Monday Mumbles

How was everyone's weekend? Mine was busy, busy. I feel like summer has taken on a different kind of busy and that's entertaining kids on a constant basis. I hope all you dad's had a relaxing day yesterday.

1. Thank you to Elana Johnson for her awesome post on Friday. Check it out here. Also, don't forget to get on over to her blog for lots of fun stuff and pick up her new release, SURRENDER.

2. So, my progress is slow on everything. I did get past the 15k word mark last week, so it's getting there.

3. Querying is querying. I don't even need to explain it, but I'm holding my head high and trying not to let it get the best of me. I know where I want to be, and one day I'll get there. I have to keep moving forward. I'm revising my query again and have cut the first two chapters of my MS. I'm also rearranging things in the first half of my MS.

4. I can't wait to finish all of the stuff above to be able to work on a finished manuscript that is waiting. It keeps taunting me. It's that middle child looking for attention.

5. Here's a great post about those of us who may be losing confidence. Letter to a writer who is losing confidence by Roz Morris.

6. Another post I thought was interesting. My Life Would Be Easier If I Gave Up Writing by Natasha Hanova

7. I've been brushing up on my grammar. This book is simply the best, and one I've read from cover to cover (you know I'm not a self-help book gal). IT WAS THE BEST OF SENTENCES, IT WAS THE WORST OF SENTENCES by June Casagrande

8. Here is another post I found inspiring from Querytracker. Never, Never Give Up Writing and Winston Churchill by Danyelle Leafty

9. I will be responding to your comments soon. I'm getting there. :)

How was your weekend?

Any vacation plans?

Writing goals?

Have a great day!

Plotting and Pacing in YA--A guest post by Elana Johnson

So, we all know that lovely gal, Elana Johnson. She's got a new release, SURRENDER. See the pretty cover.

Elana has amazing things going on at her blog, and today, she's on my blog sharing her knowledge. Take it away Elana.

Okay, so if you’ve read my books, you know I’m a big fan of fast-paced, all-action-all-the-time novels. Both POSSESSION and SURRENDER sort of start out slow and then push the reader to the end.

There’s an element of plotting that has to happen when writing. I’m a supporter of a slow start, especially when building a new world for readers. I want to be eased into a new world with a new character like sinking into a hot bath.

After that? All bets are off. I then want things to happen, and happen fast. But that doesn’t mean you as the author can throw everything and the kitchen sink at the reader.

I like to think of pacing like a horse race. Red Pollard didn’t take Seabiscuit out of the gate at one hundred miles per hour. He held the horse back at points, and drove him forward at others. And then he really whipped Seabiscuit down the home stretch.

I think YA authors can learn a lot from thinking about pacing in this way. There’s a time to give readers a lot of information pertaining to the plot. There’s a time for pure action. There’s a time to pull back a little and breathe.

It’s all about knowing when to do so.

Let’s examine the Top Five things I think can really guide a reader through a novel. And readers want to feel like they’re in the hands of someone who can lead them through a story.

1.      The opening image. I think this should be a bit slower. Give readers a chance to sink into your world and character like a hot bath.

2.      After you’ve set up the world and character, we need to be driven with the catalyst and debate. I think the pages from 30 – 90 (or so) should be full of tension and plot elements and the definition of character motivation for the rest of the novel. When we finally break into Act 2, the reader should be hoping for a break in the action.

3.      And they should get it. The introduction of the B Story is the time for you as the author to pull the horse back a little bit. You’ve just given them 60 pages of high action and emotional pulling. They need a break. They need fun and games.

4.      Fun and Games. This is where you can have some really cool action scenes. This is where Iron Man gets to try on his suit and go flying around.

5.      At the midpoint, the stakes are raised. And the pacing should naturally increase from there. The fun and games are over, and it’s time to get down to business of solving the problem at hand. The last half of your book should really drive readers to the last page.

What elements do you consider when plotting and pacing your novel?

This week, as part of the SURRENDER blog tour, you can win one of three $15 Barnes & Noble gift cards and become a winner winner, chicken dinner! All you have to do is fill out this rafflecopter widget with what you’ve done. NOTE: One of the options is to blog about a time you didn’t surrender. Go here for full details on this, including how to sign up for your free swag package!

<a id="rc-2572e99" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>

<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>

Thanks so much Elana! Also, check out her new release, SURRENDER. See blurb below because you know you want it.

About SURRENDER: Raine has always been a good girl. She lives by the rules in Freedom. After all, they are her father’s rules: He’s the Director. It’s because of him that Raine is willing to use her talent—a power so dangerous, no one else is allowed to know about it. Not even her roommate, Vi.

All of that changes when Raine falls for Gunner. Raine’s got every reason in the world to stay away from Gunn, but she just can’t. Especially when she discovers his connection to Vi’s boyfriend, Zenn.

Raine has never known anyone as heavily brainwashed as Vi. Raine’s father expects her to spy on Vi and report back to him. But Raine is beginning to wonder what Vi knows that her father is so anxious to keep hidden, and what might happen if she helps Vi remember it. She’s even starting to suspect Vi’s secrets might involve Freedom’s newest prisoner, the rebel Jag Barque…. 

Purchase your copy here: http://books.simonandschuster.com/buy/Surrender/9781442445680/from-other-retailers#book_retailers

Blog: http://elanajohnson.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/possessionthebook

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/elanaJ

Thanks again, Elana! I hope the link works, if it doesn't, please go to Elana's blog to sign up for the giveaway.

Have a great weekend!

Doing research

artwork by Kaitlyn McCane

So, I've been trying to catch up on my writing. I've picked up a client for work so between kids and work, writing time is limited. Yesterday, I did manage to write some and it felt great. The other thing I love to do is research. And, yes, I'm sure I've talked about this before.

I'm not talking Google research, I'm talking real life experience. I do use Google, and to be honest, if it's not holding my interest, my mind wanders. I love experiencing research, especially for setting. Now, I hear ya, you can't go everywhere, and let's face it, I really don't know what heaven is like or what life felt like in the 16th century (I've had no near death experiences and don't plan on having any, and I don't have a time machine), but there are certain stories where I can go to the setting, to the place where it happens and live the experience.

On Friday, I went to the beach with my family. I love the beach. I don't know why. Something about the ocean, the sand, and the air. Plus, it holds a lot of great memories. One of my stories takes place there. I have to say soaking in the whole feeling/atmosphere makes me want to write the story even more. It makes me feel like I have some sort of inside info.

This is nothing new to the world of writing. Many authors have done "research" by experiencing it, and to me, if you can, I think it can give your story an authentic feel. You know this, right?

Anyway, what I'm trying to say, if you can, live your research even it's going to a museum to check out old furniture--live it. For me, it's usually the setting. I go to that spot, close my eyes, and listen. I breathe in, and then I open my eyes and write everything I feel, smell, and even taste if I'm eating something. What I found was--the air had a mixture of salt air and caramel corn, the sand is soft, but watch out for broken shells, the ocean's waves create a rhythmic pound as they hit the sand, the strumming of the drums on the carousel mixes with childrens' laughter. I could go on, and into more detail, but I want you to try it. You don't have to go far. Head out to your back yard and tap into your senses, then write them down. It's amazing what you may find.

What's your method of research?

Don't forget, on Friday, Elana Johnson, here. She will be talking about Plotting and Pacing in YA.

Have a great day!

Never Surrender Blogfest

This week is the Never Surrender blogfest hosted by the lovely Elana Johnson. Her new book, SURRENDER, was released June 5th. Go check out the participants of the blogfest and how to get a copy of her new book here. For this blogfest, you must post about something you never gave up on, something you fought for . . .you never surrendered.

When I signed up for this, I had no idea what to write. In fact, as I'm writing this, I'm still not sure. What have I fought for? Never gave up on? These thoughts are leading to--Is/was my life that boring? Am I a wimp? Many pieces of my life I've fought for things, but to me may not be significant. It's not like I was stuck on a mountain for days thinking about eating my own hand. I grew up in the suburbs went to high school, then college, got a job, got married, had kids, and here I am blogging and writing and raising my family. Now it hits me. Through each part of my life, I never gave up, I fought for something, even if it wasn't news-worthy.

1. Growing up--I was a shy kid, other kids pushed me around, you know the whole bully girl. In 3rd grade, this girl made me hold her purse at recess while she played. After a while, I told my mom and she told me to tell this bully girl, no, and to find other friends to play with. I was nervous and scared and finally did tell her. She insisted I hold it, but I turned and went and played with someone else.

2. High school--I was part of the alternative crowd--goth kids, punk kids, skaters--I never gave up on my friends because they were there for me.

3. College--It was college. I never wanted to leave, but I had to and did graduate on time. So I never gave up on studying.

4. Job--I got a job in my field and I pushed myself to prove myself in the field of interior design. Even when my boss would put me down, and yell at me (yes, she yelled, she called it nice bitch, not going there) I still pushed through to learn all I could. I don't work there anymore.

5. Married--I never give up on my hubby. I love him to death, and even though we have our differences (who doesn't), we work together and never give up on us.

6. Kids--I support them and do everything I can to raise them right. I would never give up on them. After my little gal was born (she was my first), I went through a little hole of depression. I knew only I could get myself out of it, so I pushed myself, even though the temptation was there, I never gave up on me so I could be the best mom that I can be.

7. Writing--This is the part you know about. You hear me talk about it lots. I have to say it's the first thing that has made me push myself beyond my own limits. I want to prove myself, and achieve my goals, while pleasing my writer passion of creating stories. Sure, there are dreams, and I know I can get there, because I can never surrender.

That was a lot longer than I intended and some of that may not be relevant. Sorry. Go check out the other participants and Elana's book, SURRENDER.

Also, Elana will be guest posting on my blog, Friday!!

When have you never surrendered?

Have a great day!

Surrender by Elana Johnson

Elana Johnson's SURRENDER is released today. Go give a congrats to the lady herself, and pick up a copy.

About SURRENDER: Raine has always been a good girl. She lives by the rules in Freedom. After all, they are her father’s rules: He’s the Director. It’s because of him that Raine is willing to use her talent—a power so dangerous, no one else is allowed to know about it. Not even her roommate, Vi.

All of that changes when Raine falls for Gunner. Raine’s got every reason in the world to stay away from Gunn, but she just can’t. Especially when she discovers his connection to Vi’s boyfriend, Zenn.

Raine has never known anyone as heavily brainwashed as Vi. Raine’s father expects her to spy on Vi and report back to him. But Raine is beginning to wonder what Vi knows that her father is so anxious to keep hidden, and what might happen if she helps Vi remember it. She’s even starting to suspect Vi’s secrets might involve Freedom’s newest prisoner, the rebel Jag Barque…. 

Purchase your copy here: http://books.simonandschuster.com/buy/Surrender/9781442445680/from-other-retailers#book_retailers

Blog: http://elanajohnson.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/possessionthebook

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/elanaJ

Also, check out the details on her blog about her blogfest and blog hop (there's giveaways, people). Check back here next week (June 15th) for a guest post by Elana.

Congrats Elana!

Have a great day!

Fun Facts Friday

Another crazy week and I'm liking the warmer weather minus the thunderstorms at night (mother nature are you listening). On with the facts:

1. I'm being critiqued at Dianne Salerni's blog and Marcy Hatch's blog today. Thank you ladies!!Please check it out and rip it apart give me some feedback. Disclaimer: It's a first draft. *reaches for chocolate*

That's me testing the waters with my new MS.

2. My favorite summer activity is going to the beach. The smell of the salt air mixed with greasy food makes my mind wander and dream so I'll probably have more ideas.

3. Check out Karen Akins blog. Go congratulate her, she has a book deal!! Congrats Karen!

4. Mark your calenders for WriteOnCon (if you haven't already). It's always full of great info and opportunity.

5. Elana Johnson will be guest posting, right here, on June 15th. Her book SURRENDER will be out next Tuesday, June, 5th.

6. Tip: Don't try and write after an eye doctor appointment. Why? If you get pupil dilation drops, yeah, it makes reading blurry. Not good. It amazes me that they let you drive after that.

Any news?

What are your plans for summer?

What is your favorite thing to do in the summer time? (Minus writing, that's a given).

Have a great weekend!!

Comfort food

My weekend was a bit...disappointing, and yet, eye opening. I'm not going into full details. Trust me, totally not worth it. So, I will make this short. While querying, you need comfort food or comfort something (could be alcohol). I'm not saying go off the deep end here, just something that soothes your mental state.

For me. Chocolate and lots of it. Of course, this household has tons, thanks to the Easter bunny. Also, ice cream. I did have a beer or two, but I didn't go crazy.

Now, I have to exercise double time to get this off, but at the time it felt good. It helped.

Another thing that helped were friends who understood. That was the best comfort of all.

Thanks guys. We will all have moments on this journey and it's always nice to know someone is there to listen.

So, what is your comfort in time of need?

Any goals this week?

I will be focusing on something new and something I've finished (revisions). The whole bounce back and forth thing. I'm writing on and looking forward.

I will have info soon on the blogfest for Elana Johnson. She will also be guest blogging, right here, in June.

Have a great day!

Possession by Elana Johnson

That's right, I got a copy. My very first ARC. I was a little giddy when I opened up the package. Okay, a lot of giddy danced across me. Isn't the cover beautiful? Alright, I'll get on with it.

Title: Possession

Author: Elana Johnson

Pages: 416

Publisher Simon Pulse (Simon & Schuster)

To be released: June 7, 2011

The blurb:

Vi knows the Rule: Girls don't walk with boys, and they never even think about kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the Rules more than Zenn...and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi's future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself.

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they're set on convincing Vi to become one of them...starting by brainwashing Zenn. Vi can't leave Zenn in the Thinkers' hands, but she's wary of joining the rebellion, especially since that means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charismatic, and dangerous--everything Zenn's not. Vi can't quite trust Jag and can't quite resist him, but she also can't give up on Zenn.

This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play.

My take:

Possession mesmerized me from beginning to end, and then, the end hit me with a wow. A what if situation that takes you on a wild ride of good vs. bad and what that really means. It made you think about how the perception of words is really left up to opinion and how that opinion could change the world. Would you give in to the control or would you fight it? What makes you good or bad in the first place?

The characters have a way of getting into your head and you can't get them out. I really enjoyed the strength of Vi and her snarky attitude. She did have a soft side that pulled at my heart. Jag and Zenn surprised me. Just when I thought I knew the character, new information about them would be revealed, making me turn the page. All three of them created an interesting love triangle that made it hard for me to decide which guy I would rather her with.

I am glad the author used simple words for the technology. It made it easier to understand the weapons and "rulers." The description of the world was excellent. I could  visualize it clearly. The pace never slowed for me. It kept going, revealing information at the right time.

Now, I'm not going to spoil the end. Let me just say, it's not a traditional ending which I really liked. It left me wanting the next book in the series. According to her fansite, a series. There better be another one. :)

Overall, I enjoyed this book. This book contains strong characters, is fast paced, and had action with twists and turns that kept me guessing till the end.

Where can you go to get info:

Elana Johnson's blog

Possession website

Hope you have a great day!

Candor by Pam Bachorz

I hope everyone had a great weekend. Today I'm reviewing Candor by Pam Bachorz. I won this lovely book from that super talented/fabulous author, Elana Johnson. You may have heard of her. (BTW-her book, Possession, is to be released June 7, 2011. If you are smart you will go and get it.) I knew nothing about this book, but I'm so glad I've been introduced to it.

Title: Candor

Author: Pam Bachorz

Publisher: Egmont USA

Pages: 250

Blurb:

Oscar Banks has everything under control. In a town where his father brainwashes everyone, he's found a way to secretly fight the subliminal Messages. He's got them all fooled: Oscar's the top student and the best-behaved teen in town. Nobody knows he's made his own Messages to deprogram his brain. Oscar has even found a way to get rich. For a hefty price, he helps new kids escape Candor, Florida before they're transformed into cookie-cutter teens. But then Nia Silva moves to Candor, and Oscar's carefully-controlled world crumbles.

My Review:

Where do I begin? First, the cover. It fits the whole story and if Oscar Banks looks like that--Heellloo. I loved the pace of this book. It was quick which for me is good (mainly because I like a lot of things that are fast--cars, shortcuts, movies, etc.). I wanted to keep turning the pages, wanting to know more and more. The sentence structure was interesting, too. Short and to the point= perfect. It didn't lack in visual description. I could totally visualize everything even though the sentences were lacking length (excess adverbs and adjectives--it can be done.) There was a little telling which didn't slow it down at all.

The story itself was fantastic. A 'what if'scenario that could possibly happen (you never know.) Written from a male POV (done brilliantly) and first person perspective (always a plus in my book, because that is what I like to write).This story will keep you guessing and wanting to just read on (really, I couldn't put it down). Also, the end will leave you speechless (I hope she comes out with a sequel. I'm just sayin'--yes that's a hint, hint). The YA stuff isn't in your face either. It's not typical YA (at least in my mind, you may have a different opinion).If you are looking for a great, fast, entertaining book, look no further (guys, you might like it too). 

So a must read. Go and take a peek (I'm not responsible if my little messages are considered brainwashing, totally not my intention. He he). :)

Pam Bachorz has another book, Drought, to be released on January 25, 2011. I will be checking it out.

How was your weekend?

Have a great day and don't forget Wednesday, November 24th, Writing the Next Line.