Wednesday, March 30, 2011

It is Wednesday once again. And, once again I attended a totally stellar writing class last night. We read our author bio's to each other and got feedback, likes and dislikes. All I can say is WOW! I am in such amazing company! I almost feel bad because I am 'just a mom'. But, that actually defines ME! We were given the assignment of writing a killer query letter this week. Mary Billiter, our teacher, wants us to insert our voice into what we write. Given my training in office procedures, it may be a slightly difficult concept to work. But, I just have to remember, I CAN DO IT! I have a totally awesome support system in the form of my sisters & mother. They are always willing to drop what they are doing and read what I have written. I can't seem to say thank you enough!

I seem to be suffering from a bit of writer's block. I'm attributing it to the fact that I have gotten what I see as extremely good news about my pregnancy. It isn't quite so high risk anymore! Prayers are answered! And also the fact that I get to go to this writer's conference where I'll get the chance to listen to presentations by some of my favorite authors. I may even get the chance to meet some of them! I'll really need to kick it into gear to see if I can whip a couple of the novels into shape so that I can take something presentable to the boot camp portion of the conference.

Several people have asked what my book is about. I am going to post my pitch line as well as the abridged synopsis I wrote when i screwed up the first synopsis assignment. This is something similar to what you might read on the back of the book if/when it gets published. Enjoy!!!

My current book title (which may change after I meet with an editor/publisher) is "A Little Push to Happiness"

Pitch - A Wyoming rancher is put in a very difficult situation where he tries to rise to the occassion and assist the young woman in desperate need of help.

Synopsis - Abe is a pregnant seventeen year old runaway whose only wish is to escape her father's clutches and to finally feel safe.

Mark is a Wyoming rancher who has everything he needs in life. He's not looking for a relationship, not after what had happened in the last one. As far as he's concerned, life is good.

While hunting on an early October day, Mark is in the right place at the right time to be a so-called "knight in shining armor" for Abe. He interrupts a drunken onslaught and saves her from a horrible fate. They are both catapulted into a series of events that are almost more than they can handle.

Join them on their journey as Mark strives to help Abe and in return is given the little push to happiness he didn't know he needed.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

This weekend, I found a link to an awesome Writers Conference in Salt Lake City that is put on by LDStoryMakers. During registration, I discovered I could sign up for a meeting with an editor. There were several to choose from. I chose one of the editors from Covenant Communications. Hopefully, all will go well. I'm attending the BootCamp, Conference and meeting with the editor.

Class is still going well. My instructor, Mary Billiter, is totally amazing! She has come up with great hints, tips and suggestions. She is very supportive and understanding!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

My Book (s)

I started by writing a book and then got stumped. Then, I got an idea for a different one, taking a totally different direction. Over the next six weeks, my novel took shape. Through several readings, edits and ideas my book took shape. After it was complete and sent to my sisters and friends, I finally came up with a title. In January, I decided to take a writing class. This class has helped immensely! I will be forever grateful to my instructor. She has provided wonderful feedback and support.

I can't thank my sister Nicole enough for all the support and ideas she has given me. I could never have done this without her. She has been instrumental in supporting my writing ideas. She has stayed up late (even though she has a newborn) reading everything I have sent her no matter how odd, wierd, or dark it is. I appreciate her honest opinions and suggestions.

As soon as my class is over - in about six weeks - I plan to start to submit my book to publishers. I'm crossing my fingers that they don't scalp me too bad. I kinda like my hair!