Writing Process Questions

This post was inspired by the amazing Fiona McLaren's blog about her writing process. Based on my current work-in-progress, I have answered the same questions Fiona addressed in her blog. Once you've read through my responses, please answer the same questions on your blog. Be sure to post a link to your blog in the comments section, so that we all may visit and learn about your process. Alright, here we go...

 

 

1. What are you working on right now?

I'm finishing the rough draft on a YA mystery thriller. This poor middle manuscript has been sidelined several times over the last five years while I worked on other manuscripts. Now is its time. I've gained a whole new respect for mystery writers while working on this project. 

 

I’m having a blast fitting together the puzzle pieces of this genre and swooning over the romance thread woven throughout the murder and mystery.

 

2. How does it differ from other works in its genre?

Though my main character is the target of a killer, she is no victim. Unlike other female MCs in thrillers with a romantic element, my main character is not looking for a knight in shining armor to swoop in and save the day.

 

She’s no Snow White.

 

 

 

She’s Megara.
 "I'm a damsel. I'm in distress. I can handle this. Have a nice day."

3. Why do you write what you do?

Characters dictate where my stories begin and where they go. I’ve always been fascinated with the events and forces that shape people and motivate them to do what they do and become who they are.

 

As a reader, I enjoy many different genres. It is the same for my writing. I love variety and tackling new challenges. 

  

4. How does your writing process work?

My writing process differs based on the project. My first manuscript I just wrote. No plot charts. No outlines. Just butt in the chair and wrote. My second manuscript necessitated an outline and plot chart as it is based on true events. It was imperative that I kept myself on-track and authentic to Ricky’s story. My current WIP is a combination of both approaches. I have plot charts and chapter breakdowns plastered on my writing space wall, but some days I just write.

 

It's comforting to have a road map to follow, but sometimes the best writing takes place when my characters veer from the path and take the story off-roading.

The only approach that has maintained consistent in my three manuscripts is that I always start each project by writing the first and last chapters. I need a clear starting point and ending point. The journey may be a mystery, but the destination never is.  

 

So there you have it. My writing process in four responses. Now it's time for you to share yours!