Tuesday, April 20, 2010

More Books?

More Books?

My Amazon order arrived on my doorstep this morning. Yay! I’m sure my hubby would just be like “More books? You haven’t read the ones on the bookshelf yet.”

Guilty look.

Yeah, but I NEED these books. Well, I don’t know that I need them since I have a couple unread writing books on my shelf, but still…they are writing books.

Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell

The Art of War for Writers by James Scott Bell

Police Procedure & Investigation by Lee Lofland

Christian Writer’s Market Guide by Sally Stuart

As you know, I am in the process of reading through what I’ve written of my WIP so far. One thing I’ve noticed is that I really love my plot. However, I have a little trouble piecing the plot together in a smooth fashion and bringing all three POVs together at the right point.

I suppose that’s what I get for being a pantster who doesn’t keep track of her plot.

Along with that, one of my friends works for the police and says that some of my story is a little “off”. Yeah…probably should have done more research than reruns of Bones.

I am determined to get back on track and do this right. No more “winging” it. After all, with a third child soon to make an appearance, an abundance of time to write a novel is just going to dwindle even more.

Did I mention it is my goal to be published by the time I’m 30? My birthday’s next month…I’ll be 29. *gulp* Guess I better get on the ball!

You tell me...what one writing resource have you found most beneficial?

5 comments:

  1. Now I want to order books, too. Thanks a lot. :)

    What one resource?? I am listing two. 1. My local RWA. There's nothing like learning from other writers. 2. Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne & Dave King.

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  2. I have the same problem, Ralene...too many unread books, not enough time! The book that's been most helpful to me is one you just purchased, Christian Writer's Market Guide, by Sally Stuart. Everything from agent info to upcoming conferences. A wealth of information at your fingertips! Enjoy!

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  3. I really want to read The Art of War--you'll have to let us know what you think. I read The Fire in Fiction by Donald Maass last year and I still refer to my notes because I found it so helpful.

    I also went to my first conference earlier this year and the speakers were so helpful. I really think if you can find a local conference with some speakers you've heard good things about or who have lots of experience in publishing, it's definitely beneficial to go.

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  4. Oooh! Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell is one of my favorites. Very helpful book. I think you'll like it.

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  5. @Jill--earlier on a comment from a friend, I likened books to shoes for writers. hehehe...

    @Maria--I've always gotten the regular market guide, but I think this one will help me narrow down easier.

    @Cindy--Girl, I haven't seen you in forever! How's it going? I went to the ACFW conference last year and what a wealth of information that was!

    @Annie--I've only heard good things about his writing books, so I look forward to it. You should get The Art of War for Writers, it's his newest writing book and I've heard nothing but raves.

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