Thursday, October 21, 2010
Monday, July 19, 2010
Go Me!
So I was feeling rather blue about the fact that I had read "Magic in the Blood" by Devon Monk and I couldn't get the other three. My library only had the first one, which I thought was rather odd. I mean, there are four (soon to be six) books in the series and the first one was damn good.
So I decided to send them a request email. I had done that once before to see if they could get Jessa Slade's books. They couldn't and now I'm counting my pennies until I can actually afford to buy them. It sucks being poor!
Anyway, I read the first book and...wow! I wasn't sure about the premise at first but several hours later I was so glad I took a chance. So my next step is to order the remain ones that are out (cause I'm such a series junkie). Aaaaagh! There are no others.
I thought, surely, it must be a mistake. How can you have one but not the others? Easily. Obviously they didn't think anyone else would ask for them. Well dammit!
So I did a little research to find out how many books my library lacked. Well, all but the first of the series is discovered. So I went about giving my plea. It basically went something like this:
Can you please order the remaining books in the Magic... series? (I listed all of them) I have read the first one and it was really good (not sure if I went into greater detail since there was a limit on word count). If for whatever reason you don't have the resources to purchase these books would you mind if I donated them to you? (They must have heard the "poor-ness" in me).
In any event, I've been checking my email for the last two weeks. Last time it only took them a few days to reject my request.
Well, I received an email today telling me that three of the books are waiting for me to pick them up. Can you say "Hell yeah!"? I'm so happy now.
Of course all this reading is going to be hard to do since I'm supposed to be editing and getting ready for school this fall (and all my workshops). Still, I worked hard on this (well not really...)and I'm going to enjoy my perk.
Think I should offer to buy Jessa's books this time around. Maybe that's the trigger...
So I decided to send them a request email. I had done that once before to see if they could get Jessa Slade's books. They couldn't and now I'm counting my pennies until I can actually afford to buy them. It sucks being poor!
Anyway, I read the first book and...wow! I wasn't sure about the premise at first but several hours later I was so glad I took a chance. So my next step is to order the remain ones that are out (cause I'm such a series junkie). Aaaaagh! There are no others.
I thought, surely, it must be a mistake. How can you have one but not the others? Easily. Obviously they didn't think anyone else would ask for them. Well dammit!
So I did a little research to find out how many books my library lacked. Well, all but the first of the series is discovered. So I went about giving my plea. It basically went something like this:
Can you please order the remaining books in the Magic... series? (I listed all of them) I have read the first one and it was really good (not sure if I went into greater detail since there was a limit on word count). If for whatever reason you don't have the resources to purchase these books would you mind if I donated them to you? (They must have heard the "poor-ness" in me).
In any event, I've been checking my email for the last two weeks. Last time it only took them a few days to reject my request.
Well, I received an email today telling me that three of the books are waiting for me to pick them up. Can you say "Hell yeah!"? I'm so happy now.
Of course all this reading is going to be hard to do since I'm supposed to be editing and getting ready for school this fall (and all my workshops). Still, I worked hard on this (well not really...)and I'm going to enjoy my perk.
Think I should offer to buy Jessa's books this time around. Maybe that's the trigger...
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Chased by a chipmunk
Yup, you heard right. I was chased around by a chipmunk, that looked suspiciously like Burt Convy and eventually killed him, and the bug I stepped on while running down the stairs, with a can of Raid.
I can't quite figure out what that dream means. It did kind of freak me out for about an hour or so but then all was back to normal with me falling back to sleep. Still, it makes you wonder...why Burt Convy?
In other news, aside from getting rid of the satellite box in my room, I edited three chapters yesterday. Go me! I'm glad I finally got around to working on them, even though they were slightly out of order (chapter 1, 7 and 2). That was totally my fault for getting ahead of myself and not thinking to print out my summary in advance. I'll know for next time.
Still got three workshops going. Behind on all them but catching up. My sub-plotting workshop is actually helping me with my editing because I needed a reason for my heroine and hero to interact and damn if I didn't find one. It was right in front of me but I couldn't see.
Of course that being said it also made me change the scope of my hero's personality. I think I had been subconsciously working on not making him a bad guy but he really is a bastard. There are some redeeming qualities but I don't think there will be enough to make you root for him in this first novel. Well, actually he can do a few little things, like maybe save a baby from a fire (jots down the thought).
Well, that's all I have for now. Going back to work on my edits and try to stop reading 'A Rush of Wings' by Adrian Phoenix. It's not the kind of book I'm usually into and there are so many damn subplots that my head is spinning. Of course this is a series so I would like to know if she hooks up with him at some point. Guess I'll have to see if they are at my local library.
Laterz!
I can't quite figure out what that dream means. It did kind of freak me out for about an hour or so but then all was back to normal with me falling back to sleep. Still, it makes you wonder...why Burt Convy?
In other news, aside from getting rid of the satellite box in my room, I edited three chapters yesterday. Go me! I'm glad I finally got around to working on them, even though they were slightly out of order (chapter 1, 7 and 2). That was totally my fault for getting ahead of myself and not thinking to print out my summary in advance. I'll know for next time.
Still got three workshops going. Behind on all them but catching up. My sub-plotting workshop is actually helping me with my editing because I needed a reason for my heroine and hero to interact and damn if I didn't find one. It was right in front of me but I couldn't see.
Of course that being said it also made me change the scope of my hero's personality. I think I had been subconsciously working on not making him a bad guy but he really is a bastard. There are some redeeming qualities but I don't think there will be enough to make you root for him in this first novel. Well, actually he can do a few little things, like maybe save a baby from a fire (jots down the thought).
Well, that's all I have for now. Going back to work on my edits and try to stop reading 'A Rush of Wings' by Adrian Phoenix. It's not the kind of book I'm usually into and there are so many damn subplots that my head is spinning. Of course this is a series so I would like to know if she hooks up with him at some point. Guess I'll have to see if they are at my local library.
Laterz!
Monday, July 5, 2010
First Drop of Crimson by Jeaniene Frost (spinkled w/spoilers)
**THERE ARE SPOILERS. ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK**
I just finished the book last night. I have to admit that I kind of liked it. I had originally read "Halfway to the Grave" and didn't really care for it at all. I think I was kind of disappointed in Cat. Maybe it was something in her personality, I don't know. In any event, I really liked Spade when he was introduced and was excited that he was given his own book.
Things seemed a little rushed for me though. I mean, here is this woman, Denise, whose husband was killed a little over a year ago and she vows to distance herself from all things vampire and otherworldly. Then suddenly a demon shows up and she goes running to the very people she felt were responsible for her husband's death.
She seemed a little to calm about having them re-enter her life, and yeah she did have a massive panic attack during a vampire ball but still, it wasn't much of freak-out. I guess I just wasn't convinced that she could fall in love that quickly but what the hell do I know.
I any event, regardless of Denise, I still liked Spade and I loved when Bones showed up. Those initial interactions between the two best friends were funny as hell and it didn't surprise me one bit to have Bones showing up and inquiring about his wife's best friend's welfare. It was oddly sweet seeing Bones play the big brother to Denise and his ability to read her thoughts only helped the matter in that we were able to cut right to the chase of things.
Still, I was rather surprised by the ending. Denise's willingly offered to drink Spade's blood so as to no lose her "humanity" was okay for her. Now she's all gung-ho about her new demon status. Really? I would have freaked the f**k out considering how unrelenting she was being anything but human.
Like I said, I only read the first book in the series and at that time Cat didn't know Denise. I've got the second book on hold and I'm hoping that by skipping past all the crap that I didn't like about the first one (namely her mother and their relationship) I might actually enjoy the series especially since there is another spin-off in the works and that sounds just as interesting as this one was.
I just finished the book last night. I have to admit that I kind of liked it. I had originally read "Halfway to the Grave" and didn't really care for it at all. I think I was kind of disappointed in Cat. Maybe it was something in her personality, I don't know. In any event, I really liked Spade when he was introduced and was excited that he was given his own book.
Things seemed a little rushed for me though. I mean, here is this woman, Denise, whose husband was killed a little over a year ago and she vows to distance herself from all things vampire and otherworldly. Then suddenly a demon shows up and she goes running to the very people she felt were responsible for her husband's death.
She seemed a little to calm about having them re-enter her life, and yeah she did have a massive panic attack during a vampire ball but still, it wasn't much of freak-out. I guess I just wasn't convinced that she could fall in love that quickly but what the hell do I know.
I any event, regardless of Denise, I still liked Spade and I loved when Bones showed up. Those initial interactions between the two best friends were funny as hell and it didn't surprise me one bit to have Bones showing up and inquiring about his wife's best friend's welfare. It was oddly sweet seeing Bones play the big brother to Denise and his ability to read her thoughts only helped the matter in that we were able to cut right to the chase of things.
Still, I was rather surprised by the ending. Denise's willingly offered to drink Spade's blood so as to no lose her "humanity" was okay for her. Now she's all gung-ho about her new demon status. Really? I would have freaked the f**k out considering how unrelenting she was being anything but human.
Like I said, I only read the first book in the series and at that time Cat didn't know Denise. I've got the second book on hold and I'm hoping that by skipping past all the crap that I didn't like about the first one (namely her mother and their relationship) I might actually enjoy the series especially since there is another spin-off in the works and that sounds just as interesting as this one was.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
The Kitchen Sink, and Why You Don't Need It
I thought this was very good blog over on FFnP. Just wanted to share. Hope you found it as useful as I did :)
The Kitchen Sink, and Why You Don't Need It
The Kitchen Sink, and Why You Don't Need It
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
FINALLY!
My rough draft of my first novel is officially done. Now I'm taking a week off. Maybe I'll write some fan-fiction or something.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Thoughts on my blog and my daughter
I had been thinking about doing an awesome blog post but I can't. I'm still working on my boot camp novel (four days left) and so all my thoughts and energy have been going into that. I thought it was kind of cool (library vs. bookstores) and luckily I did at least save what I had written. I even did some actually research on it too. Maybe it can actually get it up in time for the fourth of July.
In other news, my daughter starts high school in a few months and already there is drama between her classmate and some psycho ex-boyfriend. It made me wonder why the girl hadn't confided in her parents and when my daughter revealed that she didn't get along with them (the girl's father said he just knew she would get pregnant in high school) it made me curious about her other classmates relationships with their parents.
Apparently we parents are getting a bad rap. My daughter feels like she and I have a good relationship and she feels like she can talk to me about almost anything. Of course, she didn't feel that way when a classmate was calling her names on Facebook and spreading rumors at school but now she knows she can come to me. I have worked hard to make sure I'm up to speed with how many boyfriends one friend has had (well in the teens at last count), which one got a girl pregnant (high schoolers) and who has been cutting themselves (apparently she didn't like her father that much).
I try to remain optimistic that I will continue to have a good relationship with my daughter as she continues through high school. I can only hope that she will come to me when she decides to have sex. I want her to feel comfortable to tell me when she's being bullied or harassed. I listen to her when she tells me things and offer advice that I think will help. Will she take it? For the most part, I hope yes. Will she always? Probably not.
She is growing into her own person and she will want to make her own decisions and mistakes. I hope that she remembers that I'm here for her, through thick and thin and that when push comes to shove, I do I have access to a baseball bat and several bricks.
I may not be the "coolest" mom, but I sure can break my foot off when necessary.
In other news, my daughter starts high school in a few months and already there is drama between her classmate and some psycho ex-boyfriend. It made me wonder why the girl hadn't confided in her parents and when my daughter revealed that she didn't get along with them (the girl's father said he just knew she would get pregnant in high school) it made me curious about her other classmates relationships with their parents.
Apparently we parents are getting a bad rap. My daughter feels like she and I have a good relationship and she feels like she can talk to me about almost anything. Of course, she didn't feel that way when a classmate was calling her names on Facebook and spreading rumors at school but now she knows she can come to me. I have worked hard to make sure I'm up to speed with how many boyfriends one friend has had (well in the teens at last count), which one got a girl pregnant (high schoolers) and who has been cutting themselves (apparently she didn't like her father that much).
I try to remain optimistic that I will continue to have a good relationship with my daughter as she continues through high school. I can only hope that she will come to me when she decides to have sex. I want her to feel comfortable to tell me when she's being bullied or harassed. I listen to her when she tells me things and offer advice that I think will help. Will she take it? For the most part, I hope yes. Will she always? Probably not.
She is growing into her own person and she will want to make her own decisions and mistakes. I hope that she remembers that I'm here for her, through thick and thin and that when push comes to shove, I do I have access to a baseball bat and several bricks.
I may not be the "coolest" mom, but I sure can break my foot off when necessary.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Just reached the halfway mark...
I finally reached the halfway mark of my novel...kinda sorta. In a way, I feel like it's going to go through a huge number of edits before it's all said and done. At this point, I have finally written a chapter summary that I'm happy with although I'm still working out the kinks of my three main characters (I actually changed the names of my two male leads). I now have a villain that I can't wait to do a back story on (and yes, his name has changed as well).
It's my heroine that I'm most proud of. She's gone through the most changes from bitter, to scared, to just downright tired. Now she's decided to come out of hiding and just be herself, well if she can. There's still the matter of her psycho ex-boyfriend to consider. She hasn't found any record of him via web searches but no news is good news right? Not really. Especially not when she runs into his mom who knows what her son really did (and that our girl is innocent) and she's looking to make things right. At least, that's the thought for now.
I have to admit that this is a lot harder than I initially thought. I can see why people give up the idea of becoming a writer. I probably would have quit on Sunday but I have a contest that I'm still in and nothing else to do. I'm working part-time and other than the weekly visits to the library, I can't say that there is much else going on. I guess if I weren't so lazy I would start looking for a second job but writing is as much a full time job as anything else, except you really don't get paid for it.
Well, I'm going to give myself a pat on the back anyway. Even though I've written about 40,000 words of craptastic fiction, I'm sure that there is a diamond in that pile, just waiting to be polished, over and over and over again.
Man, if think it's hard now, I'm not sure how I will find the strength to edit.
It's my heroine that I'm most proud of. She's gone through the most changes from bitter, to scared, to just downright tired. Now she's decided to come out of hiding and just be herself, well if she can. There's still the matter of her psycho ex-boyfriend to consider. She hasn't found any record of him via web searches but no news is good news right? Not really. Especially not when she runs into his mom who knows what her son really did (and that our girl is innocent) and she's looking to make things right. At least, that's the thought for now.
I have to admit that this is a lot harder than I initially thought. I can see why people give up the idea of becoming a writer. I probably would have quit on Sunday but I have a contest that I'm still in and nothing else to do. I'm working part-time and other than the weekly visits to the library, I can't say that there is much else going on. I guess if I weren't so lazy I would start looking for a second job but writing is as much a full time job as anything else, except you really don't get paid for it.
Well, I'm going to give myself a pat on the back anyway. Even though I've written about 40,000 words of craptastic fiction, I'm sure that there is a diamond in that pile, just waiting to be polished, over and over and over again.
Man, if think it's hard now, I'm not sure how I will find the strength to edit.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Vacation was fun, glad to be home
So three days in Chicago did nothing for my word count. Good thing we enjoyed ourselves. I came back with lots of pictures, a few videos and sore muscles. Never did find a pizza place but we did finally go down the Magnificent Mile, although our walk was much shorter. I think I'll get around to posting my pics on Facebook sometime this weekend.
In the meantime it's back to the grindstone. I have realized something about this boot camp thing I'm in. I really do need something like this for the long term. I haven't quite figured out how to find something similar, although keep your fingers crossed that I have an option that kinda fell into my lap last week. Still, how does one find a group of people who are willing to kick each others butts to stay on target with our writing goals? How do these people find one another? I thought about doing some web searching but I can't even think of where to begin.
In other news I think my EDJ is looking for a way to redo the Saturday schedule which could spell disaster for my attempts to finally attend an MoRWA meeting. I've been trying to get to one since last month and the first one that I'm available to attend is in August. Maybe they will have some ideas on finding writer groups. I can only hope.
Well, I really don't have much else to say. I've been checking out the All Things Urban Fantasy website lately. It's actually been very helpful in finding out about new authors and books. I look forward to the daily posts. I had no idea there were so many authors in this genre. Makes me even more thrilled that I'm writing for it.
Well, I'm off to up my word count for the week. These last few days have been horrible. I'm just glad I'm not behind in my goal for the month. That would just make me feel worse.
In the meantime it's back to the grindstone. I have realized something about this boot camp thing I'm in. I really do need something like this for the long term. I haven't quite figured out how to find something similar, although keep your fingers crossed that I have an option that kinda fell into my lap last week. Still, how does one find a group of people who are willing to kick each others butts to stay on target with our writing goals? How do these people find one another? I thought about doing some web searching but I can't even think of where to begin.
In other news I think my EDJ is looking for a way to redo the Saturday schedule which could spell disaster for my attempts to finally attend an MoRWA meeting. I've been trying to get to one since last month and the first one that I'm available to attend is in August. Maybe they will have some ideas on finding writer groups. I can only hope.
Well, I really don't have much else to say. I've been checking out the All Things Urban Fantasy website lately. It's actually been very helpful in finding out about new authors and books. I look forward to the daily posts. I had no idea there were so many authors in this genre. Makes me even more thrilled that I'm writing for it.
Well, I'm off to up my word count for the week. These last few days have been horrible. I'm just glad I'm not behind in my goal for the month. That would just make me feel worse.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Yes it has been a while
...and yes, it has totally been my fault. From trying to plan my inexpensive trip to Chicago to signing up and prepping for SavvyAuthor.com's June Boot Camp, I have been overly swamped and horribly stressed. I have no one to blame but myself for this and yet, if I had to do it over again, I probably wouldn't change much.
Well, that's not true. If I did have to change something I would change my Chicago trip. Even as the date draws near (today is Sunday and we leave on Tuesday), I find myself regretting the choice I made for lodgings. I'm sure that I'm just over-reacting, being my usual pessimistic self, but I can't help but wonder if the hotel we're staying at is going to be the high or low part of our trip.
We are staying at the Hyatt Regency on Wacker Drive. It's not that far from Grant Park and while the location seems to be ideal, I'm not sure about the services that the hotel offers. I almost feel like I'm going to be cheated at some point during my stay there just because I got such a great deal on the room ($50 a night is awesome!). So anyway, I was planning for my trip when I realized that I was missing some information and luckily I was able to get a hold of someone for answers. I am really not pleased at this point. Did you know...
They charge $14 per day for wi-fi services? This is just terrible, considering the number of places outside of the hotel that offer free internet access (Like the McDonald's around the corner for crying out loud).
Breakfast options?-I stayed at the Drury Inn Chesterfield in mid-April and received a HOT free breakfast everyday. Did you get that? FREE, HOT BREAKFAST!!! EVERYDAY!!! I would have thought that the Hyatt would at the very least provide bagels and cream cheese. Nope.
Refrigerator? Not unless you want to pay for it. Oh, but I do have access to a pressure sensitive minibar. WTF??!!
These may seem like small matters not to concern myself with but unfortunately I do have to be careful. Will I be charged for watching TV? What about the coffee maker? I plan on bringing my own, since I don't the "regular" stuff but do I need to bring my own cup too? I found out that there is a Walgreens near where we are staying (actually, they seem to be on every block). Will I get charged for bringing in my own water instead of using the ones conveniently located in the minibar? There's an iron in the room, so will I be charged to using up the electricity to iron out some wrinkles?
The other thing is the additional $150 I have to shell over for "in cases". Like, in case I use the internet, in case I use the phone, in case I use the minibar. I'm not that pleased with that option either and I can only hope that this doesn't cut too far into the budget that I have already set up for myself.
Even now, I'm trying to find restaurants and cafes near our various destinations since I refuse to eat in the hotel's restaurant. Nothing personal but I don't want to spend $50 on steak when I can get a burger and fries (our favorite thing) for no more than $15 total.
If all else fails, we can always hit up Micky-Ds.
OK, enough whining. I had intended to talk a little about my boot camp experience so far, but that's a totally different post topic. Maybe I can get that one out tomorrow or something. In any event, I'm determined to make this a great birthday for my daughter, even if I have to scrimp and buy microwaveable Ramen. Yes, there is a microwave, unfortunately, it's in the hotel lobby.
I'll be sure to post an update (with pictures) when we get back. Until then, laterz!
Well, that's not true. If I did have to change something I would change my Chicago trip. Even as the date draws near (today is Sunday and we leave on Tuesday), I find myself regretting the choice I made for lodgings. I'm sure that I'm just over-reacting, being my usual pessimistic self, but I can't help but wonder if the hotel we're staying at is going to be the high or low part of our trip.
We are staying at the Hyatt Regency on Wacker Drive. It's not that far from Grant Park and while the location seems to be ideal, I'm not sure about the services that the hotel offers. I almost feel like I'm going to be cheated at some point during my stay there just because I got such a great deal on the room ($50 a night is awesome!). So anyway, I was planning for my trip when I realized that I was missing some information and luckily I was able to get a hold of someone for answers. I am really not pleased at this point. Did you know...
They charge $14 per day for wi-fi services? This is just terrible, considering the number of places outside of the hotel that offer free internet access (Like the McDonald's around the corner for crying out loud).
Breakfast options?-I stayed at the Drury Inn Chesterfield in mid-April and received a HOT free breakfast everyday. Did you get that? FREE, HOT BREAKFAST!!! EVERYDAY!!! I would have thought that the Hyatt would at the very least provide bagels and cream cheese. Nope.
Refrigerator? Not unless you want to pay for it. Oh, but I do have access to a pressure sensitive minibar. WTF??!!
These may seem like small matters not to concern myself with but unfortunately I do have to be careful. Will I be charged for watching TV? What about the coffee maker? I plan on bringing my own, since I don't the "regular" stuff but do I need to bring my own cup too? I found out that there is a Walgreens near where we are staying (actually, they seem to be on every block). Will I get charged for bringing in my own water instead of using the ones conveniently located in the minibar? There's an iron in the room, so will I be charged to using up the electricity to iron out some wrinkles?
The other thing is the additional $150 I have to shell over for "in cases". Like, in case I use the internet, in case I use the phone, in case I use the minibar. I'm not that pleased with that option either and I can only hope that this doesn't cut too far into the budget that I have already set up for myself.
Even now, I'm trying to find restaurants and cafes near our various destinations since I refuse to eat in the hotel's restaurant. Nothing personal but I don't want to spend $50 on steak when I can get a burger and fries (our favorite thing) for no more than $15 total.
If all else fails, we can always hit up Micky-Ds.
OK, enough whining. I had intended to talk a little about my boot camp experience so far, but that's a totally different post topic. Maybe I can get that one out tomorrow or something. In any event, I'm determined to make this a great birthday for my daughter, even if I have to scrimp and buy microwaveable Ramen. Yes, there is a microwave, unfortunately, it's in the hotel lobby.
I'll be sure to post an update (with pictures) when we get back. Until then, laterz!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
May 1st post
I was feeling kind of goofy and after reading doujinshi all day, I needed a break from BL romance and heartbreak. After a starter paragraph for a fan-fic and for my novel, I came up with this bit of weirdness. I need to get out more :)
The Devil You Know (seriously, that's the prompt)
by K. Britton
If you really think about it, it's not such a bad thing to have happen. Possession is 9/10th of the law, right? Sure, you loose complete and utter control of your body but hey, haven't you always wanted to jump off of a tall building, just to see what it was like? You know you want to walk through fire, sleep underwater, walk into a lions den, literally.
All of these things are possible with Demonic Possession.
For just a low fee of ten thousand dollars, you can experience what it's like to have your body riddled with bullets or even autopsied. You can survive a long drive off of a short cliff. You drink bleach.
Sure there are side effects like nausea and permanent scarring but these are just minor things compared to the joy of being...well, slightly undead. And granted you don't get back the full feeling in your hands, feet, chest and lower abdomen, but you were ready to die a virgin anyway.
So call right now! Operators are standing by.
The Devil You Know (seriously, that's the prompt)
by K. Britton
If you really think about it, it's not such a bad thing to have happen. Possession is 9/10th of the law, right? Sure, you loose complete and utter control of your body but hey, haven't you always wanted to jump off of a tall building, just to see what it was like? You know you want to walk through fire, sleep underwater, walk into a lions den, literally.
All of these things are possible with Demonic Possession.
For just a low fee of ten thousand dollars, you can experience what it's like to have your body riddled with bullets or even autopsied. You can survive a long drive off of a short cliff. You drink bleach.
Sure there are side effects like nausea and permanent scarring but these are just minor things compared to the joy of being...well, slightly undead. And granted you don't get back the full feeling in your hands, feet, chest and lower abdomen, but you were ready to die a virgin anyway.
So call right now! Operators are standing by.
I'm late, I'm late, I'm very, very late
I'm actually writing this one a day early (and posting a day late) because I have to work all day and then take my daughter to her Girl Scout camping trip. I figured that by the time I got home I wouldn't even remember to do this plus I'm still trying to justify spending $25 on a lecture Saturday. Maybe we can go to the book fair instead...
Oh by the way, have I ever told you about my friend Bootsy? No? Well, I've known Bootsy for years. Let's just say she's one of a kind. We only recently got back in touch; she had been living abroad, Europe I believe, at least that's what I think she said. Apparently she picked up a very heavy accent along the way.
Anyway, her name really isn't Bootsy. It's actually Elizabeth Marie LaRue, but her grandmother, who raised her after her mom died in childbirth, called her Bootsy and it just stuck. I'm not sure what happened to her dad. Her uncle once said that the grandmother put a curse on him and no one has seen him since. If I'm not mistaken, I believe he also told me that there was such a thing as a chocolate rainbow, which I spent two weeks looking for. Jerk!
Ok, so anyway, Bootsy's back in town, but only for a few weeks. I think she’s here for the rebirth/reburial. I seem to recall they usually have it this time of year. It’s sort of a family celebration of the life of family members who have passed away. Bootsy said they say a prayer and then scatter the ashes of their loved ones in the family garden. Actually it’s not a garden but more like a family cemetery plot with lots of flowers.
Well, this year's “rebirth” celebration should be fun; fireworks, barbeque and music from sunrise to sunset. A few years ago, Bootsy spiked the fruit punch with Mad Dog 20/20. I didn't even know they still made that stuff. The last time we drank it, we both passed out at the bus stop on the way home. Ah, the good ol’ days.
Sorry, I know I'm rambling but I'm just so excited about seeing my old friend. You're probably wondering how I actually managed to stay friends with her. Well, it was hard. She traveled a lot, I moved a lot, but I still kept in touch with Mertle, her great-aunt. Mertle is actually very sweet and makes the best damn rum cake this side of the Mississippi (don't tell my mother though).
Anyway, I try to visit Mertle at least once a year, mostly around Christmas. I swing by, bringing over a sub sandwich and a six pack (that woman loves her Budweiser) and we spend a few hours talking about kids, family and life. She was a life-long church going woman until she found out that her pastor had been cheating on his wife with the deacon's husband.
Yup, he was gay. The whole church was in an uproar apparently. The deacon apparently ran home, they lived across the street, and came back with a gun. When I was talking to Bootsy about it a few months later, she told me that the deacon herself had been having a little “private time” with the secretary of the church. I don't why she was pissed to find out her husband was gay when she was too.
I wish I had a picture to post. Actually I do but my scanner's not working so there’s really nothing I can do about it now. I hope she didn't cut her hair again. She does that, every so often, gets that really short Halle Berry cut and then whines and cries and boo-hoos about how short it is. Then she turns around gets those ridiculously small micro-braids that require two people and two days to put in. I don't know why she doesn't just shave it off and wear a wig. Plenty of women do. Hell, even my mother has one.
Well, I guess that's enough about Bootsy. I just wanted to share with you some of her life and let you get to know her a little. I'll introduce you sometime. Maybe she'll tell you about the time she stuck on a flight to Alabama (pre-9/11) and convinced the flight attendants that she was a seat evaluator and needed to sit in first class to make sure all the seats were comfortable. I laughed so hard when she told me that I almost wet myself.
Laterz!
Introduce me to the character Bootsy LaRue
by K. Britton
Oh by the way, have I ever told you about my friend Bootsy? No? Well, I've known Bootsy for years. Let's just say she's one of a kind. We only recently got back in touch; she had been living abroad, Europe I believe, at least that's what I think she said. Apparently she picked up a very heavy accent along the way.
Anyway, her name really isn't Bootsy. It's actually Elizabeth Marie LaRue, but her grandmother, who raised her after her mom died in childbirth, called her Bootsy and it just stuck. I'm not sure what happened to her dad. Her uncle once said that the grandmother put a curse on him and no one has seen him since. If I'm not mistaken, I believe he also told me that there was such a thing as a chocolate rainbow, which I spent two weeks looking for. Jerk!
Ok, so anyway, Bootsy's back in town, but only for a few weeks. I think she’s here for the rebirth/reburial. I seem to recall they usually have it this time of year. It’s sort of a family celebration of the life of family members who have passed away. Bootsy said they say a prayer and then scatter the ashes of their loved ones in the family garden. Actually it’s not a garden but more like a family cemetery plot with lots of flowers.
Well, this year's “rebirth” celebration should be fun; fireworks, barbeque and music from sunrise to sunset. A few years ago, Bootsy spiked the fruit punch with Mad Dog 20/20. I didn't even know they still made that stuff. The last time we drank it, we both passed out at the bus stop on the way home. Ah, the good ol’ days.
Sorry, I know I'm rambling but I'm just so excited about seeing my old friend. You're probably wondering how I actually managed to stay friends with her. Well, it was hard. She traveled a lot, I moved a lot, but I still kept in touch with Mertle, her great-aunt. Mertle is actually very sweet and makes the best damn rum cake this side of the Mississippi (don't tell my mother though).
Anyway, I try to visit Mertle at least once a year, mostly around Christmas. I swing by, bringing over a sub sandwich and a six pack (that woman loves her Budweiser) and we spend a few hours talking about kids, family and life. She was a life-long church going woman until she found out that her pastor had been cheating on his wife with the deacon's husband.
Yup, he was gay. The whole church was in an uproar apparently. The deacon apparently ran home, they lived across the street, and came back with a gun. When I was talking to Bootsy about it a few months later, she told me that the deacon herself had been having a little “private time” with the secretary of the church. I don't why she was pissed to find out her husband was gay when she was too.
I wish I had a picture to post. Actually I do but my scanner's not working so there’s really nothing I can do about it now. I hope she didn't cut her hair again. She does that, every so often, gets that really short Halle Berry cut and then whines and cries and boo-hoos about how short it is. Then she turns around gets those ridiculously small micro-braids that require two people and two days to put in. I don't know why she doesn't just shave it off and wear a wig. Plenty of women do. Hell, even my mother has one.
Well, I guess that's enough about Bootsy. I just wanted to share with you some of her life and let you get to know her a little. I'll introduce you sometime. Maybe she'll tell you about the time she stuck on a flight to Alabama (pre-9/11) and convinced the flight attendants that she was a seat evaluator and needed to sit in first class to make sure all the seats were comfortable. I laughed so hard when she told me that I almost wet myself.
Laterz!
Introduce me to the character Bootsy LaRue
by K. Britton
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Three black birds
I'm sitting here trying to figure out what to do with today's prompt. It's not really inspiring me to do anything. That is kind of unfortunate and kind of how things tend to work for me. The one I had yesterday seemed to just gush forth, a story forming in my head as soon as I wrote it. Sometimes it's like that, I see a word or a sentence and BAM! I have an idea. Not so much today.
I thought of incorporating the 'three black birds' into a fan fic, but still inspiration has not struck. Ugh! I hate days like this but I can only assume that it happens to anyone who writes. I believe it is called writer's block. Oh well.
I guess I could write a poem, although I'm not really into poetry. I leave that for the really fancy writers, the ones that enjoy reading poetry and such. Not me though. More often than not it just goes over my head. Maybe I should try reading the dictionary again. I did that for a few weeks in high school. I stopped when it became obvious that the plot was going nowhere and the romance was dead in the water.
Well, April is poetry month. I guess I could try.
Three Black Birds
by K. Britton
Sitting on the fence watching the world go by
Dodging rocks from wicked school children
Aerial assaults by conniving cats
Granny comes by tossing bird seed and rat poison
Sees the black wings as angels of death and, well, she is slightly senile
Rainy days, cold nights, crisp afternoons, peaceful sunsets
Sitting on the fence watching the world go by
Ok, that's all I can do. Yeah I know, I'm not expecting a Pulitzer for this but it's fun and more like a free write than anything. Plus, I came up with it on the fly :) Daily prompt fulfilled.
I thought of incorporating the 'three black birds' into a fan fic, but still inspiration has not struck. Ugh! I hate days like this but I can only assume that it happens to anyone who writes. I believe it is called writer's block. Oh well.
I guess I could write a poem, although I'm not really into poetry. I leave that for the really fancy writers, the ones that enjoy reading poetry and such. Not me though. More often than not it just goes over my head. Maybe I should try reading the dictionary again. I did that for a few weeks in high school. I stopped when it became obvious that the plot was going nowhere and the romance was dead in the water.
Well, April is poetry month. I guess I could try.
Three Black Birds
by K. Britton
Sitting on the fence watching the world go by
Dodging rocks from wicked school children
Aerial assaults by conniving cats
Granny comes by tossing bird seed and rat poison
Sees the black wings as angels of death and, well, she is slightly senile
Rainy days, cold nights, crisp afternoons, peaceful sunsets
Sitting on the fence watching the world go by
Ok, that's all I can do. Yeah I know, I'm not expecting a Pulitzer for this but it's fun and more like a free write than anything. Plus, I came up with it on the fly :) Daily prompt fulfilled.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Daily Prompts
Since I can't make myself update this blog more than I update Facebook (which really is a challenge for some reason), I've decided to update it the only way I know how: writing prompts.
I find that I really enjoy word or sentence prompts. It keeps my brain motivated and sometimes inspires me to write more than I intended. Not sure if I want to share my fan-fiction over here but I can post my prompts that I get from Twitter and various other prompting sites.
So without further delay, here is my first prompt. Please take note that my grammar and punctuation need help so if you see anything amiss, let me know. I can only grow if I know what's holding me back and work to fix it.
*
*
Story Prompt (http://thestorystarter.com/):
The rookie driver sang a song in the diner to answer the challenge.
He had been so excited when he heard about the challenge that he practically drove through the night just to get there on time. Luck was on his side when he arrived, a mere ten minutes before the contest was due to begin. It really wasn't enough time for a warm up, but he really didn't need one. He sung every song that came up on the radio and even the multiple commercial jingles that played every hour.
Just as he was signing his name on the entry form, someone called out his name. He looked behind him and recognized the face of a classmate from driving school. He couldn't quite remember his name but the face, full of freckles and a beaming gap-toothed smile, had more than left an impression. The man was quick-witted and funny as hell. He was also top in the graduating class and one of the best handlers around.
The young man held up his hand and turned back, handing his form to one of the waitresses, and then threaded his way to his former classmate. It had been so long since he had seen anyone that he knew that he almost hugged the man. Since that really wasn't appropriate in a truck stop, he just offered him a hearty hello and an enthusiastic handshake.
Man, the gods really were on his side.
It really had been a long time since he had meet anyone he knew and he found himself rattling on about his life since graduation. When he finally took a breath it was to hear the diner manager address the increasingly large crowd of participants and spectators. After listening to the rules of the contest, the young man and several others were called forward and asked to stand on the “stage”.
As the contest started, each performer took a turn at singing the challenge song. The young man felt a lightness in his heart that he hadn't known before. This was the first time in a long while that he hadn't felt alone in his new world. This was the first time that he actually felt like part of the group instead of just an outsider looking. As he stepped forward to give it his all, he felt tears gathering in his eyes. It hadn't taken him long to sing the song and yet it felt like an eternity had passed when he finished.
By the time he came off the stage, the crowd was thinning out, preparing to head back to their life on the road. He chatted with a few of the regulars, shook hands with the contestants and even got a hug from one of the older waitresses. The young man headed outside toward his home for the next two weeks. He couldn't stop himself from the goofy smile that plastered his face. Ever since he signed up for this occupation, he'd had serious concerns of whether or not this was the right thing for him. Tonight, he proved that it was not only right but the best thing for him. Tonight he discovered his new-found family and he was prepared to do anything not to lose that feeling again.
*
*
See, not much going on. It's similar to the work I do (did) on the fan-fiction side. It's not much of a story and I really don't intend for it to be. Just some of the ramblings that manage to leak from brain every now and again. Well, hope you enjoyed :)
I find that I really enjoy word or sentence prompts. It keeps my brain motivated and sometimes inspires me to write more than I intended. Not sure if I want to share my fan-fiction over here but I can post my prompts that I get from Twitter and various other prompting sites.
So without further delay, here is my first prompt. Please take note that my grammar and punctuation need help so if you see anything amiss, let me know. I can only grow if I know what's holding me back and work to fix it.
*
*
Story Prompt (http://thestorystarter.com/):
The rookie driver sang a song in the diner to answer the challenge.
He had been so excited when he heard about the challenge that he practically drove through the night just to get there on time. Luck was on his side when he arrived, a mere ten minutes before the contest was due to begin. It really wasn't enough time for a warm up, but he really didn't need one. He sung every song that came up on the radio and even the multiple commercial jingles that played every hour.
Just as he was signing his name on the entry form, someone called out his name. He looked behind him and recognized the face of a classmate from driving school. He couldn't quite remember his name but the face, full of freckles and a beaming gap-toothed smile, had more than left an impression. The man was quick-witted and funny as hell. He was also top in the graduating class and one of the best handlers around.
The young man held up his hand and turned back, handing his form to one of the waitresses, and then threaded his way to his former classmate. It had been so long since he had seen anyone that he knew that he almost hugged the man. Since that really wasn't appropriate in a truck stop, he just offered him a hearty hello and an enthusiastic handshake.
Man, the gods really were on his side.
It really had been a long time since he had meet anyone he knew and he found himself rattling on about his life since graduation. When he finally took a breath it was to hear the diner manager address the increasingly large crowd of participants and spectators. After listening to the rules of the contest, the young man and several others were called forward and asked to stand on the “stage”.
As the contest started, each performer took a turn at singing the challenge song. The young man felt a lightness in his heart that he hadn't known before. This was the first time in a long while that he hadn't felt alone in his new world. This was the first time that he actually felt like part of the group instead of just an outsider looking. As he stepped forward to give it his all, he felt tears gathering in his eyes. It hadn't taken him long to sing the song and yet it felt like an eternity had passed when he finished.
By the time he came off the stage, the crowd was thinning out, preparing to head back to their life on the road. He chatted with a few of the regulars, shook hands with the contestants and even got a hug from one of the older waitresses. The young man headed outside toward his home for the next two weeks. He couldn't stop himself from the goofy smile that plastered his face. Ever since he signed up for this occupation, he'd had serious concerns of whether or not this was the right thing for him. Tonight, he proved that it was not only right but the best thing for him. Tonight he discovered his new-found family and he was prepared to do anything not to lose that feeling again.
*
*
See, not much going on. It's similar to the work I do (did) on the fan-fiction side. It's not much of a story and I really don't intend for it to be. Just some of the ramblings that manage to leak from brain every now and again. Well, hope you enjoyed :)
Sunday, April 18, 2010
The End of a Wonderful Weekend
I just got back from the MWG Conference. I had a blast. I met so many nice people, found a bunch of new authors and bought some great books. I can say it enough, I had a fantastic time.
Did you know that authors are always working? Even if they've sold thousands of books they are still working hard to make sure that they get new book contracts. Good grief! I thought that once you're in, you're in. Nope!
I'm actually starting a new project because of things I learned at the conference. Actually, it's a whole new book. I don't know why the character's name struck me when it did or why but here he is in all of his glory. He wants me to get cracking on his character sheet so I guess I should do that. I would like to do a quick write up of the lectures I attended (which were all informative by the way). I'll have to work on that a little later.
Can't wait until next year's :)
Did you know that authors are always working? Even if they've sold thousands of books they are still working hard to make sure that they get new book contracts. Good grief! I thought that once you're in, you're in. Nope!
I'm actually starting a new project because of things I learned at the conference. Actually, it's a whole new book. I don't know why the character's name struck me when it did or why but here he is in all of his glory. He wants me to get cracking on his character sheet so I guess I should do that. I would like to do a quick write up of the lectures I attended (which were all informative by the way). I'll have to work on that a little later.
Can't wait until next year's :)
Friday, April 16, 2010
First Day
Just finished off my first day at the Missouri Writers Guild conference. I think this was a really good idea on my part to attend. I got a lot of useful information and I'm looking forward to picking up a couple of books by one of the speakers.
I also got a great opportunity to hear Dr. Thomas Applewhite,who was added at the last minute, give us some great info on guns. I had no idea at the variety available. I mean, the history alone is enough that several books have been written. I'm almost tempted to see if I can find a couple on Amazon. I can totally see them being useful in the future.
We ended our day with a movie called "Lithium Springs". I can't imagine actually paying money to see it, and neither could the producer, but I can see why it would be very little-kid friendly. I wonder if my nephew would like it? That film seemed to be more for the SpongeBob crowd anyway. Still, it was a nice way to end the evening.
Tomorrow is going to be jammed pack with sessions so I better hit the hay since I've got a 7am wake up call. Laterz :)
I also got a great opportunity to hear Dr. Thomas Applewhite,who was added at the last minute, give us some great info on guns. I had no idea at the variety available. I mean, the history alone is enough that several books have been written. I'm almost tempted to see if I can find a couple on Amazon. I can totally see them being useful in the future.
We ended our day with a movie called "Lithium Springs". I can't imagine actually paying money to see it, and neither could the producer, but I can see why it would be very little-kid friendly. I wonder if my nephew would like it? That film seemed to be more for the SpongeBob crowd anyway. Still, it was a nice way to end the evening.
Tomorrow is going to be jammed pack with sessions so I better hit the hay since I've got a 7am wake up call. Laterz :)
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Reading Research
I have actually been quite busy the last few weeks with school, work, family and research. It has been my research that has taken up as much of my free time as my previous hobby, video gaming.
I read in William Tapply's, The Elements of Mystery Fiction, that you should read what other authors have done to get it right. I decided to start my research by reading some of the authors that Tapply recommended as well as add a few of my own into the mix. This isn't a review, per se, just my thoughts on what I've read so far.
First off, I picked up 'Same Time, Same Murder' by Robert J. Randisi & Christine Matthews. He is actually giving a workshop next month for the St. Louis Writer's Guild, which I'm looking forward to. I thought I would check out some of his books, which were available at the library. I picked this one up because it offered one of my favorite things in a mystery series: the detective couple.
It's actually not the first book of the series but a story behind how the two main characters met. I thought I would really enjoy it but it seems that the authors have thrown me for a loop. I wasn't sure if I was even going to be able to finish the book since it seems to be awfully confusing with the back and forth going on. An example would be the wife talking about how they first met, then going to the first meeting and then back to the present. Then the husband adds in his two cents, goes back to the same meeting and then back to present.
(I seem to have lost an entire paragraph here. This is all thanks to the 'Autosave feature' which I will will be turning off)
My next personal pick was Dean James' 'Decorated to Death'. This is actually the second book that I've read by this author. It seems to be a series but I have yet to get my hands on the first book so I can only read what's available. The main character in this series is a gay vampire that writes romance novels and biographies and just so happens to solve murder mysteries in his spare time. I really enjoyed the first book and I find myself enjoying this one as well. I haven't finished yet but I hope to by the end of the week.
My final pick was 'Holly Blues' by Susan Wittig Albert. I'm not sure how or why I picked this book. Can't even recall when I placed a hold on it. As I was checking out my books they told me it was there so I got it. I started reading around 7pm and finished around 1am. I couldn't put this book down. I stopped reading long enough to eat dinner and see my cousin off but that was it. It was really good. I figured out the mystery pretty quickly, which was a surprise since I usually don't, but it didn't stop me from finishing.
I really enjoyed the background of the characters which were varied and sometimes complex. An herb shop in a small Texas town was the back drop for the visiting ex-wife with a stalker. I liked the fact that the author actually told us a little about the main character's background and that of the people around her. It helps when you haven't read any of the previous books. I found that to be lacking another book that I read out of order (and for the life of me can't remember the name of) in which the author was going on about the main character splurging on various items and making veiled references to past assumptions about the character but unless you had read the previous books (which apparently all made reference to the main character's cheating husband and how she got his life insurance policy) you had no idea why it was such a big deal that she bought a new car or cell phones for the family.
I still enjoyed the book (which actually inspired me to start writing again) and found myself looking into writing conventions and actually joining the writer's guild. It's actually because of her (the author that I can't remember) that I'm even doing this.
Well, that's all I have time for now. I haven't started reading the recommended authors books yet and I hope to get to it some time this weekend or next week. I also picked up a few technical books as well. Grammar, fiction writing and forensic study were my books of choice. Haven't dug into any of those yet but I hope to at least get a sneak peek into one of them.
**EDIT**
My inspiration is Jill Churchill. Hopefully I can actually read some more of her books.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Using the NaNoWriMo Technique
Since I've decided I'm actually going to put a little more effort into finishing my novel, I've decided to use the tried and true method of NaNoWriMo.
The method is simple: write 1666 words per day for the month of April. Since I'm not setting up my deadline for anything more than that, I thought I would also use "Write or Die" as a handy motivator. Beyond those two things, I haven't really thought any further.
So, why do the "November" writing in April? Well, I didn't really get to participate last year. My dad passed away and I was having enough difficulty just getting to school and work. Another reason to do it this month? Well, yesterday was my birthday. I turned 38 (go me!) and I just realized that I would like to finish this book by the time I'm 40.
Other than realizing that I want to have this book finished (and possibly published), I also realized that I really don't want to teach. It's not that I don't like kids because I do, up to a point. Anyway, beyond that point is my bookstore. Yes, my bookstore. The one I've been dreaming about for years but have no real idea why I would ever want one in the "digital" economy. I don't really know but I guess owning a bookstore is possibly the same as my writing dream. It's the "dammit-I'm-doing-it-anyway" idea. Yeah, that sounds good.
Well, if I'm supposed to churn out 1600+ words today I need to get started. I have a test on Monday to study for as well as some errands to run and I want to be free and clear for my writing time.
The method is simple: write 1666 words per day for the month of April. Since I'm not setting up my deadline for anything more than that, I thought I would also use "Write or Die" as a handy motivator. Beyond those two things, I haven't really thought any further.
So, why do the "November" writing in April? Well, I didn't really get to participate last year. My dad passed away and I was having enough difficulty just getting to school and work. Another reason to do it this month? Well, yesterday was my birthday. I turned 38 (go me!) and I just realized that I would like to finish this book by the time I'm 40.
Other than realizing that I want to have this book finished (and possibly published), I also realized that I really don't want to teach. It's not that I don't like kids because I do, up to a point. Anyway, beyond that point is my bookstore. Yes, my bookstore. The one I've been dreaming about for years but have no real idea why I would ever want one in the "digital" economy. I don't really know but I guess owning a bookstore is possibly the same as my writing dream. It's the "dammit-I'm-doing-it-anyway" idea. Yeah, that sounds good.
Well, if I'm supposed to churn out 1600+ words today I need to get started. I have a test on Monday to study for as well as some errands to run and I want to be free and clear for my writing time.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Reading and Research
So I'm continuing to read "The Elements of Mystery Fiction" by William G. Tapply. I'm finding it to be quite helpful actually. A lot of things I never thought about are actually being brought to my attention as far as writing my mystery novel.
The author brought up a good point which is to read what others have done. Well, yeah, that totally makes sense. I have a few authors that I enjoy reading but he made a few recommendations that I am currently going to check out. I do, however, foresee a problem which may or may not hinder my quest to becoming a published author (notice that I didn't say successful or best-selling).
I am currently a card holding member of the St. Louis County Library. It's actually there that I picked up Tapply's book (and I'm seriously considering just buying it from Amazon.com since it really is quite helpful). Tapply suggested a few authors to see how they did it. You know, how they wrote their characters, settings, etc. Again great idea.
I'm currently looking for the Bernie Rhodenbarr burglar series by Lawrence Block. Since it is an actual series, with at least sixteen books, I figured I would start from the beginning. Not so lucky on that one. First of all, after doing a little digging on the title of the first book, it looks like it's not even in print anymore. The second one is available for borrowing and actually at the branch where I requested a pick up. The second problem is that there are only about six of the sixteen even in the library system, which means I'm either not going to read as much of the series as I would like or I'm going to have to do some shopping.
I would rather read them all in order but since that's not the case, I'm going to have to figure out an alternate solution. Maybe I can get the books cheaper online or something. I usually just head to Borders or B&N for my mainstream books but that's expensive and I am a poor, struggling college student. Doesn't make much sense to spend money when I'm trying to save now does it? In any event, it looks like there are other recommended authors to choose from so it's not like I won't have anything to read for the next few months.
That's about it for now. I'm actually going to start working on a spreadsheet of the books and authors that I have read and see about converting it to a program that I can use on my phone for when I'm out and about. You never know, I might actually run across some of these books at a price cheaper than a paperback and since I'm sure that the annual West County Mall book fair is approaching, I'm sure I'll find some great deals.
The author brought up a good point which is to read what others have done. Well, yeah, that totally makes sense. I have a few authors that I enjoy reading but he made a few recommendations that I am currently going to check out. I do, however, foresee a problem which may or may not hinder my quest to becoming a published author (notice that I didn't say successful or best-selling).
I am currently a card holding member of the St. Louis County Library. It's actually there that I picked up Tapply's book (and I'm seriously considering just buying it from Amazon.com since it really is quite helpful). Tapply suggested a few authors to see how they did it. You know, how they wrote their characters, settings, etc. Again great idea.
I'm currently looking for the Bernie Rhodenbarr burglar series by Lawrence Block. Since it is an actual series, with at least sixteen books, I figured I would start from the beginning. Not so lucky on that one. First of all, after doing a little digging on the title of the first book, it looks like it's not even in print anymore. The second one is available for borrowing and actually at the branch where I requested a pick up. The second problem is that there are only about six of the sixteen even in the library system, which means I'm either not going to read as much of the series as I would like or I'm going to have to do some shopping.
I would rather read them all in order but since that's not the case, I'm going to have to figure out an alternate solution. Maybe I can get the books cheaper online or something. I usually just head to Borders or B&N for my mainstream books but that's expensive and I am a poor, struggling college student. Doesn't make much sense to spend money when I'm trying to save now does it? In any event, it looks like there are other recommended authors to choose from so it's not like I won't have anything to read for the next few months.
That's about it for now. I'm actually going to start working on a spreadsheet of the books and authors that I have read and see about converting it to a program that I can use on my phone for when I'm out and about. You never know, I might actually run across some of these books at a price cheaper than a paperback and since I'm sure that the annual West County Mall book fair is approaching, I'm sure I'll find some great deals.
Let's try this again...
Hopefully, I won't let this fall to wayside as I have done with my LiveJournal account (kerumica has not updated in months). In any event, I am planning on going all out with this...as long as I remember my password (I really should write that down somewhere).
I guess my only real update for today is that I plan on leaving the house since I have classes today and I have yet to have my first cup of coffee.
My goal for this evening is to work out some more details on my first novel. I've decided that I need to work on the characters backgrounds and so far only the victim has a history. My two main characters are not as fleshed out but that's just because I want to know more as I write about them. They are still a mystery to me.
That is all (for now).
I guess my only real update for today is that I plan on leaving the house since I have classes today and I have yet to have my first cup of coffee.
My goal for this evening is to work out some more details on my first novel. I've decided that I need to work on the characters backgrounds and so far only the victim has a history. My two main characters are not as fleshed out but that's just because I want to know more as I write about them. They are still a mystery to me.
That is all (for now).
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)