Susie & Rachel’s thoughts: A couple things we wanted to point out – first, note the changed hook. Neither Rachel nor I like starting a book with dialogue or a full name. First, with dialogue it often feels too jarring, we don’t know who is talking, and the reader feels like they can’t catch up. Also, when we’re in deep POV, no one really thinks of themselves (usually) with their full name. So, look for ways to work in the name, maybe by bringing another character on the screen. We did it via Twila, the talk show host. I hope you can see the difference in effect between the two pieces… Again, if you’re interested in how to write a HOOK, go and read the past HOOK posts, […]
Read the RestArchive | February, 2009
Chapter 1: Scene One, Susie’s Response
My turn! These are all great thoughts that Rachel has inserted, and going through them has made me think through all my motivations, and how I draw out the scene. I kept a lot of her insertions, or changed others because of her take on the scene. Occasionally, I opted not to make changes because I liked the flow of the story better my way, but I definitely considered her thought. Because I’m a suspense writer, I like having actions very tight, and more and more I’m going away from the physical + emotional response, and more into a metaphorical or simple action that betrays their emotions. But it’s a matter of taste and voice. A great editing partnership works when both parties are working together to strengthen a […]
Read the RestThe Edit: Chapter 1, Scene 1
Hi Book Bloggers, We’re off on our Blog-a-Book. We are so excited! This is a GREAT story. Let’s go over some ground rules. Susie is writing a rough chapter. On purpose. This gives me an opportunity to give input and help us think through our writing. What kind of questions should we be asking ourselves? Anytime there is a first draft, it gives us opportunity to see where we’re going with the story and how we can tweak our prose, goals, motivation, and conflict. Also how to layer and deepen POV. Let’s dive into the story. Chapter 1.1 “Just once, I’d like to take the Oscar walk down Hollywood Boulevard in my jeans, a blue devil’s tee-shirt, and a pair of flipflops.” Who is she talking to? I’d like to […]
Read the RestChapter 1: Scene 1!
Here we go…chapter ONE, scene ONE of…??? (okay, we need to name our book!) Scroll to the bottom after you read the scene and I’ll discuss for a moment the choices I made in putting this scene together. Chapter 1.1 “Just once, I’d like to take the Oscar walk down Hollywood Boulevard in my jeans, a blue devil’s tee-shirt, and a pair of flipflops.” MacKenzie Grace pulled her wrap tight around her shoulders, even as the February chill found the liberal gaps in her dress and raised gooseflesh. A thousand lights blinked down at her from the Kodak Theater, and around her, limousines honked and maneuvered to the end of the red carpet. Exhaust mixed with the fragrances of a thousand starlets and the earthy smell from […]
Read the Rest
