In my old age, and hopefully with the wisdom that comes with it, some things have occurred to me that will hopefully help me become a better writer.
I start a book with an idea of what it will be about. When it is a sequel, there will be an event that has happened or could happen in the future, depending on the outcome of an event that has happened or could have happened. Understand? It doesn’t matter, because you will only be part of it if you become involved with the storyline and fall in love with the main character or characters I dreamed up, and the predicaments they’re placed.
Of course, if you write to me and challenge me with your feelings about what a certain character is doing or has done, you may change the direction I take. Unless, of course, they died, unfortunately, that can’t be reversed even in fiction.
The first thing I do is provide a very simple synopsis of the general plot and the main characters’ description, their history, and what they do for a living. I call it my “Cast of Characters.” I try to flesh out my people to the extent that they are like my friends and are personal to me. Many characters are taken from real people, but with different names. I have considered putting the list at the beginning of the book to introduce them before the story, as in old paperback books from the last century. I am old, so it might fly!
I am a Pantser writer, which means I do not outline, ever. I may change the entire direction of my story before it is half written. To help me with future books, I create a short timeline for each chapter after it is written. This is helpful in several ways. It can be several years between books, and I would not want to deviate from their traits and descriptions. Readers will catch you if you do.
The good thing is that I start writing much faster than if I took the time to outline every chapter and scene of the whole book.
From some professional advice, I have tried not to edit as I write! I slowed myself down considerably. Now, as I write, I try not to overthink what the character says or does, or where the story goes. I get my story down on paper, then let it all sit for several weeks. I hopefully write many more pages than I need because editing will put much of it in the trash can.
I am not a big seller, and I do not desire to be. I have more good stories hidden in my mind, and I intend to get them all down on paper.
Stay tuned for more stories…
I hope you enjoyed my short fishing trip. All my posts are on my website at www.brendacolbathbooks.com. Click on the Brenda’s Bookstore Logo, and you will be taken to my new Bookstore, where many of my paperback books are shipped FREE!
If you would like to read my past blogs, click on “Posts”, and you can scroll to read them.
Hope your day is filled with fun and love. See you next time…