Victoria Alt

Waiting for Inspiration

2007-01-27T16:07:00.000-06:00

I'm a big believer that if you are going to write, you have to sit your butt in the chair and just write. You cannot wait for the muse to show up first. Now, saying that, I also believe that sometimes, you must let an idea brew for a while before you begin to write.

Take my latest manuscript for instance. I have had the story idea worked out and outlined for the last two months. However, I only just began writing it. The reason was that I did not yet have the voice I wanted to tell the story. Then, while lying in bed, waiting for sleep to take over, it came to me in a line, and subsequently, a title for the new work.

Being the somewhat obsessive person I am, I got out of bed and made my way to my office. Grabbing a piece of paper, I scribbled out the line and the title and left it on my desk. I now had found the voice of my story and felt ready to begin writing.

And I could begin writing. I had already mapped out the characters and conflicts they would face throughout the manuscript. The chapters were all set up and the resolutions in place. Even without the voice, I could still work out the bones and structure of my manuscript. Now with the voice firmly secured in my mind, I can incorporate it into my work and give it life.

Already today, I've written a couple thousand words and I'm still eager for more. So, in short, don't wait for inspiration to hit you before you begin to work. You may need it to begin writing but you don't need it to formulate a plan of attack once it does.

Technorati: inspiration, manuscript, romance novel, write, writing romance

Upping the Conflict

2007-01-17T12:45:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm working on the new romance manuscript, and this time, I plan to set it up in more detail before I begin. That means a general outline and lots of opportunity for conflict to arise. What I am hoping this will do is create many different sub-plots, on top of the main one, for me to use to really flesh out this story. Since my word counts tend to come up short on first drafts, I'm looking for an avenue to create more words, while still telling a good romantic tale.

In a nutshell, what follows is the general idea of the new work in progress:

When Natalie Russell's secret love affair with her boss, Brett Williams, is exposed after a tragic accident, things go from bad to worse. Natalie must learn how to handle Brett's grief, his unresolved conflicts with his ex-wife and the snide comments emitting form their co-workers. To top things off, Natalie must also deal with Brett's mother, who is hell-bent on keeping the newfound couple apart - at any cost.

Technorati: manuscript, romance, romance novel, work in progress

Read Before You Write

2007-01-10T08:04:00.000-06:00

Utmost and foremost, you must love Romance to be able to write a romance novel. Before you even begin to write romance, take the time to read many, and every kind, of romance novel that you can.

Choose from the different categories of Romance novels from historical, regency, contemporary, sweet, erotic, suspense, paranormal and so on. Choose both your favorite authors and those unknown to you. Select books from publishers you are interested in and see what kinds of works they are putting out.

It really is true - the more you read, the more you know.

Too many people think that writing Romance is easier than attempting a mainstream piece of fiction. This is not so. No longer are romances the simple stories of boy meets girl, boy loses girl but boy gets girl back in the end. You must be able to tell a story, make it interesting and have it brimming with conflict while keeping the romance at the forefront. Romance readers, depending on the genre, want to be entertained, aroused, feeling the suspense, or living in another time, but most of all, emotionally satisfied by the end. This takes work - no doubt about it.

This is from my first article published over at the Aspiring Authors blog. To read the entire article, click here.

Technorati: Aspiring Authors, authors, romance, romance novels, writing romance

Branching Out

2007-01-07T11:21:00.000-06:00

Along with writing, I am avid student of learning. I'm always on the lookout for books, classes and seminars that can help benefit my writing skills. Sometimes you can learn a lot, while at other times, you must take what applies and toss out the rest. This is the same for any advice, on whatever topic, that comes your way.

No matter what your experience level is, there is always something new we can learn. Whether it is something practical or just the 'pick me up' needed to carry on, it can all be beneficial. When you think you know everything you need to know, that's when you are in trouble.

Here are two examples of how I am branching out this year. First off, I'm going to take the 2 Year Novel writing workshop put on by Lazette Gifford. You can find the downloadable ebook link located on the left-hand side menu.

Secondly, I'm going to be a participant in the Aspiring Authors blog that will feature writing tips and hints on the road to publication for romance writers. Come on over and check it out.

Technorati: 2 Year Novel, Aspriring Authors, learn, romance writers

New Year Writing Resolutions

2007-01-03T08:40:00.000-06:00

I have never been one to make New Year's resolutions, but this year, I've decided to make a few concerning writing. Last year was the start of my ambitious road to writing novels - in particular, romance novels, and I wish to use this year to complete and submit them. So, on that note, here are my 2007 resolutions:

1. I will fully edit and polish Manuscript 1 and send it out for representation.

2. I will fully write, edit and polish Manuscript 2 this year - in hopes of having it fully completed and ready to shop out by the end of the year.

3. When in writing mode, I will adopt a closed-door policy - and allow nothing short of a fire to pull me away from the computer. The goal here - to write at least one thousand words per sitting.

Technorati: resolutions, romance novels, romance writing, writing

New Year's Schedule

2007-01-01T11:57:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to one and all!

I've decided that the New Year will bring about a new blogging schedule. Look for new posts every Wednesday and Saturday.

The rest of my writing time will be spent doing just that, writing.

Five Sleeps

2006-12-20T09:22:00.000-06:00

Christmas is just around the corner - and I finally think I'm ready. Now, all that's left is the final waiting hours, all the scrumptious food and visiting with family. Christmas is my favorite time of year - and I have to admit - I am just as excited as my children are.

Between working, gift buying, baking and visiting, I'm still trying to edit my manuscript. It's coming along well and I'm learning that my simple style of writing may be what works best for me. I guess I'll just have to wait and see if it works for my beta readers. Only time will tell, so, it's onwards until then.

Keep writing everyone - and remember - only five more sleeps!

Technorati: Christmas, editing, manuscript, writing

Off-Kilter

2006-12-15T08:15:00.000-06:00

I'm starting to develop an off-kilter blog schedule. I usually try for daily posts, but depending on the hectic nature of the day, sometimes it's not always possible. Taking on an outside job has certainly added to the chaotic schedule in my life.

I'm still editing the first manuscript - so, there's one positive. I'm also finishing a job for my home business (which I am completely closing at the end of the year). Even though I have decided to wait on the new manuscript until the New Year, I'm itching to write it. I guess I'll have to satisfy that itch with Christmas shopping this weekend.

Perhaps after this busy holiday season, I can work out a good system and schedule that works for me - and keeps me consistent.

Technorati: blog, holiday season, manuscript, schedule

The Editing Continues

2006-12-13T08:31:00.000-06:00

The editing on my first manuscript is coming along nicely. So far, I have completed two of thirteen chapters. Today, I am hoping to get through the third chapter.

Ultimately, I would have liked to have the entire manuscript edited before the end of the year. With Christmas fast approaching, I'm not sure I will keep to that schedule. However, I am hoping to send out the edited manuscript to beta readers early in the New Year. I am still in the process of selecting who these readers will be.

Choosing beta readers is not an easy task. It's always best to have betas that are impartial - usually meaning, not your family and closest friends. In this stage, you're not looking for a pat on the back, rather, input that will benefit your manuscript.

I'll keep focused on the editing for now.

Technorati: beta readers, editing, manuscript, writing life

Characters

2006-12-12T08:24:00.000-06:00

Let's talk a little more on characters.

I'm a writer who likes to get to know my characters well before I start writing. I need to picture them in my head - from what they look like to how they act in certain situations. I want to know all their likes and dislikes from their favorite activities, to their backgrounds and what makes them tick.

Once I have all that firmly set in my mind, then I can put them into extreme situations and watch them go. Usually, I think I know how they will react. Sometimes I'm wrong. Characters have a way of infusing their own will on your story.

This is where it gets tricky. Sometimes, it is better to let them exert their free will, and you as the writer, just follow them along. At other times, it's best to know when to pull the reins and drag them back. The one thing not to do is fret over your characters showing their independence. That usually means you have developed them enough into real people - and they will act accordingly.

I usually find that if my characters are just following my lead as events happen, I haven't gotten to know them well enough first. So, on that point, take some time and really get to know and understand your characters before you start writing. Many websites, books and interview techniques are out there that can help you accomplish this feat - so take advantage.

Technorati: characters, writer's life, writing

Always on the Learn

2006-12-11T19:45:00.000-06:00

Settling into the new job has been an experience. I am still in the process of learning how everything works and what I'm supposed to do. After running my own business for years, I'm in the position of re-learning - and it can be a little unsettling.

It reminds me of writing, especially when it comes to characters. As the writer, we know what our characters are supposed to do but they don't always see it that way. They too, have to find their own way through the story plot.

That means, we are always learning with every word we write. I guess, that can be a good thing. It means that it never gets stale or automated - and how can you go wrong with that.

Technorati: characters, learning, story, write, writer, writing

Red Pen

2006-12-08T08:27:00.000-06:00

It's time to break out the red pen and put it to work.

I'm not expecting work to be too busy today, so I figure, I'll print off the first two chapters of my first manuscript and bring it along. I have great bosses, who know I am a writer, and allow me to write on my laptop when there is a lull in the office.

To tell the truth, I'm strangely excited about editing it. I've had my break from it and now, I'm ready for the next phase. Not that ripping apart my work and then trying to piece it back together shall be that much fun. Fun or not though, it is necessary - and its one-step closer to the road of beta readers, final edits and then, submissions.

Technorati: editing, manuscript, red pen, write, writer

Time Excuse

2006-12-06T09:45:00.000-06:00

"Oh, you're a writer? I've always wanted to write a book, if only I had the time."

Time is the number one excuse, isn't it? In reality though, it is just that, an excuse. We're all busy. We have full lives, jobs, families and tons of other responsibilities that go along with being an adult. The lack of time cannot be your crutch for not writing, if that really is a goal you've chosen for yourself.

I have a loving man, three children, and three crazy animals that we call pets, a house to tend, and a job outside my home four days a week. With all that, I still make time to write. I have to.

Time will never just show up on your doorstep saying "here I am, make use of me". You have to make the time to write, wherever and whenever you can. If you're serious about writing, use the time needed to explain why you don't have time to write - to write!

Technorati: excuses, lack of time, write, writing life

Victoria Alt Website

2006-12-05T07:39:00.000-06:00

Well, it's up - my website, that is. It's still in the bare-bones stage but I'm hoping to have some time coming up over the weekend to work on it a bit more. The design soothes me but I'm still working on its practicality. Time will tell.

I know it's probably early to have it up and running but my mother always told me to be prepared. Plus, it further motivates me to keep writing and get those manuscript submissions in.

If you want to check it out - you can do so right HERE or use the link in the right side menu.

Technorati: author website, Victoria Alt, writing

A New Romance

2006-12-04T08:38:00.000-06:00

A new week is beginning, and with it, brings new excitement about the new manuscript. I'm still not ready to start editing the NaNo manuscript just yet. By mid-month, I suspect I might be ready to pull it out and start. Until then though, I'll keep writing on the new one.

I have the new manuscript (WIP 2) outlined and the first chapter is well under way. I've had the idea for this novel brewing in my head for a year and a half. Now, seems like the right time to tell the story.

I must admit, this one makes me nervous. While it is still a love story, there is more going on in it, along with symbolism and such that will take some effort to employ. Or, it could be that these characters are special to me and I really want to do them justice.

Even though I go into this Work in Progress with some trepidation, the excitement of finally telling the story wins out. And that's exactly why I write - that burning desire to tell a story.

Technorati: love story, manuscript, NaNo, WIP, work in progress, write

My NaNoWriMo Experience

2006-12-02T09:58:00.000-06:00

Now that the frenzy of November - and NaNoWriMo - is over, it's time to decompress and put in perspective the month that was.

First off, as stated, I did not hit the fifty thousand word mark. However, I did write to the end of my novel. In the flurry that was the word count, I found myself just telling the story, without inputting a lot of character description or plot motivation. Now though, I can go back and add these in (at a leisurely pace) while I do the first edit. This should up my word count to the area I am striving.

The experience, on a whole, was a good one. It does not correspond well to the way I write, but I found benefit in it nonetheless. Will I be back to do it again next year? - You bet, although I will have a different plan.

To all those that finished and hit the fifty thousand word count, a big congratulations to you all. To all those that attempted, and failed, I hope the experience was a good one.

Although I did not win, I have a great manuscript in progress - and one I hope to have fully completed in the New Year.

Technorati: manuscript, NaNoWriMo, word count, write

Final NaNo Tally

2006-11-30T23:10:00.000-06:00

As I figured, my NaNo manuscript reached its end before the 50 000 word mark. So, we have a final tally of 42 384.

I plan to let this manuscript rest in a desk drawer for a couple of weeks while I take a break from the story. Then, it will be time to pull it out and start editing. There is still a lot of places to add, flesh out characters, build the plotline, etc - and thus, should get me to the word count I am looking for (50 000 - 55 000 words).

So, for the next couple of weeks, I'll be taking some time to catch up on stuff that got put aside - and I've already started writing on my next manuscript.

More about my NaNo experience tomorrow.

Congrats to all who made it - whether they reached the 50 000 word mark or their own personal goal.

Technorati: manuscript, NaNo, word count

Deciphering the Mess

2006-11-29T08:24:00.000-06:00

When writing freehand (on paper), as was necessary if I'm to get to 50 000 words by the end of tomorrow, I've learned a valuable lesson. What is said lesson? To sum it up simply, make sure your handwriting is legible.

I have pages and pages in front of me, and while the first few are quite easy to follow, the ones nearing the middle and end need a decipherer. Now, that is bad when you can't even make out your own handwriting.

However, I will decode this nonsense then continue with a full day of writing today. Thankfully, I will do all today's writing on the computer - thus, I should have no trouble reading what I've written.

Technorati: handwriting, writing, writing life

The Race is On

2006-11-27T20:40:00.000-06:00

Tonight, my focus will be putting words down on paper and getting some writing done on my NaNo novel.

The keyboard will be on fire - so, full steam ahead.

Write and See

2006-11-24T08:42:00.000-06:00

By the end of the weekend, I should be at a word count of 43 000 words plus. I've worked out my remaining chapters, and in keeping with my writing style, I figure my story will be told by word 43 000.

That means I will have to find a way to incorporate another seven thousand words into my manuscript. There are areas where I can flesh out the characters more and add more depth into a few scenes, but I'm not sure there are seven thousand words there.

I hate to add to the story just to up the word count. Either I will have to incorporate another character or sub-plot. The problem will be adding one that still moves the story along without changing the outcome. I also want it to make sense. I don't want it to look as if it came out of nowhere or gives no real meaning to the story at hand.

By the end of the weekend, I should have a better handle on what I will need to do. There's no sense fretting about it until then.

Technorati: manuscript, story, word count, writing

Watch and Write

2006-11-23T19:26:00.000-06:00

I wasn't sure how the new job would affect my writing schedule - and aside from actual less writing time, it seems to be going pretty well. Just being out around people has been a good experience. As much as I love to watch people as they go about their business, now I also have the chance to interact as well.

I can already sense character traits building up in my mind. For me, I create my characters around one telling attribute. Now, I should have a plethora of interesting traits in which to build. It's exciting to think about.

And don't even get me started on the various personalities I've already come across. I really feel as if I have the best of both worlds now. During the day, I can socialize amongst people and observe, and during the later hours, I can lock myself away in solitude to create and write.

Technorati character traits, characters, personalities, write, writing

Manuscript Purgatory

2006-11-22T12:20:00.000-06:00

I know writers who have manuscript graveyards located under their beds or set to rest in heavy filing cabinets. These manuscripts run out of steam, need heavy revision, or are unworkable for a number of reasons. In short, there are no plans to work on them in the present.

I have no such graveyard located in my house.

Instead, I send these manuscripts to purgatory. In short, this purgatory is a place of temporary suffering or punishment - and exactly what they deserve. They have not gone to die, but they must atone for their problems and work out their issues before they can resurrect to my working files once more.

While I work on my All In manuscript, I have decided to send the other WIP to that hellish zone of purgatory. After some initial feedback, changes, and more feedback, it is losing its focus and floundering. Heavy re-writes will be in order, and until they make themselves known, in purgatory it will remain.

Thankfully, purgatory is just an uncomfortable place of suffering - not death. I fully plan to tell this story but not until all it is washed of all its sins.

Technorati Tags: manuscript, purgatory, WIP, writing

Change of Schedule

2006-11-22T08:35:00.000-06:00

The new job has meant a huge schedule change. Working four days every week means that the evenings are the only option for uninterrupted writing. It also means tuning out all the noise around me - which, now that the Christmas season is upon us, tends to be a lot of noise.

It will also mean a change in when I blog - which will be in the evenings instead of the morning. I think this might work best - it's the perfect precursor to begin my writing.

Today is my day off and I tend to spend the better part of it writing, or make that catching up on my writing. I've fallen behind in my current WIP, but if all goes well, I should put a good dent in it today. If there is anything I do know about myself, it is that I work well under a deadline so I'm expecting the day to be productive.

Now, one more cup of coffee and I'm on my way.

Technorati Tags: blog, WIP, writing, writing life

New Beginnings

2006-11-20T07:55:00.000-06:00

So begins a new day - and a new part-time job. The most exciting thing about this job is the fact that I will be able to people watch all day while I perform my duties. It should also be a good source of character inspiration.

Of course, it will affect my writing schedule, but I'm okay with that. Having a job that does not involve writing and editing will be welcome and should inspire me to write for myself whenever I have time - instead of longing to be free of the computer.

Here's to new beginnings and to a freer writing experience.

Technorati Tags: inspiration, people watch, write, writing, writing schedule

Karma

2006-11-17T11:08:00.000-06:00

I'm a big believer in karma. If you work hard, persevere, and treat others as you'd like to be treated, good things happen. Why the universe shifted, to give all three of my children and my man the day off, is beyond me. Somehow, though, I will manage to steal some time in my office and get my writing done.

Good things are happening for me too, so, I'm not complaining. I'm finishing my last freelance projects before I shut the door on that aspect of my writing. I've taken a part-time position to supplement my income, which is totally unrelated to writing, and the WIP is coming along nicely. In all respects, life is running smoothly and I'm all for that.

I have one more project in the works but I'll let you all know about that another time. Until then, keep writing!

Technorati Tags: freelance, karma, WIP, writing