I found this interesting article:
Why Do We Sigh? | Psychology Today
My question: Should a first-person character tell us they sighed?
Sighing is an audible and visual reaction. But maybe a first-person character would only observe this in others. Would a first-person character just express the frustration in dialogue (internal and audible) and in physical actions?
I’d love feedback on this from fiction writers and those who read fiction.
Have you ever been shocked and disappointed by a big-name author’s book and thought, I wish I could have critiqued that for them first?
If seasoned authors still need trusted critique partners to say, “this is boring”, I certainly do.
And I’m happy to say I have.
While working on my fourth book in the Dangerous Loyalties series, I asked for a first chapter critique from someone not familiar with my previous work. I received a great reality check on the arrogant thought, I’ve nailed it.
What went wrong?
Yes, I knew better. So why did I choose to ignore sound story structure advice from the beginning?
Because I love my darlings. Thankfully, the critique exposed the truth, “They’re evil and must die.”
Rather than stay bummed out and whine, “I’ll never write again” I reassessed the mess and develop an alternative plan. I embraced the opportunity to make corrections on my blueprint before continuing with faulty construction. I also repented from judging the famous author’s boring best seller.
3 Reasons Authors Need Tough Critiques
Even after working with critique partners, beta readers, and editors, odds are, critical reviews will come, and fans will turn. Don’t let this truth be an excuse to quit or become cocky.
Stand up straight, pull the dagger from your heart, continue receiving help, and get back to creating.
Are the reasons I’ve missed?
I’ve followed author, editor, and writing coach, C.S. Lakin for years. I’ve matured as a writer from her critiques, classes, and books. She loves helping writers at all levels.
When I emailed her on a personal matter, she responded with sweet understanding, then shocked the heck out of me. “Why don’t you write me a blog post sometime…the #1 way to get new fans and traction on your books is to guest blog on top sights…”
So, I did.
But first, I dealt with these 5 challenges:
1. Fear–What do I know?
2. Imposter Syndrome–People will know I’m lame.
3. Write–Okay, I’ll try.
4. Revise–See, I can’t do it, but I’ll try again.
5. Release–Yay me, I did it. Followed by #1 and #2.
Have you guest blogged? What were your challenges and results?
My post category is Novel Structure. The title: 5 Steps to Write Thrilling Historical Fiction for Teens.
Read on C.S. Lakin’s informative website:
https://www.livewritethrive.com/
Is your story idea good enough to become a book?
Find out on my vlog.
How strong is your desire to write?
In a 1964 interview, Harper Lee said, “Writing is a process of self-discipline you must learn before you can call yourself a writer. There are people who write, but I think they’re quite different from people who must write.”
I’ve added this topic on my vlog.
As the author of Defiance on Indian Creek, I’m thrilled that Angelina Kelly chose my book to launch her career as an Audiobook narrator. Her years of experience as a voice actor brings clear pronunciations and confident portrayals of my characters. Hearing the teen voice of Mary interacting with her family and clashing with her papa swells my heart with pride. I hope you enjoy this first Audible audiobook in the Dangerous Loyalties series as Angelina Kelly brings to life the struggles and triumphs Mary revealed to me.
Listen free for unbiased review? I have free codes for Audible.com upon request.
As the author of Fleeing the Shadows, I’m once again honored by Angelina Kelly’s excellent portrayal of Mary and her family as they escape British Loyalist along the old hunters’ path toward Daniel Boones’ settlement in Kentucky territory. Angelina keeps the pace moving and presents the story’s humor, tension, and characters’ personalities well, as the family encounters the harsh realities of frontier life. Danger lurks around every turn and the Cherokee Indians are watching.
Listen free for unbiased review? I have free codes for Audible.com upon request.
Write with Heart
Because romping about is not socially acceptable.
