Creative writing – Page 27

How to add a friends quirks to your character

Published on September 20, 2017September 19, 2017 by Jean M. Cogdell4 Comments

We all have them, those irritating, funny, or lovable people who make our lives complete.

Without an aggravating co-worker, who would we bitch about?

What would our BBQ be without the life of the party friend?

Pink Panther - Life of the party

Or how about that loving friend who embraces all of our warts, and keeps us sane? Gotta have a best friend character, right?

Roz Morris refers to these everyday characters as “plot zombies.” No, not the flesh-eating kind. But people who add spice and zing to the story. Adding ‘equilibrium of irritation’ to the plot might be just what you’re searching for.

She uses an old sitcom Sienfield to show examples in the extreme. Although, I beg to differ. Because I’ve met a few of these extreme characters in real life. Which goes right to her point.

Roz explains, that time moves on and we deal with the quirks of people in our world because that’s life. “Art imitates life.” Oscar Wilde. But I contend, life also imitates art, especially in fiction.

I love her example and it really got me to thinking how I need to add a little ‘equilibrium of irritation’ to my WIP. So, now which of my characters needs spice? Hmm…

Watch and see what Roz is talking about…

Did anyone look familiar? Maybe, an aunt, nutty uncle or coworker?

Do you think there is room in your story for a little ‘equilibrium of irritation’?

Have you applied a real person quirks to a character?

Or maybe you have a favorite sit-com that inspires you. Do tell.

Click and read all about…

Fictional characters – a lesson from Seinfeld from Roz Morris at Nail Your Novel

After leaving a comment, I hope you’ll head over and “like” my Facebook page at Facebook at jeanswriting . Or connect with me, click the “write me” tab. Don’t forget you can also follow me on StumbleUpon, on Twitter @jeancogdell , and Amazon.com.

Please stop by and say “hey!” I’ll leave a light on.

Do you want to curl up with a good book this weekend?

Published on September 15, 2017September 14, 2017 by Jean M. Cogdell7 Comments

Then today is your lucky day!

Because I’ve got not one, not two but three for you. Each book different and unique.

Long flights are perfect for reading and I found these good talented authors to keep me company as I traveled.

Up first…

The Sanctification of Peter Kane by Troy Stoops

Want to read a preview of this book? Click on the image.

At first, the mixed reviews gave me pause. I wasn’t sure what to expect, offered through Kindle Unlimited so I thought, why not. And boy-howdy I’m glad I took a chance on Mr. Stoops.

I enjoyed this book so much, I returned the KU version and bought a copy to keep. It’s that good. Ever heard the old saying, “Truth is stranger than fiction?” That’s what popped into my mind as I read this book.

I also wondered where the author bought his crystal ball, the book was published in 2013. Twilight time. Be sure to open your mind and check your biases before you begin reading. To read my 5-star review on Amazon review…

Next is…

The Millionaire’s Wife by Shalini Boland

This psychological thriller kept me on the edge until the last chapter. That makes for a great read. If you enjoyed Gone Girl, you will like The Millionaire’s Wife. Just what will someone do for money?

Kill, plan, and terrorize? All of the above is in this book. Ms. Boland earned five stars for the roller coaster ride of suspense. To read my 5-star review on Amazon review…

Last but not least…

I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll

Where do I start? At the end. Why? Because there are few books that have brought me to tears. This is one. I read the last few pages through blurry eyes. Not because my eyes were tired or my Kindle on the fritz. No, the words danced because of the compassion rolling inside of me.

Ms. Driscoll tells a story of murder, loss, and deceit from the perspective of all too human characters. This takes talent. She makes the reader care about the people in her story. I can only hope to achieve this great feat one day.

I didn’t figure out guilty until the author revealed their identity. Now that is great story telling and very deserving of five stars. To read my 5-star review on Amazon review…

Have you read a memorable book recently?

Have a favorite you enjoy over and over?

Please share your best reads. We all love finding that nugget amidst the rubble.

And when you have a moment, head over and “like” my Facebook page at Facebook at jeanswriting . Or to connect with me, click the “write me” tab. Don’t forget you can follow me on StumbleUpon, on Twitter @jeancogdell , and Amazon.com.

Please stop by and say “hey!” I’ll leave a light on.

How do you keep from falling behind?

Published on September 11, 2017September 14, 2017 by Jean M. Cogdell8 Comments

Wow! I was only gone two weeks. And now I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed.

Someone sure stirred up the weather gods, while I was on vacation.

Geesh, Hurricane Harvey ushered our plane out of Texas and Irma waited for our return.

I’m so glad that my friends are safe out of harm’s way. With every email, text, tweet and blog post I was thrilled to see smiling faces and read triumph words of survival.

Houston is still cleaning up the mess Harvey left, and Florida will be cleaning for weeks to come. My heart goes out to those who are struggling. Y’all stay dry, Ya hear?

Keeping up with everyone while on holiday, in the 16 Arrondissement in Paris was not as easy as one might think. The internet connection left much to be desired. Even though I’d backed all up to the cloud so I could work a little bit while visiting.

Connecting to the internet cloud

After struggling with my cell phone, I just gave up and enjoyed my granddaughters.

So my apologies if I haven’t been very attentive.

In spite of feeling disconnected, my vacation was lovely. Spending time with my daughter and her family is always fun. Father and daughter

Not to mention the shopping, the food, wine, and laughter. Shopping in Paris

I’ve only been back a couple of days, and I miss them already. Sigh.

But, there’s always next year.

But vacation is over and it’s time to buckle down and write/blog. Hmm, maybe after I wash the mountain of clothes that sprang from our suitcases.

I feel as though I left my motivation somewhere and forgot where. Kinda like misplaced keys. LOL

Any suggestions on how to get back in the groove after a wonderful fun-filled two weeks?

In the mean time, Y’all stay safe! Because unfortunately, hurricane season is not over.

How High’s the Water Mama?

Want to know more about Paris?

Best Things To See And Do In The 16th Arrondissement Of Paris

A Francophile in France

How is everyone doing out there?

Please head over and “like” my Facebook page at Facebook at jeanswriting . Or to connect with me, click the “write me” tab. Don’t forget you can follow me on StumbleUpon, on Twitter @jeancogdell , and Amazon.com.

Please stop by and say “hey!” I’ll leave a light on.

What name should you publish under?

Published on September 6, 2017September 14, 2017 by Jean M. Cogdell2 Comments

If you are planning on self-publishing a name is important.

One of the first things I did was to set up a publishing name. Second Act Press. This has a personal meaning to only me and gives my books a bit of publishing weight.

Second Act Press - Jean M. Cogdell

With a purchased ISBN you can publish under your name or a DBA (Doing Business As) name. However, if you use one of the free ISBN offered through Createspace or another company, their name will appear as publisher.

Have you considered a publishing name?

Or have you not thought about one?

If you are writing a book, start thinking. It’s a big decision.

Want more tips? Keep reading.