Athena Critique Services

People sometimes ask how to get started writing a novel. “I have an idea, but I’m not sure how to start.”

There is no single right answer for where to start. But it makes sense to start with your idea, whatever that is. For me, the idea almost always comes as a scene from the story. Sometimes it is a single line of dialog, or an image. Whatever that germ of an idea is for you, write it down.

You don’t have to know where Chapter One begins to start writing. (more…)

Valentine’s Day is the unofficial Romance Writer’s Holiday.

After all, who knows more about romance? Who does more to keep romance alive?

For those hard working romance writers who want a new to express their special link with Valentine’s day–we’ve created a new line of products. Just visit our Cafe Press shop

We just heard from our special guest presenter, Candy Calvert that she will not be able to do the romantic comedy workshop as scheduled. Unfortunately, she is dealing with a serious medical problem in the family, so she is dusting off her old nurses hat and those stylish white shoes to provide some expert TLC.

Get well soon, Andy! We’re rooting for you.

Our next workshop is scheduled for February 25th. Putting Wings on Your Backstory!

I’ve been moving a lot the last couple of years. How much? Well, enough to be smacking my head over not buying stock in rental trucks or boxes. I’m not thrilled with the whole process but – good news – the road trip is one whale of a way to replenish your supply of great characters.

Example: I was standing inside a convenience store waiting for the friend who was helping me drive finish pumping gas so I could pay. I got to talking to one of the store’s employees who’d been working an extra long double shift. Scene: Flo: “So, will you get extra time off?” Girl: “Oh yes! Actually I’m adding to other days off and getting kinda a small vacation.” Flo: “That’s great. Any fun plans?” Girl: “I’m gonna see my brother.” Flo: “Really? How nice. Where is he?” Girl: “Well, he’s coming here ’cause he’s been gone for five years.” Flo: “Where’s he been?” Girl: “Prison. He violated his parole.” Heaven must have been watching over me, because I did not have to comment. Her ride showed up and she cheerfully waved goodbye. I did the same. Moral? You can’t make this stuff up. So the next time you’re stuck for a plot or an interesting character, get out there. Take a road trip. You don’t even have to go cross-country – your local grocery or diner will do just fine.