Hi, I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend :)
Just a quick shout to let you know that there's a fab deal on SIU Book 1, for a limited time on Amazon.. details and link below...
There's a Kindle Countdown Deal for $0.99 on SIU Book 1, for a short period of time... happening now on Amazon, ebook edition...that's an 80% savings off of regular list price. What are you waiting for? Go grab your copy today before the countdown ends!
https://www.amazon.com/SIU-Sensing-Little-This-That-ebook/dp/B0725X4J6M/ref=la_B00IYZLCEQ_1_1_twi_kin_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1499536955&sr=1-1
Happy Writing! :)
Saturday, July 8, 2017
Saturday, June 3, 2017
Fantasy and SciFi...
Good Saturday morning! I hope you're all enjoying the weekend :) Today, it's not raining in my neck of the woods so I'm grateful to see that, lol, and hopefully, the sun will be out for a bit, crossing fingers ;)
Before I get started, I should warn you, not enough coffee in me yet, so not really sure the direction the post will turn out in the end, sorry in advance, lol ;)
Fantasy and SciFi.. both genres are really a creators heaven, so to speak. You really have almost total freedom when creating your worlds and characters and whatnot; I think it's fab! That said, I've only written one in the category so don't have much to base things on. But I will say this, writing the book was a blast. Anyway, back to the topic for today..
When working on your characters and world building there are so many different ways you can go about doing so. Take the Twilight Saga for an example: sure, they're vamps living among humans, but they're not like the ordinary blend of what we are use to when thinking of vampires. For one, if they go out in the sun it doesn't kill them, for another, they do not typically take part of drinking blood of humans. And another, they sparkle.. and that, is the most important part I'm trying to stress here. Your characters and their world can blend between their world and Earth, but make them stand out, different from the norm, make them unforgettable. Give them something, that wow factor that will make a reader think, omg, I so didn't see coming and how cool was that, type of deal.
Take a witch for instance.. there are good witches and bad witches, and witches who don't want to be a witch. If this is your target market, you've read countless books to get the feel of things so you know what I mean. But how about making a witch that is new, can't control her spells yet, and it can happen any time, day or night. So, you're thinking, yeah, that's nothing new.. you're right. I've read many books that have at least one of the points listed.. but how about making the heroine cast a spell in a shopping center, while having coffee with a potential business client, and have the Iris and pupil of her eyes split down the middle and one half move to the left side of her eye, and the other, to the right.. so that all of the white color is in the middle.. and have that part glow from bright white to neon, and so on.. now that's a little different. A small detail, yes, but it's enough to make it stand out just a bit, making her a little unique.
SciFi.. there are so many great books out there in the genre, not to mention movies. My fav at the moment is Guardians of the Galaxy. Yeah, I realize it's based on a comic, but think about the movie for a minute.. or Star Trek or Star Wars, if you haven't seen Guardians.. Think about all the 'little unique' moments in the characters and their world. You see, the important thing is that it's not just another space story, it's the part where you place your characters in 'their' world, and make them stand out, make them not so like the 'norm'. Create a story that is just about them, their homes, their lives, their purpose.. and then layer, up the ante, make them stand out like only you can.
The downside to world building, is knowing when enough is enough. It can be a stickler when creating worlds, because you have to add details, to know when you're bogging the story down. The only advice, and it's just my opinion.. layer in details about them and the world you're creating. Keep the action moving forward, slow it down when needed using a smidgen of details or whatnot, then move the pace forward/faster again with things happening in your story.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Before I get started, I should warn you, not enough coffee in me yet, so not really sure the direction the post will turn out in the end, sorry in advance, lol ;)
Fantasy and SciFi.. both genres are really a creators heaven, so to speak. You really have almost total freedom when creating your worlds and characters and whatnot; I think it's fab! That said, I've only written one in the category so don't have much to base things on. But I will say this, writing the book was a blast. Anyway, back to the topic for today..
When working on your characters and world building there are so many different ways you can go about doing so. Take the Twilight Saga for an example: sure, they're vamps living among humans, but they're not like the ordinary blend of what we are use to when thinking of vampires. For one, if they go out in the sun it doesn't kill them, for another, they do not typically take part of drinking blood of humans. And another, they sparkle.. and that, is the most important part I'm trying to stress here. Your characters and their world can blend between their world and Earth, but make them stand out, different from the norm, make them unforgettable. Give them something, that wow factor that will make a reader think, omg, I so didn't see coming and how cool was that, type of deal.
Take a witch for instance.. there are good witches and bad witches, and witches who don't want to be a witch. If this is your target market, you've read countless books to get the feel of things so you know what I mean. But how about making a witch that is new, can't control her spells yet, and it can happen any time, day or night. So, you're thinking, yeah, that's nothing new.. you're right. I've read many books that have at least one of the points listed.. but how about making the heroine cast a spell in a shopping center, while having coffee with a potential business client, and have the Iris and pupil of her eyes split down the middle and one half move to the left side of her eye, and the other, to the right.. so that all of the white color is in the middle.. and have that part glow from bright white to neon, and so on.. now that's a little different. A small detail, yes, but it's enough to make it stand out just a bit, making her a little unique.
SciFi.. there are so many great books out there in the genre, not to mention movies. My fav at the moment is Guardians of the Galaxy. Yeah, I realize it's based on a comic, but think about the movie for a minute.. or Star Trek or Star Wars, if you haven't seen Guardians.. Think about all the 'little unique' moments in the characters and their world. You see, the important thing is that it's not just another space story, it's the part where you place your characters in 'their' world, and make them stand out, make them not so like the 'norm'. Create a story that is just about them, their homes, their lives, their purpose.. and then layer, up the ante, make them stand out like only you can.
The downside to world building, is knowing when enough is enough. It can be a stickler when creating worlds, because you have to add details, to know when you're bogging the story down. The only advice, and it's just my opinion.. layer in details about them and the world you're creating. Keep the action moving forward, slow it down when needed using a smidgen of details or whatnot, then move the pace forward/faster again with things happening in your story.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Friday, May 26, 2017
Happy Holiday and SIU update..
Happy Friday!
I hope everyone has a safe and happy Holiday!
SIU A LOT A LOT Book 1 is up on Amazon, in both print and Kindle formats. The link is below...
Next week, I'll start blogging about more tidbits and time periods :)
Amazon link..
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00IYZLCEQ
Happy Writing!
I hope everyone has a safe and happy Holiday!
SIU A LOT A LOT Book 1 is up on Amazon, in both print and Kindle formats. The link is below...
Next week, I'll start blogging about more tidbits and time periods :)
Amazon link..
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00IYZLCEQ
Happy Writing!
Monday, May 22, 2017
SIU is ready!
Good Monday morning!
SIU A LOT A LOT BOOK 1 is ready, below is the link for one site where it's available.. I'll post when Amazon is all set up and ready to go. Thank you for being so patient while I ironed out all the kinks :)
SIU (Sensing It Up) A LOT A LOT (A Little Of This, A Little Of That)
Happy Writing!
SIU A LOT A LOT BOOK 1 is ready, below is the link for one site where it's available.. I'll post when Amazon is all set up and ready to go. Thank you for being so patient while I ironed out all the kinks :)
SIU (Sensing It Up) A LOT A LOT (A Little Of This, A Little Of That)
Happy Writing!
Friday, May 5, 2017
Book Event..
Show Me Your Books
Kansas City, MO
2018
Kansas City Book Convention
Kansas City, MO book convention, multi author/genre. Free to the public signing. VIP tickets available which included Breakfast, Dinner & more with authors.
(www.showmeyourbookskc.com)
Grab your V.I.P ticket TODAY!
SEPTEMBER 7-8th 2018.
Enjoy a Welcome Event with Dessert Bar
Breakfast with 60 Authors
4 Hour Signing
1920's themed Farewell Ball
(www.showmeyourbookskc.com)
Stay up to date...
Join the Attendees FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/338200096516117
Kansas City, MO
2018
Kansas City Book Convention
Kansas City, MO book convention, multi author/genre. Free to the public signing. VIP tickets available which included Breakfast, Dinner & more with authors.
(www.showmeyourbookskc.com)
Grab your V.I.P ticket TODAY!
SEPTEMBER 7-8th 2018.
Enjoy a Welcome Event with Dessert Bar
Breakfast with 60 Authors
4 Hour Signing
1920's themed Farewell Ball
(www.showmeyourbookskc.com)
Stay up to date...
Join the Attendees FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/338200096516117
Saturday, April 22, 2017
Blurbs and log lines..
Good morning, I hope your weekend is going well!
Okay, so you're down to the final stretches and you're gearing up to send your book out the door and in the hands of an editor/publisher. You've double-checked all on your list and things look great! The only thing left is your blurb. Let's say, you are not published yet and you're thinking, do I really need to write a blurb and send it out with this submission? Probably. But why?
Writing blurbs and log lines are really great practice, for a few reasons...
First, you'll learn how to hit on the most important details/hooks of your book. This will come in handy when you're sitting at a table with an agent and she asks about your book. Or, you're in a pitch meeting with an editor and she wants to know about your book 'before' she has even seen any of your work.
Blurbs can be sticklers at times to write, but they really do help with nailing down the 'grabbing' parts of your story. If you've never written a blurb, the easiest way, I think, to get the hang of writing them is by using your synopsis. Now, I realize your synopsis is long, but we're gonna start there. So, go through it and take the most important parts and jot those down. You may end up with a few paragraphs or more at first, that's ok. From those paragraphs, dwindle it down even more, just like you did... until you have one or two paragraphs.
Now, we're tightening up the main points/hooks of your story! Then, you'll narrow it down to one paragraph. If you're having a little trouble at first getting the hang of writing a blurb, just pick up a few of your favorite books and turn them over to the back cover.. read the teasers/blurbs. That's the goal we're trying to get to..
Second, once you've sold, more than likely you'll need to write a cover blurb and send it to your agent/editor/publisher.
And last, practicing this will help you nail down a log line..which is really a one-liner hook. As if writing a synopsis, cover, and blurbs aren't hard enough, now you need a one-liner?! lol ;) Sometimes, yes! They come in handy when you're doing promotion, or you literally have less than one minute to tell someone about your book. Practicing these now may come in handy if there is ever a time when you're in any of these situations :)
If this is a first time writing them it may be easier to break them down and write them in chunks. Start with your synopsis and then put it aside for a day or two. Then, go back to it and lean it down to a few paragraphs, and set it aside for a bit and so on.. until you end up with a one-liner!
Tip: If you're having a little trouble using your synopsis, try writing blurbs and log lines by using your cover letter with the steps mentioned above.. if you do though, because a cover letter holds more than 'just about the book info' make sure when you're practicing, you only use the parts that are of the book.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Okay, so you're down to the final stretches and you're gearing up to send your book out the door and in the hands of an editor/publisher. You've double-checked all on your list and things look great! The only thing left is your blurb. Let's say, you are not published yet and you're thinking, do I really need to write a blurb and send it out with this submission? Probably. But why?
Writing blurbs and log lines are really great practice, for a few reasons...
First, you'll learn how to hit on the most important details/hooks of your book. This will come in handy when you're sitting at a table with an agent and she asks about your book. Or, you're in a pitch meeting with an editor and she wants to know about your book 'before' she has even seen any of your work.
Blurbs can be sticklers at times to write, but they really do help with nailing down the 'grabbing' parts of your story. If you've never written a blurb, the easiest way, I think, to get the hang of writing them is by using your synopsis. Now, I realize your synopsis is long, but we're gonna start there. So, go through it and take the most important parts and jot those down. You may end up with a few paragraphs or more at first, that's ok. From those paragraphs, dwindle it down even more, just like you did... until you have one or two paragraphs.
Now, we're tightening up the main points/hooks of your story! Then, you'll narrow it down to one paragraph. If you're having a little trouble at first getting the hang of writing a blurb, just pick up a few of your favorite books and turn them over to the back cover.. read the teasers/blurbs. That's the goal we're trying to get to..
Second, once you've sold, more than likely you'll need to write a cover blurb and send it to your agent/editor/publisher.
And last, practicing this will help you nail down a log line..which is really a one-liner hook. As if writing a synopsis, cover, and blurbs aren't hard enough, now you need a one-liner?! lol ;) Sometimes, yes! They come in handy when you're doing promotion, or you literally have less than one minute to tell someone about your book. Practicing these now may come in handy if there is ever a time when you're in any of these situations :)
If this is a first time writing them it may be easier to break them down and write them in chunks. Start with your synopsis and then put it aside for a day or two. Then, go back to it and lean it down to a few paragraphs, and set it aside for a bit and so on.. until you end up with a one-liner!
Tip: If you're having a little trouble using your synopsis, try writing blurbs and log lines by using your cover letter with the steps mentioned above.. if you do though, because a cover letter holds more than 'just about the book info' make sure when you're practicing, you only use the parts that are of the book.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Saturday, April 8, 2017
Pop Up Contest..
Hi, I hope you're all having a fantastic weekend! :)
I've been thinking, I know I know, not a good thing some days, lol ;) Anyway, the majority of the blog topics have been on things to work on when writing/editing or researching stuff and thought.. I've heard that writing should be fun, you should write from the heart and just have a blast.. but with 'keep your eye out for this, and this, and oh, here are five more things to add to the list'.. after a while, things can kinda go flat for a spell. I think it's time for a breather and a bit of fun. I hope you agree :)
So, on to the contest.. I know I've covered show vs tell in a couple of posts and since then, a lot more emails regarding this topic have come in. And, well, I thought, that's a great contest idea.
Onto, the details. There will be 1 (one) winner, chosen randomly, at the close of the contest. The Show vs Tell Chapter Contest will close on April 30, 2017. The winner notification email will be sent by May 5, 2017. The winner will have 10 (ten) days to reply to the notification. If winner fails to respond to the notice within the time frame, after the reply time period ends, an alternate winner will be chosen. You must be at least 18 years of age and/or of legal age, and you are not restricted by any law etc., by entering the contest. If you are chosen as the winner, the chapter you send in must belong 100% to you, as in, it's your creation, you wrote it.. and by entering you agree you own the work and you are not infringing on any person and/or copyright. If you're selected as the winner, you agree to send 1 (one) chapter (8,000 word count limit) via email only, to the email address that will be provided within the Contest Winner Notification Email.
The prize will not be substituted, exchanged, or any other here there and yonder of any which way, type, form, etc., aka: the prize is the prize offered below, period.
The prize: marking a chapter where there are spots of show vs tell.
How to enter: send an email to (kassie.lane.1@gmail.com) with (Show vs Tell Chapter Contest) in the subject line. In the body of the email, please list your name and the genre of your story.
Easy, right?!
Good luck!
And Happy Writing!
I've been thinking, I know I know, not a good thing some days, lol ;) Anyway, the majority of the blog topics have been on things to work on when writing/editing or researching stuff and thought.. I've heard that writing should be fun, you should write from the heart and just have a blast.. but with 'keep your eye out for this, and this, and oh, here are five more things to add to the list'.. after a while, things can kinda go flat for a spell. I think it's time for a breather and a bit of fun. I hope you agree :)
So, on to the contest.. I know I've covered show vs tell in a couple of posts and since then, a lot more emails regarding this topic have come in. And, well, I thought, that's a great contest idea.
Onto, the details. There will be 1 (one) winner, chosen randomly, at the close of the contest. The Show vs Tell Chapter Contest will close on April 30, 2017. The winner notification email will be sent by May 5, 2017. The winner will have 10 (ten) days to reply to the notification. If winner fails to respond to the notice within the time frame, after the reply time period ends, an alternate winner will be chosen. You must be at least 18 years of age and/or of legal age, and you are not restricted by any law etc., by entering the contest. If you are chosen as the winner, the chapter you send in must belong 100% to you, as in, it's your creation, you wrote it.. and by entering you agree you own the work and you are not infringing on any person and/or copyright. If you're selected as the winner, you agree to send 1 (one) chapter (8,000 word count limit) via email only, to the email address that will be provided within the Contest Winner Notification Email.
The prize will not be substituted, exchanged, or any other here there and yonder of any which way, type, form, etc., aka: the prize is the prize offered below, period.
The prize: marking a chapter where there are spots of show vs tell.
How to enter: send an email to (kassie.lane.1@gmail.com) with (Show vs Tell Chapter Contest) in the subject line. In the body of the email, please list your name and the genre of your story.
Easy, right?!
Good luck!
And Happy Writing!
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
To a conference, shall you go?
Happy Tuesday!
Today's post is about conference time. There's a lot of buzz about going and whatnot, so thought I'd talk about that today. Another question that keeps coming up in conversations is.. If I'm not published yet, is it really necessary to attend one? Along with several other questions regarding conference season. Well, basically the answer is both yes and no. Sorry, thought you'd get a clear cut answer didn't you? ;) I'm not a fan of disappointing anyone with an answer, but because this really is a pro and con situation, and based on 'you' and where you are with writing, finances, etc., there is only the answer 'you' can give for yourself. But..
I can give reasons on both sides that may help in deciding whether it's time for you to go, or wait a while and maybe tackle conference season next year, or the year after. Let's start with the biggie, I feel anyway, on the con side.. expense. Unless you're fortunate to live close to the conference venue you'll have traveling costs, and you'll have to have a place to sleep, and don't forget food and drinks, and if you have small children you'll need to secure a sitter for the time you'll be away..and the list just grows bigger with what your specific needs may be. So, if you're not published yet, or recently published, and it will be your first time actually seriously considering attending one, please add some of the items mentioned here to your decision-making list.
Another factor you'll want to think about if it will be your first time going, are you going alone? I'm not a huge fan of going to big gatherings alone. For me, until I can absorb the surroundings, when I first walk into a place it can be a bit overwhelming. But that's just me and a little hang-up I have. I try my best to have someone either meet me or if possible, take my best friend or family member and double-up so to speak. (Meet at hotel, share the room, and have what we can control all planned out, etc.) It does help me, and it may also help if you're a bit nervous about going solo and are able to take someone with you, especially if it's a first event.
There's so much that goes on over the short span of time at a conference. You'd like to check in on all that you can, but reality sometimes makes that a little hard to achieve. Having someone with you, help navigate your planned scheduled events, because you know where you are at that moment and where you need to be at such and such a time.
The flip-side.. going to a conference is an experience, to say the least! Yes, there will be after-parties, drinking, meeting up with friends you've meet on line, etc. There are also a lot of writing events. After all, it's a writer's conference ;) You'll be able to network, meet and make new friends. You'll be able to hopefully attend events and learn new things about writing/business that you didn't know about previously. You'll be able to hopefully, meet one of your favorite authors, and hopefully she/he will sign a copy of their most recent or your fav book of theirs. Or maybe meet an editor along the way to your next destination, that you're considering querying in the future.
So, these are a few things to think about when you're considering attending a writer's conference. There's more, but at least a few things to start your pro/con list. If however, you decide not to attend a conference this year, have you thought about a writer's retreat? These can be awesome as well! The group is usually a lot smaller, and you can even start one by inviting a group of your writer friends.. just pick a place, time, and day or two.. plan out what you'll be working on/discussing. It could be really small and simple, like an afternoon lunch and then go over some writing topics you'd like to learn more about, know a little bit about and want to share, goals, etc. A retreat at the very least, is a place where writers can be in one place, talk about work, business, etc., but on a much smaller scale than a conference. Think of it as a way to do a walk-though of the bare basics.. so when it's time for you to attend a bigger event for the first time, things might not feel so chaotic or intimidating.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Today's post is about conference time. There's a lot of buzz about going and whatnot, so thought I'd talk about that today. Another question that keeps coming up in conversations is.. If I'm not published yet, is it really necessary to attend one? Along with several other questions regarding conference season. Well, basically the answer is both yes and no. Sorry, thought you'd get a clear cut answer didn't you? ;) I'm not a fan of disappointing anyone with an answer, but because this really is a pro and con situation, and based on 'you' and where you are with writing, finances, etc., there is only the answer 'you' can give for yourself. But..
I can give reasons on both sides that may help in deciding whether it's time for you to go, or wait a while and maybe tackle conference season next year, or the year after. Let's start with the biggie, I feel anyway, on the con side.. expense. Unless you're fortunate to live close to the conference venue you'll have traveling costs, and you'll have to have a place to sleep, and don't forget food and drinks, and if you have small children you'll need to secure a sitter for the time you'll be away..and the list just grows bigger with what your specific needs may be. So, if you're not published yet, or recently published, and it will be your first time actually seriously considering attending one, please add some of the items mentioned here to your decision-making list.
Another factor you'll want to think about if it will be your first time going, are you going alone? I'm not a huge fan of going to big gatherings alone. For me, until I can absorb the surroundings, when I first walk into a place it can be a bit overwhelming. But that's just me and a little hang-up I have. I try my best to have someone either meet me or if possible, take my best friend or family member and double-up so to speak. (Meet at hotel, share the room, and have what we can control all planned out, etc.) It does help me, and it may also help if you're a bit nervous about going solo and are able to take someone with you, especially if it's a first event.
There's so much that goes on over the short span of time at a conference. You'd like to check in on all that you can, but reality sometimes makes that a little hard to achieve. Having someone with you, help navigate your planned scheduled events, because you know where you are at that moment and where you need to be at such and such a time.
The flip-side.. going to a conference is an experience, to say the least! Yes, there will be after-parties, drinking, meeting up with friends you've meet on line, etc. There are also a lot of writing events. After all, it's a writer's conference ;) You'll be able to network, meet and make new friends. You'll be able to hopefully attend events and learn new things about writing/business that you didn't know about previously. You'll be able to hopefully, meet one of your favorite authors, and hopefully she/he will sign a copy of their most recent or your fav book of theirs. Or maybe meet an editor along the way to your next destination, that you're considering querying in the future.
So, these are a few things to think about when you're considering attending a writer's conference. There's more, but at least a few things to start your pro/con list. If however, you decide not to attend a conference this year, have you thought about a writer's retreat? These can be awesome as well! The group is usually a lot smaller, and you can even start one by inviting a group of your writer friends.. just pick a place, time, and day or two.. plan out what you'll be working on/discussing. It could be really small and simple, like an afternoon lunch and then go over some writing topics you'd like to learn more about, know a little bit about and want to share, goals, etc. A retreat at the very least, is a place where writers can be in one place, talk about work, business, etc., but on a much smaller scale than a conference. Think of it as a way to do a walk-though of the bare basics.. so when it's time for you to attend a bigger event for the first time, things might not feel so chaotic or intimidating.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Monday, March 20, 2017
The topic for today is sex in your scenes..
I hope your Monday is going well :)
So, now that I've got your attention, let's talk about sex, lol ;)
But before we begin, I'm answering a question I have been asked many many times.. if you're writing romance, isn't writing sex scenes porn? Good question but there still seems to be a gray area so hopefully this will clear up some of the confusion a little bit; that's my plan anyway.
Let's say, you're writing an erotic/spicy contemporary romance.. there are two main characters.. your hero and heroine.. and these two characters end up together and only with each other. Sex with these two are as a loving couple, aka, they are taking their relationship to the next level and by the end of the book, they'll end up with a happily ever after. So, in this example, nope, not porn.
And no.. it doesn't matter whether it's mapped out move by move, or it's up to the imagination/your mildly written words to get across the point in the scene. It is still not considered porn.
Romance is the central and honestly main theme in the story. You need the two characters to stumble through a lot of crap, climb up hills, bowl down mountains, etc., all the while the sexual tension is building even though nothing is 'happening' yet.. then when it does happen, it's just between them and they run off in to the sunset.
Now that's cleared up a bit, there are levels of heat in erotic romance. You could be a writer who may be comfortable with leaving the door open just a crack. Or one that leaves the door half open, or all the way open.
Or, you could not be really comfortable writing sex scenes at all. To be honest, this can be sexy as hell, steamy as all get out.. all without writing each and every detail. No harsh language, no detailed body parts of anything going on. Nadda. But, you can so say it without actually spelling it out, toned way down.. your words about the characters are all that you have.. and let me tell you.. that's mighty powerful at times! Try it, if you don't believe me. If you're used to writing sexy with very little limits placed, try placing the let's keep it as clean as can be, and see how you up the tension like nobody's business, lol ;)
Here's a short rough draft/not edited tidbit.. it's toned down but clearly something's happening, lol ;)
Midnight. In Cinderella's time, that'd be her cue to get up and make a run or it. But she was not Cinderella. She frowned slightly. She didn't have a fairy godmother. There was no prince looking for her so he could rescue her from this hell.
Her prince? Arching an eyebrow as she took a sip from her drink, she thought of the elevator man. That's who'd be her prince. She grinned, once again enjoying the mental picture of him standing across from her. He was handsome. Her smile widened. Handsome and downright drop-dead gorgeous, the hottest hard body she'd seen in a while.
Her grin grew wider still, stretching her lips to their limit. She licked them as she tried to calm the tingling that overcame them when she thought about him. She wanted to kiss him before. But now...now that he was in her thoughts again, she wanted it even more.
She wanted to push him against the wall, rub her hands across his chest while pressing her body against his. The sensation in her lips moved through her body. At first it was slow, but once it flowed, creating desire...
You get the idea. And yes, they do end up as a couple and have their happily ever after...
So, whether you write steamy as hell, or tame but intense.. if you keep it between the two main characters, and they end up happily ever after (or happily for now, depending on the publisher guidelines)... It's romance!
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
So, now that I've got your attention, let's talk about sex, lol ;)
But before we begin, I'm answering a question I have been asked many many times.. if you're writing romance, isn't writing sex scenes porn? Good question but there still seems to be a gray area so hopefully this will clear up some of the confusion a little bit; that's my plan anyway.
Let's say, you're writing an erotic/spicy contemporary romance.. there are two main characters.. your hero and heroine.. and these two characters end up together and only with each other. Sex with these two are as a loving couple, aka, they are taking their relationship to the next level and by the end of the book, they'll end up with a happily ever after. So, in this example, nope, not porn.
And no.. it doesn't matter whether it's mapped out move by move, or it's up to the imagination/your mildly written words to get across the point in the scene. It is still not considered porn.
Romance is the central and honestly main theme in the story. You need the two characters to stumble through a lot of crap, climb up hills, bowl down mountains, etc., all the while the sexual tension is building even though nothing is 'happening' yet.. then when it does happen, it's just between them and they run off in to the sunset.
Now that's cleared up a bit, there are levels of heat in erotic romance. You could be a writer who may be comfortable with leaving the door open just a crack. Or one that leaves the door half open, or all the way open.
Or, you could not be really comfortable writing sex scenes at all. To be honest, this can be sexy as hell, steamy as all get out.. all without writing each and every detail. No harsh language, no detailed body parts of anything going on. Nadda. But, you can so say it without actually spelling it out, toned way down.. your words about the characters are all that you have.. and let me tell you.. that's mighty powerful at times! Try it, if you don't believe me. If you're used to writing sexy with very little limits placed, try placing the let's keep it as clean as can be, and see how you up the tension like nobody's business, lol ;)
Here's a short rough draft/not edited tidbit.. it's toned down but clearly something's happening, lol ;)
Midnight. In Cinderella's time, that'd be her cue to get up and make a run or it. But she was not Cinderella. She frowned slightly. She didn't have a fairy godmother. There was no prince looking for her so he could rescue her from this hell.
Her prince? Arching an eyebrow as she took a sip from her drink, she thought of the elevator man. That's who'd be her prince. She grinned, once again enjoying the mental picture of him standing across from her. He was handsome. Her smile widened. Handsome and downright drop-dead gorgeous, the hottest hard body she'd seen in a while.
Her grin grew wider still, stretching her lips to their limit. She licked them as she tried to calm the tingling that overcame them when she thought about him. She wanted to kiss him before. But now...now that he was in her thoughts again, she wanted it even more.
She wanted to push him against the wall, rub her hands across his chest while pressing her body against his. The sensation in her lips moved through her body. At first it was slow, but once it flowed, creating desire...
You get the idea. And yes, they do end up as a couple and have their happily ever after...
So, whether you write steamy as hell, or tame but intense.. if you keep it between the two main characters, and they end up happily ever after (or happily for now, depending on the publisher guidelines)... It's romance!
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Not sure when to start promoting?
Good Tuesday morning!
I received several emails asking the same question about promoting so that's today's topic...
When? Why? Do I even have to? Isn't that handled with the publisher/editor/agent? My book isn't even out yet/ don't even have a contract yet, so what's the rush?
Promotion is something that I feel every author 'should' do, regardless of whether it's a first book, or the hundredth. If you can't think of any reason to promote, the most basic answer would more than likely be.. you are connecting with readers and talking about your upcoming book. But, promoting is so much more than saying 'hey, hi, it's me, I have a book coming out...' So back to the questions in the emails..
Personally, I think that you should have some type of social media regarding your writing. And yes, even if you're not published yet. Even if you haven't queried and you're still polishing up your ms, the answer I feel is still yes. And yup, even if your book isn't due to release for several more months. Why? Well, because you're not just promoting a book. If only it were that easy, right? But think of it this way. You've done a lot of promo's and maybe even a contest or two. The book was released and it's been a few months and things have slowed down for you while you're working on your next book. This 'next' book is no where near ready to query out or send to your editor/agent and let's say won't be for another nine months.
So sticking with this, now we're talking about a great span of time that you have been silent, like dust blowing in the wind silent. And we'll make it even a little more ugh factor, you really don't like to promote.. So how hard do you think promo's are gonna be for you when the time comes for your next book release? It'll be like you're starting over, or at least may feel like it.
I know, I know.. not everyone is comfortable with doing promotion, or blogging and whatnot. But, and again this is just my opinion, you may as well get yourself comfortable with it now because you're gonna need to, at some point. Yes, there are publishing houses/agents who will do some form of promo of your book. But, there are also many that don't offer any type of promoting services. Even if there is a promotion clause in your contract with your publisher/agent, you'll still need to promote.
Now, let's say, you're not published yet but you have a ms under consideration. You have no blog, you're not buzzing about it, not sure why you should or even if it's necessary. Well, personally, how I would tackle this is.. sign up/start a blog, set up a facebook page and get on line and talk about your writing where you can. Now, I'm not suggesting to shout it to the rooftop or post everywhere there is a blank space. What I'm saying is, allow people to get to know 'you' first. A little look inside your world, even if you're having a hard day making your characters fit on the pages like they're supposed to. Or, you've finished a chapter and you're rewarding yourself with your favorite movie tonight.
Someone buys a book because they liked what they read (covers of a book or blurbs, etc.) or have heard, yes. But, when a reader can connect a little deeper with the author by following posts on line, it changes from just reader/author. It's more personal. It's not just about hey my book is coming out and this is what it's about. A reader now knows you go through ups and downs just like the rest of the world, and reward yourself with a little me time.. just like many of us.
We'll flip to the other side of the topic and look at it from an agent/publisher point of view. If you're querying your first book several things happen over here. Not only are they looking at your submission package, they'll more than likely do a quick search on line to see what's going on, to find out a little more about you than a sentence or two in your cover letter, and where you are as far as on line presence. Yes, they know, based on your query, that this is your first book, so why do you need to do anything? Well, again, it gives them a feel of who you are, what you're doing regarding writing, they may even be checking to see how many people join in one of your conversations. Or, how long you've been putting yourself out there on the journey to becoming a published author. Now, to you, this may seem not important, but in fact, it is.
Because they'll know when it comes time to do promotion, you'll be able to hop right in because you've essentially been doing it all this time. The posts will change from time to time due to book buzz, but they'll see this as a plus in regards to how you're able to self-promote, vs no on line presence. But, and this is huge here, there is a fine-line and you have to choose what you want to include in your posts about your daily/weekly writing life. Yes, include personal tidbits here and there, but try to remember the business side of it. Should you really include several posts about how your sister/cousin/neighbor was such an ass at that party you went to and go in great detail? Nope, not even close. Should you chime in on a friends post when she's venting about how something went a little south with her publisher/agent? Nope.. and I feel, not ever!
Your writing is your business, you/your writing is your brand. So put your best brand forward, always... because you never know who's on the other side reading your posts. If you're just starting out, keep it simple if it's easier and not so intimidating for you. The more you are putting yourself out there, the easier it gets they say. So, take it slow, a weekly post. Then once you've gotten your feet wet and are more comfortable, maybe twice a week. But mix it up, a smidgen about you and your journey, a smidgen about your current wip or queried book. Balance it out, this way people get a quick look at what you're working on/progress, and what you're doing because you hit your 5000 word count goal for today.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
I received several emails asking the same question about promoting so that's today's topic...
When? Why? Do I even have to? Isn't that handled with the publisher/editor/agent? My book isn't even out yet/ don't even have a contract yet, so what's the rush?
Promotion is something that I feel every author 'should' do, regardless of whether it's a first book, or the hundredth. If you can't think of any reason to promote, the most basic answer would more than likely be.. you are connecting with readers and talking about your upcoming book. But, promoting is so much more than saying 'hey, hi, it's me, I have a book coming out...' So back to the questions in the emails..
Personally, I think that you should have some type of social media regarding your writing. And yes, even if you're not published yet. Even if you haven't queried and you're still polishing up your ms, the answer I feel is still yes. And yup, even if your book isn't due to release for several more months. Why? Well, because you're not just promoting a book. If only it were that easy, right? But think of it this way. You've done a lot of promo's and maybe even a contest or two. The book was released and it's been a few months and things have slowed down for you while you're working on your next book. This 'next' book is no where near ready to query out or send to your editor/agent and let's say won't be for another nine months.
So sticking with this, now we're talking about a great span of time that you have been silent, like dust blowing in the wind silent. And we'll make it even a little more ugh factor, you really don't like to promote.. So how hard do you think promo's are gonna be for you when the time comes for your next book release? It'll be like you're starting over, or at least may feel like it.
I know, I know.. not everyone is comfortable with doing promotion, or blogging and whatnot. But, and again this is just my opinion, you may as well get yourself comfortable with it now because you're gonna need to, at some point. Yes, there are publishing houses/agents who will do some form of promo of your book. But, there are also many that don't offer any type of promoting services. Even if there is a promotion clause in your contract with your publisher/agent, you'll still need to promote.
Now, let's say, you're not published yet but you have a ms under consideration. You have no blog, you're not buzzing about it, not sure why you should or even if it's necessary. Well, personally, how I would tackle this is.. sign up/start a blog, set up a facebook page and get on line and talk about your writing where you can. Now, I'm not suggesting to shout it to the rooftop or post everywhere there is a blank space. What I'm saying is, allow people to get to know 'you' first. A little look inside your world, even if you're having a hard day making your characters fit on the pages like they're supposed to. Or, you've finished a chapter and you're rewarding yourself with your favorite movie tonight.
Someone buys a book because they liked what they read (covers of a book or blurbs, etc.) or have heard, yes. But, when a reader can connect a little deeper with the author by following posts on line, it changes from just reader/author. It's more personal. It's not just about hey my book is coming out and this is what it's about. A reader now knows you go through ups and downs just like the rest of the world, and reward yourself with a little me time.. just like many of us.
We'll flip to the other side of the topic and look at it from an agent/publisher point of view. If you're querying your first book several things happen over here. Not only are they looking at your submission package, they'll more than likely do a quick search on line to see what's going on, to find out a little more about you than a sentence or two in your cover letter, and where you are as far as on line presence. Yes, they know, based on your query, that this is your first book, so why do you need to do anything? Well, again, it gives them a feel of who you are, what you're doing regarding writing, they may even be checking to see how many people join in one of your conversations. Or, how long you've been putting yourself out there on the journey to becoming a published author. Now, to you, this may seem not important, but in fact, it is.
Because they'll know when it comes time to do promotion, you'll be able to hop right in because you've essentially been doing it all this time. The posts will change from time to time due to book buzz, but they'll see this as a plus in regards to how you're able to self-promote, vs no on line presence. But, and this is huge here, there is a fine-line and you have to choose what you want to include in your posts about your daily/weekly writing life. Yes, include personal tidbits here and there, but try to remember the business side of it. Should you really include several posts about how your sister/cousin/neighbor was such an ass at that party you went to and go in great detail? Nope, not even close. Should you chime in on a friends post when she's venting about how something went a little south with her publisher/agent? Nope.. and I feel, not ever!
Your writing is your business, you/your writing is your brand. So put your best brand forward, always... because you never know who's on the other side reading your posts. If you're just starting out, keep it simple if it's easier and not so intimidating for you. The more you are putting yourself out there, the easier it gets they say. So, take it slow, a weekly post. Then once you've gotten your feet wet and are more comfortable, maybe twice a week. But mix it up, a smidgen about you and your journey, a smidgen about your current wip or queried book. Balance it out, this way people get a quick look at what you're working on/progress, and what you're doing because you hit your 5000 word count goal for today.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Friday, February 17, 2017
The Revolutionary War..
Good Friday morning!
Today's post are for those who write/want to write about the Revolutionary War and are gathering some tidbits to base bones of your story on, but who are looking for a little different spin on what may first come to mind when writing about the Revolutionary War. This post is about a small town in NY, called Salem.
There is a cemetery in the town that is called the Revolutionary War Cemetery, aka, the Old Salem Burying Ground. The cemetery holds over 1000 graves and about 100 of those are of from the Revolutionary War or veterans. The Battle of Saratoga though was what really made it well-known because it's said that a hundred bodies were placed into one mass grave. It's also believed that there are more war-time deceased buried here than anywhere/another graveyard in Washington County, and even the state.
The headstones during the 18th century mainly faced east. It's quite an experience to walk though, I'll admit, and if you're on vacation and headed towards Salem, I do hope you etch out a little bit of time to walk though/visit. Anyway, back to the burial ground... it's said that in the early to mid 1900's, the count was placed at little over 1000. But in the late 1900's a recount found the total was close to 1100.
There's another tidbit that I found to be fascinating. Though the majority of markers were of headstone, there are 3 made in red sandstone. The material wasn't commonly used at the cemetery during this time.
If I'm not mistaken, the cemetery wasn't founded until around the 1700's, and the first known burial was in 1767, the year the cemetery was formally established. The second, legend has it, was of a local Indian who wandered into the settlement and died.
Another tidbit.. it's said/believed that if all the men who supposedly are buried in a mass grave after the Battle of Saratoga somehow are confirmed, it would make the Old Salem Burying Ground one of the largest burial sites of the Revolutionary War soldiers in the country.
If you're looking for more information on people and whatnot, do a search on James Turner and Joshua Conkey. Both are huge as far as history regarding Salem.
You'll also find there's a lot of room here.. inventing your characters, families, community, their lives, and living in the town during this time period.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Today's post are for those who write/want to write about the Revolutionary War and are gathering some tidbits to base bones of your story on, but who are looking for a little different spin on what may first come to mind when writing about the Revolutionary War. This post is about a small town in NY, called Salem.
There is a cemetery in the town that is called the Revolutionary War Cemetery, aka, the Old Salem Burying Ground. The cemetery holds over 1000 graves and about 100 of those are of from the Revolutionary War or veterans. The Battle of Saratoga though was what really made it well-known because it's said that a hundred bodies were placed into one mass grave. It's also believed that there are more war-time deceased buried here than anywhere/another graveyard in Washington County, and even the state.
The headstones during the 18th century mainly faced east. It's quite an experience to walk though, I'll admit, and if you're on vacation and headed towards Salem, I do hope you etch out a little bit of time to walk though/visit. Anyway, back to the burial ground... it's said that in the early to mid 1900's, the count was placed at little over 1000. But in the late 1900's a recount found the total was close to 1100.
There's another tidbit that I found to be fascinating. Though the majority of markers were of headstone, there are 3 made in red sandstone. The material wasn't commonly used at the cemetery during this time.
If I'm not mistaken, the cemetery wasn't founded until around the 1700's, and the first known burial was in 1767, the year the cemetery was formally established. The second, legend has it, was of a local Indian who wandered into the settlement and died.
Another tidbit.. it's said/believed that if all the men who supposedly are buried in a mass grave after the Battle of Saratoga somehow are confirmed, it would make the Old Salem Burying Ground one of the largest burial sites of the Revolutionary War soldiers in the country.
If you're looking for more information on people and whatnot, do a search on James Turner and Joshua Conkey. Both are huge as far as history regarding Salem.
You'll also find there's a lot of room here.. inventing your characters, families, community, their lives, and living in the town during this time period.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
You've been switched to another editor, now what?
Good Wednesday morning! Well, the snowstorm has come and gone, dumped quite a bit of snow where I am, and by now you all know I'm not a huge fan of the cold weather so wasn't liking it, lol ;) Anyway, this week I will be posting more research tidbits and whatnot so if you're looking for those, they're on their way soon :)
Today's post though is about editing, yeah, I know I know..another one? Yes, because the topic for today does happen and that's the point of this blog, to touch base on what may happen and whatnot, along with tidbits.
So, we're gonna assume you've been working with your very first editor. You've gone through the whole complete process and things went so well, it was the best experience ever so far since you signed the contract. Life could not be better for you as an author! You're working on your next book and you've been in contact with your editor on a regular basis... out of the blue, you receive an email informing you, your editor will no longer be your editor and you're now going to be working with, we'll call her Ms. X. I know, not original, sorry, not enough coffee in me yet. But anyway, Ms. X sends a really nice email introducing herself... you reply to her email, introducing yourself as well, and then it all sets in. Your comfort zone has just been shattered into a million pieces!
We're still assuming this is your very first editor, and you were working so well with her, things were great. In fact, you didn't even know that things like this happened. Sure, you've heard of an editor moving to another house or different position in the same company, but it never dawned on you that it would happen to your editor. And you certainly didn't think it would happen so quickly, just when you were starting to get into the groove of things. So what now? Is probably the first question that pops up in your head, followed by a string of like dozens more, lol ;) But anyway..
The best thing you can do then is just sit back for a minute and absorb the news. Allow the change to sink in. Take a deep breath or two, or twenty, though it may not feel like it's helping, it is though. Now, you have a choice, and hopefully you make the right one for you. You can either pitch a fit about it or look at it not in this moment, but down the road. What I mean is, will it really do any good to pitch the fit? Probably not, the opposite I would think. Not to mention, is this the impression you want to give? Not just to the editor, but her boss as well, because I can assure you more times than not, it will be discussed. And let's not forget how many mss you've sent before you were signed with an agent/publisher. If you're thinking about pulling out/leaving, do you really want to start over with a different publisher, this quickly, over something that 'you/your actions' had control over?
The truth is, change happens all the time.. even in publishing. You may as well roll with it, do the best that you can and look ahead, and not get stuck just in the moment. Ask yourself, does it really matter how many editors, or agents for that matter, are switched while you're working on your books, as long as everyone is on the same page? The best possible book that you can give, is their goal too. And if you didn't want to share your stories with the world, you wouldn't be where you are now, right? So it all boils down to what you do, how you react to this change.
Change can be a scary thing because we really don't have that crystal ball allowing us to see the future before we do anything. But change also makes us grow, gets us out of our comfort zone so to speak, and experience life differently. It may be an editor change, an agent retired, a publishing house merging, or yes, even closing their doors.. it's all a part of the business. And most importantly, it is all about how you take the next step.. for you :)
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Today's post though is about editing, yeah, I know I know..another one? Yes, because the topic for today does happen and that's the point of this blog, to touch base on what may happen and whatnot, along with tidbits.
So, we're gonna assume you've been working with your very first editor. You've gone through the whole complete process and things went so well, it was the best experience ever so far since you signed the contract. Life could not be better for you as an author! You're working on your next book and you've been in contact with your editor on a regular basis... out of the blue, you receive an email informing you, your editor will no longer be your editor and you're now going to be working with, we'll call her Ms. X. I know, not original, sorry, not enough coffee in me yet. But anyway, Ms. X sends a really nice email introducing herself... you reply to her email, introducing yourself as well, and then it all sets in. Your comfort zone has just been shattered into a million pieces!
We're still assuming this is your very first editor, and you were working so well with her, things were great. In fact, you didn't even know that things like this happened. Sure, you've heard of an editor moving to another house or different position in the same company, but it never dawned on you that it would happen to your editor. And you certainly didn't think it would happen so quickly, just when you were starting to get into the groove of things. So what now? Is probably the first question that pops up in your head, followed by a string of like dozens more, lol ;) But anyway..
The best thing you can do then is just sit back for a minute and absorb the news. Allow the change to sink in. Take a deep breath or two, or twenty, though it may not feel like it's helping, it is though. Now, you have a choice, and hopefully you make the right one for you. You can either pitch a fit about it or look at it not in this moment, but down the road. What I mean is, will it really do any good to pitch the fit? Probably not, the opposite I would think. Not to mention, is this the impression you want to give? Not just to the editor, but her boss as well, because I can assure you more times than not, it will be discussed. And let's not forget how many mss you've sent before you were signed with an agent/publisher. If you're thinking about pulling out/leaving, do you really want to start over with a different publisher, this quickly, over something that 'you/your actions' had control over?
The truth is, change happens all the time.. even in publishing. You may as well roll with it, do the best that you can and look ahead, and not get stuck just in the moment. Ask yourself, does it really matter how many editors, or agents for that matter, are switched while you're working on your books, as long as everyone is on the same page? The best possible book that you can give, is their goal too. And if you didn't want to share your stories with the world, you wouldn't be where you are now, right? So it all boils down to what you do, how you react to this change.
Change can be a scary thing because we really don't have that crystal ball allowing us to see the future before we do anything. But change also makes us grow, gets us out of our comfort zone so to speak, and experience life differently. It may be an editor change, an agent retired, a publishing house merging, or yes, even closing their doors.. it's all a part of the business. And most importantly, it is all about how you take the next step.. for you :)
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Other things to check off your list before you send out your ms..
Happy Wednesday! I know I've been a little less visible over the past week or two; that was not my intent. I'm sorry and will post more frequent starting next week.. a lot in store then :) In the meantime, let's talk about more items on your checklist before you send your book out into the world of editors, publishers, etc. We've touched base on the lines, and how to tell as best as you can, if you're not certain. We've talked about queries and synopsis, and things to look out for while editing.
We'll be adding to a prior post about sending out and double-checking their guidelines. This time though, let's talk about the actual sending out part of it. By now, if you're close to polishing your story to within an inch of its life as best as you're able to, you have probably checked out their guidelines and whatnot. Now, I'm not talking the genre you're shooting for or word count, though those are important, too. But I'm referring to the actual 'sending' it out part.
Let's assume you've already made up your mind where you're sending your story, and thinking along this same wave length, you probably have a back up or two if the first passes. But, do they accept simultaneous submissions? If they do, you're able to send to another at the same time, providing the other accepts as well. Do they only accept snail mail or do they want you to send on line? If you're not sure take a look at their site, and even if you're sure but it's been a while since you last visited, you may want to refresh your checklist.. they may have updated their site and changed the way they want and/or accept submissions.
Moving forward, do they want a certain font, size? What about the margins 1/4, 1/2 or 1", header, footer? Every or every other page numbered? Double spaced? Page breaks for each chapter? Title and your name in left or right hand corner? All of these you'll want to double-check to make sure how they want your book to land on their desk.
Yeah, mistakes happen, things get overlooked all the time. You swear you checked to make sure everything was in order, only to find you've made an error and realize they want it a different way than you've sent it. And you know there is nothing you can do because it's on the way.
The only advice I would ever give anyone if asked is.. double check everything.. and I mean everything.. before you send it out. Not a month before, not a couple of weeks before, like a day or two before you send it out.
Sharpen your pencil, make a list of exactly how who you are subbing to wants your ms. Write it down and check off each item as you go along. Even if that means reading/going over your ms again, when honestly, that's the last thing you want to do because you've read/checked it damn close to a hundred times already, lol ;)
The point is, you've come this far.. you've spent so many hours writing, rewriting, editing, scratching pages or chapters even, starting over half way though because of a sagging middle, and frankly, everything in between. The last thing you should want to do now is rush sending it without giving your ms the best version you can possibly give it. And it goes way beyond the actual story. Sure, they may love it, be ready to jump through hoops to sign you on because your sample chapters grabbed them 'that' much. But if the complete is riddled with typo after typo, in 8pt, single spaced, no page numbers etc. Can you imagine printing say, 300 pages, and when someone goes to take it off of the printer, every... single... page... slips from their fingers, falling to the floor? I ask you, would you want to sort through the messy pile as you try to figure out which is the first, second, third, or page sixty? I like to think I am a patient person, but I'd be ready to walk away after about an hour of sorting through all of it.
And with that vision, is this how you want your first impression to be remembered? I personally wouldn't. They're asking for a ms to be a certain way because that's how it works best for them, and so they can focus on the story. Don't give them a reason not to be excited to read your ms by not even considering or adhering to their guidelines.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
We'll be adding to a prior post about sending out and double-checking their guidelines. This time though, let's talk about the actual sending out part of it. By now, if you're close to polishing your story to within an inch of its life as best as you're able to, you have probably checked out their guidelines and whatnot. Now, I'm not talking the genre you're shooting for or word count, though those are important, too. But I'm referring to the actual 'sending' it out part.
Let's assume you've already made up your mind where you're sending your story, and thinking along this same wave length, you probably have a back up or two if the first passes. But, do they accept simultaneous submissions? If they do, you're able to send to another at the same time, providing the other accepts as well. Do they only accept snail mail or do they want you to send on line? If you're not sure take a look at their site, and even if you're sure but it's been a while since you last visited, you may want to refresh your checklist.. they may have updated their site and changed the way they want and/or accept submissions.
Moving forward, do they want a certain font, size? What about the margins 1/4, 1/2 or 1", header, footer? Every or every other page numbered? Double spaced? Page breaks for each chapter? Title and your name in left or right hand corner? All of these you'll want to double-check to make sure how they want your book to land on their desk.
Yeah, mistakes happen, things get overlooked all the time. You swear you checked to make sure everything was in order, only to find you've made an error and realize they want it a different way than you've sent it. And you know there is nothing you can do because it's on the way.
The only advice I would ever give anyone if asked is.. double check everything.. and I mean everything.. before you send it out. Not a month before, not a couple of weeks before, like a day or two before you send it out.
Sharpen your pencil, make a list of exactly how who you are subbing to wants your ms. Write it down and check off each item as you go along. Even if that means reading/going over your ms again, when honestly, that's the last thing you want to do because you've read/checked it damn close to a hundred times already, lol ;)
The point is, you've come this far.. you've spent so many hours writing, rewriting, editing, scratching pages or chapters even, starting over half way though because of a sagging middle, and frankly, everything in between. The last thing you should want to do now is rush sending it without giving your ms the best version you can possibly give it. And it goes way beyond the actual story. Sure, they may love it, be ready to jump through hoops to sign you on because your sample chapters grabbed them 'that' much. But if the complete is riddled with typo after typo, in 8pt, single spaced, no page numbers etc. Can you imagine printing say, 300 pages, and when someone goes to take it off of the printer, every... single... page... slips from their fingers, falling to the floor? I ask you, would you want to sort through the messy pile as you try to figure out which is the first, second, third, or page sixty? I like to think I am a patient person, but I'd be ready to walk away after about an hour of sorting through all of it.
And with that vision, is this how you want your first impression to be remembered? I personally wouldn't. They're asking for a ms to be a certain way because that's how it works best for them, and so they can focus on the story. Don't give them a reason not to be excited to read your ms by not even considering or adhering to their guidelines.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Saturday, January 28, 2017
So, you've received your copy back from your editor...
I hope everyone is having a fab weekend! I know, I usually don't post over the weekend but I had to take a break from editing so thought what better time to post while thoughts are fresh than right now, lol I know it's later than my regular posting time and with still not enough coffee yet, and seriously thinking I'll never reach that point, you'll have to bear with me again, I'm afraid ;)
For this post we'll assume you sent a query and sample chapters out to and editor and she wanted a full, so you sent it. They offered a contract but they also want revisions. So, continuing with this theory, you've sent the story back to them and have once again received their copy back. They want additional changes.
So, let's break this down a little..
For many, this is the norm..they'll send a letter letting you know of their interest, and sometimes they'll include some minor changes they'd like to see. Moving forward just a bit, now, at this same time, keeping with the above, they have offered a contract. Congratulations!! That's totally awesome, and no doubt, you're floating on cloud nine :)
After a bit, when your feet are on solid ground again, you go back and re-read the letter and the notes that the editor had left. You work your fingers to the bones and fix the issues and then send it back, along with the contract if you haven't done so before this point.
You're excited beyond belief! You have spent countless hours alone, with only the thoughts and actions of your characters playing out in your head. Sometimes they're easy to deal with, sometimes, not so much. But you've done it! You have a contract and your book will be available for all to see!
Then, you feel the rug pulled out from under you because you've got another round of edits to go through. This time, your ms looks more like the red sea of ink. You may wonder, what the heck happened? How can it need that much work/corrections? You may be afraid that making all these adjustments will hurt/change your story.. yup, the very one that took all but your last ounce of energy and sanity most days, for almost a year. Panic sets in, right?
But, here's the thing.. it's ok to panic. In fact, I think if I didn't panic when I walk in those very shoes, for me, it wouldn't be as rewarding. You have to remember too, first and foremost, romance publishing is a business. We're talking billion, not million, yup, with the 'b' dollar business. You, and it's the same for your publisher, editor, etc., they want to put out the very best story that is possible.
Anyway, back to panicking. It's ok to feel confused and whatnot. Walk away for a day or two, don't touch your ms during that time. Let things process in your head, let it settle. Take a deep breath, have a cup of tea, take a long walk, go to the movies.. whatever you do that helps to unwind from a stressful day or week. Then, when you're back to 'writing mode' pull the ms back out and start at the very beginning, the first editor marked note. Read it, read it again if you need to, and go from there.
What you don't want to do is take all of this personally. Your editor is not trying to change your story into hers. She's not putting up wall after wall for you to climb, only to tumble back down the damn thing and climb it a few more times, until you seriously don't know what you're feeling at this point. Several rounds of edits may make you upset, yes, but letting your editor 'have it' or telling her off isn't going to help either. Totally the opposite to be honest.
For now, let's assume you've only met online and don't know her personally. This is the time to act professional, in fact, way before this point, but for this post we'll start within the time frame. Anyway.. She's on your side. Her name is behind it as well as the publishers, and yours on the cover. The time and place to not have a thick skin is not now, and certainly not with her. You can always vent to your sister, your best friend, your who ever, though it probably won't make you feel any better in the end. Try your best to understand why she's asking for the change/s, if you're not sure, ask her. Now, by no means am I suggesting to send an email for every question. Condense it and try to ask all that you can, within reason, in one email.
There may be a spot though that you'd rather not make the suggested change, that's okay, too. The next time you talk to your editor, explain why you feel the way you do about that particular part. And who knows, by talking it through, the two of you may come up with a different and better outcome that neither of you thought of before you talked. :)
The truth is, it is not often a story does not need to go through editing before it's ready to be released. But if you take it all in stride, step by step, as it's presented to you, it may not feel so overwhelming. And may be easier to get through every round of edits that are needed before it's ready for its release!
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
For this post we'll assume you sent a query and sample chapters out to and editor and she wanted a full, so you sent it. They offered a contract but they also want revisions. So, continuing with this theory, you've sent the story back to them and have once again received their copy back. They want additional changes.
So, let's break this down a little..
For many, this is the norm..they'll send a letter letting you know of their interest, and sometimes they'll include some minor changes they'd like to see. Moving forward just a bit, now, at this same time, keeping with the above, they have offered a contract. Congratulations!! That's totally awesome, and no doubt, you're floating on cloud nine :)
After a bit, when your feet are on solid ground again, you go back and re-read the letter and the notes that the editor had left. You work your fingers to the bones and fix the issues and then send it back, along with the contract if you haven't done so before this point.
You're excited beyond belief! You have spent countless hours alone, with only the thoughts and actions of your characters playing out in your head. Sometimes they're easy to deal with, sometimes, not so much. But you've done it! You have a contract and your book will be available for all to see!
Then, you feel the rug pulled out from under you because you've got another round of edits to go through. This time, your ms looks more like the red sea of ink. You may wonder, what the heck happened? How can it need that much work/corrections? You may be afraid that making all these adjustments will hurt/change your story.. yup, the very one that took all but your last ounce of energy and sanity most days, for almost a year. Panic sets in, right?
But, here's the thing.. it's ok to panic. In fact, I think if I didn't panic when I walk in those very shoes, for me, it wouldn't be as rewarding. You have to remember too, first and foremost, romance publishing is a business. We're talking billion, not million, yup, with the 'b' dollar business. You, and it's the same for your publisher, editor, etc., they want to put out the very best story that is possible.
Anyway, back to panicking. It's ok to feel confused and whatnot. Walk away for a day or two, don't touch your ms during that time. Let things process in your head, let it settle. Take a deep breath, have a cup of tea, take a long walk, go to the movies.. whatever you do that helps to unwind from a stressful day or week. Then, when you're back to 'writing mode' pull the ms back out and start at the very beginning, the first editor marked note. Read it, read it again if you need to, and go from there.
What you don't want to do is take all of this personally. Your editor is not trying to change your story into hers. She's not putting up wall after wall for you to climb, only to tumble back down the damn thing and climb it a few more times, until you seriously don't know what you're feeling at this point. Several rounds of edits may make you upset, yes, but letting your editor 'have it' or telling her off isn't going to help either. Totally the opposite to be honest.
For now, let's assume you've only met online and don't know her personally. This is the time to act professional, in fact, way before this point, but for this post we'll start within the time frame. Anyway.. She's on your side. Her name is behind it as well as the publishers, and yours on the cover. The time and place to not have a thick skin is not now, and certainly not with her. You can always vent to your sister, your best friend, your who ever, though it probably won't make you feel any better in the end. Try your best to understand why she's asking for the change/s, if you're not sure, ask her. Now, by no means am I suggesting to send an email for every question. Condense it and try to ask all that you can, within reason, in one email.
There may be a spot though that you'd rather not make the suggested change, that's okay, too. The next time you talk to your editor, explain why you feel the way you do about that particular part. And who knows, by talking it through, the two of you may come up with a different and better outcome that neither of you thought of before you talked. :)
The truth is, it is not often a story does not need to go through editing before it's ready to be released. But if you take it all in stride, step by step, as it's presented to you, it may not feel so overwhelming. And may be easier to get through every round of edits that are needed before it's ready for its release!
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Friday, January 27, 2017
Just keep writing! :)
Good Friday morning! The weekend is upon us so this will be a short but important writing-wise post.
Writing, writing and more writing. The more you can sit behind the desk, on the sofa with a pen and pad, however you do it when you write.. a lot happens. Over time, you'll find your mistakes more easily, you'll etch out a regular time period to actually write, and you'll hone your skills as a writer. If you ask many authors they'll tell you one of the biggies as far as writing goes is actually the writing part.
Try to get yourself on a schedule and stick to it as best as you can. I know, these days it's fairly hard to get a few minutes to yourself, let alone do something you actually wanna do. But, maybe if you think of this as a business, a job, if you will. If you only have twenty minutes while dinner is baking in the oven, than snag that time and write. If you have an extra break at work or lunch; if you can eat and write at the same time, try a few minutes to do so. Some write everyday. A few pages, a chapter, one page. The point is, they are writing and writing frequently. It may not be at an exact scheduled time, but they know that's what they want to do and they find the time to write, even if it's sitting in the car waiting for the kiddo's to get of out school.
Here's the thing.. every sentence gets you that much closer to the end of your story. And even if you can't jot down a few paragraphs, if you only have time to make a couple of notes on where you're going when you're able to get back to your story.. it all adds up, and you'll be amazed at the end of a week how much you've written, compared to before you tried this tidbit.
I guess what I'm saying is, it really doesn't matter how or the time of day/night that you can sneak off and grab a handful of minutes.. grab them! Write those thoughts down before they are gone and when you've run out of time, that's ok. You can add more when your next writing time comes around.
For me, I write best at night. When all is quiet, for the most part, and my writing goal is no less than 5 pages. Most of the time I'm able to meet that goal, sometimes though, it doesn't happen. But, I don't kick myself in the butt. I just put everything away for the night and get back on track tomorrow.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Writing, writing and more writing. The more you can sit behind the desk, on the sofa with a pen and pad, however you do it when you write.. a lot happens. Over time, you'll find your mistakes more easily, you'll etch out a regular time period to actually write, and you'll hone your skills as a writer. If you ask many authors they'll tell you one of the biggies as far as writing goes is actually the writing part.
Try to get yourself on a schedule and stick to it as best as you can. I know, these days it's fairly hard to get a few minutes to yourself, let alone do something you actually wanna do. But, maybe if you think of this as a business, a job, if you will. If you only have twenty minutes while dinner is baking in the oven, than snag that time and write. If you have an extra break at work or lunch; if you can eat and write at the same time, try a few minutes to do so. Some write everyday. A few pages, a chapter, one page. The point is, they are writing and writing frequently. It may not be at an exact scheduled time, but they know that's what they want to do and they find the time to write, even if it's sitting in the car waiting for the kiddo's to get of out school.
Here's the thing.. every sentence gets you that much closer to the end of your story. And even if you can't jot down a few paragraphs, if you only have time to make a couple of notes on where you're going when you're able to get back to your story.. it all adds up, and you'll be amazed at the end of a week how much you've written, compared to before you tried this tidbit.
I guess what I'm saying is, it really doesn't matter how or the time of day/night that you can sneak off and grab a handful of minutes.. grab them! Write those thoughts down before they are gone and when you've run out of time, that's ok. You can add more when your next writing time comes around.
For me, I write best at night. When all is quiet, for the most part, and my writing goal is no less than 5 pages. Most of the time I'm able to meet that goal, sometimes though, it doesn't happen. But, I don't kick myself in the butt. I just put everything away for the night and get back on track tomorrow.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Sunday, January 15, 2017
Not really sure where to start your story?
Good morning!
I'm sorry about not posting every day. My goal was to, but to be honest, it's been a little difficult over the past week or so to keep up that pace. Hopefully, though, I'll be able to be back to normal daily postings. In the meantime, I'll post a few times a week at the very least. Sorry again for the inconvenience.
Today's topic.. we're gonna keep within romances. I've been asked and have read countless times about writers not knowing exactly where to start their story. It's a tricky question because without actually reading what a person has written it's hard to pinpoint. So, I'm gonna play it safe with a reply to this question.
When in doubt, start with an action scene, or as close to an action scene as you can. You want to introduce at least one of your characters as quickly as possible. Have them doing something.. exciting, mysterious, etc. Then go from there. In my wip's I try my very best to jump right in a scene/chapter, usually using my heroine, and about half way through I'll start writing my hero's pov.. but before then, I've placed my hero on good ground as well. I'm not just talking about 'here he is, this is him'. The way I try to write a chapter, is I try to do half of a chap from the heroine's pov, and the other is the hero's pov.
Now, I'm not suggesting you count the pages of a chapter and cut it in half and use one for each of your main characters, though you can if you want because it's your story. What I'm saying, I hope, is that when you're introducing your characters, it has to feel real, natural, so it's not about how many pages you write using a certain point of view. It's about how the character's interact within the scene you're writing.
Saying this though, try your best not to head-hop. You can have both your main's on the same page, or several pages in, just try to stick to using one point of view and then switch to the other, after you've finished with that particular part in the story.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
I'm sorry about not posting every day. My goal was to, but to be honest, it's been a little difficult over the past week or so to keep up that pace. Hopefully, though, I'll be able to be back to normal daily postings. In the meantime, I'll post a few times a week at the very least. Sorry again for the inconvenience.
Today's topic.. we're gonna keep within romances. I've been asked and have read countless times about writers not knowing exactly where to start their story. It's a tricky question because without actually reading what a person has written it's hard to pinpoint. So, I'm gonna play it safe with a reply to this question.
When in doubt, start with an action scene, or as close to an action scene as you can. You want to introduce at least one of your characters as quickly as possible. Have them doing something.. exciting, mysterious, etc. Then go from there. In my wip's I try my very best to jump right in a scene/chapter, usually using my heroine, and about half way through I'll start writing my hero's pov.. but before then, I've placed my hero on good ground as well. I'm not just talking about 'here he is, this is him'. The way I try to write a chapter, is I try to do half of a chap from the heroine's pov, and the other is the hero's pov.
Now, I'm not suggesting you count the pages of a chapter and cut it in half and use one for each of your main characters, though you can if you want because it's your story. What I'm saying, I hope, is that when you're introducing your characters, it has to feel real, natural, so it's not about how many pages you write using a certain point of view. It's about how the character's interact within the scene you're writing.
Saying this though, try your best not to head-hop. You can have both your main's on the same page, or several pages in, just try to stick to using one point of view and then switch to the other, after you've finished with that particular part in the story.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Monday, January 9, 2017
Let's talk about queries!
Good Monday morning! I'm sorry I haven't posted in a few days, I've been sick with I think the flu, but now hopefully it's finally finished and I'll be back to my normal postings, lol ;)
Query letters.. a lot of publishers and agents do ask for a query letter first. Some though do want a query, synopsis and the first chapter, so please be sure to check the guidelines of the publisher or agent you are targeting to see exactly what they want before you send out. We're going to start with just the bare basics by saying a query letter is what they're looking for. So what do you include in it? How long should it be? And several other questions may pop up in your thoughts if you haven't sent many or any out yet.
I like to stick to the safe side of things when I'm not sure..only the most important info gets put into my query. But that doesn't mean that you should stick to this, that's just the way I do them when in doubt. Short and sweet so to speak and if they want more, they'll ask. The point here is getting yourself familiar with writing queries and the more you do the better you'll be at writing them.
The first part should be your information, who you are, your addy's, phone, etc. Sorta like how you start a business letter. Then I skip a few lines and address the query to the person who will be receiving it. I skip a few more lines and then introduce myself, mention if I have any published books and where they are, any awards that I have received, etc.
Then, dropping a few lines down again, this is where I would put the book info. I think of it sorta like a back cover blurb to a book but a tad bit longer. It should be about the most important happenings in the book. The characters, the main reason/s why they aren't together, etc., and finally, why/how they are together by the end of the book.
I always thank them for their time when ending the letter, but that's just me, it's your query and up to you.
So, what we have so far.. who you are, are you published (if not just skip that part), what the main points in your book are, and how they conquer it all and end up together in the end.
I know the above is a condensed version of the post, but this is where you really want to make every word count. I see it as.. this is the first impression type of thing. You know your book inside and out, you are excited about it and want to share it with the world. Take that excitement and try to capture those parts in a couple or few paragraphs. They're getting a sneak peek of your book and your voice.
If you're still having trouble another way to practice writing them..try thinking of it as a trailer of a movie when you're breaking down a query, and then add from there.
I hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Query letters.. a lot of publishers and agents do ask for a query letter first. Some though do want a query, synopsis and the first chapter, so please be sure to check the guidelines of the publisher or agent you are targeting to see exactly what they want before you send out. We're going to start with just the bare basics by saying a query letter is what they're looking for. So what do you include in it? How long should it be? And several other questions may pop up in your thoughts if you haven't sent many or any out yet.
I like to stick to the safe side of things when I'm not sure..only the most important info gets put into my query. But that doesn't mean that you should stick to this, that's just the way I do them when in doubt. Short and sweet so to speak and if they want more, they'll ask. The point here is getting yourself familiar with writing queries and the more you do the better you'll be at writing them.
The first part should be your information, who you are, your addy's, phone, etc. Sorta like how you start a business letter. Then I skip a few lines and address the query to the person who will be receiving it. I skip a few more lines and then introduce myself, mention if I have any published books and where they are, any awards that I have received, etc.
Then, dropping a few lines down again, this is where I would put the book info. I think of it sorta like a back cover blurb to a book but a tad bit longer. It should be about the most important happenings in the book. The characters, the main reason/s why they aren't together, etc., and finally, why/how they are together by the end of the book.
I always thank them for their time when ending the letter, but that's just me, it's your query and up to you.
So, what we have so far.. who you are, are you published (if not just skip that part), what the main points in your book are, and how they conquer it all and end up together in the end.
I know the above is a condensed version of the post, but this is where you really want to make every word count. I see it as.. this is the first impression type of thing. You know your book inside and out, you are excited about it and want to share it with the world. Take that excitement and try to capture those parts in a couple or few paragraphs. They're getting a sneak peek of your book and your voice.
If you're still having trouble another way to practice writing them..try thinking of it as a trailer of a movie when you're breaking down a query, and then add from there.
I hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
Monday, January 2, 2017
Let's talk about pirates!
Happy New Year for those who celebrated!
We've talked a lot about what to look for during editing over the past couple of weeks, so I thought to bring in the New Year, let's talk about... pirates! Before I get into some details, if you're looking for more, SIU ALOT ALOT is a writer's resource; where reference and research mingle. Book 1, coming soon! And explores pirates as well as a couple other time periods, tidbits, and writing topics with examples. Okay, enough of the shameless plug, let's get down to it and start it off with two very famous female pirates!
A quick note though before we get into the nitty gritty so to speak, please double check your facts you include in your story if you go off the beaten path of things. I realize you are more than likely following this blog because you're writing fiction, and there is way more freedom when creating your characters and their worlds, but do know, if you're writing in a specific time period, your readers chose that book/period because they really enjoy it and they know a lot of facts. And though you're writing fiction, you should stay close to some of the details that are well known... but you still have a lot of blank pages to create your own spin on it. :) Anne Bonny and Mary Read, if you have chosen them to base your heroine characters on, you should do more research than I'm touching on in this blog post.
Books based on strong females; well, these two fill the bill to a 't'. The more accurate details to layer in your story the more your reader will not only recognize, but also appreciate your knowledge of your characters and time period. But, do know though, when enough is enough; don't bog your story too far down with history details that it reads as a lesson or essay ;)
Anne and Mary were female buccaneers who led/turned into living a full pirate life. Though a short period of time, they sailed with Captain 'Calico' Rackam in the Caribbean, and fought beside their shipmates. At first Mary was dressed as a male pirate. Jack was in love with Anne Bonny and if I'm not mistaken, didn't trust her friend for a period of time. But, and again, if I'm not mistaken, it was in the course of a heated argument, Mary's disguise was uncovered.
In early 1700's, Calico Jack and his crew were captured, brought to trail and sentenced to death. At the time of the sentencing, both Anne and Mary were pregnant. The court allowed their sentence to be deferred until after the birth of their children. Mary Read died in prison. Anne Bonny gave birth and was set free. It is rumored though that her father was very important and of great wealth and paid a handsome fee for her safe return home.
Male pirate tidbits perhaps to base your hero's story on..the entire crew democratically elected a pirate's captain, but this was not a lifelong title. Captains could be removed during a voyage simply for not performing at the level that was expected of them or for over-stepping their bounds of authority. A pirate captain had absolute command when pursuing a vessel or in military engagement, otherwise he was treated as an additional member of the crew.
Bodies of people needed some type of structure and since pirates were at best, outlaws, they did not follow a government. But that did not mean they were unruly. They wanted leadership by example, not by status and hierarchy. So, before each setting off for a new voyage or when electing a new captain, compacts were drawn up. Basically, these were guidelines on how the ship will function. And under these agreements were allocations of authority, distribution of plunder, rations and discipline enforcement.
Booty aka treasures... A pewter charger or plate was a large platter that was placed under a dinner plate and used usually only at formal meals. The charger, more than likely, wasn't normally used aboard a ship, making us think it was stolen and put in their treasures collection as well as other expensive pewter tableware.
A few tidbits are below, to round out this post on pirates, so you should have a little of this and that to at least jot down bones for an outline, and let your muse fill in the rest as you go along! Again, if you're looking for longer/more details, be sure to pick up a copy of SIU when it's available, it has lots more info than what I'm posting here!
Braids and ribbons were used to adorn various elements of pirate clothing, but were also used to braid a pirate beard or hair. Black Beard was famous for tying black braids to his beard and hair and infamous for sticking lighted matches under his hat on either side of his face to terrify his enemies.
Gold hoop earrings were a sign of wealth but also, many pirates believed that if they wore the earrings it would ease seasickness because they put pressure on the earlobes.
The material for clothing used for a captain when on land/shore usually were more flamboyant and pricey. Taffeta, velvet, silk, damask, and feathers, especially those of exotic nature were favored, to name a few. Also, because a pirate usually didn't bat a lash towards rules, especially of any government; they did not abide by the Elizabethan Sumptuary Laws. And their colors of fabric varied greatly from crimson, deep blue, purple, violet; essentially any colors that were set aside and only to be worn by the Upper Classes.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
We've talked a lot about what to look for during editing over the past couple of weeks, so I thought to bring in the New Year, let's talk about... pirates! Before I get into some details, if you're looking for more, SIU ALOT ALOT is a writer's resource; where reference and research mingle. Book 1, coming soon! And explores pirates as well as a couple other time periods, tidbits, and writing topics with examples. Okay, enough of the shameless plug, let's get down to it and start it off with two very famous female pirates!
A quick note though before we get into the nitty gritty so to speak, please double check your facts you include in your story if you go off the beaten path of things. I realize you are more than likely following this blog because you're writing fiction, and there is way more freedom when creating your characters and their worlds, but do know, if you're writing in a specific time period, your readers chose that book/period because they really enjoy it and they know a lot of facts. And though you're writing fiction, you should stay close to some of the details that are well known... but you still have a lot of blank pages to create your own spin on it. :) Anne Bonny and Mary Read, if you have chosen them to base your heroine characters on, you should do more research than I'm touching on in this blog post.
Books based on strong females; well, these two fill the bill to a 't'. The more accurate details to layer in your story the more your reader will not only recognize, but also appreciate your knowledge of your characters and time period. But, do know though, when enough is enough; don't bog your story too far down with history details that it reads as a lesson or essay ;)
Anne and Mary were female buccaneers who led/turned into living a full pirate life. Though a short period of time, they sailed with Captain 'Calico' Rackam in the Caribbean, and fought beside their shipmates. At first Mary was dressed as a male pirate. Jack was in love with Anne Bonny and if I'm not mistaken, didn't trust her friend for a period of time. But, and again, if I'm not mistaken, it was in the course of a heated argument, Mary's disguise was uncovered.
In early 1700's, Calico Jack and his crew were captured, brought to trail and sentenced to death. At the time of the sentencing, both Anne and Mary were pregnant. The court allowed their sentence to be deferred until after the birth of their children. Mary Read died in prison. Anne Bonny gave birth and was set free. It is rumored though that her father was very important and of great wealth and paid a handsome fee for her safe return home.
Male pirate tidbits perhaps to base your hero's story on..the entire crew democratically elected a pirate's captain, but this was not a lifelong title. Captains could be removed during a voyage simply for not performing at the level that was expected of them or for over-stepping their bounds of authority. A pirate captain had absolute command when pursuing a vessel or in military engagement, otherwise he was treated as an additional member of the crew.
Bodies of people needed some type of structure and since pirates were at best, outlaws, they did not follow a government. But that did not mean they were unruly. They wanted leadership by example, not by status and hierarchy. So, before each setting off for a new voyage or when electing a new captain, compacts were drawn up. Basically, these were guidelines on how the ship will function. And under these agreements were allocations of authority, distribution of plunder, rations and discipline enforcement.
Booty aka treasures... A pewter charger or plate was a large platter that was placed under a dinner plate and used usually only at formal meals. The charger, more than likely, wasn't normally used aboard a ship, making us think it was stolen and put in their treasures collection as well as other expensive pewter tableware.
A few tidbits are below, to round out this post on pirates, so you should have a little of this and that to at least jot down bones for an outline, and let your muse fill in the rest as you go along! Again, if you're looking for longer/more details, be sure to pick up a copy of SIU when it's available, it has lots more info than what I'm posting here!
Braids and ribbons were used to adorn various elements of pirate clothing, but were also used to braid a pirate beard or hair. Black Beard was famous for tying black braids to his beard and hair and infamous for sticking lighted matches under his hat on either side of his face to terrify his enemies.
Gold hoop earrings were a sign of wealth but also, many pirates believed that if they wore the earrings it would ease seasickness because they put pressure on the earlobes.
The material for clothing used for a captain when on land/shore usually were more flamboyant and pricey. Taffeta, velvet, silk, damask, and feathers, especially those of exotic nature were favored, to name a few. Also, because a pirate usually didn't bat a lash towards rules, especially of any government; they did not abide by the Elizabethan Sumptuary Laws. And their colors of fabric varied greatly from crimson, deep blue, purple, violet; essentially any colors that were set aside and only to be worn by the Upper Classes.
Hope this helps :) Happy Writing!
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