by Monica M. Clark |
Recently I attended a workshop called “American Author” inspired by American Idol. People anonymously submitted the first pages of their novels, which were read aloud to a panel of editors and agents. The panel then provided their immediate, brutally honest feedback for all to hear.
Given my past post on how to write the perfect first page, I thought it was important to add to it by sharing what I learned from hearing the perspective of people who have read hundreds, if not thousands, of first pages.
Warning: tips are easier said than done.
by Liz Bureman |
Since my last post, I’ve almost finished Tomcat In Love, and it has been somewhat of an exercise in frustration. This isn’t due to the book itself; it’s more due to the fact that the narrator is one of the most profoundly annoying protagonists I’ve ever encountered in fiction. He is a narcissist with a complete lack of self-awareness (at least until the last forty pages), and an unrepentant womanizer. Early on in the novel, we’re introduced to a woman who immediately provides a voice of reason, and helps serve as a reader surrogate. Everything that Thomas believes himself to be, Donna firmly states this is not the case, and her protests to his behavior make his ridiculous narcissism stand out even more boldly. She is a perfect foil to Thomas’s insanity.
by Monica M. Clark |
Last weekend I attended the Washington Romance Writers annual retreat and, in addition to having a fulfilling and inspiring experience, I actually learned a thing or two. One of my favorite presenters was Romantic Suspense author Robin Perini, who gave incredible talks on a variety topics. Today, I’m going to share some of what I learned from her about character.
by Emily Wenstrom |
Conflict is critical to plot development. Conflict is where your characters gain traction on the plot so things can move forward. But … well, sometimes a plot just doesn’t seem to want to move. If you find your plot is stuck in a rut, it may be that your plot doesn’t have enough dimensions in it.
by Marianne Richmond |
Sidney Poitier said, “So much of life, it seems to me, is determined by pure randomness.” I am intrigued by how one person’s decision can impact the destiny of another human being. Today’s exercise will explore how one decision made on behalf of our central character, sets the course of his or her life.
by Guest Blogger |
You’ve been working on your novel. You know you have strong characters and a great plot. You’re even excited to plan about your book promotion. The problem is, you still have dozens of chapters yet to write. Where are you going to find inspiration?
