. Don't let it! Editing and revising is all a part of the writing process. Is it a lot of work? Yes. Is it worth is? Yes. Will it force you to be a better writer? YES!
So please, please, please, don't let this happen to you. Give it some time, and then go back and see what your wonderfully creative mind has discovered. Grow in the skills that writing requires, get a critique partner, or 5. You all will benefit. Even if you never publish it. You are building your craft and honing skills.
Plus, it's just fun. Until next time, keep writing! (Well, at least working on your writing ;) )
Just don't be afraid to look back, you might be surprised at what you've put down on the page. But don't be too hard on yourself. The whole job of that first draft is simply to exist. It doesn't have to be perfect, or even OK. You can only edit words on a page; you can't fix something that isn't there.
Usually after NaNo, I let the manuscript rest, at least until the new year. I go away and work on something else for awhile to gain perspective. And the first time I read it through, I only fix the obvious errors, like a missing word, or simple spelling. Or maybe I couldn't remember the name of something in the middle of a word war and need to look it up after having a place holder. But regardless, the first read through is to reacquaint myself with the book, and usually I have a glass of wine when I start. It makes the process more fun. It is actually FUN to see what you had to come up with in a short amount of time.
The next pass through is when I break out the red pen. And I am brutal to my own work. It's actually amazing I've "finished" editing a piece at all! This is the part where I get picky about details, about events, plot lines, and characterization. I make sure all of that lines up, and that there aren't any scenes missing. Once I fix all of that, then I let it rest for a little while before giving it another look over. After a third time, then it's ready for my editor, and my first beta reader.
Writing, I have found, is the easy part. After writing, most authors give their manuscript up. Saved to their hard drive, it collects electronic dust. Don't let it! Editing and revising is all a part of the writing process. Is it a lot of work? Yes. Is it worth is? Yes. Will it force you to be a better writer? YES!
So please, please, please, don't let this happen to you. Give it some time, and then go back and see what your wonderfully creative mind has discovered. Grow in the skills that writing requires, get a critique partner, or 5. You all will benefit. Even if you never publish it. You are building your craft and honing skills.
Plus, it's just fun. Until next time, keep writing! (Well, at least working on your writing ;) )
Friday, November 27, 2015
What I'm thankful for.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
I know it's the day after, but since I usually post on Wednesdays and Fridays, I thought I would keep it up. How was everyone's day? Filled with the three F's I hope! (Family, Food, and of course Football!)
This year I have so much to be thankful for. Even more than in previous years!
If you have been a reader of this blog for a bit you know that this year was a bit rockier for me. I lost my first "big kid" job in April due to downsizing, and was unemployed for a month. Little did I know that was just the beginning of a very blessed year!
During that month, I was able to edit and work on my first trilogy for eight hours a day. Because of that work, I am able to publish them six months apart! The first was out in August, the second will be out the first Saturday of February, and the last will be out the last week in July/early August! I am so excited to be able to share these stories that I've been working on and held close to my heart for so long with other people. It really means a lot when people say they enjoy them, and look forward to the next in the series!
I got a new job, which because of its location enabled me to become a part of a different NaNoWriMo group, and to offer write in's where I can meet more people.
A little over a month into this job, I met my fiance. He is so different than anyone I've dated before. I had no idea what I had been missing in my life. I wish we had found each other sooner, but we enjoy every minute we have together with laughter and fun. Yes sometimes, it's hard, but our relationship is worth it. And I wouldn't have it any other way. I love my goofy man. :)
I was able to go to two author events, as well as host my first release party! I love getting to know people, and watch them make the decision to buy my book or not. It really is interesting to see them figure it out. I hope to go to more next year too!
And best of all, I've been able to keep this blog going every week, often with two posts! I haven't blogged this much this consistently in a long time. I plan to work hard to continue to do so. I like interacting with other bloggers, and seeing what people want to see.
(Please let me know in the comments down below if you want to see something specific!)
That's all from me, for now! I hope that everyone had a great holiday, and will continue to have a blessed holiday season! Please feel free to let me know how your holiday went, I love reading the comments. :)
I know it's the day after, but since I usually post on Wednesdays and Fridays, I thought I would keep it up. How was everyone's day? Filled with the three F's I hope! (Family, Food, and of course Football!)
This year I have so much to be thankful for. Even more than in previous years!
If you have been a reader of this blog for a bit you know that this year was a bit rockier for me. I lost my first "big kid" job in April due to downsizing, and was unemployed for a month. Little did I know that was just the beginning of a very blessed year!
During that month, I was able to edit and work on my first trilogy for eight hours a day. Because of that work, I am able to publish them six months apart! The first was out in August, the second will be out the first Saturday of February, and the last will be out the last week in July/early August! I am so excited to be able to share these stories that I've been working on and held close to my heart for so long with other people. It really means a lot when people say they enjoy them, and look forward to the next in the series!
I got a new job, which because of its location enabled me to become a part of a different NaNoWriMo group, and to offer write in's where I can meet more people.
A little over a month into this job, I met my fiance. He is so different than anyone I've dated before. I had no idea what I had been missing in my life. I wish we had found each other sooner, but we enjoy every minute we have together with laughter and fun. Yes sometimes, it's hard, but our relationship is worth it. And I wouldn't have it any other way. I love my goofy man. :)
I was able to go to two author events, as well as host my first release party! I love getting to know people, and watch them make the decision to buy my book or not. It really is interesting to see them figure it out. I hope to go to more next year too!
And best of all, I've been able to keep this blog going every week, often with two posts! I haven't blogged this much this consistently in a long time. I plan to work hard to continue to do so. I like interacting with other bloggers, and seeing what people want to see.
(Please let me know in the comments down below if you want to see something specific!)
That's all from me, for now! I hope that everyone had a great holiday, and will continue to have a blessed holiday season! Please feel free to let me know how your holiday went, I love reading the comments. :)
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
All about DRAGONS! -WuW
So while I was at NerdCon, waiting for the Patrick Rothfuss signing, I got to talking to the people sitting on either side of me. Like you do when waiting over an hour in line. While we were talking the young gentleman, and I'm so sorry I can't for the life of me remember his name, asked me a very strange (in my mind) question about my writing.
He asked, "How do you handle dragons?"
My first response was to shake my head and ask in return, "What do you mean?" I literally didn't understand his question at first.
He tried to explain, what he meant was how are they portrayed in my world. Are they intelligent, dumb beasts, or ferocious killers that hoard gold and steal maidens?
My answer was very simple, "They are just another character. Each one is different, and each one has their own looks, thoughts, and personalities. Just like the human characters."
It never occurred to me that there was a precedent for how to present dragons, that they had to be one way or another.
To me they play as important a role in the story as their human counterparts. And just like humans, some are "bad" and some are "good"- though I try not to have everything so black and white, but for the sake of discussion I'll reference them.
Take Feoras, the dragon you meet in the first book. (And honestly, he will probably always be my favorite) He is what is known as a traditional "western" style dragon. He has four legs, two horns that curve back over his head, and spikes/spines down his back and tail. He is heavily muscled, and his scales are a deep red over his back and body, with a gold cast to his under belly. His wings are proportionate to his body with a reddish color to the membranes.
But it's his personality that is so striking.
He is fiercely loyal and protective of not only Riona, but anyone he perceives as "his". He will go to great lengths to protect those he cares for, and becomes distraught when forced away from Riona. He thinks, he feels, and he has clear opinions on life and events happening. He even tried to name himself! He is clearly in the "good" camp.
As he should be since he's the protagonists bonded dragon!
Yes I suppose there are some "traditional" aspects to dragons that I included. He does have a "thing" for shiny objects, though he doesn't steal.
He is, in his own words:
"I am fierce, strong. I am fire breather, I am sky hunter, and I am magnificent."
He asked, "How do you handle dragons?"
My first response was to shake my head and ask in return, "What do you mean?" I literally didn't understand his question at first.
He tried to explain, what he meant was how are they portrayed in my world. Are they intelligent, dumb beasts, or ferocious killers that hoard gold and steal maidens?
My answer was very simple, "They are just another character. Each one is different, and each one has their own looks, thoughts, and personalities. Just like the human characters."
It never occurred to me that there was a precedent for how to present dragons, that they had to be one way or another.
To me they play as important a role in the story as their human counterparts. And just like humans, some are "bad" and some are "good"- though I try not to have everything so black and white, but for the sake of discussion I'll reference them.
Take Feoras, the dragon you meet in the first book. (And honestly, he will probably always be my favorite) He is what is known as a traditional "western" style dragon. He has four legs, two horns that curve back over his head, and spikes/spines down his back and tail. He is heavily muscled, and his scales are a deep red over his back and body, with a gold cast to his under belly. His wings are proportionate to his body with a reddish color to the membranes.
But it's his personality that is so striking.
He is fiercely loyal and protective of not only Riona, but anyone he perceives as "his". He will go to great lengths to protect those he cares for, and becomes distraught when forced away from Riona. He thinks, he feels, and he has clear opinions on life and events happening. He even tried to name himself! He is clearly in the "good" camp.
As he should be since he's the protagonists bonded dragon!
Yes I suppose there are some "traditional" aspects to dragons that I included. He does have a "thing" for shiny objects, though he doesn't steal.
He is, in his own words:
"I am fierce, strong. I am fire breather, I am sky hunter, and I am magnificent."
Friday, November 20, 2015
Deleted (Bonus?) Scene SPOILERS!!!
WARNING: THIS POST CONTAINS A FEW SPOILERS FROM BOOK 1
Really, if you haven't read the book, this will give some things away..
I think you have been sufficiently warned....
This scene was written in early, when I thought that Damien and Riona would have been paired up. Yes originally they were going to end up together *insert audience gasp*.
I was young, and actually loosely based Damien on someone I was dating at the time. And of course I saw myself as Riona, and wanted them together. *barf* (I was 16 and impressionable)
Thankfully I learned my lesson about putting too much of yourself in the story and created more distance between myself and Riona. Through schooling I learned about plotting and how to create more tension and interest between the characters.
I deleted this scene after I got some major Writer's Block. Going back I realized that this "relationship" was not going to work for the rest of the story, and so it had to go. (This required some new characters to be created, as well as major rewrites of what was already laid down in the book)
But please, enjoy this (not really edited) deleted scene from Through the Mountains.
Really, if you haven't read the book, this will give some things away..
I think you have been sufficiently warned....
This scene was written in early, when I thought that Damien and Riona would have been paired up. Yes originally they were going to end up together *insert audience gasp*.
I was young, and actually loosely based Damien on someone I was dating at the time. And of course I saw myself as Riona, and wanted them together. *barf* (I was 16 and impressionable)
Thankfully I learned my lesson about putting too much of yourself in the story and created more distance between myself and Riona. Through schooling I learned about plotting and how to create more tension and interest between the characters.
I deleted this scene after I got some major Writer's Block. Going back I realized that this "relationship" was not going to work for the rest of the story, and so it had to go. (This required some new characters to be created, as well as major rewrites of what was already laid down in the book)
But please, enjoy this (not really edited) deleted scene from Through the Mountains.
“Is that what
this is about?” he walked around to face her. “You think that Taya is a, a, I
don’t even know what you might think she is, but whatever it is, she’s not,
alright?” she didn’t meet his gaze, she knew that she just couldn’t stand to
see herself reflected in his eyes right then.
“Riona,
look at me.” When she didn’t he added, “Please”.
With
the moon at her back she could see his blue eyes perfectly even without the
help of her flames. There were tears in his eyes that hadn’t been shed, and she
was sorry for causing them. She felt herself falling into his eyes and the flames
that licked at her fingers slowly died away.
“Riona,
I don’t care about some high chiefs daughter. I care about you. I have for a
long time.” His hands on her arms tightened, “I’ve cared for you more than just
our friendship.”
She
tried to turn away, but his hands held her in place. She met his gaze again.
What were they doing? They had to leave in a few hours on a journey that would
probably be full of danger, and here they were talking about feelings? She
didn’t want to be bothered by it.
‘Listen
to him, and your heart Little One.’ If she had been able to, she would have
smacked Feoras for bringing her here where she could be cornered by Damien. She
hadn’t even felt this cornered when she had stayed behind to protect them from
the creatures in the forest.
Damien
let her go and turning away sat on a fallen tree. She could see he had his head
in his hands. “Do you know why in the months after we ran to the mountains, I
hadn’t been around much?”
She
had wondered that, often thinking that it was because he didn’t want to admit
to himself that she was using magic. That and she had been a bit more
preoccupied after Feoras hatched, she really hadn’t thought about much else
other than how to hide a growing dragon.
“No.”
she quietly made her way so that she was sitting next to him. He turned so that
he was facing her.
“I
was doing every odd job and task I could get my hands on to earn more money.
Even trapping in the same mountains we had rode in, the ones that no one else
would attempt. The animals are not as scared of men, and there are more of
them.” He laughed. “But of course you knew that already.”
“Yes,
that’s why I hunted there.”
“Well,
I wasn’t hunting for myself or my family. I was hunting to sell the meat,
hides, and antlers.” He kept twisting his hands in his lap. “I was saving the
money I earned so that I would be able to buy my own plot of land.”
“It
seems like such a stupid idea now, but at the time it felt right.” He looked up
at her again. “The day you and your mother left, I was on my way to see her.”
He paused and momentarily he stopped wringing his hands. “I was coming to ask
her for your hand in marriage. That was why I had Sparrow packed, I was coming
to give it to her as show of how I could provide for you.”
He
stood suddenly and started pacing in front of her.
“I
had known that you weren’t seeing any of the other boys in town, so I knew that
you didn’t have any other offers to consider, and I had hoped that you and your
mother would accept mine.” His fists balled themselves at his sides. “That was
when I saw the huge furrows in the ground, and when I looked around everything
looked as though you had left in a hurry without planning on coming back.”
He
kept his face firmly on the ground he paced on. “I thought something terrible
had happened. I thought you were dead.”
Riona
felt a catch in her own throat at his words. Yes, she supposed it was possible
someone might think that with how they left their home, but they had had to
leave fast. They weren’t safe in the valley. Either the spectral Ryders would
have come for them, or the people in the surrounding areas would have realized
a dragon lived among them and they would try to kill Feoras out of fear.
Suddenly
Damien dropped to his knees in front of her. “I know that we still don’t have
the best of circumstances, but would you marry me?”
The
question hung in the air between them. She could feel the electricity between
them, and she found herself wanting to say yes as she looked into his blue
eyes. Yes, she loved him. Yes, she had cared for him enough to not be running
off with the other boys in town, despite their many attempts for her attention
and affection.
“Damien,
I…” She couldn’t respond. She didn’t know how to begin to tell him everything
that was running through her mind. Instead she closed her eyes and listened to
herself, to her heart. When she opened her eyes after what felt like an
eternity, he was still there his blue eyes locked on her.
She
reached and took his hands in her own. His were cold so she sent some warmth
from her own into his. His eyes registered surprise and she smiled at him. She
genuinely smiled. That was something she hadn’t done in months. He made her
happy. That was all that mattered. She would fly to the moon and back, even
threaten the Ryder that plagued her dreams to protect him.
“Yes.”
It was a simple word but when she said it she felt some of the electricity
between them heighten and she reached for him. His lips found hers and she felt
heat from a different source than her magic.
After
a time they broke off, but she stayed comfortably perched in his arms.
“Damien…”
“Yes.”
“I
do really like this, but I still need to wash off before we leave.”
“Oh,
right.” He stood up so fast she nearly hit the ground before he caught her. “Sorry.”
He mumbled as he set her on her feet.
“It’s
okay.” She stepped back and in the light of the rising sun she saw that just
into the tree line Sparrow grazed with just a halter on. “Where’s your
saddle?”Damien followed her gaze and shrugged.
“When
I saw you two fly off I didn’t have time to properly saddle her up. I just
grabbed her and came after you.” She reached for his hand.
“I’m
glad that you did.” He looked at her, a smile on his face as he pulled her into
himself. For being out in the cold morning, he felt warm to her as his arms
came around her back.
“I
should be getting back to start packing and get the horses ready.” He kissed
the top of her head and started towards Sparrow when Riona coughed politely.
“What
is it?” he looked genuinely confused at her coughing for his attention.
“I
still need help with my laces.” She was nearly knocked to the ground in his
hurry to help her, and she realized just how nimble his fingers were. She
blushed when he worked on the ties that held her pants together at her hip.
Holding them up with her hand to avoid any mishaps she let her corset fall to
the ground after he finished the laces. She still had her shirt on and was
covered.
He
hesitated at the last tie on her pants and left his warm hand on her hip. Once
again heat flared in her, somewhere deeper than where her magic lay, but still
she didn’t want to do that while she
was dirty and on a beach.
He
looked up at her, his blue eyes shining in the dim light. She knew what the
young people did in the barns when their parents weren’t looking. They weren’t
supposed to know, or act like the adults. But when a young girl was in love
with a boy her age, and was promised to a man old enough to be her father,
everyone looked the other way. Even the boys and girls that weren’t to be
married off, they sometimes snuck off into the woods or hay lofts at the
festivals.
She
blushed as she thought of the boys who had tried to get her to go with them.
But she never had. She had only wanted Damien, but Damien had never asked her.
In fact she was almost positive he had never asked any girl to go away with him
either. They had usually spent the
festivals eating by the fire listening to the adults tell stories.
“I,
I think you had better head back now.” He left his hand on her hip as he stood.
Once again looking down on her she could see that there was a flush that had
crept up his neck. “The others will be wondering where you went to.”
He
bent down to kiss her again, she leaning into him. She really didn’t want him
to leave, but they had to start their journey to Erskine. And she really needed
to bathe. He held her tight and when they parted her cheeks felt raw from the
whiskers on his face. Turning he made his way back to Sparrow and with one
backward glance he rode off.
‘Is
he really gone yet?’ she knew that Feoras would be able to tell, she didn’t
trust that he really had left. She felt him reconnect his consciousness to hers
but there was a pause.
‘Yes,
he’s nearly there. Sparrow is a very fast horse for one that is carrying two
beings.’ He seemed impressed that the pregnant mare would be able to carry both
her foal and Damien.
‘Horses
do it all the time.’ She managed to wrestle off the rest of her clothes. It
turned out that holding her clothes on hadn’t been a problem. It was getting
them to come off of her sweaty skin. She carefully laid them out on a tree
hanging over the water and waded in.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
NaNoWriMo Tag!
So maybe I wasn't tagged, but I loved the video that Kristina Horner created on YouTube, and then a favorite blogger of mine, Raychel Rose posted this...So I just had to complete the tag too ;) (Link to Raychel's answers: https://raychelrose.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/the-nanowrimo-tag/ )
1. How many times have you done NaNoWriMo?
This will be my third NaNo, and I've also completed 4 rounds of Camp.
2. How did you first find out about NaNoWriMo?
I first found out about NaNo my freshman year of college. The college had a meeting about it as they were running their own region (at the time-I don't know if they still do) so a friend of mine went with me to check it out. It sounded like such a great opportunity, but at the time I was working two jobs, I commuted a half hour to and from classes, I owned a horse, and was giving lessons/training other horses. At that time it wasn't right for me, but I never forgot about it! I competed in my first NaNo the November after graduating. :)
3. What was the name of the first novel you attempted with NaNo?
The title is Across the Sea and Hills, and it will be available on Amazon in February 2016 !!
4. Give us 1 sentence summary of what you're writing this year.
My project for this year follows some of the descendants from my first trilogy while exploring more of the world, and introducing more characters. Also: more magic, more bad guys, and more dragons!
5. What's the best writing advise you've ever been given?
That as the writer you have to show up. Everyday. It doesn't matter if you feel "inspired" or not. I used to only write when the fancy struck me. And I barely got work done. By adopting the NaNo mentality of writing no matter what I have got more done in the past few years than ever before.
You can edit a bad page, you can't edit a blank page.
6. Did you ever take a year off from NaNo? Why?
Not yet! I hope never to have to.
7. What's your biggest inspiration when figuring out what to write?
Music, nature, reading other works, talking with fellow writers, reading fellow writers blogs and seeing what other people are working on.
8. Read us the first sentence from one of your novels.
The air was fiercer than she remembered the end of the spring cycles being.
9. Why do you love writing?
I love the creativity that goes into it, and how different that is for each person.
I remember sitting in my capstone English class, it was the end of the semester, and realized that each of the 14 people had written two stories. That was 28 completely different, individual, stories. No two stories were the same. I realized then that was what I loved about writing- the individuality of it.
Other than the fun it is to see your imagination come to life on the page, and then have readers love it as much as you do. That is a feeling like no other!
1. How many times have you done NaNoWriMo?
This will be my third NaNo, and I've also completed 4 rounds of Camp.
2. How did you first find out about NaNoWriMo?
I first found out about NaNo my freshman year of college. The college had a meeting about it as they were running their own region (at the time-I don't know if they still do) so a friend of mine went with me to check it out. It sounded like such a great opportunity, but at the time I was working two jobs, I commuted a half hour to and from classes, I owned a horse, and was giving lessons/training other horses. At that time it wasn't right for me, but I never forgot about it! I competed in my first NaNo the November after graduating. :)
3. What was the name of the first novel you attempted with NaNo?
The title is Across the Sea and Hills, and it will be available on Amazon in February 2016 !!
4. Give us 1 sentence summary of what you're writing this year.
My project for this year follows some of the descendants from my first trilogy while exploring more of the world, and introducing more characters. Also: more magic, more bad guys, and more dragons!
5. What's the best writing advise you've ever been given?
That as the writer you have to show up. Everyday. It doesn't matter if you feel "inspired" or not. I used to only write when the fancy struck me. And I barely got work done. By adopting the NaNo mentality of writing no matter what I have got more done in the past few years than ever before.
You can edit a bad page, you can't edit a blank page.
6. Did you ever take a year off from NaNo? Why?
Not yet! I hope never to have to.
7. What's your biggest inspiration when figuring out what to write?
Music, nature, reading other works, talking with fellow writers, reading fellow writers blogs and seeing what other people are working on.
8. Read us the first sentence from one of your novels.
The air was fiercer than she remembered the end of the spring cycles being.
9. Why do you love writing?
I love the creativity that goes into it, and how different that is for each person.
I remember sitting in my capstone English class, it was the end of the semester, and realized that each of the 14 people had written two stories. That was 28 completely different, individual, stories. No two stories were the same. I realized then that was what I loved about writing- the individuality of it.
Other than the fun it is to see your imagination come to life on the page, and then have readers love it as much as you do. That is a feeling like no other!
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
The A-Z's of NaNoWriMo- WuW
The A-Z's of the craziness that is NaNoWriMo
A- Aspirin!
B- Beta readers won't know what hit them
C- Caffeine is very necessary
D- Daily doses of inspiration
E- Everyday habit of writing develops
F- Fragments of real life make their way into the story
G- Google becomes your friend for fast research
H- Headaches from staring the computer screen late at night
I- Inspiration abounds
J- Just talk to a veteran for advice
K- Kick off parties are fun ways to meet other writers
L- Limericks may become involved
M- Midnight write ins
N- Nightly word count updates
O- Onomatopoeia
P- Plot bunnies
Q- Quick typing skills are developed (usually)
R- Rush of adrenaline as the deadline looms closer
S- Surge of creative energy
T- Thirst for more when it's done
U- Unbelievable fun
V- Vivacious Vixens are Vexing at times
W- Write In's
X- Xylophones sold at the white elephant fundraiser
Y- Your ideas actually fill an entire novel!
Z- Zany plot twists
A- Aspirin!
B- Beta readers won't know what hit them
C- Caffeine is very necessary
D- Daily doses of inspiration
E- Everyday habit of writing develops
F- Fragments of real life make their way into the story
G- Google becomes your friend for fast research
H- Headaches from staring the computer screen late at night
I- Inspiration abounds
J- Just talk to a veteran for advice
K- Kick off parties are fun ways to meet other writers
L- Limericks may become involved
M- Midnight write ins
N- Nightly word count updates
O- Onomatopoeia
P- Plot bunnies
Q- Quick typing skills are developed (usually)
R- Rush of adrenaline as the deadline looms closer
S- Surge of creative energy
T- Thirst for more when it's done
U- Unbelievable fun
V- Vivacious Vixens are Vexing at times
W- Write In's
X- Xylophones sold at the white elephant fundraiser
Y- Your ideas actually fill an entire novel!
Z- Zany plot twists
Friday, November 6, 2015
Eureka! ...or not..?
When do story ideas happen? But a more interesting question is, How do they happen?
Is there a flash of recognition? An image burned in your retina so sharp you must write? Or like a photograph, does it have to be developed slowly? Or is it a polaroid, the images coming quickly to the surface?
Oftentimes, the answer is Yes.
No two story ideas come in the exact same way to the writers mind. Even ideas for the same story will be reached differently. Take me as an example. There will be times when I'll get what I refer to as a "flash". It could be a name, a place, a dialogue line, anything really. And it's quick. So I rush to find a pen and paper, or reach for the notepad on my phone. I know this flash will be gone soon, and I need to try to capture it before it's gone.
And then other times, I will sit and let my back brain percolate over an idea for a while. In this instance, the characters, plot points, and any world building come slowly. Like moss creeping over stones. But they do arrive, maybe with some teasing them out from me.
One of my favorite quotes about writing is this:
The water does not flow if the tap is not turned on.
Writers have to show up, and start working. No matter if you feel inspired or not. So don't get down on yourself if you're stuck, or you think inspiration and ideas happen in a flash. Some do, and some don't.
Sorry this post is shorter...but NANAOWRIMO is upon us!!
Happy writing my friends ;)
Is there a flash of recognition? An image burned in your retina so sharp you must write? Or like a photograph, does it have to be developed slowly? Or is it a polaroid, the images coming quickly to the surface?
Oftentimes, the answer is Yes.
No two story ideas come in the exact same way to the writers mind. Even ideas for the same story will be reached differently. Take me as an example. There will be times when I'll get what I refer to as a "flash". It could be a name, a place, a dialogue line, anything really. And it's quick. So I rush to find a pen and paper, or reach for the notepad on my phone. I know this flash will be gone soon, and I need to try to capture it before it's gone.
And then other times, I will sit and let my back brain percolate over an idea for a while. In this instance, the characters, plot points, and any world building come slowly. Like moss creeping over stones. But they do arrive, maybe with some teasing them out from me.
One of my favorite quotes about writing is this:
The water does not flow if the tap is not turned on.
Writers have to show up, and start working. No matter if you feel inspired or not. So don't get down on yourself if you're stuck, or you think inspiration and ideas happen in a flash. Some do, and some don't.
Sorry this post is shorter...but NANAOWRIMO is upon us!!
Happy writing my friends ;)
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Why I started Blogging- WuW
How is NaNoWriMo going for everyone? Good I hope!
Is it currently day four and I am a little behind where I want to be. I have 5,301 words, and will be doing some more writing as soon as I post this. If you want to follow or add me on the NaNo site, my user name is mandrews25 :)
Today I wanted to talk a little about why I chose to blog, and why I chose to continue to do so after starting it.
Initially this blog started during college, well, for a college class to be honest. My very first post can be seen here: http://malindaandrews.blogspot.com/2012/09/scene-from-current-project.html
This class focused on the literary form that is a Zine. For those of you that don't know, a Zine is ,according to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, "a small magazine that is written by people who are not professional writers and that usually has stories about a particular subject".
Now, I agree with the opening, and ending, but I do not agree with the "Professional writers". What I think they meant by the term "professional" is that the people making Zines are usually every day people like you and me. If we happen to sell them, great, but they are not usually made for profit. Typically they are hand made, and only a few exist of each version. Now of course there are exceptions, this a generalization of the form of writing for the purpose of introducing the topic.
During the class we were to basically produce a Zine every two weeks. We focused on themes for each one, which will be reflected in the blog posts on this site during that time. The professor also instructed us to start a blog, using whichever server you chose, and that we were to post 3 times a week. Sometimes we would be assigned something specific to write about, and sometimes we simply had to post anything. He wanted us to experiment not only with Zine writing, but other alternative forms of writing/communication including blogging, vlogging, podcasts, and Zine's. This was really where I first came across the concept of self publishing.
The class was great and I learned a ton about writing, editing, publishing, and collaborating. The community in that room was fantastic, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. But after it ended, and I was looking into building up my online presence as an author, both for traditional and self publishing, I decided to keep the blog.
I revamped the look way back 2012 after the class ended, and started try to post regularly. At times that was an epic fail, but I was learning about myself and my writing process. There are a few random topics, simply because I was trying to post often. But most of my posts revolve around my life as a writer- with all it's ups and downs.
Recently I revamped the background again, and with some help from my writing/editing buddy, placed some tabs at the top so that it functions more as a website than just a blog. I really like how long I've been able to continue blogging, and look forward to where I am headed.
And OF course, keeping you all updated along the way ;)
Until next time, keep writing my friends!
Is it currently day four and I am a little behind where I want to be. I have 5,301 words, and will be doing some more writing as soon as I post this. If you want to follow or add me on the NaNo site, my user name is mandrews25 :)
Today I wanted to talk a little about why I chose to blog, and why I chose to continue to do so after starting it.
Initially this blog started during college, well, for a college class to be honest. My very first post can be seen here: http://malindaandrews.blogspot.com/2012/09/scene-from-current-project.html
This class focused on the literary form that is a Zine. For those of you that don't know, a Zine is ,according to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, "a small magazine that is written by people who are not professional writers and that usually has stories about a particular subject".
Now, I agree with the opening, and ending, but I do not agree with the "Professional writers". What I think they meant by the term "professional" is that the people making Zines are usually every day people like you and me. If we happen to sell them, great, but they are not usually made for profit. Typically they are hand made, and only a few exist of each version. Now of course there are exceptions, this a generalization of the form of writing for the purpose of introducing the topic.
During the class we were to basically produce a Zine every two weeks. We focused on themes for each one, which will be reflected in the blog posts on this site during that time. The professor also instructed us to start a blog, using whichever server you chose, and that we were to post 3 times a week. Sometimes we would be assigned something specific to write about, and sometimes we simply had to post anything. He wanted us to experiment not only with Zine writing, but other alternative forms of writing/communication including blogging, vlogging, podcasts, and Zine's. This was really where I first came across the concept of self publishing.
The class was great and I learned a ton about writing, editing, publishing, and collaborating. The community in that room was fantastic, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. But after it ended, and I was looking into building up my online presence as an author, both for traditional and self publishing, I decided to keep the blog.
I revamped the look way back 2012 after the class ended, and started try to post regularly. At times that was an epic fail, but I was learning about myself and my writing process. There are a few random topics, simply because I was trying to post often. But most of my posts revolve around my life as a writer- with all it's ups and downs.
Recently I revamped the background again, and with some help from my writing/editing buddy, placed some tabs at the top so that it functions more as a website than just a blog. I really like how long I've been able to continue blogging, and look forward to where I am headed.
And OF course, keeping you all updated along the way ;)
Until next time, keep writing my friends!
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