I often get questions from readers about where I get my ideas and how I write. My ideas come from everywhere. I have more ideas than I can write in a million years. The idea is the easy part.
Once I decide which idea I want to write about next, I plot out my book. I am a plotter, so I have an outline and what I think will happen in each chapter. I say think, because sometimes my characters have ideas of their own. That’s when the book takes off in unexpected directions.
When I write, I sit in my study and listen to classical music to get me in the mood. I listen to a variety of classical music, depending on the type of book I am writing. The music helps cover the sounds of my pets moving around and other noises in my house. It also cues my brain that now is the time to write. I don’t write every day but write most days.
After I am finished with a book, I go back and layer each chapter. I add more sensory elements, deepen the characters, and make sure there are not any anachronisms or continuity problems. Don’t you hate it when you read a book where a man arrives by coach, gets off his horse, and gets back in a carriage? That is a continuity problem.
Finally, both Darling Daughters and some trusted beta readers check my books. I found out the hard way skipping this step can invite disaster! After they go through the books, I make any further edits that are necessary. Finally, the book is ready to publish. I hope you enjoy the fruits of my labor.
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