You are currently browsing the archives for November 2008.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 entries.

Devon

  • Posted on November 25, 2008 at 8:48 pm

We’ve just spent an amazing few days in Devon. Before we went I thought, Devon? In November? What’s the weather going to be like? On the day we went and the day we came back it poured with rain. While we were there – the sun shone! Totally amazing. It was sometimes windy, and a bit cold, but it was fantastic weather for the time of year.

Most evenings I tried to work on my book. If you remember I sent the first four chapters to my editor and although she liked the story she had reservations about how it began. So before we went away I did a revised version of Chapter 1. Chapter 2 would be easy, I thought, I already knew where I was going – but for some reason I couldn’t work out how to get there. I made copious notes and I even wrote some dialogue between Elena and Vidal (without thoughts or descriptions of any kind). I was very disappointed in myself.

But as soon as I sat down at my computer here at home it began to flow again. The dialogue became real and I’m back in my stride. I guess it’s the familiarity of my computer. I feel comfortable and happy here.

I was working on an Alpha Smart. I’d heard so much about them that I borrowed one off a friend – but I couldn’t really get on with it. I’m the sort of person who has to constantly read back over what I’ve written and with such a small screen it became too much of a chore.

I really do need to knuckle down now, but with Christmas fast approaching and no presents bought as yet, I fear the book will have to go on a back burner once again.

Slowly does it

  • Posted on November 14, 2008 at 3:42 pm

I’ve finally reworked the first chapter – only three more to go to get back to where I was in the beginning! My deadline is the end of January but what with Christmas coming up and a few days holiday we intend taking as well it’s still going to be very tight to get it finished on time.

Vidal is a much stronger character this time round I’m pleased to say. And Elena, well, although she knew him when she was growing up she is finding him a very different person now. It’s fun to watch the sparks fly between them.

How I wish I could write more quickly. A very good day for me is 2000 words. But the norm is more like 1000. Sometimes the book will flow, at others I deliberate over almost every word, reading it through time and time again before I’m satisfied.

Spanish book

  • Posted on November 11, 2008 at 8:44 pm
I now have the story for my new book sorted. Originally it was going nowhere, but having submitted the first four chapters and a synopsis to my editor, and having received her comments – (it looks like being a fantastic story – but!!!) – I am back to working on chapter one again. But I’m very hopeful and upbeat about it now so I thought I’d introduce you to my characters.

My hero – Vidal – who is absolutely gorgeous. I’m already in love with him. He’s a banker – but he’s not stiff and starchy – he’s human and sexy and I’m going to have great fun getting to know him better.

And this is Elena. Also a banker’s daughter but running her own wedding planner company.

The problem is her parents bank is in trouble and the only way out is with a merger – and marriage. Elena to Vidal.

Is she happy about it?
Is he happy about it?

I’ll leave you to guess.

First Book

  • Posted on November 5, 2008 at 4:32 pm

My DH went up into our loft the other day, looking for the box of – wait for it – outdoor Christmas lights! Who needs to be reminded that it’s galloping up on us with the speed of a scared rabbit?

Actually, it’s not such a bad idea. He always puts them up before the weather has turned really cold. Wise man. Then we have a grand switch-on nearer the time. He usually gets a famous romantic novelist to do it! (His words not mine)

But – this is what I really wanted to tell you – he came down with a box labelled:

MANUSCRIPT OF FIRST BOOK EVER WRITTEN

It’s 35 years old and still here after three house moves. It is the one rejected by HM&B (and Robert Hale) and the box is now sitting in my study looking at me, daring me to open it – and to actually read it!

I will, one day, I promise. And I’ll let you know what I think of it.

Meantime back to the current WIP which is proving very non-co-operative.

Contest winner

  • Posted on November 4, 2008 at 11:47 am

My contest for October/November is now closed and I’m happy to announce that the winner is:

Carol Thompson

Carol, many congratulations. A copy of The Billionaire’s Blackmail Bargain will be in the post to you this week.