What’s Up Wednesday is a weekly meme started by Jaime Morrow and Erin Funk that allows us to touch base with blog friends and let them know what's going on in our crazy writer lives.
What I'm reading
Three words, you guys: THE DREAM THIEVES. Oh man. So, I'm not sure if I've talked about my favorite book that I read last year, but it was THE RAVEN BOYS by Maggie Stiefvater. Following at a close second was THE SCORPIO RACES by Maggie Stiefvater. As you might be able to tell, I have a thing for Maggie's books. I've never read something and been so overwhelmed with how pretty the sentences and paragraphs are but these books do it to me every time. I actually took a picture of one paragraph and saved it in my phone as "What Character Descriptions Should Be Like!" Maggie just has a way with words and THE DREAM THIEVES, which is the follow-up to THE RAVEN BOYS is everything I hoped it would be. I'm a little bit obessesed. Just in case you couldn't tell.
Read them!
What I'm Writing
I'm still working my way through edits, trying to strengthen it wherever I can. I love this book so much, but honestly, I'm not sure I planned for anyone else to read it when I wrote it. I just wanted to write something different from what I normally do. I grinned and giggled a lot while drafting it and it's probably the most fun I've had writing a book. Which says something because there is probably nothing else in the world I love doing more than writing the first draft of a new book. I need to get it done though because The New Idea was ok'd and I'm ready to roll with it for NaNoWriMo!
What Else I've Been Up To
I probably picked the wrong season to do this, but I've been dragging myself back to the gym these days. Maybe it's because all I want to do is eat and bake and bake and eat, and if I don't go to the gym I wont be able to fit through the front door, but it's happening. I'm not one of those people who loves the way I feel after the gym (normally just tired) or feel a runner's high (I'm convinced it's a myth made up by personal trainers) but the big 2-9 is coming up, so that's motivation enough.
What Inspires Me Right Now
I think writing is what's really inspiring me right now. As I've mentioned here, I'm working a lot and last week I didn't have a chance to write or edit at all until the weekend. When I was finally able to sit down and put words together, it was almost like I exhaled. It just feels right, which sounds cheesy but it's true. Hell, I'll take my Writer's High over a Runner's High any day. ;)
What's up with your Wednesday?
Showing posts with label writers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writers. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
What's Up Wednesday
What’s Up Wednesday is a weekly meme started by Jaime Morrow and Erin Funk that allows us to touch base with blog friends and let them know what's going on in our crazy writer lives.
What I'm reading
Okay, so ... I gave into peer pressure (from non-writer friends) and read the Fifty Shades series. My friends thought I would need to know what they, and everyone else, are talking about when the movie comes out and so on. So I did. And it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Now, obviously the writing is ... not fantastic, but I actually found the characters kind of complex and interesting and while some of the scenes were cringe-worthy, I liked the questions it raised about relationships and what's "wrong" and what's not. One of my favorite actors, Charlie Hunnam, signed on to play Christian Grey in the movie and I figure that if he's in it, I'll watch it. I normally don't feel apologetic about anything I do but I went into reading these books almost in secret because of the hubub that surrounds them, but I enjoyed them. Now I'm going to read Gameboard of the Gods by Richelle Mead (who I love!) and get back to my normal reading material.
What I'm Writing
Working on revisions and kicking around new ideas for my next book. As always, exciting and terrifying.
What Else I've Been Up To
Work, work and more work. Seriously, if I'm not writing and I'm working and if I'm not working, I'm writing. Which is better than not writing. Oh! I did get a new vacuum cleaner this week which is way more exciting to me than it should be. What can I say? My life is crazy.
What Inspires Me Right Now
The weather! I know I mentioned Fall in my last WUW, but man is it fantastic outside! It's nice to brainstorm with the windows open and pumpkin scented candles lit!
What I'm reading
Okay, so ... I gave into peer pressure (from non-writer friends) and read the Fifty Shades series. My friends thought I would need to know what they, and everyone else, are talking about when the movie comes out and so on. So I did. And it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Now, obviously the writing is ... not fantastic, but I actually found the characters kind of complex and interesting and while some of the scenes were cringe-worthy, I liked the questions it raised about relationships and what's "wrong" and what's not. One of my favorite actors, Charlie Hunnam, signed on to play Christian Grey in the movie and I figure that if he's in it, I'll watch it. I normally don't feel apologetic about anything I do but I went into reading these books almost in secret because of the hubub that surrounds them, but I enjoyed them. Now I'm going to read Gameboard of the Gods by Richelle Mead (who I love!) and get back to my normal reading material.
What I'm Writing
Working on revisions and kicking around new ideas for my next book. As always, exciting and terrifying.
What Else I've Been Up To
Work, work and more work. Seriously, if I'm not writing and I'm working and if I'm not working, I'm writing. Which is better than not writing. Oh! I did get a new vacuum cleaner this week which is way more exciting to me than it should be. What can I say? My life is crazy.
What Inspires Me Right Now
The weather! I know I mentioned Fall in my last WUW, but man is it fantastic outside! It's nice to brainstorm with the windows open and pumpkin scented candles lit!
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
What's Up Wednesday
What’s Up Wednesday is a weekly meme started by Jaime Morrow and Erin Funk that allows us to touch base with blog friends and let them know what's going on in our crazy writer lives.
What I'm reading
I've been so excited to answer this question because I've actually been reading! It struck me the other day that I hadn't read DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth yet and I figured it was time to remedy that. I think the reason I kept pushing it back is because I wasn't a huge fan of THE HUNGER GAMES series and the two had been compared SO MUCH. But I really, really like these books. I'm halfway through INSURGENT now and so far, so good.
What I'm Writing
My latest edits are done, so now I can move on to semi-major revisions on another WIP. I luuurve this book and it always makes me happy to go back and hang out with characters when I've been away for a while. Is that weird? Don't answer that.
What Else I've Been Up To
My sister and my niece were in town from Delaware this past weekend for a big softball tournament my niece was invited to play in. I've talked about her before on here, but she's going into her senior year of high school and she's just such a good kid. I don't know where that came from because both my sister and I were hellions, but she's great.
We also ate a lot because all of our will power combined totally disappears when we're together, so it's back to the gym for me tomorrow.
What Inspires Me Right Now
Everything! I think it's the fact that I can feel Fall coming and I want to create and knit and write and create all the time. Work gets in the way, but I'm happy my brain is working this way right now. Hopefully this will be my best fall yet!
So. What are YOU up to?
What I'm reading
I've been so excited to answer this question because I've actually been reading! It struck me the other day that I hadn't read DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth yet and I figured it was time to remedy that. I think the reason I kept pushing it back is because I wasn't a huge fan of THE HUNGER GAMES series and the two had been compared SO MUCH. But I really, really like these books. I'm halfway through INSURGENT now and so far, so good.
What I'm Writing
My latest edits are done, so now I can move on to semi-major revisions on another WIP. I luuurve this book and it always makes me happy to go back and hang out with characters when I've been away for a while. Is that weird? Don't answer that.
What Else I've Been Up To
My sister and my niece were in town from Delaware this past weekend for a big softball tournament my niece was invited to play in. I've talked about her before on here, but she's going into her senior year of high school and she's just such a good kid. I don't know where that came from because both my sister and I were hellions, but she's great.
We also ate a lot because all of our will power combined totally disappears when we're together, so it's back to the gym for me tomorrow.
What Inspires Me Right Now
Everything! I think it's the fact that I can feel Fall coming and I want to create and knit and write and create all the time. Work gets in the way, but I'm happy my brain is working this way right now. Hopefully this will be my best fall yet!
So. What are YOU up to?
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
What's Up Wednesday
What’s Up Wednesday is a weekly meme started by Jaime Morrow and Erin Funk that allows us to touch base with blog friends and let them know what's going on in our crazy writer lives.
What I'm reading
I think I'm at that point in my edits where I can't be bothered with someone else's story, because I've had no interest in reading books this past week, which is soooo not like me. Although, late last week I read Being Friends with Boys by Terra Elan McVoy, which was a really cute book. I felt like I was left with some unanswered questions and the ending was wrapped up really quickly and I would have liked to dig into that more, but still, super cute. And it nails that whole boyfriends and friends that are boys dilemma that is so common with teen girls.
What I'm Writing
I'm dotting the I's and crossing the T's on my latest edits. A few minor, tiny changes and feedback from betas and I'm all set. Yikes.
What Else I've Been Up To
My ::cough:: 29th ::cough:: birthday is in 91 days. The reason I know this is because I put a countdown clock on my phone with those stressed out little emoticons around the number 29. Now, I'm sure most of you think this sounds like a crazy idea, but I have a plan! If I have to look at the days dwindling down to the big 2-9, then I am much more likely to get my lazy butt back to the gym. And so far it's worked. So working out again is what I've been up to. I'm also maybe, probably making myself crazy, but whatever.
Also, I've become obsessed with the show Twisted on ABCFamily and I've been catching up with that OnDemand. Ugh. So good.
What Inspires Me Right Now
See above, folks. I'm one of those Five-Year-Planners and a Do-This-This-and-This-Before-a-Certain-Age people and it's making me nuts. But right now, I'm inspired by trying to accomplish things that I've always wanted to do. Putting a time table on it isn't very smart, but it's something.
So. What are YOU up to?
What I'm reading
I think I'm at that point in my edits where I can't be bothered with someone else's story, because I've had no interest in reading books this past week, which is soooo not like me. Although, late last week I read Being Friends with Boys by Terra Elan McVoy, which was a really cute book. I felt like I was left with some unanswered questions and the ending was wrapped up really quickly and I would have liked to dig into that more, but still, super cute. And it nails that whole boyfriends and friends that are boys dilemma that is so common with teen girls.
What I'm Writing
I'm dotting the I's and crossing the T's on my latest edits. A few minor, tiny changes and feedback from betas and I'm all set. Yikes.
What Else I've Been Up To
My ::cough:: 29th ::cough:: birthday is in 91 days. The reason I know this is because I put a countdown clock on my phone with those stressed out little emoticons around the number 29. Now, I'm sure most of you think this sounds like a crazy idea, but I have a plan! If I have to look at the days dwindling down to the big 2-9, then I am much more likely to get my lazy butt back to the gym. And so far it's worked. So working out again is what I've been up to. I'm also maybe, probably making myself crazy, but whatever.
Also, I've become obsessed with the show Twisted on ABCFamily and I've been catching up with that OnDemand. Ugh. So good.
What Inspires Me Right Now
See above, folks. I'm one of those Five-Year-Planners and a Do-This-This-and-This-Before-a-Certain-Age people and it's making me nuts. But right now, I'm inspired by trying to accomplish things that I've always wanted to do. Putting a time table on it isn't very smart, but it's something.
So. What are YOU up to?
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
What's Up Wednesday
What’s Up Wednesday is a weekly meme started by Jaime Morrow and Erin Funk that allows us to touch base with blog friends and let them know what’s up.
What I'm reading
You guys. I read SPEECHLESS by Hannah Harrington last week after seeing the cover while shopping in my favorite bookstore and I HAD to read it. I mean, look at it! I'm a cover junky anyway, but the crisp whiteness of the book and it's amazing textured pages had me at hello. Luckily, the book totally holds up to the cover. The story is about a girl whose gossip leads to someone almost being killed, so she takes a vow of silence to stop causing trouble and to think before she speaks (or writes on a white board, in her case.) This was just so, so good. Not only did the main character grow on me drastically from the first chapters but her personal growth is so natural and the friends she gains, who connect with her without actually "talking" to her are awesome. I thought it would be weird to have a book told by someone who didn't actually speak but it helped show her thought process even more and the white board was just cute. Ugh. Anyway, go read it, guys. Seriously.
What I'm Writing
E-D-I-T-S. 2013 is the year of editing all the things. But it's cool because seeing a book get better is awesome.
What Else I've Been Up To
I'm on this I-need-to-clean-out-my-closet kick this week and I'm hoping to tackle that tomorrow after I work on edits. I just have so. much. stuff. that I don't wear anymore. I moved to North Carolina with only a car full of belongings and now there's stuff everywhere. It's time to clean house. Or closet. Whatever, same thing.
What Inspires Me Right Now
Other writers. Whether it's reading fun publishing news from people on Twitter whose careers I've been able to follow from the beginning or talented beta readers. Maybe I'm being nerdy but there's kind of this feeling that writers are in this together and I'm inspired by all of them.
Also, I've had so many teenagers come in to where I work and they're holding books and reading while waiting for their parents and it takes everything in me not to hug them. So readers are inspiring me too.
So, what's up with you guys?
What I'm reading
You guys. I read SPEECHLESS by Hannah Harrington last week after seeing the cover while shopping in my favorite bookstore and I HAD to read it. I mean, look at it! I'm a cover junky anyway, but the crisp whiteness of the book and it's amazing textured pages had me at hello. Luckily, the book totally holds up to the cover. The story is about a girl whose gossip leads to someone almost being killed, so she takes a vow of silence to stop causing trouble and to think before she speaks (or writes on a white board, in her case.) This was just so, so good. Not only did the main character grow on me drastically from the first chapters but her personal growth is so natural and the friends she gains, who connect with her without actually "talking" to her are awesome. I thought it would be weird to have a book told by someone who didn't actually speak but it helped show her thought process even more and the white board was just cute. Ugh. Anyway, go read it, guys. Seriously.
What I'm Writing
E-D-I-T-S. 2013 is the year of editing all the things. But it's cool because seeing a book get better is awesome.
What Else I've Been Up To
I'm on this I-need-to-clean-out-my-closet kick this week and I'm hoping to tackle that tomorrow after I work on edits. I just have so. much. stuff. that I don't wear anymore. I moved to North Carolina with only a car full of belongings and now there's stuff everywhere. It's time to clean house. Or closet. Whatever, same thing.
What Inspires Me Right Now
Other writers. Whether it's reading fun publishing news from people on Twitter whose careers I've been able to follow from the beginning or talented beta readers. Maybe I'm being nerdy but there's kind of this feeling that writers are in this together and I'm inspired by all of them.
Also, I've had so many teenagers come in to where I work and they're holding books and reading while waiting for their parents and it takes everything in me not to hug them. So readers are inspiring me too.
So, what's up with you guys?
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
I heart books
So, by nature, I'm kind of a private person. I've never been one to tell everyone my life story... well, ever, but much less right when I meet them. I'm also a Scorpio, and that might just explain everything. Either way, word has gotten around at my job that I signed with a literary agent and this has led to questions like, "You write books? What kind of books? Oh, like Twilight? When will your book be out? Can I read it?" To which I answer, "Yes. Young Adult. Not so much. No clue, and maybe someday."
Of course, this has also led to me recommending YA books that everyone should read, talking more about books in general and basically opening up the Library of Brandy to get them started. Last week, my boss (who, I just found out, LOVES to read) said that she didn't understand why it had taken so long to see this side of me and that she wished she'd seen it sooner. She also called me weird (in a good way) because my voice did that squeaky, geeking out thing that happens when I talk about books I really love.
I think most of the reason I don't tell people I write books is exactly because of all of those questions that I know will follow. But I've also realized that by me not telling people, they're never really getting to know me. For instance, if I had to list my favorite things to do, the top 3 would be: Write, Read and Talk About Books. Now that I'm thinking about it, I have no idea what I've been talking to people about.
I guess there's no better time like the present to open up a little, since hopefully someday soon lots of people will not only know I write book but will also have the chance to read them. Maybe by the time that happens, I can get over the whole awkward, squeaky voice thing, because it's kind of embarrassing.
In other news: I'm diving into my TBR pile. While other people love to head outside when the weather heats up, I get a nostalgic feelings for summer reading. There's nothing like my couch, a good book and air conditioning!
Of course, this has also led to me recommending YA books that everyone should read, talking more about books in general and basically opening up the Library of Brandy to get them started. Last week, my boss (who, I just found out, LOVES to read) said that she didn't understand why it had taken so long to see this side of me and that she wished she'd seen it sooner. She also called me weird (in a good way) because my voice did that squeaky, geeking out thing that happens when I talk about books I really love.
I think most of the reason I don't tell people I write books is exactly because of all of those questions that I know will follow. But I've also realized that by me not telling people, they're never really getting to know me. For instance, if I had to list my favorite things to do, the top 3 would be: Write, Read and Talk About Books. Now that I'm thinking about it, I have no idea what I've been talking to people about.
I guess there's no better time like the present to open up a little, since hopefully someday soon lots of people will not only know I write book but will also have the chance to read them. Maybe by the time that happens, I can get over the whole awkward, squeaky voice thing, because it's kind of embarrassing.
In other news: I'm diving into my TBR pile. While other people love to head outside when the weather heats up, I get a nostalgic feelings for summer reading. There's nothing like my couch, a good book and air conditioning!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Books, self-doubt and other things I'm dealing with this week.
I really wish I was the kind of writer who so fully believes in themselves that they hand over their books for people to read and say, "I wrote this, you'll love it." Instead, I fall into the category of writer who tells people I'll let them read it and then I put it off for as long as possible. And then when I do finally give in, I make sure I don't have to see them for a while, so I don't have be face-to-face with someone who may hate my book. It's an on-going joke with everyone I know that when my books are (fingers crossed!) published, I'll be hiding under my bed.
I mean, I love my books, and obviously I thought they were pretty okay enough to query agents and now I actually have one, but oddly, this has done nothing to squelch the self-doubt that I usually deal with. For instance, I've been reading through older WIPS because my agent wants to see them and multiple times this week, I've been positive that she'll read them and be all, "Now that I've thought about this, I've changed my mind."
I was smiling while reading an e-mail the other day and my mom saw me and asked why I looked like a crazy person smiling at my phone. My answer? My agent had just e-mailed me back, and obviously still wanted to work with me because of the e-mailing.
I'm not joking, guys. This is my life.
I'm not saying it hasn't been very life-affirming to have someone love my books as much as I do and to believe that I have enough talent to want to work with me long-term, but when does the self-doubt stop? Or does it? Are all writers just really fragile?
I bet it doesn't. I bet we are. Good grief.
So anyway, this is the glamorous life of someone who just signed with an amazing agent! Which, by the way, I'm still super, super excited about. Don't let all of the self-doubt whining fool you, I'm pumped. I'm just also nervous. Hopefully it's normal. If not, well... I don't know.
In other news, I'm reading REBOOT by Amy Tintera and GOOD LORD, is that book good. I'm hoping to finish it today because I have to work all weekend. It definitely gives me jealous I-wish-I'd-thought-of-that feelings, but it's so good that I'm not sure I could have done it better. It's a must-read, so go ahead and add it to your TBR pile!
Okay, that's it. Feel free to leave comments about your self-doubt to make me feel normal. Don't be shy!
I mean, I love my books, and obviously I thought they were pretty okay enough to query agents and now I actually have one, but oddly, this has done nothing to squelch the self-doubt that I usually deal with. For instance, I've been reading through older WIPS because my agent wants to see them and multiple times this week, I've been positive that she'll read them and be all, "Now that I've thought about this, I've changed my mind."
I was smiling while reading an e-mail the other day and my mom saw me and asked why I looked like a crazy person smiling at my phone. My answer? My agent had just e-mailed me back, and obviously still wanted to work with me because of the e-mailing.
I'm not joking, guys. This is my life.
I'm not saying it hasn't been very life-affirming to have someone love my books as much as I do and to believe that I have enough talent to want to work with me long-term, but when does the self-doubt stop? Or does it? Are all writers just really fragile?
I bet it doesn't. I bet we are. Good grief.
So anyway, this is the glamorous life of someone who just signed with an amazing agent! Which, by the way, I'm still super, super excited about. Don't let all of the self-doubt whining fool you, I'm pumped. I'm just also nervous. Hopefully it's normal. If not, well... I don't know.
In other news, I'm reading REBOOT by Amy Tintera and GOOD LORD, is that book good. I'm hoping to finish it today because I have to work all weekend. It definitely gives me jealous I-wish-I'd-thought-of-that feelings, but it's so good that I'm not sure I could have done it better. It's a must-read, so go ahead and add it to your TBR pile!
Okay, that's it. Feel free to leave comments about your self-doubt to make me feel normal. Don't be shy!
Thursday, April 11, 2013
On Queries...
Querying is weird, okay? Let's just get that out of the way. I've been thinking about this since I wrote an e-mail to the Super Amazing Beta and Human Jennifer Pickrell in which I was whining complaining updating her on my query situation, and I finally decided I needed to get it out.
Querying is weird and hard and awesome and the most hopeful and devastating thing a writer can do. It's the time where we all at once decide that we've written something good enough for an agent to read and also when we know that we're horrible writers who deserve all of those rejections. It's just weird.
And yet, here we are, years, months and days into this torture because we want somebody to love the voices in our heads that fought to get out as much as we do. Weird.
I can remember my first partial request and my first full request. I also remember my first rejection. I like to think of myself now as a seasoned querier who lets rejection roll off her back like a duck with water... unless I get a few in a row, because then I know I've been fooling myself with the years I've put into writing. Of course, two days after I decide to quit and join a circus or something, I get a full request and I remember that there might, just maybe, be some skill left in me, and so what do I do?
I send out more queries.
I'm actually querying two books right now, which is a little weird and involves a lot of organization and e-mail folders, but I'm getting good feedback, despite still getting rejections right along with it. I've decided with these though, and especially MISFITS because there has been more interest in it than any other book I've written, that I'm not going to give up on it. I've got a Touch 'Em All mentality with this book that I'm going to send it out to every single agent that will read it (within their guidelines, obviously) and I just have to put up with all of those rejections until someone loves it.
In the past, I feel like I've given up pretty quickly because, let's face it, rejections suck. And it's very easy to get beaten up by all of them and assume that since X number of agents didn't like it, no one will. I'm not going to do that this time, so at least I'll know I've done everything I can to find the person who loves my books before I move on.
In the meantime, I'll keep writing, which is actually the most blissful thing I do on a daily basis, and also querying. Because I like weird, apparently.
Anybody else out there need to vent? Go for it.
Querying is weird and hard and awesome and the most hopeful and devastating thing a writer can do. It's the time where we all at once decide that we've written something good enough for an agent to read and also when we know that we're horrible writers who deserve all of those rejections. It's just weird.
And yet, here we are, years, months and days into this torture because we want somebody to love the voices in our heads that fought to get out as much as we do. Weird.
I can remember my first partial request and my first full request. I also remember my first rejection. I like to think of myself now as a seasoned querier who lets rejection roll off her back like a duck with water... unless I get a few in a row, because then I know I've been fooling myself with the years I've put into writing. Of course, two days after I decide to quit and join a circus or something, I get a full request and I remember that there might, just maybe, be some skill left in me, and so what do I do?
I send out more queries.
I'm actually querying two books right now, which is a little weird and involves a lot of organization and e-mail folders, but I'm getting good feedback, despite still getting rejections right along with it. I've decided with these though, and especially MISFITS because there has been more interest in it than any other book I've written, that I'm not going to give up on it. I've got a Touch 'Em All mentality with this book that I'm going to send it out to every single agent that will read it (within their guidelines, obviously) and I just have to put up with all of those rejections until someone loves it.
In the past, I feel like I've given up pretty quickly because, let's face it, rejections suck. And it's very easy to get beaten up by all of them and assume that since X number of agents didn't like it, no one will. I'm not going to do that this time, so at least I'll know I've done everything I can to find the person who loves my books before I move on.
In the meantime, I'll keep writing, which is actually the most blissful thing I do on a daily basis, and also querying. Because I like weird, apparently.
Anybody else out there need to vent? Go for it.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Thoughts on a Friday
Okay, so you know you haven't blogged in a really long time when your blog host changes the entire layout of things and it took you five minutes to figure out how to post something new. Whew!
Anyway, the Semester That Will Probably Kill Me did not, in fact, kill me, but it was hairy there for a while. I was hoping to graduate this summer but due to mix-ups and the universe's hobby of making my life more complicated, I have to make it through the fall semester. The bright side is that the classes I have to take are fun, besides one math, but I'm in denial about that right now, and it won't be as intense as this one. Look who is focusing on the positives! *pats self on the back*
So I plan on finishing up revisions on HOOD now that I have a little more free time along with beta reading and reading new books because, you guys, I haven't read a book in over a month! I know. I flew through the last two books of the Hunger Games when the movie came out (my feelings on that series would take another blog post, maybe two) and since then I haven't touched a book. I'm remedying that this weekend.
Since I do have more free time, I'd looove some book recommendations. I have a small pile that I need to get through right now, but I'm hoping it won't take long.
So, what should I read?
Anyway, the Semester That Will Probably Kill Me did not, in fact, kill me, but it was hairy there for a while. I was hoping to graduate this summer but due to mix-ups and the universe's hobby of making my life more complicated, I have to make it through the fall semester. The bright side is that the classes I have to take are fun, besides one math, but I'm in denial about that right now, and it won't be as intense as this one. Look who is focusing on the positives! *pats self on the back*
So I plan on finishing up revisions on HOOD now that I have a little more free time along with beta reading and reading new books because, you guys, I haven't read a book in over a month! I know. I flew through the last two books of the Hunger Games when the movie came out (my feelings on that series would take another blog post, maybe two) and since then I haven't touched a book. I'm remedying that this weekend.
Since I do have more free time, I'd looove some book recommendations. I have a small pile that I need to get through right now, but I'm hoping it won't take long.
So, what should I read?
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Funny story...
So remember how I was here in January and was all, "Look at me! Getting back on track! Onward and upward!"? Uh huh, well life happened and so I haven't actually gotten "back on track" with the blog yet, and it's been more about putting one foot in front of the other than onward and upward so far.
So I'm not going to say anything like that at all, you guys. I'll just say that life has been cra-zay and in order to get everything done that I need to do and write, blogging has fallen off a little. I'm still writing and working on books, that's a constant at Casa de Brandy but man, the beginning of 2012 has been an ass kicker.
I've reached that luscious, amazing time called spring break in this semester that I'm positive wants to kill me, and so here is an update:
I'm working on MISFITS revisions... the final revisions before I start sending it out to agents! I'm actually pretty excited about getting the process started, although I guess I always am until the first rejection roles in and then I'm all, "Why do I do this to myself? I'm such a masochist!" But it's cool.
I feel more prepared with this book than I did with my last. It feels like a more complete story and I'm really proud of it. I hope agents like it, but regardless, I'm happy that I wrote it.
I think what I've realized more than anything else this year so far is that I would write for free forever if I have to. I'm happy with sending my friends and betas versions of my books and talking to them about it. And really, that's probably a good head space to be in at the query stage, right?
So remind me that I said that in a month or so.
Brandy
So I'm not going to say anything like that at all, you guys. I'll just say that life has been cra-zay and in order to get everything done that I need to do and write, blogging has fallen off a little. I'm still writing and working on books, that's a constant at Casa de Brandy but man, the beginning of 2012 has been an ass kicker.
I've reached that luscious, amazing time called spring break in this semester that I'm positive wants to kill me, and so here is an update:
I'm working on MISFITS revisions... the final revisions before I start sending it out to agents! I'm actually pretty excited about getting the process started, although I guess I always am until the first rejection roles in and then I'm all, "Why do I do this to myself? I'm such a masochist!" But it's cool.
I feel more prepared with this book than I did with my last. It feels like a more complete story and I'm really proud of it. I hope agents like it, but regardless, I'm happy that I wrote it.
I think what I've realized more than anything else this year so far is that I would write for free forever if I have to. I'm happy with sending my friends and betas versions of my books and talking to them about it. And really, that's probably a good head space to be in at the query stage, right?
So remind me that I said that in a month or so.
Brandy
Monday, November 7, 2011
Quick Monday post.
So, I would like everyone to take a minute to look over to the right at my word counter widget and see that I'm 40% DONE WITH MY NANO WIP!! Eeeee!
Okay, seriously, I'm under no illusion that a) what I'm writing is fantastic just yet or that b) I can keep this kind of writing up. My eye twitch and nightly headaches are making me crazy but watching other people's word counts go up, paired with being excited about what I'm writing makes me pro-duc-tiiive.
I have tons of work to get done before I leave for South Carolina for YAllFest and a mini family vacation that it will probably be hard to write everyday this week, but I feel good that I've got a little stockpile of words to fall back on. Also, I can't wait to listen to all of those awesome authors give out advice and then be able to post about it!
Back to NaNoWriMo for a sec: Being the person that I am, I'm excited about how much I've written but mostly, I'm suspicious about all of these words. Clearly, none of them can be good if they're flowing that freely, right? Surely at some point I'm going to hit a wall... or something.
I know I should just enjoy it, I do. But it's strange, guys. Very strange.
So, how's everyone else's NaNo going? And the NoNaNo folks? What's it like outside?
Brandy
Okay, seriously, I'm under no illusion that a) what I'm writing is fantastic just yet or that b) I can keep this kind of writing up. My eye twitch and nightly headaches are making me crazy but watching other people's word counts go up, paired with being excited about what I'm writing makes me pro-duc-tiiive.
I have tons of work to get done before I leave for South Carolina for YAllFest and a mini family vacation that it will probably be hard to write everyday this week, but I feel good that I've got a little stockpile of words to fall back on. Also, I can't wait to listen to all of those awesome authors give out advice and then be able to post about it!
Back to NaNoWriMo for a sec: Being the person that I am, I'm excited about how much I've written but mostly, I'm suspicious about all of these words. Clearly, none of them can be good if they're flowing that freely, right? Surely at some point I'm going to hit a wall... or something.
I know I should just enjoy it, I do. But it's strange, guys. Very strange.
So, how's everyone else's NaNo going? And the NoNaNo folks? What's it like outside?
Brandy
Monday, October 17, 2011
Monday Writing Meme
Which words do you use too much in your writing? "Just" haunts me. I probably use "anyway" waaay too much. And in the latest WIP I'm revising, I wrote the word "alien" like it was my job.
Which words do you consider overused in stuff you read? I've noticed a lot of "startled" lately. Characters startling all over the place.
What’s your favourite piece of writing by you? I can't really choose. I love all of them differently.
What blog post do you wish you’d written? Oh, I don't know. I'm sadly not up-to-date on popular blogs.
Regrets, do you have a few? Is there anything you wish you hadn’t written? I wish I hadn't taken so much time off from writing a few years ago.
How has your writing made a difference? For my life, writing kind of keeps me sane. My head starts to get very jumbled when I don't write. I don't sleep well and am just in general not fun to be around. Although, I've been told I'm not fun to be around when I'm really into a WIP either, so who knows...
Name three favourite words Any curse word, asshat and fantastic.
…And three words you’re not so keen on I'm not really sure. I'm not big on all of the startling, that's for sure.
Do you have a writing mentor, role model or inspiration? Everyone who writes is an inspiration to me. I like knowing everyone's stories and processes.
What’s your writing ambition?
Which words do you consider overused in stuff you read? I've noticed a lot of "startled" lately. Characters startling all over the place.
What’s your favourite piece of writing by you? I can't really choose. I love all of them differently.
What blog post do you wish you’d written? Oh, I don't know. I'm sadly not up-to-date on popular blogs.
Regrets, do you have a few? Is there anything you wish you hadn’t written? I wish I hadn't taken so much time off from writing a few years ago.
How has your writing made a difference? For my life, writing kind of keeps me sane. My head starts to get very jumbled when I don't write. I don't sleep well and am just in general not fun to be around. Although, I've been told I'm not fun to be around when I'm really into a WIP either, so who knows...
Name three favourite words Any curse word, asshat and fantastic.
…And three words you’re not so keen on I'm not really sure. I'm not big on all of the startling, that's for sure.
Do you have a writing mentor, role model or inspiration? Everyone who writes is an inspiration to me. I like knowing everyone's stories and processes.
What’s your writing ambition?
Just to make people not want to put my book down, to meet readers and write books until I run out of ideas.
Friday, October 14, 2011
When big ideas don't work and NaNoWriMo
So I've had this BIG IDEA rumbling around in my head for a while. I've talked and talked and blogged and blogged about The New Project over the last month and yet every time I sit down to write it, I feel a little... weird. I still love the idea and really love the characters but something is just off about this book, which I planned to write before NaNoWriMo in November. Then, seeing how little progress I was making on figuring out what's wrong, I figured that I would just write The New Project for NaNoWriMo and spend this month planning. I normally don't plan at all but this kind of idea needed it, mainly because I had no idea what I was writing about and there was a little bit of a historical background that I planned on using... and none of this has helped. The idea feels lost.
I really hate that because I'm normally one of those, If You Start It, You Finish It, kind of people but I'm thinking this idea needs to go to the back burner for a little bit. Or maybe it needs to marinate! Or maybe I should stop watching The Food Network! Either way, it doesn't feel like the right time to write this story. I will write it someday, but now apparently isn't the time. Does that happen to anyone else? How do you deal with it?
So with all of that said, I think I've finally settled on what I'm going to write for NaNoWriMo. This is another idea that I've had for a while, with a folder on my phone and all, for when I think of something while I'm mid-conversation with someone, or when I'm grocery shopping. It's growing in my head every time I think about it, so I'm taking that as a good sign. For NaNoWriMo, you just kind of have to GO and this is the kind of idea I can jump out of the gate with.
And quickly, can I just tell you how excited I am for NaNoWriMo? It's my first go round, although I've always wanted to participate. With my last job, November was entirely too busy to dedicate to writing a whole book, but this year is different, so I'm going for it. Is anyone else participating this year?
Have a good weekend!
Brandy
I really hate that because I'm normally one of those, If You Start It, You Finish It, kind of people but I'm thinking this idea needs to go to the back burner for a little bit. Or maybe it needs to marinate! Or maybe I should stop watching The Food Network! Either way, it doesn't feel like the right time to write this story. I will write it someday, but now apparently isn't the time. Does that happen to anyone else? How do you deal with it?
So with all of that said, I think I've finally settled on what I'm going to write for NaNoWriMo. This is another idea that I've had for a while, with a folder on my phone and all, for when I think of something while I'm mid-conversation with someone, or when I'm grocery shopping. It's growing in my head every time I think about it, so I'm taking that as a good sign. For NaNoWriMo, you just kind of have to GO and this is the kind of idea I can jump out of the gate with.
And quickly, can I just tell you how excited I am for NaNoWriMo? It's my first go round, although I've always wanted to participate. With my last job, November was entirely too busy to dedicate to writing a whole book, but this year is different, so I'm going for it. Is anyone else participating this year?
Have a good weekend!
Brandy
Monday, October 3, 2011
Monday Writing Meme
Hey everybody! I hope you had a good weekend. Mine was spent with words, so obviously it was fantastic. I swear, what drives me to work so hard throughout the week is to simply make time to read or write. And I'm totally fine with that.
Anyway, here are some random questions for the Monday Meme. You know the rules: there are none. Just let me know if you post it so I canstalk you check it out.
1. When did you decide to take a real swing at writing? Or have you yet? I have. I remember writing my first book, finishing it and being all, "Well, no one's allowed to read that mess!" But then I wrote my second book and thought I should let someone read it. The safest person was my best friend and she demanded to read more and I thought maybe I was on to something. I've been dedicated to writing ever since.
2. Who is your writing role model? Any one who writes everyday while living and working like a "normal" person is my hero. It's so hard and so admirable. Also, J.K. Rowling. She wrote these little books that I'm sure you've never heard of and I remember reading the first chapter and hoping someday I could take someone to another world like she took me.
3. If you've been published, what is your favorite part of your job? If not, what do you look forward to? Not published YET. :) I would love, love, love to sit and talk to people about books, mine or others. Since I write mostly YA, the idea of sitting down with teens who love reading makes my heart grow like the Grinch's. Also, just holding my own book would blow my mind.
5. What inspires you? I love finding out how people deal with weird things. I'm a people watcher and, even when I was little, I would watch people and wonder what their lives were like. Then I would think that maybe they looked normal but really they were a secret superhero or a government agent and wondered how they dealt with that. This explains all of my books so far.
6. What traits shows up in all of your characters, if any? Hmm, they all have secrets and I put them in odd situations. And most of the guys are tall. That's a personal preference from the writer. ;)
7. Biggest pet peeve in books? Probably cliffhangers that don't answer the questions that are posed in the beginning of that book. Some loose ends are fine but... we'll just say that there have been times I've read the first book, didn't have any answers and refused to finish the series because of it.
8. Have you ever based a character on a real person? Not totally. I take little traits from people I know and use them sometimes. The mom is KILLER CUPCAKES reminds me a lot of my mom. All of my guy friends had a crush on my mom and she thought that was awesome. ha!
9. Do you tell people that you're writing a book? Sometimes. I still feel a little silly telling some people what my books are about or that they are YA. I hate that, "Oh, so you're writing another Twilight?" question because A) I wish, and B) People that ask those questions are helplessly ignorant.
10. Pantser or Plotter? And why? Pantser and mainly because writing an outline makes me feel itchy and committed, and I hate that feeling.
Anyway, here are some random questions for the Monday Meme. You know the rules: there are none. Just let me know if you post it so I can
1. When did you decide to take a real swing at writing? Or have you yet? I have. I remember writing my first book, finishing it and being all, "Well, no one's allowed to read that mess!" But then I wrote my second book and thought I should let someone read it. The safest person was my best friend and she demanded to read more and I thought maybe I was on to something. I've been dedicated to writing ever since.
2. Who is your writing role model? Any one who writes everyday while living and working like a "normal" person is my hero. It's so hard and so admirable. Also, J.K. Rowling. She wrote these little books that I'm sure you've never heard of and I remember reading the first chapter and hoping someday I could take someone to another world like she took me.
3. If you've been published, what is your favorite part of your job? If not, what do you look forward to? Not published YET. :) I would love, love, love to sit and talk to people about books, mine or others. Since I write mostly YA, the idea of sitting down with teens who love reading makes my heart grow like the Grinch's. Also, just holding my own book would blow my mind.
5. What inspires you? I love finding out how people deal with weird things. I'm a people watcher and, even when I was little, I would watch people and wonder what their lives were like. Then I would think that maybe they looked normal but really they were a secret superhero or a government agent and wondered how they dealt with that. This explains all of my books so far.
6. What traits shows up in all of your characters, if any? Hmm, they all have secrets and I put them in odd situations. And most of the guys are tall. That's a personal preference from the writer. ;)
7. Biggest pet peeve in books? Probably cliffhangers that don't answer the questions that are posed in the beginning of that book. Some loose ends are fine but... we'll just say that there have been times I've read the first book, didn't have any answers and refused to finish the series because of it.
8. Have you ever based a character on a real person? Not totally. I take little traits from people I know and use them sometimes. The mom is KILLER CUPCAKES reminds me a lot of my mom. All of my guy friends had a crush on my mom and she thought that was awesome. ha!
9. Do you tell people that you're writing a book? Sometimes. I still feel a little silly telling some people what my books are about or that they are YA. I hate that, "Oh, so you're writing another Twilight?" question because A) I wish, and B) People that ask those questions are helplessly ignorant.
10. Pantser or Plotter? And why? Pantser and mainly because writing an outline makes me feel itchy and committed, and I hate that feeling.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Reading.
So, I thought about something today while pondering what to blog about, (besides my beloved Monday Memes) and I realized that I don't talk about reading much. I mean, yes, I've talked about my love of the Vampire Academy books but besides that I don't talk about what else I'm reading. And you guys, I read A LOT. Like, when I sit back and wonder where my time went, there is a big, blinking, neon sign that points to the hours spent on my couch reading. I've literally told friends that I can't go out because I'm in the middle of a book. It's what I do.
Anyway, I figure I'll mention some of the books I've read recently and my thoughts on them and then I'm going to ask (plead, beg, wimper) for reading suggestions from you all. Deal? Deal. Here we go:
So, probably a week ago I finished a re-read of the Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead. I won't talk about them that much because I feel like it's all I do, but I'll just say that they are SO GOOD. Not only well written but well thought out, heartbreaking, ballsy and everything that a book should be. Read it.
A quick non-fiction book, which is kind of weird for me, but I read If You Have to Cry, Go Outside by Kelly Cutrone. If you're not familiar with her, look her up. I guess I like ballsy ladies because she tells it like it is, while also digging deep into her flaws to help you get to a better place. The title says it all and is my own personal, non-crying motto. Also, you've probably seen her on The Hills and her show on Bravo a while ago. I. Love. Her.
I made my way back into fiction with Wildefire by Karsten Knight, who I totally have a crush on. Maybe it's because there aren't enough male writers my age out there, but it's probably because he's totally cute and he wrote a really, really good book. I mean, it's about a Volcano Goddess. Also, it has a killer cliff hanger/shut-up-no-he-didn't moment. Again, read it.
And I just finished Across the Universe by Beth Revis and then promptly googled when the next book in the trilogy will come out because it was amazing. I've always loved that books can make you feel things and this book literally makes you feel claustrophobic right along with the main character and also giggly when the cute stuff comes up. It tackles really huge societal issues (Hello, liberal studies major here! Love that!) while still letting the MC's be teenagers. Full. Of. Goodness. Read it, and then prepare to read the next book, A Millions Suns in January.
Okay! So that's my reading... for the last week. I know! But remember, I have no life so this is completely normal. My friends and family understand this. Sort of.
Before you ask, yes I do come across books that I don't like, but I won't be talking about them here. I don't bash people because of my opinion... although I might say that I'm just not crazy about it, but still. It's not something I'll be doing a lot. Some of them are best sellers and that would just make people mad. I sure as hell won't tell you to read them, though. ;)
So! What are you reading? What should I read? Tell me! Seriously.
Brandy
Anyway, I figure I'll mention some of the books I've read recently and my thoughts on them and then I'm going to ask (plead, beg, wimper) for reading suggestions from you all. Deal? Deal. Here we go:
So, probably a week ago I finished a re-read of the Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead. I won't talk about them that much because I feel like it's all I do, but I'll just say that they are SO GOOD. Not only well written but well thought out, heartbreaking, ballsy and everything that a book should be. Read it.
A quick non-fiction book, which is kind of weird for me, but I read If You Have to Cry, Go Outside by Kelly Cutrone. If you're not familiar with her, look her up. I guess I like ballsy ladies because she tells it like it is, while also digging deep into her flaws to help you get to a better place. The title says it all and is my own personal, non-crying motto. Also, you've probably seen her on The Hills and her show on Bravo a while ago. I. Love. Her.
I made my way back into fiction with Wildefire by Karsten Knight, who I totally have a crush on. Maybe it's because there aren't enough male writers my age out there, but it's probably because he's totally cute and he wrote a really, really good book. I mean, it's about a Volcano Goddess. Also, it has a killer cliff hanger/shut-up-no-he-didn't moment. Again, read it.
And I just finished Across the Universe by Beth Revis and then promptly googled when the next book in the trilogy will come out because it was amazing. I've always loved that books can make you feel things and this book literally makes you feel claustrophobic right along with the main character and also giggly when the cute stuff comes up. It tackles really huge societal issues (Hello, liberal studies major here! Love that!) while still letting the MC's be teenagers. Full. Of. Goodness. Read it, and then prepare to read the next book, A Millions Suns in January.
Okay! So that's my reading... for the last week. I know! But remember, I have no life so this is completely normal. My friends and family understand this. Sort of.
Before you ask, yes I do come across books that I don't like, but I won't be talking about them here. I don't bash people because of my opinion... although I might say that I'm just not crazy about it, but still. It's not something I'll be doing a lot. Some of them are best sellers and that would just make people mad. I sure as hell won't tell you to read them, though. ;)
So! What are you reading? What should I read? Tell me! Seriously.
Brandy
Monday, September 26, 2011
Monday Writing Meme.
1. Tell us about your favorite writing project/universe that you’ve worked with and why.
I really love the world in the WIP I'm revising, MISFITS. I think it's because there are SO MANY possibilities. I actually started MISFITS as a creative exercise by just throwing everything at it and it turned into a book!
2. How many characters do you have? I normally have one MC and a group around her. I think the people around an MC make them who they are, so friends and family are important to me when creating characters.
Do you prefer males or females? I've only written from the female POV but I think a lot about writing a male.
3. How do you come up with names, for characters (and for places if you’re writing about fictional places)? It's a big deal. I'm very picky about names, although in MISFITS the names are so silly and obvious that I just kind of went with it. I also tend to give my female MC's names that could also be male. I don't know why but there it is. As for places, I pick a place that makes sense for the story.
4. Tell us about one of your first stories/characters! My first story, which I found not long ago, was about me and a lot of danger. Like, chocolate was dangerous. I was five-ish. I've written kind of dramatic my whole life.
5. Where are you most comfortable writing? My couch. I try other places but no matter where I go, I get the most done on the couch. At what time of day? Whenever it hits me, although I make an effort to write during daylight times because if I write too late, I can't sleep.
6. Do you listen to music while you write? What kind? Are there any songs you like to relate/apply to your characters? I need quiet to write. Or if the TV is on, it's very low and on something that I won't pay attention to.
7. What’s your favorite genre to write? YA contemp, or fantasy-ish YA. To read? Same. Although I work in non-YA too.
8. How do you get ideas for your characters? I start with their personality and quirks. Charlie, my MC in KILLER CUPCAKES is very driven by what goes on around her and how she wants to change that. Ali, from MISFITS, doesn't deal with emotions well and uses jokes to lighten things up. My new MC is a complete headcase but I think I love her.
9. What are some really weird situations your characters have been in? Hell. One has woken up spooning with a guy in front of her grandmother and almost shot a raccoon. Another has ridden a were animal. It's complicated.
10. Who is your favorite character to write? The group of life-long friends in INHERENTLY DANGEROUS is really fun to write. They have so much complicated history and there really aren't many secrets between them, so the dynamic is fun.
11. In what story did you feel you did the best job of worldbuilding?
I kind of suck at worldbuilding, so I'm not sure. It's definitely not my strongest suit. I'm working on it.
12. What’s your favorite culture to write, fictional or not? Any and all.
13. How do you map out locations, if needed? Honestly? I've never felt the need to. I take creative liberties while trying to be realistic about everything around my characters.
14. Midway question! Tell us about a writer you admire, whether professional or not! Richelle Mead but I'm not talking anymore about it. If she finds out (doubtful), she'll think I'm obsessed and I'M NOT.
15. Do you write romantic relationships? Sure do. How do you deal with those, and how “far” are you willing to go in your writing? Well, I write mainly YA, so I try to be smart about it. Interestingly enough, if I ever write my second books to KC or MISFITS, I'll have to deal with this more head on, I think.
16. What are your favorite character interactions to write? I lurrve awkward scenes.
17. Do any of your characters have children? No, but boy would that complicate things!
18. Tell us about one scene between your characters that you’ve never written or told anyone about before! Serious or not. Not sure what this means, but we'll go with I don't have one. :)
19. How long does it usually take you to complete an entire story—from planning to writing to posting (if you post your work)?
First draft takes about a month, revisions take MY WHOLE LIFE! Kidding. But that takes longer. I would say the whole process takes three months before betas get it.
20. How willing are you to kill your characters if the plot so demands it? If it needs to happen, then it does. What’s the most interesting way you’ve killed someone? I don't know if I can answer this.
22. Do any of your characters have pets? Yes, and they're cats. Always. This says a lot about me.
23. Do appearances play a big role in your stories? I think so. In MISFITS especially there are a lot of small details that I thought were important.
24. Have you ever written a character with physical or mental disabilities? I think there is something a little bit wrong with all of my characters but nothing that I would classify as a disability.
25. How often do you think about writing? All. The. Time.
Whew! That was longer than I thought it would be. Fill out at your own risk. :)
Brandy
I really love the world in the WIP I'm revising, MISFITS. I think it's because there are SO MANY possibilities. I actually started MISFITS as a creative exercise by just throwing everything at it and it turned into a book!
2. How many characters do you have? I normally have one MC and a group around her. I think the people around an MC make them who they are, so friends and family are important to me when creating characters.
Do you prefer males or females? I've only written from the female POV but I think a lot about writing a male.
3. How do you come up with names, for characters (and for places if you’re writing about fictional places)? It's a big deal. I'm very picky about names, although in MISFITS the names are so silly and obvious that I just kind of went with it. I also tend to give my female MC's names that could also be male. I don't know why but there it is. As for places, I pick a place that makes sense for the story.
4. Tell us about one of your first stories/characters! My first story, which I found not long ago, was about me and a lot of danger. Like, chocolate was dangerous. I was five-ish. I've written kind of dramatic my whole life.
5. Where are you most comfortable writing? My couch. I try other places but no matter where I go, I get the most done on the couch. At what time of day? Whenever it hits me, although I make an effort to write during daylight times because if I write too late, I can't sleep.
6. Do you listen to music while you write? What kind? Are there any songs you like to relate/apply to your characters? I need quiet to write. Or if the TV is on, it's very low and on something that I won't pay attention to.
7. What’s your favorite genre to write? YA contemp, or fantasy-ish YA. To read? Same. Although I work in non-YA too.
8. How do you get ideas for your characters? I start with their personality and quirks. Charlie, my MC in KILLER CUPCAKES is very driven by what goes on around her and how she wants to change that. Ali, from MISFITS, doesn't deal with emotions well and uses jokes to lighten things up. My new MC is a complete headcase but I think I love her.
9. What are some really weird situations your characters have been in? Hell. One has woken up spooning with a guy in front of her grandmother and almost shot a raccoon. Another has ridden a were animal. It's complicated.
10. Who is your favorite character to write? The group of life-long friends in INHERENTLY DANGEROUS is really fun to write. They have so much complicated history and there really aren't many secrets between them, so the dynamic is fun.
11. In what story did you feel you did the best job of worldbuilding?
I kind of suck at worldbuilding, so I'm not sure. It's definitely not my strongest suit. I'm working on it.
12. What’s your favorite culture to write, fictional or not? Any and all.
13. How do you map out locations, if needed? Honestly? I've never felt the need to. I take creative liberties while trying to be realistic about everything around my characters.
14. Midway question! Tell us about a writer you admire, whether professional or not! Richelle Mead but I'm not talking anymore about it. If she finds out (doubtful), she'll think I'm obsessed and I'M NOT.
15. Do you write romantic relationships? Sure do. How do you deal with those, and how “far” are you willing to go in your writing? Well, I write mainly YA, so I try to be smart about it. Interestingly enough, if I ever write my second books to KC or MISFITS, I'll have to deal with this more head on, I think.
16. What are your favorite character interactions to write? I lurrve awkward scenes.
17. Do any of your characters have children? No, but boy would that complicate things!
18. Tell us about one scene between your characters that you’ve never written or told anyone about before! Serious or not. Not sure what this means, but we'll go with I don't have one. :)
19. How long does it usually take you to complete an entire story—from planning to writing to posting (if you post your work)?
First draft takes about a month, revisions take MY WHOLE LIFE! Kidding. But that takes longer. I would say the whole process takes three months before betas get it.
20. How willing are you to kill your characters if the plot so demands it? If it needs to happen, then it does. What’s the most interesting way you’ve killed someone? I don't know if I can answer this.
22. Do any of your characters have pets? Yes, and they're cats. Always. This says a lot about me.
23. Do appearances play a big role in your stories? I think so. In MISFITS especially there are a lot of small details that I thought were important.
24. Have you ever written a character with physical or mental disabilities? I think there is something a little bit wrong with all of my characters but nothing that I would classify as a disability.
25. How often do you think about writing? All. The. Time.
Whew! That was longer than I thought it would be. Fill out at your own risk. :)
Brandy
Monday, September 19, 2011
Monday Writing Meme
Just like last week, a writing meme! I swear I won't only have memes on the blog from now on, it just ended up that way this week. Pinky swear.
You know the rules: there are none. If you end up doing the meme, let me know. If not, just comment and say hi, okay? Because I'm fragile like that.
1. List one of your writing goals for the upcoming month and how likely you are to accomplish it.
Well, I have two goals for the next month. The first is to FINALLY, FINALLY finish revising MISFITS. I would also, in a really happy world, like to finish my first draft on The New Project. MISFITS will happen, for sure. I'm not sure about TNP. It's taking a while to form in my head, so it may end up being my NaNoWriMo project. Not sure yet.
2. What genre or subject would you like to write about that you aren't currently?
I don't know. I'd love to write something like The Mortal Instruments series by Cassie Clare but I don't know if I can put myself through that. If I still hung posters, Cassie Clare's pic would SO be up there. Also, a book like Beauty Queens by Libba Bray. She is insanely amazing.
3. What is your writing lifestyle, habits? How do you manage the interruptions with your writing? How do you stay positive? Believe in your writing success?
a) Writing lifestyle - I'd like to say that I'm really structured and sit down from 9-5, or whatever, to write but I don't. If I wanted to work from 9-5, I'd go get a real job instead of trying to write books. I do, however, like to give myself wordcount goals, so I try to write 2k words a day. On Wednesdays, I like to double the word count, a day I've dubbed Double Up Wednesday.
The only real habit I have is that I make notes after writing for the day, so I know what my thought process was when I start the next day. It keeps me on track.
b) Interruptions - I mostly glare at people. Is that wrong?
c) How do I stay positive - Oh boy. I don't know about this one. I think I go back and forth between thinking my stories rule to thinking I suck at life. One day I'm all, "Working on my future best seller right now!" and the next I'm all, "I should just go and get a factory job and never write another word!" So I really don't know. I have people who tell me I don't suck. That helps.
d) Believe in my writing success - I've gotten good feedback, even with rejections and that helps. It lets me know that I'm close but still need to work harder. So I keep working.
4. Are you a pantser or plotter? - Pantser. I love the idea of planning while it also gives me hives. I feel that if I plan out the whole book, I won't feel like writing it anymore. I also worry that I'll plan myself into a box. In general, I know who my characters are when I start and within the first few chapters I have a basic idea of what's going to happen and that's all. This is the problem I'm having with The New Project right now. I have NO IDEA what's going to happen and don't want to write more until I do. *shakes fist at ceiling*
5. Who are two of your favorite current authors and why? - Oh my. This is a ridiculous questions to ask me! Or for me to ask myself! Okay, okay, OKAY!
I'm going to go with Richelle Mead first because of my obsession with The Vampire Academy. Also because she is so ballsy, and let me be honest, the person who created Dimitri Belikov deserves a poster on my wall.
Second, I'll go with Stephanie Perkins because she is just GOOD. I read Anna and the French Kiss in one day, put it down, sent texts to all of my friends telling them to read it, and then picked it up and read it again. So cute. I just gave it to a friend as a birthday present, actually.
6. How does your family feel about your writing? - My mom is my biggest fan. She's Person Who Tells Me I Don't Suck #1. My sister thinks it's cool but is still silently waiting for me to grow up. My niece hopes I'll make tons of money so I can buy her a new wardrobe and softball gear. My dad's side of the family doesn't really know that I write that much.... I kind of never told them. Don't worry! I'll send them a book when I get published! *crosses fingers*
Okay, that's it! Happy Monday!
Brandy
Monday, September 12, 2011
Monday Writing Meme
Because I like answering questions about writing, I found this while googling random things and decided I want to try and do something like this every Monday. The only rule for this is simple, if you want to do it, DO IT! You don't even have to do it on a Monday. We are REBELS, people. REBELS. If you don't want to do it, read mine and laugh at me or comment. Either way!
What’s your favorite genre of writing? Hmm, contemporary or fantasy-ish YA. I think I'm still figuring out where I'll land on this. Maybe I won't land at all.
How often do you get writer’s block? Not very often. If I get writer's block, mostly I'll just trudge thru it, or take a serious look at where I'm at and what I'm doing in a WIP. I take writer's block as a sign more than a problem.
How do you fix it? Like I said above, writing thru it. Also, reading more and going to the movies. Anything that gets the creative juices flowing. I've also been known to put on some headphones and stare at the ceiling for a while.
Do you type or write by hand? Mostly typing. If there is a scene I want to flesh out more before getting serious about it, I'll write it out. Writing by hand is also another thing I do if I feel stuck. I feel less committed when I'm only writing by hand.
Do you save everything you write? Yes. I have SO MANY first few chapters of books I've never finished saved. Even when I'm revising, I save the scenes I cut out. My excuse is that someday, people may want to see them. Hoarder-ish? Yes. Presumptuous? Totally. I do it anyway.
Do you ever go back to an old idea long after you abandoned it? Oh, yeah. This is why I save everything! If you look at my projects bar on the side, INHERENTLY DANGEROUS is the first book I ever wrote, except it takes place ten years after the first book happened. The first book sucked but I will finish ID. New spins on old ideas are the best.
Do you have a constructive critic? I do and she's awesome.
Did you ever write a novel? More than a couple.
What genre would you love to write but haven’t? I've never finished a non-YA book. I'd love to do that.
What’s one genre you have never written, and probably never will? Horror/thriller. I'm a total wuss with that stuff.
How many writing projects are you working on right now? Three. But I'm focusing mainly on two.
Do you write for a living? Do you want to? I don't but it would be the best thing ever.
Have you ever written something for a magazine or newspaper? Magazine, no. Newspaper, yes. I would jump at the chance to write for a magazine though.
Have you ever won an award for your writing? Nope, just a contest.
Do you ever write based on your dreams? No, but I wouldn't rule it out. My dreams are nuts.
Do you favor happy endings, sad endings, or cliff-hangers? Oh lord, I could write a whole post on this one. I like endings with closure. It doesn't have to be happy, although I like them the most. I just want the questions that are posed in that book answered. Even if it's a cliff-hanger, I think a good author can wrap up their story and still leave something to look forward to in the next book.
If you do end up doing this meme, let me know in the comments so I can check it out. Or just leave me a few thoughts in general. :)
Brandy
What’s your favorite genre of writing? Hmm, contemporary or fantasy-ish YA. I think I'm still figuring out where I'll land on this. Maybe I won't land at all.
How often do you get writer’s block? Not very often. If I get writer's block, mostly I'll just trudge thru it, or take a serious look at where I'm at and what I'm doing in a WIP. I take writer's block as a sign more than a problem.
How do you fix it? Like I said above, writing thru it. Also, reading more and going to the movies. Anything that gets the creative juices flowing. I've also been known to put on some headphones and stare at the ceiling for a while.
Do you type or write by hand? Mostly typing. If there is a scene I want to flesh out more before getting serious about it, I'll write it out. Writing by hand is also another thing I do if I feel stuck. I feel less committed when I'm only writing by hand.
Do you save everything you write? Yes. I have SO MANY first few chapters of books I've never finished saved. Even when I'm revising, I save the scenes I cut out. My excuse is that someday, people may want to see them. Hoarder-ish? Yes. Presumptuous? Totally. I do it anyway.
Do you ever go back to an old idea long after you abandoned it? Oh, yeah. This is why I save everything! If you look at my projects bar on the side, INHERENTLY DANGEROUS is the first book I ever wrote, except it takes place ten years after the first book happened. The first book sucked but I will finish ID. New spins on old ideas are the best.
Do you have a constructive critic? I do and she's awesome.
Did you ever write a novel? More than a couple.
What genre would you love to write but haven’t? I've never finished a non-YA book. I'd love to do that.
What’s one genre you have never written, and probably never will? Horror/thriller. I'm a total wuss with that stuff.
How many writing projects are you working on right now? Three. But I'm focusing mainly on two.
Do you write for a living? Do you want to? I don't but it would be the best thing ever.
Have you ever written something for a magazine or newspaper? Magazine, no. Newspaper, yes. I would jump at the chance to write for a magazine though.
Have you ever won an award for your writing? Nope, just a contest.
Do you ever write based on your dreams? No, but I wouldn't rule it out. My dreams are nuts.
Do you favor happy endings, sad endings, or cliff-hangers? Oh lord, I could write a whole post on this one. I like endings with closure. It doesn't have to be happy, although I like them the most. I just want the questions that are posed in that book answered. Even if it's a cliff-hanger, I think a good author can wrap up their story and still leave something to look forward to in the next book.
If you do end up doing this meme, let me know in the comments so I can check it out. Or just leave me a few thoughts in general. :)
Brandy
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Writing frustrations.
I'm sure I'm not the only struggling writer out there that reads books that are so good, so consuming that you just want to throw things and shake your fist at the sky while yelling, "I want to write like this!" Right? RIGHT? Because that's what I've been doing the last few days.
I know I've tweeted about my love of the series The Vampire Academy but I don't think I've mentioned it on the blog before. I'm in serious love with these books. Yes, I'm a few years late but still, it's love. I also know that there are a lot of people who will shake their head and sniff at vampire books because they're so overdone and "on the way out" but I. Love. Them.
I'm reading the series for the second time and I've done so just as fast as I did the first time and with the exact amount of awe as well. For me, these books aren't even about vampires but amazing characters that I find myself thinking about throughout the day. In fact, a friend asked me what I'd been up to the other day and I answered honestly, "Well, I'm wondering what Dimitri Belikov is up to." It's just the way I think. I can't help it.
What's so impressive though is how ballsy Richelle Mead is. If you've read the series, you know what I'm talking about. The end of the third book and all of the fourth are heart wrenching, gut twisting and breakdown inducing. By nature, I'm not a crier, but I think every time I put down the fourth book in the series, Blood Promise, I bawled my eyes out. And in a show of how good the story is, the next day, I picked the book right back up, tissues in hand. I'm also about to read that book for the second time, ready to cry for a few days again. But Mead went there anyway. She KNEW that she was turning the world she created upside down and she pushed on. Even when you think things are about to get better for poor Rose Hathaway, they don't.
I've also heard people complain about decisions that Rose makes throughout the series, calling her selfish or immature, but that's because she is. Mead allowed Rose to be imperfect and to do things that the readers may disagree with because it's what made her real. She got away with this because the story is just that good and because it's honest. This is so brave and as a struggling writer, SO admirable.
I have a lot of the same feelings about the writing on Sons of Anarchy. You just don't leave seasons hanging the way Kurt Sutter does. You don't flip the whole world around, leaving everyone at risk. You can't write characters that do horrible things and expect people to pull for them. Except that he does. What makes these stories so good is that when I either put the book down or walk away from the TV, my mouth is hanging open and my heart is pounding. I can't believe these writers went there and that they continue to go there.
I haven't read Bloodlines yet, the companion book to the Vampire Academy series, but I have heard what the very last line of the book is. Mead went there again, leaving us hanging yet trusting her that she'll bring it next time. And I'm positive she will.
*shakes fist at ceiling* Why must they set the standards so high? Why??
So, what story, book, TV or otherwise, leaves you shaking your fist? I'll be sure to grab a pen and paper so I can check them out too.
Brandy
I know I've tweeted about my love of the series The Vampire Academy but I don't think I've mentioned it on the blog before. I'm in serious love with these books. Yes, I'm a few years late but still, it's love. I also know that there are a lot of people who will shake their head and sniff at vampire books because they're so overdone and "on the way out" but I. Love. Them.
I'm reading the series for the second time and I've done so just as fast as I did the first time and with the exact amount of awe as well. For me, these books aren't even about vampires but amazing characters that I find myself thinking about throughout the day. In fact, a friend asked me what I'd been up to the other day and I answered honestly, "Well, I'm wondering what Dimitri Belikov is up to." It's just the way I think. I can't help it.
What's so impressive though is how ballsy Richelle Mead is. If you've read the series, you know what I'm talking about. The end of the third book and all of the fourth are heart wrenching, gut twisting and breakdown inducing. By nature, I'm not a crier, but I think every time I put down the fourth book in the series, Blood Promise, I bawled my eyes out. And in a show of how good the story is, the next day, I picked the book right back up, tissues in hand. I'm also about to read that book for the second time, ready to cry for a few days again. But Mead went there anyway. She KNEW that she was turning the world she created upside down and she pushed on. Even when you think things are about to get better for poor Rose Hathaway, they don't.
I've also heard people complain about decisions that Rose makes throughout the series, calling her selfish or immature, but that's because she is. Mead allowed Rose to be imperfect and to do things that the readers may disagree with because it's what made her real. She got away with this because the story is just that good and because it's honest. This is so brave and as a struggling writer, SO admirable.
I have a lot of the same feelings about the writing on Sons of Anarchy. You just don't leave seasons hanging the way Kurt Sutter does. You don't flip the whole world around, leaving everyone at risk. You can't write characters that do horrible things and expect people to pull for them. Except that he does. What makes these stories so good is that when I either put the book down or walk away from the TV, my mouth is hanging open and my heart is pounding. I can't believe these writers went there and that they continue to go there.
I haven't read Bloodlines yet, the companion book to the Vampire Academy series, but I have heard what the very last line of the book is. Mead went there again, leaving us hanging yet trusting her that she'll bring it next time. And I'm positive she will.
*shakes fist at ceiling* Why must they set the standards so high? Why??
So, what story, book, TV or otherwise, leaves you shaking your fist? I'll be sure to grab a pen and paper so I can check them out too.
Brandy
Monday, August 15, 2011
The voices in my head won't shut up.
This post might make me seem a little crazy... well, a little more crazy than I've already admitted to being, anyway. But I'm going to admit it: There are people living in my head and they won't shut up.
As you know, I've been working on revisions of MISFITS. I'm at the print-it-out-and-be-picky stage, which I'll start this weekend. I've held back from writing MISFITS 2, so I don't get anything mixed up between the two and to give myself a bit of a break. But then, last Wednesday I woke up with this girl in my head telling me about her life and how the first chapter of her story will start.
Obviously, I don't actually have voices talking to me but I have all of these people, stories and worlds in my head and it makes me feel a little bit nuts. I have three stories taking up room in my mind that have me researching some things for The New Story, trying to add oomph to MISFITS and thinking about how that story will continue in the sequel. It's so much that I'm having trouble sleeping. My mind simply won't turn off! I love the new ideas but oh, how I love good sleep...
On the other hand, I can't even tell you how excited I am about this new idea. It's way out of my comfort zone, the new main character is going to be a handful and I'm thinking I'll actually start working on it when I finish my revisions on MISFITS with hopes of being done before November. This means I can spend NaNoWriMo working on MISFITS 2. I would wait on this new idea for November but it's going to involve a lot more research and as much planning as I can do without going crazy. None of that lends itself to writing quickly for me.
Um, crazy is a huge theme of this post. Let's ignore it, huh?
Anyway! I'm headed out of town on Wednesday for my sister's wedding, (second time's a charm!) and will be away from humanity, (read: In Delaware) until Saturday. Maybe a long drive will help clear my head.
So, am I really crazy? Or are these people in my head something all writers deal with? Or are we ALL crazy?
-Brandy
As you know, I've been working on revisions of MISFITS. I'm at the print-it-out-and-be-picky stage, which I'll start this weekend. I've held back from writing MISFITS 2, so I don't get anything mixed up between the two and to give myself a bit of a break. But then, last Wednesday I woke up with this girl in my head telling me about her life and how the first chapter of her story will start.
Obviously, I don't actually have voices talking to me but I have all of these people, stories and worlds in my head and it makes me feel a little bit nuts. I have three stories taking up room in my mind that have me researching some things for The New Story, trying to add oomph to MISFITS and thinking about how that story will continue in the sequel. It's so much that I'm having trouble sleeping. My mind simply won't turn off! I love the new ideas but oh, how I love good sleep...
On the other hand, I can't even tell you how excited I am about this new idea. It's way out of my comfort zone, the new main character is going to be a handful and I'm thinking I'll actually start working on it when I finish my revisions on MISFITS with hopes of being done before November. This means I can spend NaNoWriMo working on MISFITS 2. I would wait on this new idea for November but it's going to involve a lot more research and as much planning as I can do without going crazy. None of that lends itself to writing quickly for me.
Um, crazy is a huge theme of this post. Let's ignore it, huh?
Anyway! I'm headed out of town on Wednesday for my sister's wedding, (second time's a charm!) and will be away from humanity, (read: In Delaware) until Saturday. Maybe a long drive will help clear my head.
So, am I really crazy? Or are these people in my head something all writers deal with? Or are we ALL crazy?
-Brandy
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