Category: Royalene Speaks

Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 12/8/2017

‘TIS THE SEASON TO SET THE STEEL OUTRIGGER

Have you ever had the feeling, just as you’re finishing a novel, that the whole premise is collapsing? Be assured you are not the first writer to experience this, nor will you be the last. I firmly believe that this excruciating moment in every author’s life is qusteel outriggerite simply just part of the process of creating an excellent novel. So, how can we avoid that moment? Here we are in the 2nd week of December and the holiday activities are increasing. However, I’ve set aside two days (well, a day and a half) prepare the foundation for my work in the coming year. I call it my scaffolding agenda.

I’ve been listening to so many ideas floating in my head that will eventually fit into my actual story. But it’s the premise—the very core concept (or “take-away”) that I hope my Readers will discover, that will be my basis and to secure that solid foundation I must ask myself two important questions.

  • WHY do I want to write this story?
  • Why will Readers buy this book?

My answers will lead to the Theme (premise) of the story which I’ve learned to write out in one sentence (even if it’s a paragraph long) and post it on the wall next to my desk. Then, later, I re-write that Theme Statement from the perspective of each of my characters and, again, tape those to the wall. These two steps keep me grounded throughout every stage of writing the novel.

Now, back to the scaffolding illustration. If you’ve ever noticed the scaffolding beside new buildings, or the steelwork of a bridge you’ve probably seen the individual triangle shapes utilized throughout. From the base of scaffolds (called steel outriggers), to the steel supports in raised bridges, these triangle shapes have been selected because of their extreme strength due to the rigidity of its sides which allows them to transfer force more evenly through their sides—or “balance” the pressure.

I don’t believe it is a coincidence that Plot Outlines are often illustrated as triangles because their foundation begins with a specific character or problem (with the world) that must be resolved. Upon the shoulders of this character and the challenge he/she faces rests every other element of the story.

plot diagram

Here are the quick and easy steps I’m taking to lay the foundation for the new novel I’ll start—and finish—in 2018.

  • When I answered the “Why do I want to write this story?” question I discovered that one rather unusual character has been telling me his story—so he will be my main character and the basis for this story’s foundation. My goal during this week will be:
    • Discover his name.
    • Describe his general physical appearance/condition,
    • Write one short paragraph about his back-story.
  • Answering the question, “Why will Readers buy this book?” provided me with the problem this character faces—which will resonate with a large portion of the Reading world. My additional task for this week is to: r
    • Do a quick Internet search to learn more about this challenge in people’s lives and…
    • Start a list of the resources I’ve discovered.

Accomplishing these tasks will, I know, tweak my need to write until sunrise. However, I will remind myself that I have permission to rest—more than I work—and relax (and reconnect) with my family and friends. THIS is the Season to regenerate and let Love and Laughter Ring! ⚓︎

Royalene

ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene has been writing something since before kindergarten days and continues to love the process. Through her small business—DOYLE WRITING SERVICES—she brings more than 40 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their projects. This is a nice fit as she develops these blogs for Outskirts Press (OP) a leading self-publisher, and occasionally accepts a ghostwriting project from one of their clients. Her recent book release (with OP) titled FIREPROOF PROVERBS, A Writer’s Study of Words, is already receiving excellent reviews including several professional writer’s endorsements given on the book’s back cover.
Royalene’s writing experience grew through a wide variety of positions from Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to Teacher of Literature and Advanced Writing courses and editor/writer for an International Christian ministry. Her willingness to listen to struggling authors, learn their goals and expectations and discern their writing voice has brought many manuscripts into the published books arena. This is Royalene’s last month writing for Self Publishing Advisor.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 12/1/2017

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR R&R—AND A BIT OF CONSTRUCTION

If I actually believed in time-warp-science, the fact that the Christmas/Hanukkah Holiday season arrives so quickly each year would be a definite element of proof. And yet, I must accept the simple truth that I’ve already spent each day of the previous eleven months in 2017 and those hours did, indeed, flash past me at warp speed. It is now December 1st. Am I prepared for all the activities already written on my calendar? Maybe about half of them. However, as I look at that list, I’ve decided to do something a little different this year. I’ve blocked off two days each week this month for “me”—days that I will devote to doing nothing else but rekindle the writer’s passion within. I have big plans (and hopes) for completing at least one novel in 2018 and I don’t want to begin the New Year in a frazzled frame of mind and heart.

First on my December me/writing list is scaffold-building. What do I nescaffoldinged (mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually) to support the writing I’ll be doing in 2018?

  • Have I discussed my writing plan with my family? Have I listened to their plans for the year—understanding what they’ll need from me? Do we have a plan in place to work out the unexpected family events (dramas) that will affect our family life?
  • Do I need to retire my old computer (desktop or laptop) and get a new one? What time will be involved in learning the updated software? What about the old printer? Am I mentally ready to spend the time necessary to work with a support technician from the computer/printer company when “things” happen?
  • Is my physical writing space too cluttered to allow me easy access to hardcopy research materials? Do I even know where I’ve stored the research? Are the windows clean so that I can see out and up into the sky—and imagine? If the lighting in the room is already perfect, do I have extra lightbulbs on hand to keep it that way?
  • And, finally—because I’m a writer who prays over my work and the work I do for clients—I am constantly thanking God for His guidance and support of every manuscript I produce. A large prayer jar sits within reach. It contains bits of paper—prayers for HELP, appreciation for technical and research support, and thankfulness for His sweet Presence in the midst of challenging character developments.

Second on this list, is to refresh my skills by finding a quick-read, Back-To-The-Basics writing instruction book. I never want to get rusty or sloppy with what I write even though the process now seems imbedded in my fingertips. One method of doing this (in just a few days) is to select an elementary (or middle school) writing textbook and actually doing several of the lessons.

teresa perry writing that works

Author, Teresa Perry, published such a book in 2015: Writing That Works: Put All the Pieces Together. The opening line on the back cover states: “Guaranteed to improve your writing scores.” Yes, that is exactly what I hope to do! I’ll be reviewing the grammar and punctuation sections, and especially the sentence structure chapter. Quite often I find myself explaining to another author or client that a sentence they are particularly fond of isn’t structured to say what they want Readers to understand. Plus, the journal writing encouraged in this book will strengthen the “core standards” our future Readers will expect.

As I close today, I’m not sure many blog readers will even see this December blog until January or February. That’s okay. This IS the Season when family and friends “make time” for each other and writers are wise to take advantage of every such opportunity. However, the writing coach in me will make one more suggestion. “Take Notes.” A lot of wisdom is shared during these Holidays and one of the characters in your next novel may need to share it, too. THEN, step into January utilizing the suggestions given this month. ⚓︎

Royalene

ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene has been writing something since before kindergarten days and continues to love the process. Through her small business—DOYLE WRITING SERVICES—she brings more than 40 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their projects. This is a nice fit as she develops these blogs for Outskirts Press (OP) a leading self-publisher, and occasionally accepts a ghostwriting project from one of their clients. Her recent book release (with OP) titled FIREPROOF PROVERBS, A Writer’s Study of Words, is already receiving excellent reviews including several professional writer’s endorsements given on the book’s back cover.
Royalene’s writing experience grew through a wide variety of positions from Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to Teacher of Literature and Advanced Writing courses and editor/writer for an International Christian ministry. Her willingness to listen to struggling authors, learn their goals and expectations and discern their writing voice has brought many manuscripts into the published books arena. This is Royalene’s last month writing for Self Publishing Advisor.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 11/24/2017

‘TIS THE SEASON TO READ FOR FUN

Reading to (then with) my daughter when she was a child was a joy I’d tucked away in my memories until her son was born just five short years ago. Suddenly, I was reintroduced to great short stories that are beautifully illustrated (Goodnight Moon, Goodnight Construction Site, and Little Blue Truck) and are now duplicated in her house and mine. Some of them I will never part with again because they speak to the child within me and offer me sage wisdom that crosses all age, ethnic, and cultural barriers.

I greatly admire the authors who write and publish these amazing books. They not only offer parents priceless “connection time” with their children, but they often allow us to explore the depths of symbolism and character development (Winnie-the-Pooh) that enhance our adult lives. Today, I give you two examples of two very different stories that will bless your holiday reading.

holidays in heaven marcia spilmanThroughout my life I’ve enjoyed the companionship of many pets from goldfish and cats to English Bulldogs. As a child, I was unable to express just how much I missed those critters, especially around the holidays when we were looking in the stores to find just the right toy (or aquarium cave) to give to them that year. So, when I found this book—HOLIDAYS IN HEAVEN by Marcia Spilman—during a recent random online search, I was thrilled. It is 38 pages of beautiful illustrations that address multiple holidays such as Birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Veterans Day, Christmas, etc.

Spilman realized that our children “expect us to have answers and a brighter outlook on their loss.” This is what inspired her to write the book, offering comfort—to children of all ages—during the holidays when we are missing someone special who is no longer on this earth.

My second book selection this week is BOSS RALPHIE. One of the online reviewers saysboss ralphie edward carboni the story reminds him of a mixture of It’s A Wonderful Life and/or A Christmas Carol written through the lens of Goodfellas the mafia/mob novel. This is NOT an illustrated story for young children, but it undeniably tweaks the perspectives of everyone who’s read it.

Author Edward Carboni, has created this short story (51pages) that imagines God as the “Don of the universe” and His Archangel Raphael as “Boss Ralphie.” The Boss and his crew of “wise-guy angels” have been given a special assignment on Christmas Eve. They must save the soul of a lost man and the life of a little girl on the streets of Philadelphia. This very unique story has been heralded as “A heartwarming and funny story certain to become a new holiday classic.”

Each of my blogs this November offers us (yes, me too) the opportunity to explore different genres whether they fit into our general writing styles or not. Each of these authors has worked to develop their writing techniques and release their voices into the world. They’ve chosen to self-publish for multiple reasons (which is a topic for discussion at another time). So today, if you haven’t already picked up one of these books to read, I’m encouraging you to do so. There is much to learn from these authors.

Whether you are in the midst of writing that “great American novel,” or feel flat-lined in the concept development department, these books—and others in their genres—will inspire you in ways that cannot be anticipated. So, READ and relax a little and don’t forget to take notes when ideas begin to “pop.” This holiday season is definitely the Season to Read and Taste, Read and Imagine, Read and Seed, and simply READ FOR FUN! ⚓︎

Royalene

ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene has been writing something since before kindergarten days and continues to love the process. Through her small business—DOYLE WRITING SERVICES—she brings more than 40 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their projects. This is a nice fit as she develops these blogs for Outskirts Press (OP) a leading self-publisher, and occasionally accepts a ghostwriting project from one of their clients. Her recent book release (with OP) titled FIREPROOF PROVERBS, A Writer’s Study of Words, is already receiving excellent reviews including several professional writer’s endorsements given on the book’s back cover.
Royalene’s writing experience grew through a wide variety of positions from Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to Teacher of Literature and Advanced Writing courses and editor/writer for an International Christian ministry. Her willingness to listen to struggling authors, learn their goals and expectations and discern their writing voice has brought many manuscripts into the published books arena.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 11/10/2017

‘TIS THE SEASON TO READ and IMAGINE

I love to listen to and read with our grandchildren and great-grandchildren! With just a few words on the pages of their favorite books (re-read multiple times), their imaginations take flight—and carry me along with them. So it is that my first book selection for writers to READ this week is the short story titled: A HOLIDAY FROM TIME by John Mero.

a holiday from time john mero

Imagine what it would be like in our everyday lives if “time” jumped around. Author John Mero has created delightful characters—Turtle, Frog and Professor Hare—who explore such a scenario. Turtle has been carrying the world’s clock on his back for a long time and he’s tired. He wants a vacation, so Frog offers to carry it for a while. What happens when Frog catches a cold and starts sneezing? OH WHAT ADVENTURES we might conjure, and this beautifully illustrated story will definitely unlock everyone’s imagination to do so—and just might break through any of our own writer’s block.

For those of us who prefer to dive into a more serious exploration of current events, I discovered the book titled, GOD and COUNTRY: United god and country joseph bylinskiWe Stand! Divided We Fall by Joseph Bylinski.

Bylinski has sought answers to many questions about what is happening in the USA today. His research into Politics and Biblical mysteries has given him valuable insights, taking him (and his readers) on a journey of discovery that explores the intersection of the two. “Our country was founded on the Bible,” Bylinski tells us. “Our laws are based on the Bible…[but] our country has wandered away from its founding ideals and strayed too far.”

Many of the best minds in the world would agree with this author, and many would disagree. However, as authors, it is useful for us to read a variety of opinions because our characters must have different (and often opposing) beliefs.

These two books may seem like polar opposites to consider as tools to enhance our imaginations and writing skills. However, as the concept of imagination is defined, it is the ability (that only humans possess) to form ideas, images, sensation IN our minds without any immediate input of our senses. Each of these authors (Mero and Bylinski) have used their imagining abilities to offer interesting solutions to the problems they’ve presented. Quoting from Wikipedia’s site, imagination is fundamental to integrate knowledge, experience and learning. It is “a basic training for imagination to [create] storytelling (narrative) in which the exactness of the chosen words is the fundamental factor to “evoke worlds.”

What if the peoples of the world were devoid of imagination. Would science progress—or even exist? Would music, or poetry, or art, or novels exist? Would teachers be able to connect with their students and find creative ways to teach them? Without imagination, there would be no need to build museums, or libraries or zoos; or investigate archeological digs; or walk through National, State and Local parks; or look out our windows…and wonder.

So, today my writer/author friends, I applaud YOU! I thank you for being uniquely inspired and imaginative as you develop your manuscripts! And I encourage to you READ at least one of the above books—making notes about how you might have written it differently, or what research might provide more information on the topics. This is how we become better—and better—writers. ⚓︎

Royalene

ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene has been writing something since before kindergarten days and continues to love the process. Through her small business—DOYLE WRITING SERVICES—she brings more than 40 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their projects. This is a nice fit as she develops these blogs for Outskirts Press (OP) a leading self-publisher, and occasionally accepts a ghostwriting project from one of their clients. Her recent book release (with OP) titled FIREPROOF PROVERBS, A Writer’s Study of Words, is already receiving excellent reviews including several professional writer’s endorsements given on the book’s back cover.
Royalene’s writing experience grew through a wide variety of positions from Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to Teacher of Literature and Advanced Writing courses and editor/writer for an International Christian ministry. Her willingness to listen to struggling authors, learn their goals and expectations and discern their writing voice has brought many manuscripts into the published books arena.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 11/3/2017

‘TIS THE SEASON TO READ and TASTE

By this time of year most published authors have set in motion the marketing they plan to do during the Holidays. The computer keyboards are given a rest. However, reading must continue so that we can continue to develop our writing skills and make ourselves aware of the genres, styles, and voices the reading public is placing on their bookshelves. For the month of November, I will highlight four genres that continue to hold strong positions in local and online bookstores. Even though they may not be your favorites, I recommend that you at least take a look at them, turn the “look inside” pages, and consider what is to be learned from these authors that will benefit your writing.

November is a month filled with the preparations of “traditional” recipes for all to enjoy—which carries over into all the December holiday celebrations. The images of on each page of Recipe Books are sharp, illustrating the taste, smell and texture of each delicious item. And, often, there is a story of when, where, and why a specific recipe was created.

For the passionate cook (and writer) I am highlighting GRANDMA’S FAVORITES: A Compilation of Recipes from Margaret Sanders Buell. This collection has been loving put together by three of Margaret’s granddaughters and speaks to the legacy she has left in them and for them to pass forward. What they experienced as they walked into their Grandmother’s kitchen was the “twinkle in her eye” and the extra ingredient of love that went into every meal. Margaret’s home and hospitality was always open to family, friends and even total strangers.

This 383 page book has received 5-star ratings because of its excellent, easy-to-follow recipe directions, its Holiday “magic,” as well as its elements of humor and entertainment.

For those of us who are looking for a smaller collection of Holiday recipes, grab this little book: Mom’s Thanksgiving and Christmas Best by Robert Maxwell.

These ninety pages offer “top-secret” cooking tips for those of us who need/want to create something marvelous within a short span of time—especially when the unexpected invitation to a Holiday Pot-Luck is received.

I also like Mr. Maxwell’s subtitle: Bob’s in the Kitchen. It immediately speaks to his gentlemen audience while, at the same time, acknowledging Mom in the title resonates with both women and men. Knowing your audience is a key component for every writer and should be considered from the very moment we begin writing our next books.

So, you’re not into cooking? Why should you read any cookbook? Yes, I can hear you, and believe me, I said that, too, when I was told to “pick up a few recipe books at the used book store and read them.” This quote comes from my science fiction author and friend who explained that when he needed to create “meals” for his “other worldly” characters, he went hunting through his cookbook pages for the most exotic foods. Then he searched the internet for images of those various ingredients and eventually combined several (that in reality should never be combined), to create his aliens’ favorite foods. He also instructed me to “always save the story-recipes to a specific file, both on the computer and on a flash-drive.” Every detail used in one story can be re-purposed in the next one.

I’ve also come to learn that finding the right words to describe taste, smell, and texture of foods is not naturally intuitive for me. If I want the Readers of my books to experience what I’m writing, learning about the qualities of foods and ingredients is essential.

Ralph Waldo Emerson is quoted saying, “I cannot remember the books I’ve read any more than the meals I have eaten; even so, they have made me.” So it is my friends, that I encourage you to pick a delicious meal (book) and let it nourish you! ⚓︎

Royalene

ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene has been writing something since before kindergarten days and continues to love the process. Through her small business—DOYLE WRITING SERVICES—she brings more than 40 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their projects. This is a nice fit as she develops these blogs for Outskirts Press (OP) a leading self-publisher, and occasionally accepts a ghostwriting project from one of their clients. Her recent book release (with OP) titled FIREPROOF PROVERBS, A Writer’s Study of Words, is already receiving excellent reviews including several professional writer’s endorsements given on the book’s back cover.
Royalene’s writing experience grew through a wide variety of positions from Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to Teacher of Literature and Advanced Writing courses and editor/writer for an International Christian ministry. Her willingness to listen to struggling authors, learn their goals and expectations and discern their writing voice has brought many manuscripts into the published books arena.