The Writing Process Blog Hop

The Writing Process

(Connie gets to blog hop. Yay!)

One of my besties (and co-board member), Carmen Bydalek @ the GothRom RWA tagged me to participate in this month’s event.

1.     What am I working on right now?

I work on multiple projects at once.  Is this a good thing?  Probably not—but I do it anyway.  I’m finishing up the last Act in my novella, Here Today, Zombie Tomorrow and I’m half-way through my anthology: Gumbo Ya Ya (for who like romance Cajun & men HOT & SPICY). And I’m outlining Rand, Book 3 in my Rodeo Romance Series.

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 1^st person.  The novel is complex; not only a coming-of-age but 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. She is kidnapped, held hostage, and escapes. Taken to a Native American boarding school, she learns a new language, skills, and encounters prejudice but also kindness.  Later, she must make a very difficult choice.  Her decision will impact 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, but the subject matter is not light, however, it is historical accurate.

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).  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.  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 1^st person: ChickLit meets the Wild West and goes Hollywood. Lights, Camera, and a boot-full of Action! I am having, fun, fun with this novel!

My stories are different, because I am different.  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; I have been involved in Native America culture and education programs; my husband is a Louisiana country boy; and, finally, I live in SoCal—of course I have met several Hollywood television stars (and facilitated workshops), actors are often spotted at local SoCal tourist spots, and preform in local theater.

3.    Why do I write what I do?

The story calls to me, it is really 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).  At the moment, I’m listening to Zydeco music and I have gumbo in my crockpot.  He’s complaining (only half kiddingly) that I brought bayou weather to our house (92 degrees, 50% humidity with full cloud cover and rain at 3PM).  I am compelled to complete the story.  Native American culture says, “The story comes to the Story Teller to bring it to life.”  And this is what I, as are all writers, tellers of stories.

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, I have writer friend (usually Geeta Kakade) read my novel. She will give her opinion and suggestions—which I may, or may not follow.  Writing, after all, is subjective—as is a reader’s preference for one novel over another. 

To read the first chapter teasers or to purchase one (or all J) of my novels please follow this link:  http://www.amazon.com/Connie-Vines/e/B004C7W6PE

Or visit my website: www.novelsbyconnievines.com 

Remember to watch my book trailers!

Thank you for stopping by.

TAG!  Next on the Blog Hop:  C. G. Williams  

Connie Vines

Round Robin Blog for December 2013. Topic: What Have I Learned From Writing?

This month’s topic: What have I learned from writing?  And what are my goals for 2014 and further into the future?

I believe by writing I have learned more about myself.  This is especially true when I write fiction.  Just as I learn much of the inner workings of the authors I read, people will be learning about me (which is rather an uncomfortable feeling) when my thoughts are put onto paper or screen.  Of course, this is not one hundred percent the case all of the time.  However, just like an actor, my writings are filtered though my points of reference and life experiences, and this is what, I believe, makes up a writers’ ‘voice’.  Therefore, morals, ethics, and thoughts are exposed for all to see.  This gives me a unique way to focus in and draw upon my emotions/experiences, which helps me intensify an emotional scene.  Yet it also gives me an opportunity to go to the opposite end of the spectrum and develop a character with an entirely different point of reference and, therefore, a very different motivational focus. 

I have, or I should say: I am still learning to budget my time.  Not only do I have a full time job but also like everyone else, I have family obligations and commitments.  Once you are a writer, you are always exceptionally busy.  I actively serve as a board member for a writer’s group; I judge writing contests at local, national, and international levels.  I meeting monthly with another writer to brainstorm, I guest blog, well you get the picture. . .and I write. Constantly. I have a Sony recorder, a voice app on my iPad and iPhone—which I seldom employ.  Why?  Because the act of putting pen to paper activates the brain into a free-flow mode.  I scribble in notebooks, scraps of paper, index cards that I toss in a basket on my desk.  Then when I’m ready to plot my novel, I sort, paper clip into some semblance of order, and get down to the business of writing.

What are my goals for 2014 and beyond?

My Zombie novella is almost complete.  My Zombie stories are minus blood and gore (think: “Warm Bodies” with a focus on ‘warm and fuzzy’).

I currently have an anthology in the works.  One of the stories has a television production focus.  I had a wonderful time conducting fieldwork.  Living in southern California, Hollywood, Disneyland, Universal Studios and Sea World are within easy driving distance.  I am also blessed with friends in the industry,  who were kind enough to answers my questions.

I have a YA/Tween series and an audio novel in the works for this upcoming year.  I plan to enjoy life  and continue to develop my craft as a writer.  Why do I write--because it is so much fun.  When I am not writing, as my family knows, I am miserable (or at the very least, cranky).

Connie Vines

A big “thank you” goes out to Robin for including me in this month’s blog.

http://www.rhobinleecourtright.com/

Enjoying Your Summer Staycation

 

Vacation dollars do not always extend to the costs of airline tickets, rental cars, or even daily refills for the gas tank-- especially if you have a large or blended family.  Don't despair!  Travel agencies, fugal friends gave me ideas, and I've included ventures of my own.

"it's all about attitude, says Teresa Mears editor-in-chief of LivingontheCheap.com.  "If you treat a Staycation as a true vacation, then it will feel like one."  No chores, no errands, no work.  Let the office know you are off.  Take photos and treasure the time you have together.  

Plan ahead.  Make a list of attractions, events and festivals.  I enjoy local and small theater.  Give every family member a chance to select something.  Living in SoCal, we can drive to San Diego in less than two hours.  The morning can be spent at Mission Bay where we enjoy a picnic lunch.  Sea World and the San Diego Zoo offer discount tickets online or via media promos.  A walk around Old Town is no/ low coat with numerous restaurants or street fare.  

A trek in to L.A. Is low cost via the Metrolink weekend pass.  Universal City Walk is free (the park charges admission.  If you pack a thermos of coffee, bottled water and snacks, the family can window shop, celebrity hunt, and experience L.A.

Orange County offers Dosneyland and Knotts Berry Farm-- both of which have areas to walk, eat, shop and just soak up the sunshine and atmosphere without entrance fees ( free!).

 

History buffs can always locate an adventure.  Locally, there is Route 66.  This a vertical treasure of ways to spend your vacation:  movie Stars of old stayed, traveled and ate at local establishments. (Sycamore Inn was mobster's fav place to dine when at his Etawanda hideout, the Black Dalia's last meal was consumed there).  While The Magic Lamp hosted The Rat Pack, Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe.

Local libraries have events: Coffee Tasting and paring ( like a wine tasting event), story time and movie night, craft classes and the summer reading program.  

Remember to snag local hotel deals.  Many hotels offer Staycation deals for locals. Call the hotel the day you want to go ans ask for the manager's dis punt or offers.  Don't forget to check AAA or AARP.