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What's Up Wednesday is a blog hop created by Jaime Morrow and Erin Funk as a way for writers to connect with other writers. You can join by using the link on their website.
I read Requiem for a Gypsy, a murder mystery set mainly in Slovakia, with several forays into the rest of Europe. I chose to read it because helpful books and websites about the modern day Roma are few and far between. I enjoyed the book. From a purely research standpoint, it was the most helpful thing I've read, but it still wasn't very helpful. Though the Roma were in it, the titled gypsy was a metaphorical gypsy, not a real one. I'm thinking about rereading Vodnik, a wonderful fantasy set in Slovakia. I should have done that from the start, but who knew I'd have such a rough time finding information?
What I've Been Writing
I outlined yesterday!!!!!!!! I was at the dentist, waiting for my kids, and finally I ran out of excuses. Now I know why I've been dragging my feet so much--this is a complicated story I'm trying to write. One of the character's stories happens out of sync with the other characters, so I think I'm going to have to tell it by flashbacks. In fact, late last night I decided it might simplify everything if his whole story is a mystery the other characters need to solve. Also, there are a boatload of POV characters. I can't say much more at this point, except to say that...I'm writing the sequel to Hidden Magic! It's finally happening!
What Works For Me
When I'm researching a setting, I find that reading fiction gives me a much better sense of place than nonfiction does. Nonfiction doesn't supply me with the details, or the sensory images I need to place myself somewhere I've never been (I've never made such a huge leap as trying to write a story in Slovakia. I'm really terrified, and wish I could afford to go there and do some research. But I'm not, so fiction is the next best thing.)
What Else Is New
On Monday, I finally had three hours to myself. It has been months and months, and I was in dire need of some ME time. I'd thought I would get it over a week ago, but then there were snow days and sick days and teacher work days, and my kids stayed home so much they very nearly forgot they went to school at all. On Monday I had a list of things to do as long as my arm, but I ignored it. Instead I lay on the couch and watched three and a half episodes of Gilmore Girls. I can't believe what a huge difference that has made in my mental health. I even had the headspace to OUTLINE yesterday! I'm a writer again!
Yay outlines! Glad you got some you time. Everyone needs it at every once and a while. Thanks for sharing. :D
ReplyDeleteHooray for the outline. I hope it all goes well :)
ReplyDeleteGreat news about the outline!!
ReplyDeleteGlad you're finding some time to relax and reboot.
That's awesome that you're outlining! In my own experience, sometimes the thing that holds me back is not knowing how exactly to come at a difficult story. That's where I've been lately with my own WiP. It sounds as though you've got a great idea how you want to approach yours, so that's great! Hope this is another good week on that front. :D
ReplyDeleteYay for getting some ME time! I'm glad you're feeling refreshed now. And that's awesome about outlining a new WIP! It sounds complex and intriguing! Your idea for how to structure the book also sounds like a good solution for simplifying, plus that added element of mystery seems like a great way to hook readers in. Best of luck moving forward with that and everything else on your plate this week! :)
ReplyDeleteGreat job with the outline! Good luck with the sequel! :)
ReplyDelete