Happy New Year

I just wanted to wish all my fans a Happy New Year! I can't wait for 2011, it's going to be a fantastic new year! I wish everyone the best!

Tips on creating your "hook"

During my workshop this weekend I leared some new tips. One thing I learned about is the hook. You need to grab the agent's attention right off the bat. the hook is the way to do it. Here are 10 sure fire ways in creating a unforgettable hook. Keep in mind the best novels have between 7-9 of these in their one sentence hook.

1. Action or Danger

2. Overpowering Emotions

3. A surprising situation

4. An ecovative description that pulls the reader into a setting or author's voice.

5. Introduction of a unique character

6. Warning or foreshadowing

7. Setting a tone or theme

8. Shocking or witty dialog ( internal or external)

9. Totally unexpected situation

10. Raising a direct question

You will get noticed if you applied some of these rules to your hook.

D.A.R.A Holiday Workshop and Luncheon

Happy Holidays everyone. I've been working hard at my POV problems in Love and Honor. I hope everyone is working hard on their projects. The Dreaming In Dallas conference is just around the corner and we all should be prepared.  A few months ago I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to go to the conference, but now I can. It's going to be a life changing event that I hope to see all my fellow writers out there. 

To get on the right track, D.A.R.A is hosting a holiday workshop that is sure to be out of this world. If you are not a member I would highly recommend joining.

For more information please check out the following link. http://www.dallasromanceauthors.com/.
I hope to see you all there!

Happy Writing!

Grammar

Writing stories about romance is a passion of mine. One thing I've learned about myself on this publishing journey is that I'm really not a technical writer.  I have poor grammar that I'm having to go back now and check out closely. My grammar issues deal with using too many pronouns and the wrong adjective's. I suppose it could be worse. These are things you have to pay attention to once you've gotten  your story together before you go to the publisher.  Don't feel discouraged if you too are having these issues. I'll tell you one writer who also has pretty bad grammar and has overcome it to be a New York Best Seller.... Steven King.

Do you use people in your life as characters in your book?

When you write who do you have in mind? Is it someone famous or someone in your life right now?

People say write what you know. I don't always believe this to be true. I write about fantasy to escape and engulf myself in a fantasy world. My characters look like movies stars but a lot of the characteristics of my characters are drawn from people in my life.  My characters are not just one person but an mesh of the best and worst quality's in everyone.  How do you develop your characters?

Are your character's personality based off yourself?  I do not base my characters on my personality. I do put myself in their shoes this is how I can write my characters feelings. This is my favorite part of writing. I love emerging myself into my character, become one with them.

Your creative Passion Unleashed

I've heard many people say that they are not creative. Creativity is a low burning flame inside everyone. It just needs that small spark...a match to ignite and engulf. Once your lucky enough to find that spark you will be overwhelmed with creativity and passion for your writing. The match if you will can come in all kinds of forms. It is also different for other people.  No one can tell you what your spark is, you will just have to find it.

Personally I go through creativity spells I call them.  Dry spells...or Wet spells haha! I find my spark in many different forms. Music....movies....books...people....it can even come in the form of a look from a stranger.  I never know when that spark will ignite my creativity. 

Since my "down time"  I've had a hard time finding that spark. Last night I watched my favorite TV show and unexpectedly had a scene spark my flame. One of the main characters made  speech that was the most touching thing I have heard in a really long time.

" I just have to say something. You have to just listen to me. I love you Elena. And it's because I love you that I can't be selfish with you. I don't deserve you but my brother does."  then he softly kisses her fore head. Slowly stokes her cheek and runs his fingers though her hair.
"God I wish you didn't have to forget this, but you do"

The passion you saw in his eyes...his tone. It was breathtaking, so much so that I cried. You could feel his emotions in his words. This engulfed me with thoughts about my characters in my new book. Some people may have saw that scene and not get the same feeling. Sparks are different for different people.

What ignites your flames?

Roller coaster of Life

Hi Everyone!!!


Life is like a roller coaster. Everyday people experiencing ups and downs...twists and turns. I am no exception.  My personal roller coaster made me doubt myself and my writing talents. I was "MIA" not only from my blog but also my twitter and D.A.R.A meetings.  The lows I was faced with made me seriously think about giving up my dreams, my book. But like a Phoenix I pulled myself out of the ashes. How could I let my dream die! I have had this dream for years. I am angered that I let myself get so low. I have come so far I can not give up now.
I am still faced with adversities but I'm not going to let it stop me. I will find new inspirations and new fantasies to fuel my creative flames. I will not let the dips of my roller coaster keep me down any longer. I will fly again.

Winds of Change

It looks like life is going to get back to normal. This mean back to my writing career and puting my book and myself out there again. Thanks to all my fans who have supported me and have contacted me. Your words are a blessing to me! Thank you so much for your support. It has ment the world to me.


I love you all!!

Jennie Bryant

Max finds out what's going on with Sarah

           "Lieutenant Colonel Edwards! What in the hell is going on here?" General Lance McKee's voice thundered hardheartedly. He was standing in the doorway to the guest quarters. Behind him stood Mike, eyes wide in disbelief.

             Max swiftly turned around to face him and saluted. "Begging your pardon, sir!" Lance slapped his hand against his forehead, massaged his temples, and wiped his hand down his face in exasperation. He knew from their previous conversations back at Langley that Max had a lot on his mind, but he never would have expected Max would explode like this. He let out a heavy sigh and grumbled, "Colonel, do you care to explain yourself?"

           Max's eyes were still ablaze with fury. Still stiffly at attention, he stared right through Lance and hollowly replied, " I would like to request a private audience with you right now, sir!"

           Lance simply shook his head and grunted, "This way." He turned and headed down the corridor. Max followed. They circled around to another corridor with quarters and waited for Max to enter, as well. Then, Lance closed the door and sat down at a small built-in desk. He looked up at Max, who was still red with anger, fists clenched. Lance could see the unbridled fury in Max's eyes. He was crazed, staring off into space, refusing to look Lance in the eye. Like Mike, Lance knew all to well that Max had a healthy reserve of temper to turn loose if the situation warranted it. But this is more temper then Lance had ever seen come out of the guy, and it had him worried.

A diffrent side of Love and Honor

I wanted to show a quick snip it of the darker side of Love and Honor.

BANG!

 The violent bash echoed throughout the house, causing Sarah to jump in terror. "Oh my God!" she quivered in a low voice. She quickly threw on a pair of black boxer shorts and a pink ribbed tank top. Slowly, she crept out of her bathroom and reached for a baseball bat that she had by her bedroom door. She reached for the phone to call 9-1-1. There was no dial tone. "Shit!" she hissed nervously. Her eyes scanned the room for her cell phone, but it was nowhere in sight. She tightened her grip on the bat when she heard another bang downstairs. She had to get to a phone. She quietly headed out of her room and down the stairs. Every single creek made her cringe and tremble in fear. She ducked down, looking the living room over from left to right as she continued her descent, but nobody was there.

Sarah stood at the bottom of the stairs, looking, listening for the  slightest sound. The room was so quiet she could hear the hum of the refrigerator in her kitchen. Suddenly, another sound came from the kitchen. A rustling...movement. The sound trailed down the back hallway. She then heard what sounded like a door quietly open and close...the guest room!

Do not hate the game.

Okay, I know you shouldn't bash people on your blog but I was a little irritated when I saw the news this morning . So much so that I just had to voice my opinion. After all isn't that what blogging is all about?

The news broke that a reality TV personality has decided she wanted to become a writer. She doesn't want to publish a memoir but an actual novel. Okay I have no problem with that. That's totally awesome. Here is what really gets me. The woman has not started writing the book yet and has no writing skills or experience, but  she already has a publishing contract. I can understand if your a movie star and want to publish a memoir. I get that. The person I'm talking about is not a movie star but a reality personality. She's famous for swearing, drinking and sleeping around. People watch her because she's such a train wreck. I do not think it's really fair that she  get to go outside the process when there are so many talented writers out that doing it by the book to follow their dream. I think giving this woman a publishing contract without having a book to publish just because she's on TV is a making a mockery of real writers. I feel it sends a message to the world that anyone can write and  that you don't need talent to write.

A boost of Confidence

In the past few weeks I've lost my confidence in my ability to become a published writer. This will happen from time to time to many of us. My reasoning's had nothing to do with my writing skills but more my personal life experiencing  a small dose of chaos. The other night I got to speak to a writer I truly admire.I got to speak to  her through an author blog chat via a well known publishing company. Although there were many people in the form everyone got a chance to speak.  I debated if I should speak or not, I was getting nervious. I didn't want to blow my one chance on a silly question I had to make it count. I jumped in both feet and went for it.  I didn't have to wait long before I got my chance. I had so many questions  run thought my head but was only allowed one question at a time. My question to this writer was "Can you give any advice to a new contemporary writer?" Her advice was "The opening lines are the most important. Agents are very busy. You have to snag them right at the beginning, You only get one shot so make it count." Of course there was more details but that was the jest of it. I felt as if I was speaking to the President or someone as big. After my chat I realized that even though my personal life is in turmoil I can not let it get me down. I have to keep on pushing for seeing my book on the shelf of Barnes and Nobles is my dream come true. I want to make it happen. Just one glimmer of hope is all it takes.

Escaping your world

I love writing because I can escape my everyday life. Originally this is why I started reading romance novels. But for me it just wasn't enough. I wanted to create my own world. I wanted my characters to act a certain way, look a certain way, get with the people I saw fit. No it's not playing GOD. It's creating you own fantasy world. Putting your thoughts into words.
Honestly right now my real world is full of stress and worry, my outlit to releave this is writing. When I write I can be who ever I want, live where ever I want and do what ever I want. That is what's amazing about the creative mind. Always let your imagination run wild in your writing. Great works come from writers with big imaginations. Escape into your writing submerge yourself into the depths of your words.

Making your dreams come true

As you pursue your writing career you may come across some obstacles. I've recently run across my first stumbling block on my own writing career path. Unfortunately there will always be obstacles in your way but it is up to you if you will let it stop you. Right now I'm dealing with how to pay for my RWA membership, my local chapter membership and Dreaming in Dallas ticket. I'm hoping that things will turn around soon so I do not miss out. Going to Dreaming in Dallas and meeting Lucienne Diver has been at the top of my list since I decided to become a novelist. Hopefully I will get that chance. I will keep my head up high and hope for the best. I will continue to blog, tweet and write. Nothing will stop me from dreaming.

When you run into your obstacle make sure not to let it keep you down. Keep on writing. You will be back on your path in no time, just like me.

 
The future belongs to those who believe in their dreams.
Eleanor Roosevelt

Love and Honor Love Scene Spoiler

Max quickly unbuttoned Sarah's wet pajama top, never leaving her lips, and tossed it aimlessly aside. He felt as if he couldn't get enough of her. He needed more. Her dark wet hair stuck to his damp bare skin. Their bodies still moist from the rain storm; he couldn't resist seductively kissing every inch of her exposed flesh. Max gently kissed her slender neck making her whimper with pleasure. He had never met a woman he hungered for as much as he craved her. He then moved his hands below her waist, touching her intimately underneath her pants, under her silky panties. His tongue slid slowly in and out of her mouth caressing her as he slipped his fingers in -between her legs. He felt her soft cry within their kiss. He felt her her nails dig into his back pulling him closer to her. It drove him crazy the little noises she made. The kiss deepened with every movement of his fingers.


Join me later this week and I will share with you a diffrent side of the story.

Romance Novels vs Erotic Novels

I've been asked the question "What's the diffrence between true romance novels and erotic romance novels?"

Romance novels will focus on the romance and emotion of two people. Emotions are focused on more then actual sex. During the sex scenes more milder euphemisms are used. To put it mildly the words used to describe the act of lovemaking is sweeter more innocent. Romance novels are also limited on how many sex scenes are played out. In LOVE AND HONOR, I wrote 4-5 lovemaking scenes. Each scene was brought out by an intense emotional situation that ended up with lovemaking. Typically in romance novels lovemaking/sex is brought on by an intense emotional expeience.

Erotic romance also will have romance in it. Erotic romance will have more intense sex scenes with strong sexual content. The descriptions will be more frank and to the point. While true romance novels focus on the emotional impact of lovemaking, erotic romance focus more on the actual act. Don't confuse erotic romance with pornography. Although both focus on the act of sex, erotic romance novels include well-developed characters and a plot which could exist without the sex acts.
  

Diffrent Types of Romance

After I finished my first novel Love and Honor I decided I wanted to get it published. I had to figure out what category my book fell into. This was a little confusing to me. All I had read at that point was historical romance. ( My tastes have opened up to more genres since then). I've put together a little summary of the different types of romance for your reference.

Contemporary Series Romance - Series romance novels that focus primarily on the romantic relationship and typically set after 1945.


Contemporary Single Title Romance - Romance novels which focus primarily on the romantic relationship, released as individual titles, not as part of a series and set after 1945.

Historical Romance - Romance novels set in any time period prior to 1945, and taking place in any location.

Inspirational Romance - Romance novels in which religious or spiritual beliefs (in the context of any religion or spiritual belief system) are a major part of the romantic relationship.

*Novels with Strong Romantic Elements - A work of fiction in which a romance plays a significant part in the story, but other themes or elements take the plot beyond the traditional romance boundaries. (*An example of a publisher that handles this would be Harlequin’s Luna line; elsewhere such fiction is sometimes labeled 'Womens' Fiction')

Paranormal Romance - Romance novels in which the future, a fantasy world or paranormal happenings are an integral part of the plot.

*Regency Romance - Romance novels in which the majority of the story is set against the Regency period of the British Empire. (*What was once considered the ‘Traditional Regency’ romance, of the kind Mary Balogh and Carla Kelly once wrote – with a shorter word count than longer format historical romances - is considered if not dead, then on life support, and published mostly by smaller presses or as reprints of classics. Therefore, in most cases ‘Regency Romance’ simply refers to romances set in the Regency period.)

Romantic Suspense - Romance novels in which suspense, mystery, or thriller elements constitute an integral part of the plot.

Young Adult Romance - Novels with a strong romantic theme geared toward young adult readers.

Category Romance - Mostly Harlequin romances, books in a numbered series identified by ‘line’. Eg: Harlequin Presents, Silhouette Desire.

Erotica - Romance novels with a powerful erotic element, but still following the guidelines of an- Happily Ever After ending.

Love and Sex in Romance Novels

The most common misconception about romance novels is that it's full of nothing but sex. True there could be a few hot and steamy scenes but romance novels are so much more then sex. When you are writing you romance novel be sure to have some kind of build up before your charters just "do it". You want the reader to feel the heat feel the emotions your characters are portraying.

In Love and Honor the first sex scene was built up from Sarah's insecurites. She had not been with a man in years and you could feel her fustration and frightfulness of her lust for this man. When you read the scene you can feel every touch every kiss that Max graces Sarah's body with. This is what the readers want. They want to feel as if it is happening to them.  Your not writing porn. You are writing about longing. Do you remember remember the feeling you had when you first lusted after someone. The first time you made love to this person you craved. This is the feeling you must capture in your writing. Words are powerful in love scenes..use them.

A slow week

Sometimes life gets in the way of our writing. Personally I've fallen into this slump. With my daughter starting fifth grade, working overtime all week, and bills piling up I've found myself struggling to find the time to write. Life can also pull you away from you ideas. I do try and write notes as the day goes by.  I do believe that is the best way to keep your ideas. You as the writer have to learn to delegate. For example today. I worked my overtime, I helped my daughter with her school work, cooked dinner and tucked her into bed. Now is the ME time. Time to write!

New Ideas

I think a good rule of thumb for any writer should be to carry a notebook and pen with them where ever you go. Personally I get creative and juicy ideas all day long. Problem is I don't have time to elaborate on them. It doesn't matter what I'm doing.  I could be people watching at lunch or talking to a good friend. The light bulb pops over my head like a old bugs bunny cartoon and I have to quickly search for my pen and pad. The best ideas come when your not thinking about it. Let your ideas flow like a river! If you have your thoughts written down you could always expand on them when you do have time. I personally will sit and come up with scenes that I feel would be great for a book. Out of those scenes I can build my story.

Try carrying around a notebook and pen. Keep a log of your ideas. This will be very benificial to you.

Love and Honor Summarized

He thought flying jet planes for the Air Force was dangerous, but it was nothing compared to the dangers of falling in love.
This is what Max Edwards tells himself in Love and Honor . A contemporary romance between a divorced mother whose life and love faces continuous threats from her abusive past, and the honorable Air Force pilot who struggles to protect her by her side and from abroad. The manuscript is complete at 89,000 words.
After escaping an abusive marriage, all Sarah Wilson wanted to do was focus on her career and her five year old daughter. Although the abuse stopped after the divorce, Sarah's ex-husband, Jeff, still wanted to control her life. Any hope of a new relationship was out of the question with Jeff still around. But when Sarah accidentally runs into a debonair Air Force pilot, spilling her hot coffee all over his uniform, it leaves her embarrassed and intrigued.

Lieutenant Colonel Max Edwards was a career military man. It wasn't until after his grandmother's death and his run-in with the beautifully clumsy Sarah that his priories changed and he craved a family rather than military life. After a whirlwind romance, one last top secret mission pulls Max halfway around the world and away from Sarah. With Max out of the picture, Jeff takes his queue, trying to manipulate and intimidate Sarah away from Max and back into his bed. What should have been a picture perfect love story has turned into a battle to keep the love alive.

Character Debate - To smoke or not to smoke

I ran across a dilemma as I started writing my new book. My main character I feel should be a smoker. It fits this character's personality as a bad boy with a good heart. I started to wonder with my main character being a smoker would that ruin the fantasy of him?

I've seen debates about condoms and weight but never about smoking.

My question to my readers out there is as followed.

If the main male character in a romance novel was a smoker would that ruin your fantasy of him?

Please email me or post your views.

DREAMING

This is something I wrote many years ago that I though I'd share. I started out as a poet and thought I should share some of my roots.

DREAMING
As I lay on my bed I gently close my eyes.
Entering a world of forbidden enchantment,
there you are!
This place is magic.
I don't have to love you just from afar
you are near me,you hold me in your arms.
Whispering to my soul,
setting my heart a blaze.
My body aches for your touch,
my lips long to devour yours.
So luscious...so succulent,
your kiss is simply intoxicating.
I can not resist your sweet rapture.
I surrender unto you all my earthly passions.
Burning...yearning... craving...
making love with you all through the night.
My heart then begins to ache.
I come to realize I must wake.

*** TEASER ALERT *****

Just a teaser from Love and Honor.

"Drunk on the sweet rapture of the kiss she bestowed on him, he was intoxicated by her essence. Drawing back from the kiss, he looked down at her. Her eyes glistened with a fiery passion. His hand brushed her cheek softly as he trailed his hand and eyes down to her bare chest. “You are so beautiful, Sarah,” he whispered breathlessly."

Acutally that first line is my favorite. I seem to always want to put that in my writings.

On to your next work of art!

After you've successfully finished your first book, your going to need to start you new book. Publisher will want more then just a one book deal. If you are like me you have many ideas on what to do next. Now you have to put pen to paper and start your whole creative process again.

For me since finishing Love and Honor I've had MANY ideas for a second book. One thing I'm noticing with my ideas. I was trying to mold myself into what other people expected me to write. I think this is why none of the other ideas have paned out. I'd get a a chapter in and then loose my idea.

What I'm working on now is something I'm passionate about. Call me a flake but I think I can make a romance out of the whole 2012 mysticism. Two people faced with surviving the end of the world, why can't they find love! ;)

Romance Writer of America Conference- 2010

Romance Writer of America Conference is going on this week and I am so jealous! I love seeing all the pictures and hearing all the stories, keep them coming ladies! I couldn't imagine what it would be like to meet someone as big as Nora Roberts and Jayne Ann Krentz. Is there anyone out there that you would just become speechless if you saw?

The world of social networking

Welcome to the world of social networking! Not only do I have a blog I now have a Twitter account. How will I ever find the time to write, just kidding. Seriously, networking is something every aspiring writer needs to do. We live in a world where it is now necessary to have a online presence. For me I was a little hesitant at first. I have had my identity stolen (fairly recently) and that left me a little worried about creating my online world. But I realized that I was not going to let this person keep me away from my dream. If you want to be a published writer don't let anyone stand in your way. Keep moving forward and create your online world!!


You can now follow me on twitter. Just search Jennie Bryant.

Who's In you movie Part 2

Okay the book I'm working on now has another pilot in it but the pilot is a female, the main character.

Here is my cast of inspiration for my new book.

Damon Lyons- Jonathan Rhys Meyers
Mia Evens- Natalie Dormer
Matt Pines- Zachary Quinto
Brooke Rosen-Bridget Moynahan

Now like in Love and Honor my characters might change as their personalities develop.

Who's In you movie

My newest project is in the works. I have my cast played out in my head. I imagine my story line every night. How I want my actors to play out my scene. For me this is the the fun part of writing. The fantasy of it.

I probably should tell you the full cast of Love and Honor before I tell you the new cast for the new book. LOL.

Max Edwards - Ben Browder

Sarah Wilson - Jennifer Connelly

Trish- Kate Hudson

Marcus- Jerry O'connell

Jeff- Christin Bale ( he plays such a bad a** in American Psycho how could he not be Jeff)

those are the actor inspiration!

I'll post tomorrow the key members in my newest project "Tropical Triangle" ( Title is a work in progress)

Dreams

A good source for my writing are my dreams. My dreams can tell stories my conscious mind is to scared to tell. Love and Honor started out in my dream four years ago. The scene where Max knocks on Sarah's door in the middle of the night during a bad thunderstorm. After that scene everything else just fell into place. Is there a dream or fantasy that has been plaguing your mind? When it comes to you write them down. Who knows you might have a novel on your hands.

Writing Exercises

There are many ways to find your voice and to keep yourself "RAW". This is also a good way to spark some inspiration on your next book. Pick a word any word at random and take 3 minuets to write something about it. You will be amazed and what your mind can come up with.

When I started doing these exercises, I really didn't know what my true voice was. I was given the world "Leaving" and what came out was dark, mysterious, deep, passionate. I didn't realize that I gravitate more towards the dark side of romance. Try it our and maybe you'll learn something new about yourself.

Try using this link for random words. www.watchout4snakes.com/creativitytools/main/main.aspx

Good luck and just have fun with it!

Rejection

Rejection, this will happen to all of us. This has happened even to the best of us. No matter how good of a writer you are you will get a rejection letter sometime in your career path. It's just the nature of the business. You have to remember to keep on trying and not let those rejection letters keep you down. Everyone has different taste and your book will not be the same fit for everyone. You have to remember to keep your head up high and to follow your dreams! Dreams can come true if you pursue them. I've compiled a list of authors and how many times they have been rejected. It just goes to show you even the best will get rejected.

Stephenie Meyers- "Twilight" was rejected 9 times

Jack Canfield- "Chicken Soup for the soul" was rejected 140 times

Stephen King- "Carrie" was rejected 30 times

Margaret Mitchell-"Gone with the wind" was rejected 38 times

John Grisham-"A time to kill" was rejected 16 times

James Patterson- a dozen times at least

J.K. Rowling- "Harry Potter" - was rejected 12 times

Christie Craig-"Divorced, Desperate & Delicious - was rejected 10,000 times!!!

Even the best of us can get rejected. Just remember to keep on trying and your dreams WILL come true!!!

Gemma Halliday

I just finished taking a workshop from a great teacher and writer Gemma Halliday. The workshop was called "Getting your foot in the door: writing query letters and synopsis. Her class helped me with my letter and synopsis. I now know what agents want and I understand what I need to do to be successful. If you want to take the same workshop I did, she does have another one coming up in July. Check out her other classes and her latest book. I suggest everyone who take one of her workshops!! http://www.gemmahalliday.com/

What is Romance?

What is romance. Romance can be found in everything and anything. Romance means different things to different people. Some people need stimulation to provoke the romance in there partner. For example some women might think that a candle lit dinner is romantic or a sensual bubble bath. I think you have to have attraction between two people before romance can exist. If you are not attracted to each other, no amount of candles, chocolate, or flowers will spark romance.

For me romance can be a soft gentle touch, a longing stare, a kiss or even words. Being a writer words score highest on my romance meter.

Think about what gives you that romantic feeling and apply it in your writing. You can even apply it to your real life. Keep romance alive in your life! Carpe Diem!

The Hook

This week I'm taking a course on "How to get your foot in the door". This course is teaching me how to write a correct synopsis and query letter. The big topic this week is THE HOOK. The hook should come first in your synopsis and it should grab the reader. You want the reader to say "WOW" I want to read more. Think about it. When you go to the book store and pick up a book or even a magazine what pulls you in? For example in Twilight "I've never given much thought to how I would die, but dying in the place of someone I love seems like a good way to go." This hook enticed me . It made me want to continue reading. What's a hook that's grabbed you? I would suggest taking this angle when writing your hook.

This is what I'm working with for my hook for Love and Honor.

He was the gallant hero she had always dreamed of, but she never dreamed that such a wonderful love would take her down an excruciating road of terror and hopelessness. A road that will ultimately lead her to the brink of death.

This is still a work in progress. I will continue to post ideas and tips that I've learned from my course.

Dreamin' in Dallas 2011

I am so very excited tonight. DARA has posted information about the Dreamin' in Dallas conference next April. I am thrilled beyond belief!! The conference will have workshops, speakers, agents, publishers, book signings. It is going to be a thrilling day! I am delighted that the key note speaker is none other then the New York Times Bestselling Author Richelle Mead!!!
Every inspiring writer should make plans on attending this conference, This conference will change my life!

Memorial Day Weekend...How to be inspired

People watching is a good way to be inspired. Go to a coffee shop or a book store, sit and watch the people around you. Picture what that person's life is like. Who could be involved with them. Put them into your story. It's a great way to get inspired. So take some time this weekend and get inspired.

In the works

I am hot with a new story on my mind. I truly wanted to write a paranormal romance but this new vision is hot on my mind. I have casted my crew of actors and plotted out the general synopsis. This will novel will entell a love triangle. Two men who are long time friends fall in love with the same woman.

Love and Honor cover Art??

Finding Time to Write

Sometimes life can get in the way of your dreams. Work, school, bills, kids, traffic. The list goes on and on. If you want to truly be a published writer you have to find the time. A few minuets before bed, before you get out of bed, even on your lunch break. I try and write when I'm resting for the night. Unfornatually I have so many fantasies/dreams floating around in my mind at the moment I have many story lines falling into place. I have come across a abundance of inspiration from TV shows to real..not so real life. For me it just takes one person, a movie/tv charater or scene, or even a song. All of these have been inspiring latley.
I think that it just takes inspiration or a muse to get a writers creativity jucies flowing.

What the future holds?

Since I finished Love and Honor, I've had many ideas for my next book. I've actually started a few of them. Honestly I want to try my hand at a paranormal romance. I've been playing with the idea of playing off the mystic ways of the Incas with my "two love birds". I've got a LOT of research ahead of me if I want to pull this one off. I've already started my research. There is no title at the moment. I'm still in the process of casting my characters. All I have right now playing in my head is one sexy love scene that plays out in the dark caves of Matchu Pitchu.

My other idea has to do with a jet crash somewhere in the South Pacific...think Love Triangle.

Why people read romance novels.

Many men wonder why women are addicted to reading romance novels. Many women love the feeling that romance novels give them. When you engulf yourself into the character the reader can feel what the charater is feeling (only if well written).The butterflies, the anticipation, the heat. Other women use romance novels for the escape of their mundane lives. For myself I love the feeling and the escape. I feel that if you love romance novels for both you have it in you to write a romance novel.

Surrender

This is a work in progress. Something that's been in my head. The best thing for a writer to do is PUT IT OUT THERE!!

When he looked at me I felt lost to the world. The passion that burned deep within his eyes ignited the flame that kindled deep inside of my soul. I'm locked in his hypnotic gaze. Trapped like a confined tiger in it's cage, I was anxious to escape. Whatever he wanted I was compelled to give, he had me mesmerized. He reached down and gently caressed my cheek. My knees began to give under me. I felt as if I was falling. His breath blew warm against my lips as he descended down towards mine. The anticipation was killing me as he hovered over me. Then his lips touched mine. The sweetness of his lips intoxicated me. He kissed me softly savoring the taste of me. The world vanished around us as his kiss deepened. There was no resisting him there was no denying him. All there was, was surrender.

In the mood

Romance is something you feel. Just like writing, your not always in the mood. I sometimes find myself with writers block. Other times I find that I can not find a computer fast enough to write down all the thoughts running through my head. Writing a romance is like falling in love all over again. When I write a good scene between my main character I can feel the butterflies. You know the butterflies I mean. The kind you get when you first meet someone your attracted to. This is what I mean when I say "In the mood". The mood can not be forced but it sure can be pushed along lol. What I do when I know I need to get scenes done, I will listen to a sexy song for example the song that gets me in the mood at the moment is "Within Temptation- All I Need" the guitars are so sexy in this song. Listen and you'll see what I mean. The video is not so hot so just close your eyes and feel it. Another thing I do is watch a romatic movie. Music does the best job for me though.

Insert from Love and Honor.

Here is an insert from Love and Honor.

Max watched her eyes dance with fire as she watched him. "I'm sorry...I..just.."he couldn't resist her lips any longer; they beckoned him. He knew it would be wrong but he couldn't find the strength to fight the urge to touch her, to kiss her any longer. He quickly leaned toward Sarah and pulled her to him as he tenderly kissed her lips. He savored her sweet taste. Neither of them had the strength to pull away. Kissing Sarah was better then he remembered. Not being rushed and being able to hold her made a world of difference. He had only kissed her once, but oh how he missed kissing Sarah's luscious lips. It was all he could think about for weeks.

Max felt Sarah's lips slowly part, accepting his kiss, accepting him. He couldn't help but to let a tiny moan escape as he slowly slid his tongue inside of her parted gentle lips. He felt as if he was on fire and, by accepting him, she was stroking that flame that burned so long for her.

Critique your work

Getting your work critiqued before sending your manuscript to publishers I found is a really good idea. Having your peers critique your work will help in finding mistakes you've over looked. With Love and Honor I had three people who are avid readers critique my work. They found mistakes in grammar and in my time line that I missed. When you are deep in writing it is easy to miss the small things. There are many critique services out there. Look within your writers group for assistance or even a good friend. The time spent on getting this done in the beginning is worth it in the long run. At the moment I belong to the DARA chapter of Romance Writers of America, they have a really good critique program I found really helpful and insitive.

How I wrote the Villain

In Love and Honor you got to meet Jeff, Sarah's ruthless manipulative ex husband. For me writing the villain and fight scenes were the hardest. Jeff had to be gut wrenching you had to hate him from the get go. When I wrote the fight scenes between Jeff and Sarah I put myself in her place. I felt her pain and I felt her fear. I used that and translated it onto paper. I am very proud of how it turned out. The actor I pictured in my mind as Jeff was Christian Bale. Have you seen him in American Psycho. OMG! That's why I choose him. When you write your villain you have to be able to despise him. A friend of mine once told me that she hated Jeff, that Jeff was so evil. That made me very happy, I wrote Jeff well that is what I wanted the reader to feel. I did have to watch one thing in writing Jeff. I had to try an not go overboard with his anger and cruelty. After all it is a romance novel.

Query Letters

You've heard me mention Love and Honor in other postings. Love and Honor is my first book. Right now I'm trying to find the right Agent to represent me. Finding the correct agent to represent you I feel is the hardest and most agonizing thing about being a writer. I've gotten many positive reviews on my book, but the only thing that matters to an agent is "THE LETTER". Yes I'm talking about the query letter. If the agent does not like your letter they will not want to look at your manuscript. Talk about PRESSURE! I have tested the waters with Love and Honor. I've gotten very generic responses back. Examples are: We are not looking for new writers or Your manuscript is not the right fit for what we represent.
I will be attending the query workshop next month before I persue any agents.

A great workshop for writers who want to be published

I found a great workshop I wanted to share with everyone.

Get your Foot In the Door: Query Letter and Synopsis Workshop

Sponsored by: Yellow Rose Romance Writers

Fee: $15-$25

Date May 31st-June 11th, 2010

http://www.yellowroserwa.com/

I will be taking this online workshop. I suggest it to all writers.

Paranormal Romance

The hottest ticket in books today are books categorized as paranormal romance. Since the phenomenon which is Twilight, it's become the more hip thing to read and write about. It has gotten many teens to put down the remote and pick up a book! We can all rejoice in that. Vampire's have a forbbiden sex appeal. But I was not convinced to read a book about teenagers. I'm more hard core I want sex in my books. My best friend Belinda convinced me to give it a try. Once I started reading I was hooked. Now I'm a big TEAM EDWARD fan. I love the fact that Stephenie Meyers took a dream she had and was able to write a novel from it. That is what I feel I have done with Love and Honor. Since the twilight series I've branched out to other paranormal romance such as Jessica Andersons' "The Final Prophecy" series. Which is also a kick butt sexy book! I'm seriously thinking about trying my hand at paranormal romance. I love writing contempoary but why not branch out and do both.

What to write next?

Now that I've finished my first novel, it's time to start my next magical creation. During one of my D.A.R.A meetings the key note speaker Christie Craig suggested to start your new novel as you try and get your first novel published. Agents will want more then one book and you will want to be prepared.

I've got a lot of ideas and I've already started writing at least 10 pages of 3 of them. All of the star my new hero, but sorry I'm not ready to revel him just yet.

Okay now that Love and Honor is finished it's time to send out to the agents. This is the part of writing that makes me nervious. So much pressure on one letter. I've read many websites on "how to" write a query letter, some have been helpful but I sure could use someone's opinion on how I did.

Visualize your Charaters

When I write I have to visualize my characters. To be able to get into their emotions I have to see them in my mind acting out my scene. I try and pick out the actors I want to cast in my "movie" before I start a new project. In Love and Honor I did start with one hero but as I continued to write Max, the charater I had "cast" no longer fit the charater I was writing. I feel that it is okay to recast, remember you are writing the story not the charater. For the role of Max I orginally cast Josh Hartnet. But as I wrote it became clear he no longer fit how my charater evolved. In the end Max was awarded to Ben Browder.

My first time

When I was single I use to have this reoccuring dream about meeting a tall sexy stranger on the beach of an unknown tropical island. It was always love at first site between me and the stranger. He was always faceless. I started to write my dreams down on paper. I was surprised at what I had done. I wrote my first short story. I was amazed as I questioned myself. Did I really write this? It was such a thrill. A dream was born! From then on I knew I could not rest till I became a published romance novelist. I do not want to write just one book, I want to be just like Danielle Steel. The women who inspired me many years ago.

In the beginning

I love writing and reading about romance and sex. I rememeber the first romance novel that I read. I was in middle school and a classmate introduced me to Danielle Steel's "Jewels". That changed my life forever. I didn't actually pick up a pen and paper until after my divorce in 2002. While going though my divorce, I wrote many emotional poems. I entered them into the International Libary of Poetry. From what I hear now, they were a scam, but they helped build my confidence by giving me awards. My feelings were not just garbage, people actually understood what I was feeling; they understood my words, and they understood me.

I never thought I would want to pursue writing. I mean look, I have horrific grammer and spelling! But writing is about dreams and feelings for me. Writing is a way to escape everyday life. It's a fantasy. But I can touch more on all of that later. For right now, I just want to say thank you for taking the time and interest in me!