Often plot consultations take place once for two hours. I may hear from a writer off and on for years either on the same project different draft or somewhere in the process of birthing a new story. When I work with a writer on an on-going basis, inevitably our conversation turns to the writer's writing schedule.A writer has a definite deadline when to complete this current draft. She knows approximately how many words her story is going to be based on research of how many words books in print …
Breakthrough
In the middle of my keynote plot workshop, I begin to pick up a dull hum in the background of the main ballroom. Pre-occupied with holding my balance as I launch more than 200 writers deeper into their stories, I flick away the distraction like an irritating fly. The noise grows more distinct. A couple of writers are talking at one of the seats-eight round dining tables strewn with papers and plot planners. Their conversation persists into my explanation of the next step of the workshop. Others …
The One True Beginning
On our way out from the Desert Rose RWA conference, a writer asks for help with her story. Using the plot planner she created in the workshop, she points to the key scenes in her story, her face filled with joy and confidence in the layout of the dramatic action scenes. She turns serious as she expresses concern about her character's likability in the beginning first quarter of the novel. Then she slices the edge of her hand, cutting off the first quarter and looks up beaming as she declares she …
Desert Rose Romance Writers of America Conference
The conference lived up to its name; the entire desert appeared in full bloom upon our arrival in Phoenix. Met up with my agent and dear friend, Jill Corcoran, and fun began. My name badge as The Plot Whisperer seemed to part the waters; everyone was more than kind and often downright respectful to me. No Plot Whisperer books in the bookstore. They sold out before I even arrived (note to self: ask for a guarantee that the number of books available for sale equal the number of writers anticipated …
Organizing Your Plot
Some writers desire help in brainstorming plot elements for their stories. Others are looking for a way out of the corner they've written themselves into. Some want to test the story choices they've made. Others simply want encouragement and a renewed belief that the time and effort she puts into her story is worth it, that her story is worth it, that she is worth it, that someday someone will read her words and be moved by her story.The exercise of listing scenes and filling in a character …
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