Flash Back
The Writing Process
1. What am I working on right now?
I
work on multiple projects at once. Is
this a good thing? Probably not—but
rebel that I am, I do it anyway. I’m
finishing up the Second Act in my novella, Bell,
Book, and Gargoyle and I’m three quarters through my anthology: Gumbo Ya Ya (an anthology for woman who
like romance Cajun). While all this is going on, Rand, Book 3 in my Rodeo
Romance Series in bumping around in my head. And Book 4, Crystal Thunder, in my Rodeo Romance Series is being plotted in my Dramatica Pro a thought at a time.
2. How does my work differ from others in the
genre?
I
write in multiple genres and each of genres have a different “tone and
focus”—in other words, a different ‘voice’.
My YA novel, Whisper upon the Water (Dream Award Winner, Nat’l Book Award
nominee), is told in the 1st person.
The novel is complex; not only a coming-of-age but also a transformation
of society as a whole (Tay is Apache, Nde).
My heroine begins as a girl on the verge of womanhood, a member of her band, speaking
her native tongue. Kidnapped, held
hostage, and manages to escape. Taken to a Native American boarding school, Tay
learns a new language, skills, and encounters prejudice but also experiences kindness. Later, she must make a very difficult
choice. Her decision will influence her
life, as well as the lives of others.
The novel is written for YA level and is reading selection for the
G.A.T.E. program in numerous SoCal schools, and was selected as a “Teen Read”
at libraries at the time of its release. My novel is being read by 7th grade students at an IB school this trimester, and student feedback is great!
In
my Rodeo Romance Series: Lynx, Book 1, is a contemporary
western romance and set in Montana and Texas. This book is lively. Rachel is spirited and Lynx is hot and
sexy—but both have had hardships in life.
My secondary characters add elements of comedy and unexpected plot
twists. (Winner of the Award of Excellence, Finalist: H.O.L.T. Medallion,
Orange Rose and Rocky Mt. Gold contests).
Brede, Book 2, is a western romantic suspense, set in New
Mexico. Since the novel is romantic
suspense, I do not wish create a spoiler in this blog post. I will say everyone one loves old Caldwell,
the ornery old cook, and his cohorts.
Brede is strong-willed and caring; Amberlynn is beautiful and in mortal
danger. Rand, Book 3, is told in
the 1st person: ChickLit meets the Wild West and goes straight to Hollywood.
Lights, Camera, and a boot-full of Action! I am having, fun, fun with this
novel!
Crystal Thunder, Book 4, has a more serious tone and is set in the Dakotas.
Crystal Thunder, Book 4, has a more serious tone and is set in the Dakotas.
My
stories are diverse, because, like most of us my life experiences are unique.
My
stories take place in places I have lived, or where I have vacationed. I know my
subject matter. My father rodeoed while
in high school in Texas. I grew up in a career military family and my childhood
was nomadic. I have been involved in
Native America culture and educational programs. My husband is a Louisiana
country boy. I now live in SoCal—where, of
course, I have met Hollywood television stars and facilitated workshops.
3. Why do I write what I do?
The
story calls to me, it is that simple. I
have a feeling of time and place. Then I
begin hearing snatches of dialogue (like when you are sitting in a coffee shop
and you over hear snippets of conversation).
The story invades my life (well it does, just ask my husband). Today, I’m listening to Zydeco music and I
have gumbo in my crockpot. I am
compelled to complete the story. Native
American culture says, “The story comes to the Storyteller. The Storyteller must bring it to life.”
4. How does my writing process work?
For
short stories, novellas and anthologies, I utilize the basic W-plot with extra
twists and pivotal points. When I am
writing a novel, or a novel series, I plot in acts and work with three chapters
at a time (1-3, 4-6, etc.). With the
exception of short stories, I compile detailed backgrounds, motivation, and
personality traits. I also conduct interviews, research, and immerse myself in
the ‘culture/environment’ I am creating.
It is then I begin the first draft of my novel. This will change as my characters begin to
take over the book. Any writer will agree
with me, under no circumstances can you force you characters to act against
his/her will. You can, however, place
huge obstacles in the way and see what happens.
Is
my first draft perfect? No. Is my third
draft publishable? It’s probably close. At
this point in the writing process, if I have any bumpy spots, I’ll have writer
friend look over those pages. She will give her opinion and suggestions—that I
may, or may not follow (though I always give the input careful consideration). Writing, after all, is subjective—as is a
reader’s preference for one novel over another.
To
read the first chapter teasers of my novels please follow this link: http://www.amazon.com/Connie-Vines/e/B004C7W6PE
My Book Trailer to Brede, Rodeo Romance Book 2
Thank
you for stopping by. I hope you have stop by next week at Dishin’ It Out out to read my next blog
post.
Happy Reading,
Happy Reading,
Connie Vines
