Blogging for food



When I started this blog, I was determined to write every week. Sunday's nights would be devoted to imparting amazing thoughts to a fascinated audience. Well, that isn't happening. However, my time is taken over by the rewriting of Smoked.

The new draft includes scenes from Sam's point of view. He's no longer a character in Mary's adventure; he's an active observer in each chapter. He has become a stronger presence, and as a result, Mary has become a stronger character, too, because we see her through Sam's eyes. The other characters also grow interesting by the same tactic. The killer as well as the scapegoat take on added facets.

I want to thank Robert J. Ray and Jack Remick for their wonderful book, The Weekend Novelist Writes a Mystery. I started reading it because I recognized my weak plot. (Plotting has always given me problems.) This book is the first that gives me step-by-step instructions that seem to work. For me. They take you through 52 exercises that help organize and develop your plot. They even have a sample plot they work along with you. While I'm not following it verbatim, I am using the tools. Having the right tools is important, as I have blogged about earlier. Further, TWNWAM doesn't drop you off when the final draft is done. The authors included a short, pithy appendix on what to do with your work of art. With emphasis on the personal touch, they validate my own experience with writers conferences. By meeting with agents and editors you increase your chance of publishing in the traditional way.

So, if you're writing for food, this book might be a good fit for you, too.

And, no, I didn't get any incentive from Messers Ray and Remick.

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