I recently received a message from a fan asking about my writing process, so I decided to divulge a closely kept secret and reveal the truth behind how I write a book.
Fine, it’s not really a secret, but it sounds cooler that way, right?
Getting started: When I started writing my first novel six years ago, my only goal was to finish a book. I’d been trying to write a book for years, but always got stuck halfway through and gave up. I knew a detailed outline was important–and probably crucial–if I actually wanted to finish the book. So I sat down and typed an 11 page outline. I knew what was going to happen from beginning to end. And guess what? That was the first book I actually finished.
Unfortunately, I learned there is way more to writing a book than finishing it, and so began my journey to becoming a better writer. I read tons of books on writing that were tremendously helpful. I’ll talk about those in a later post. The best help I received came when I attended a five day seminar taught by author William Bernhardt.
The best advice I can give to newbie writers is this: A detailed, concise, well-plotted outline is the key to a great book. And now, here’s a sneak peek into the process I use to outline a book…
I used this notebook at the writing seminars taught by William Bernhardt. I saved ALL my notes and still use them. I pull my notebook out every time I start a new book. It’s got all my cheat sheets. No peeking!Fine, here’s a sneak peek inside my super secret notebook. This is THE outline I use before I even attempt to write another book. Yes, I’ve used it for every one of my Fairy World MD books.I hand write my outlines and then type them. The story line always changes from one draft to the next, and then changes again in the first draft. As long as I stick to the main plot points, I don’t worry too much about it. I also bounce ideas off my husband at this point. He tells me if my ideas are great or lacking. Usually, he gives me the go-ahead, but every now and then I have to go back and revise. I grumble until I realize he’s actually making my books better. Sigh.And now I’ll hit you with my impressive art skills. Dude, I should have been an artist, right?! No. I’m kidding here, sarcasm intended. But I do like to draw a little. Plus, it helps me think about where I want the story to go.
I saved all my notes from Bill’s seminars as well. They are life savers. Your drawings are awesome! I don’t know that I’ll ever show my own drawings. They aren’t nearly as good.
LOL! Yeah, I like to doodle. My sister is the artist in the fam. I agree about Bill’s notes! I pull them out every time I start another book.
Thanks for telling some of your secrets!
I saved all my notes from Bill’s seminars as well. They are life savers. Your drawings are awesome! I don’t know that I’ll ever show my own drawings. They aren’t nearly as good.
LOL! Yeah, I like to doodle. My sister is the artist in the fam. I agree about Bill’s notes! I pull them out every time I start another book.