Fragrance and Love can never be hidden.: #Lynx

Sunday, July 03, 2016

Software Programs for Writers # Sunday Snips & Stuff

As everyone knows I like to use software programs and social media.

I was reading my friend, Beverly Bateman's, latest blog topic titled Writers Software Programs (Blogging with Beverly on Blog.spot) when I realized this was a very interesting topic.

I also began to wonder exactly how many programs I used when writing, plotting my novels, stories, etc. I feel the content would be of interest to writer, readers, and those who man be looking for a program help them make it though the rigors of a AP, university level, or an extension class.

My go to program is Power Structure purchased via Write-Brain.com. Since I work in segments: Chapter 1 - 3, etc. rather than scene by scene or chapter by chapter, this program is adaptable to my thought process. I am able to work in three Acts, Chapters, Scenes, or any structure model of preference.

Conflict, Subplot, plot point, You can also change almost any term used in Power Structure to suit your personal preference. I attended a class by Chris Vogler, a Hollywood screen writer, who uses Joseph Campbell's "A Hero's Journey" as a plotting bible. Since I have followed Joseph Campbell's works and find the "A Hero's Journey" the best way for me to write a story (with the look of 3 x 5 cards when I feel like experiencing a flashback to my freelance magazine days).

Beverly also mentioned Dramatica Pro. Pricey, yes. I believe for characterization, especially for detailed historical novels, or when writing a continuing series, this program was a good investment.
This program allows you to work on levels for character development. If you so wish, you may print a StoryGuide at each stage of development. This program also has a number of templates to choose fro, e.g., screenplay, novel, short story. Each comes with an appropriate number of archetypal characters already created, ensuring that each character has a clear dramatic function in the story.

There is also a Plot Progression Window which lets me examine where to place a pivotal point. There is also a Spin-the-Model Brainstorming option. This helps when, heaven forbid, you have writer's block--and much, much less painful than pounding your forehead on your desk until your muse comes up with a plan.

On my iPad I have several program: My Writing (which I seldom open), A Novel Idea (where I have grains of thoughts/names of future novels) this takes the place of scribbles from my lip liner on discarded pieces of paper I'd find in the depths of my tote bag. I Do Notepad & I Do Notepad Pro which I will use but it have a devil of a time retrieving what I have saved.

The Journal app is good for free-flowing thought/plotting etc. and also for using as a writer's journal. You can create labels, change the font and even add a background picture. This is were I many place the notes from my character interviews.

For more information about by novels, or to purchase my novels, please click on the bookcover, or links at the top of my blog.

Please visit the other authors in this weeks' Sunday Snip & Stuff.

https://www.amazon.com/Brede-Rodeo-Romance-Book-2-ebook/dp/B00DRPHILY?ie=UTF8&keywords=Connie%20vines&qid=1465100492&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1

Happy Reading,

Connie Vines

http://www.triciamg.blogspot.com (Tricia McGill)
http://mizging.blogspot.com (Ginger Simpson)
http://yesterrdayrevisitedhere.blogspot.com/ (Janet Waldon)

Saturday, May 21, 2016

Confrontations Creates Drama #Round Robin #5/21/16

This month's topic: Confrontation creates powerful drama. This month I am posting one scene that I've written that shows confrontation between characters in one of my novels.

Welcome everyone, and thank you Rhobin, this writing topic.

This scene in from "Lynx" Rodeo Romance.

There was an undercurrent of Lynx's statement that made Rachel feel like a branding iron was placed on her body. "You told your mother about Carson, didn't you?"

Lynx frowned at her. "Of course I did. Dad had already made the connection."

Rachel wrapped her arms around herself to still her trembling and stepped away from Lynx. Betrayal vibrated through Rachel's body and her voice shook with anger. "How could you? You told them without even asking me if it was okay? What else do they know?" she demanded.

"That this is important to me, that you're beautiful and sassy and--"

A bitter, sour note left Rachel's throat. She felt lightheaded and angry--angrier than she'd ever been in her life. "So everyone's putting on a good show for the poor, unwanted rodeo orphan, is that it Lynx? If you're really lucky, one of your father's friends will tell everyone about Carson's drinking binges. Should we talk about that at the barbecue, too?"

"Or how about the time Lauren left me wandering the streets of Lordsburg, New Mexico, and Child Protective Services had to pick me up? How would that be for meal time conversation?"

This scene is the dark moment in my contemporary romance novel. This is the scene where Rachel Scott must confront the man she loves, Lynx Maddox, with what she preserves as his betrayal.

Please follow the links and to these talented author blogs!