When to stop thinking and start writing

UPCOMING EVENT: I'll be doing an online interview, live chat, and contest over on Bitten by Books next Tuesday, June 2. My publisher is offering five copies of The Trouble with Demons to the contest winners, and I'll be signing & personalizing them and including signed bookmarks. Pop over to Bitten by Books for all the details.

And a reminder that today is my last blog until Monday. Derek & I are leaving tomorrow morning for a much needed mini-vacation at his family's mountain cabin. Yeah, I'll be working on Bewitched & Betrayed; but hey, I'll be working in a danged peaceful place: no Internet access, no TV, rotary-dial phones, and we get a grand total of three radio stations. Woot!

Okay, now to today's regularly scheduled blog:

I've recently been asked how do I know when I'm ready to start writing a book.

Before I dive in to start Chapter 1 of a book, I do a LOT of brainstorming, fine-tuning my plot, expanding on some ideas, and doing some general "what if?" brainstorming. I have a massive (almost 300 pages now) notes file that I've been piling scenes, dialogue, ideas into for years.

In my story arc, I know the beginning, the end, and a few "big moments" in the middle. But, at least for me, that's not enough to get a book started. What I'm do is turn some of the scenes and dialogue chunks in my notes into what connects those big elements: the subplots, machinations, manipulations, but most importantly, the thread that runs through the story from beginning to end, the vital element that everything else connects to and branches out from.

And as I've said before, I open a fresh Word document, go through the massive notes file and COPY and paste things I'll probably use in the book into the new Word doc. Always COPY and paste, NEVER CUT and paste. That way all of your valuable notes that you've lovingly gathered over the years remain intact.

As to how long I've had some of these notes, I'd say that some are probably at least ten years old. Never throw a dialogue snippet away; you never know when you'll use it -- or when the snippet will spawn a completely new idea.

As to how detailed of an outline I like to have before I start writing -- I need the beginning, the end, and as many of the middle elements in the plot arc as possible. That way, I have a pretty clear roadmap of where I'm going and how I'm going to get there. That said, I've learned to be open to change. While I'm writing, the story will grow and change (this happens through every draft, not just the first one). I'm learning to trust my instincts and just go along for the ride.

And how do I know when I'm ready to start the book? When I find myself opening a new Word document and typing "Chapter 1." ; )

I'll see you all on Monday for my regular blog, and over on Bitten by Books on Tuesday for my interview and live chat.

Lisa

Finding the right agent for you

I've received a lot of emails from writers ready to start submitting their work. A word of warning, this process can take longer than your eventual agent finding a publisher for your book. But getting the perfect agent for you is so worth the wait and work.

Now, how to go about finding a good agent. While there are tons of good agents, you want to find the right agent -- for you and your book. By the right agent, I mean someone who "gets" your book, loves your book, and will do everything humanly possible to find your book a good home with a publisher.

My own agent Kristin Nelson -- who in my opinion walks on water ; ) -- has some great resources on her site to help writers looking for representation avoid being taken advantage of by unscrupulous individuals (I won't even call these people "agents"), and to help guide the newbie to finding the best agent for them.

First, the sites whose purpose is to inform and protect writers:
Writer Beware Compiled by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America. This is their site for warnings about literary fraud and other schemes, scams, and pitfalls that target writers. It's not just for SciFi/Fantasy writers; it's for all genres.

Preditors & Editors A guide to publishers and writing services for serious writers.

20 Worst Agents The thumbs-down list of agents, and the warning signs you should look out for in your search.

The best places to help you research and find the right agent for you:
WritersNet Writing resources, news, and discussion for authors, writers, publishers, editors, and agents.

Agent Query The Internet's largest and most current database of literary agents.

Publishers Marketplace The granddaddy site of them all. This is where I found the agents who I queried (and where I found Kristin). Click on "Search Members" in the left nav, then click on "Agents", then check the box of the genre you write (or whatever search criteria you prefer) and hit "Search". You'll get a list of agents with links to their websites. It's simplicity itself. And best of all, it's up to date. Once you get to the lists of agents, you can click through and see their client listings, what genres they specialize in, and their industry references (very important). I would advise going with an agency that is a member of the AAR (Association of Authors' Representatives). This is the publishing industry's equivalent of the "Good Housekeeping seal of approval" (for those of us of a certain age). AAR members do business by a strict code of ethics. Trust me, you want ethical.

Basic guidelines for sending that query letter: If an agent says in their profile or on their site that they don't represent mysteries, don't send them one. You're wasting your time and theirs. If they don't rep them, it means they don't particular like them. And you want an agent who is head over heels in love with you work. Kristin adored Magic Lost, Trouble Found. And she said in her profile back then that she was looking for fantasy with a strong female protagonist. If that doesn't describe Raine, I don't know what does. Kristin completely got what I was trying to do, and as a result, she was able to successfully get me a two-book deal within a matter of weeks. So when you reach the point that you're talking to more than one agent, I'd go with enthusiasm and "feeling the love" any day.

And when dealing with potential agents -- keep your emotions out of it. Be professional in letters, emails, and especially over the phone. I know this is next to impossible since we're all intensely passionate about our work, but publishing is a business, and your book is a product, not your baby. Agents really appreciate being approached and treated professionally.

For those of you ready to start your agent hunt, I hope this helps you get started. Good luck! : )

Lisa

Update on Bewitched & Betrayed

Next Monday (June 1) is my deadline for Bewitched & Betrayed. I think I'm gonna make it. I finished Chapter 24 on Sunday night, and spent all day yesterday working on Chapter 25 (aka THE LAST CHAPTER!). I made some incredible progress. My muse has finally gotten off her duff and is doing her job. ; ) Let's hope it stays that way.

Oh, and I got the galley proofs on Friday for my first column in August issue of The Writer magazine. I just love the name they picked for my column: Dueling With Words. Since I'm a fencer and a writer, I think it's just too cool. The August issue will hit newsstands & bookstores beginning July 7. If you subscribe to The Writer, you'll get your issue a little earlier. The subject for my first column is "Really get to know your characters" and it'll be on pages 10 and 11.

BTW -- Derek & I will be leaving for our family's cabin in the North Carolina mountains on Friday morning for some much needed rest & relaxation -- and for me, finishing the danged book. We'd planned this trip back when my deadline had been May 1. As most of you know, I'd had to request an additional month from my publisher due my dad's illness and death. Now I'm pushing to finish the book and turn it in by next Monday, June 1. Derek is completely confident that I can do it. His confidence must be rubbing off -- I'm starting to believe that I can do it, too.

Though there's a couple of things about the cabin: no TV, rotary-dial phones, three radio stations, and needless to say, no Internet access. Man, am I productive when I'm up there. So I won't be blogging on Friday or Saturday, and won't have access to email until I get back home Sunday evening.

Tomorrow, I'll post on one of the following blog topics based on your questions:

• Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
• How long should you prepare before starting a book?
• How much time should you spend developing a character?
• Am I moving my story forward?
• How do I figure out what happens next?
• Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.
• Writing in the moment.
• "Framing" your book.

Lisa

A present for me

I got a true treat in the mail on Thursday -- this gorgeous print of Midwinter that I ordered from the amazing book cover artist Chris McGrath. (Click on the link above for a bigger & better image.)

One, I just love his work. (He does Jim Butcher's covers as well as Rob Thurman's.) And two, the model on the cover of Midwinter absolutely screams "Tam" to me. Oooo, baby! Needless to say, this print was a must have.

I have the book Midwinter by Matthew Sturges next on my TBR stack. It's described as "The Dirty Dozen with elves." How could I resist? ; )

I ordered the print as a treat for myself for TTWD hitting the shelves. Here's another print I want, and when B&B is done, I'm treating myself again. : ) And at only $30 for a signed 13 x 19 print of any of Chris's illustrations, it's one heck of a bargain.

Because Monday is Memorial Day here in the U.S., I'm taking a day off from blogging -- and working like a mad woman on Bewitched & Betrayed. ; ) I'll be back to blogging as usual on Tuesday morning.

Have a great weekend!

Lisa

Guest blog and interview -- and prizes for you

Today, I'm guest blogging/being interviewed over on Star-Crossed Romance, and will be popping in throughout the day to chat and comment.

The prize is a signed & personalized set of all three of my books, plus some other book goodies. So come on over to Star-Crossed Romance leave a comment, and a winner will be drawn at random for the book loot.

On tomorrow's blog, I'll show you all a present I bought for myself as a reward for TTWD going on the shelves.

TGIF!!
Lisa

Really fun review of Magic Lost, Trouble Found

Yeah, yeah, I know. I promised to answer another reader question this morning. But I got a Google Alert of a review of Magic Lost, Trouble Found that I just had to post the link to this morning. Wonderfully written and simply hysterical. Might even have to classify it as a "spew alert." (Meaning that if you're drinking your morning coffee/tea/Coke/Mountain Dew/Red Bull, that you might want to swallow before reading.)

It's from a LiveJournal from Julia in Indonesia called When Your Heart Stops Beating. Go there, read, and get your morning giggles. It's great.

Tomorrow (that's Friday, right?) I'll be interviewed by Kristy over at Star-Crossed Romance. There will be prizes, so pop over, say hi, and get yourselves qualified to win the goodies.

In the meantime, I'm still taking your questions and will get to them, I promise.

Have a great one!
Lisa

Deadline is a pressure cooker, not a crockpot

I'll answer another of your questions tomorrow; today I felt the need to blog on what I'm doing with the book right now, and what came to me this morning. I think it might be helpful to some of you.

I'm hard at work on Chapter 24 of Bewitched & Betrayed -- though that's the ultimate understatement. I have two chapters to write in two weeks, plus some tweaks throughout the manuscript, then put the 25 separate chapter files together into one file. Then comes spellchecking, formatting, adding headers, page numbers, and generally making sure it looks good before I load it into an email for Anne (my editor) and hit "send."

All in two weeks.

Yeah. Right.

But that's my deadline and I'm determined to stick to it.

The last few chapters go slowly because there's so much to be done in them. These are the climax chapters where storylines are resolved, the big action happens, as well as setting up the next book. So I have a ton of work to do and only two weeks to do it in. Oh well, I've done more in less time. So it's certainly possible.

But at the same time, these chapters won't be rushed. For example I have six pages written on Chapter 24; some of it is usable, most is not. This isn't unusual. I know what needs to happen and how the chapter ends, but it's big stuff, HUGE in fact. So right now I'm feeling my way around the action, zeroing in on precisely HOW the action needs to happen to get the maximum dramatic and emotional impact from my characters.

And I realized in the wee hours of this morning that being on a really tight deadline is like a pressure cooker, not a crockpot. Sure, ideas need to simmer, but they're forced to do it faster and under extreme pressure. I was having problems with the section I was writing last night. When I woke up this morning, I realized that I was jumping into the chapter too quickly, and not giving the tension a chance to build. Getting that high level of tension is critical to the chapter having the impact it must have.

To take the pressure off of my writing brain (aka creativity) just a little, I'm writing longhand right now and then transfering it to my laptop. This does two things: frees my mind to wander and explore ideas and do some stream of consciousness "talking with myself" to work out problem spots, and it also keeps me from surfing, checking email, etc. -- the killers of productivity. And goodness knows, I need to be uber productive right now.

Just thought I'd share that with you this morning. Perhaps there's some tidbits that might be useful to you. So unless I feel the need to "share" again tomorrow morning, I'll get back to answering your great questions.

Happy Wednesday (the day I get my Nielsen BookScan sales figures each week),
Lisa

When ideas come in bits & pieces

Today's writing question comes from Jo in London:
My question is about the idea I've got. I know bits and pieces about the two main characters, and know what the premise is, but when it comes to actually writing down things that happen, all I have are various moments. They don't actually flow after each other, it's like some dialogue at the beginning, and some various dialogue/action scenes from later on in the story.

So what should I do? Do I write these individual moments as I see them, or do I try to work out what happens next before hand? I don't think I should try writing what I think should happen, because when I've written short stories before, when I've got to the point where I can't "see" what happens next, what I do actually write seems forced.

My response: Jo, that's exactly how my writing ideas/scenes/dialogue comes to me. I don't know if this is reassuring to you or not. ; ) Being an uber-organized person, I'd like nothing better than a book to come to me from beginning to end, so side trips, no false turns -- but it doesn't happen that way, at least not for me.

What I do is write down eveyything that comes to me and put it in a "Notes" file for that book. As ideas come to me, I simply add it to the file. The important thing to know is that: Everything you think of fits in somewhere. It may not be in that particular book. I have scenes that I wrote years ago that I won't be using until around Book 6, but I've kept it in the Master Notes file. I can't think that far ahead, but apparently my subconscious writing brain does it all the time. So your instinct not to try to write what happens after these flashes of "moments" that come to you is a good one, because those ideas may not be for the project you're working on right now, but for something your writing brain is toying with for the future.

The important thing is to write it all down, don't throw anything away. When I start on a new book, I read through the Master Notes file and copy & paste (never CUT & paste) the scenes/dialogue/ideas that I think I'll use in that book. I say never CUT & paste because you want the Master Notes file to remain intact. I paste these notes into a Notes file for that particular book, and then I'm ready to start. And you will also find that as you write, more ideas/dialogue/scenes will come to you. Just put them in the Notes file for that book and move on with the chapter you're working on. And when you finish that project and there's things in the Notes file that you didn't use, simply transfer them to your Master Notes file -- maybe your muse meant them to be used for your next project.

Hope this helps!

Upcoming blog topics based on your questions:

Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
How long should you prepare before starting a book?
How much time should you spend developing a character?
Am I moving my story forward?
How do I figure out what happens next?
Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.
Writing in the moment.
"Framing" your book.

Book status & CafePress store update

I finished Chapter 23 of Bewitched & Betrayed last night -- serious WOOT!! I took Friday off from my day job as a "vacation day" to write. It paid off big time. I think I've got my momentum back. I now have two chapters to go and two weeks until my deadline of June 1. It's gonna be tight, but I just might make it. However, my muse woke me up at 3:30 this morning and wouldn't let me go back to sleep. This is "normal" for me during the last chapters of a book -- annoying as heck, but normal. BTW -- Around 5:00 AM, I was ready to strangle my muse. Some have suggested that I should get up and write. This is not possible. I'm awake, I am not coherent.

On Saturday's post I'd mentioned needing your help to update the merchandise in my CafePress store. I'll eventually be offering prints of the map of Raine's world that's in the front of The Trouble with Demons. That is, if enough of you would be interested in a print/poster of the map. BTW -- It'll look like it's on parchment paper. Respond to this blog or send me an email (lisa @ lisashearin.com) and let me know.

I need your help on new t-shirt and merchandise ideas. I need cool slogans. I'd also asked for designs as well, but for this round of store updates, I think I'll keep it simple and just do slogans, since after I turn in this book, I need to write proposals for the next couple of Raine books to get another contract from my publisher -- and I know you all want me to focus on that. ; )

As to what kind of slogans I'm looking for, related to my books is great, but writer-related stuff would also be cool (since a lot of you are pre-published writers). As examples of the kind of stuff I'm looking for, here are some great ones I've already received: "Knives are a girl's best friends." "We're not pirates. We're in acquisitions." "Tall, dark, and pointy-eared." "Red-haired elves always find trouble." "I'm not weird. I'm a writer."

Since I work at an advertising agency, I'm going to check with one of my designer friends there (who also does freelance work) to see if she could do the t-shirt/merchandise designs for me.

And for the winning slogans, I'll make it worth your while with book swag and even a Barnes & Noble gift card. Let me hear your ideas over the next two weeks. I'll choose about five slogans (and reward the brains behind the brilliance) and have them designed.

So okay, everybody -- let's hear your ideas. Email them to me at lisa @ lisashearin.com so I can keep track of them. You'll help me update my CafePress store, possibly win prizes, and earn my eternal gratitude. ; )

Coming up tomorrow, a writing question from Jo in London, then I'll be posting on the following:

Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
How long should you prepare before starting a book?
How much time should you spend developing a character?
Am I moving my story forward?
How do I figure out what happens next?
Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.
Writing in the moment.
"Framing" your book.

Contest winner and new design contest

The winner of the second The Trouble with Demons review contest is . . . Patty Vasquez! Woot! Patty, I'll get your prize pack (T-shirt of TTWD cover, TTWD cover keychain, fridge magnets, signed bookmarks) in the mail to you ASAP.

I have a favor to ask of all of you, and to make it even more fun, I'll turn it into a contest. My CafePress store needs updating. I eventually will be offering prints of the map of Raine's world that's in the front of The Trouble with Demons. Though before I go to the expense of having it made, would anyone be interested in a print/poster of the map? Just let me know if that's something you think you might be interested in buying. And if enough of you want it, I'll have it made so you can get your hot little hands on it. It'd be a smaller print size and poster size (I believe CafePress offers both.)

But I need new t-shirt and merchandise ideas. I need new designs and cool slogans -- preferably related to my books, but writer-related stuff would be great, too. BTW -- The writer-related ideas MUST be original, I don't want to get slapped with a lawsuit for swiping and selling someone else's idea. ; ) One idea I'd recently come up with is: I'm not weird. I'm a writer. It'd look great on a black t-shirt. Heck, I'd buy that one; it's the story of my life. ; )

HOWEVER, I don't just need ideas, I need a graphic artist to create the designs for me. My graphic artist is on the verge of giving birth to her second child (yea, Elyse & Webmaster Todd!), so I'll need some design help. And I'll make it worth your while with book swag/and a Barnes & Noble gift card. The same with the design ideas. If it knocks my socks off, there will be prizes coming your way.

So okay, everybody -- if you're an idea person or a design person, LET ME KNOW (via email so I can keep track of them at lisa @ lisashearin.com) if you'd be interested in helping me update my CafePress store, winning prizes, and earning my eternal gratitude.

Have a great weekend!
Lisa

An interview, a contest, and prizes

Jo over at Ink and Paper posted an interview with me yesterday. Questions include: Tam or Mychael? Will Raine ever make a choice? How/when will the series end?

Today is the last day to get your name in the hat for the "Post a Review" contest. Go to my Wed. April 29 post for all the details, including prizes, and why I have this contest every year. Yes, there is a reason. I'll do a random drawing (or maybe I'll have Lucy the Jack Russell Terrier do it for me) and announce the winner on tomorrow's blog.

And read tomorrow's blog entry for an entirely new and different kind of contest. I need your help, and you can win book swag.

On Monday, I'll pick back up with blog topics based on your questions:

• Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
• How long should you prepare before starting a book?
• How much time should you spend developing a character?
• Am I moving my story forward?
• How do I figure out what happens next?
• Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.
• Writing in the moment.
• "Framing" your book.

BTW -- It's 17 days until my deadline for Bewitched & Betrayed. (Takes a deep breath and dives back into the manuscript. I am one more tired author.)

But TGIF!

Lisa

Me & Clifford the Big Red Dog at Barnes & Noble

(You can click on the pic to embiggen.)

Here's the photo I promised you all. For those of you who haven't heard the story . . .

I had a close encounter of the Big Red Canine kind the other night when I went to the Cary, NC, Barnes & Noble to sign the more orders for my books. Derek & I had gone out to dinner with friends and dropped by the B&N so I could sign the books, and then we all had baked goodies in the coffee shop. Well, it was family night at our B&N, and Linda Maloof their fabulous CRM (Community Relations Manager) and the lady responsible for offering signed books to you all -- was there running the show and taking pictures of the kids with Clifford the Big Red Dog. And as you can see, I do mean BIG, so big one kid was screaming -- the others couldn't wait to get their hands on him. Naturally, Linda wanted a pic of me hugging Clifford. Now that's a photo op a girl simply can't turn down. It's amazing all the strange looks you get wrapping your arms around a guy in a big, blazing red dog suit in a coffee shop. I have to wonder what the guy in the dog suit thought of the whole author-hug experience?

Tomorrow we'll return to your regularly scheduled educational programming with topics such as:

Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
How long should you prepare before starting a book?
How much time should you spend developing a character?
Am I moving my story forward?
How do I figure out what happens next?
Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.
Writing in the moment.
"Framing" your book.

Plot a book? Or fly by the seat of your pants?

Today's question is one I've gotten before, but it falls under the category of "oldie, but goodie." It's constantly debated in writing circles, and every author has their favorite method. Write a full plotline before beginning, or write the book by the seat of your pants?

Me? I like the security blanket of a full plot outline. That being said, I usually stick to the basic framework of whatever plot outline I come up with, but it changes. Once I get into a book, new and better ideas pop up and push aside what I thought would have worked back when I was writing the synopsis. And yes, once you're published, a synopsis (or outline) is required for your agent to send to your editor to sell the next book(s). This is usually accompanied by the first three chapters of the book. But after my second book with Anne Sowards (my editor at Ace Books), she's fine with just a synopsis. She knows that I can deliver the book and doesn't need sample chapters to tell her that.

However, for Bewitched & Betrayed, the plot outline that I sent to Anne was pretty sketchy, like an Impressionist painting -- you could tell what the book would look like, but the details were kinda left up to the imagination. Yep, B&B is being written by the seat of my pants and I think it's going very well. The same was true with Armed & Magical. I had a detailed plot outline, but after determining that it didn't work, I ditched the entire thing and wrote the book from scratch based on a one-paragraph synopsis. It was my first National Bestseller.

So what is the best way? Plotter? or Pantster? Most authors, including myself, will tell you that it's a combination of both. It's good (and I believe necessary) to know approximately where your book will end, but there are plenty of ways to get there (much like a roadtrip). Don't go too far off the beaten trail, but don't be afraid to take a couple of interesting-looking left turns.

Upcoming contest drawing reminder: For everyone else who has entered The Trouble with Demons Amazon and/or Barnes & Noble review contest by posting a review and then emailing me to let me know -- your names are automatically in the hat for this Saturday's final drawing. And if you haven't had a chance to post a review and email me to enter, just do so by this Friday night EST. Go to my Wed. April 29 post for why I have this contest every year. Yes, there is a reason. And not to worry if you're not the winner of the t-shirt & book swag prize pack, there will be plenty of other contests.

And for those of you waiting for prizes and book goodies, I'll be putting those together tonight and mailing them out tomorrow. I promise. Life has been a little hectic lately. ; )

Upcoming blog topics based on your questions:

• Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
• How long should you prepare before starting a book?
• How much time should you spend developing a character?
• Am I moving my story forward?
• How do I figure out what happens next?
• Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.
• Writing in the moment.
• "Framing" your book.

Choosing a story idea and sticking to it

Today I'll tackle yet another great question that one of you sent me: How to choose which idea to develop and write about. If there are several ideas jumping around for your attention, which one do you choose?

This is both an easy question for me and very difficult at the same time. Easy in that I tend to have a one-track mind; once I get an idea, it's next to impossible for me to let it go. Actually, any idea I've latched onto that hard, I've never let go of. As I've said in previous posts, I wrote two books that eventually morphed into Raine's story during college and in the next decade after. These were my "starter" books -- I was feeling around, finding my voice, screwing up, and trying to learn from my mistakes. I was also reading like crazy. That's the single most important thing that you can feed your muse -- words. Soak in words like a sponge. And don't limit yourself to just one genre; try others, even those you've never read before and don't think you'll like -- get book suggestions from your friends. Your muse just might devour it and spit out an idea for a fabulous project. You never know, and the results can be surprising, rewarding, and productive. Raine's stories are a combination of my love of fantasy, action/adventure, detective fiction, crime capers, mysteries, and thrillers.

Your muse will let you know what project you should be working on (or at least which project you should tackle first). And if other ideas start butting in, perhaps they aren't different story ideas at all, but parts of the story you're working on. After all, books are made up of lots of chapters and intertwining plots and subplots. So take a close look at those "'new" story ideas, perhaps they're part of the book you're writing. And if after that closer look, you determine that it is an idea for a different project, just write it down in a separate file and keep it and any other ideas that your subconscious comes up with. By constantly pestering you, that's what those ideas are asking for -- to be given some attention, written down, given life. Once you've written down these ideas, I think you'll find that your muse will let you get back to business on the project you're working on.

Upcoming blog topics based on your questions:
Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
How long should you prepare before starting a book?
Are outlines important? Should the entire plot be written out?
How much time should you spend developing a character?
Am I moving my story forward?
How do I figure out what happens next?
Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.
Writing in the moment.
"Framing" your book.

Lisa

Book edits -- The good, the bad, and the unnecessary

I recently had a question from one of my regular blog readers. I won't say the name because the friend who was giving this individual editing suggestions might be a blog reader of mine as well. I don't want to cause any waves there. ; ) But I do have permission to post the question and my response as a blog entry. I know it has to be a question/situation/problem that many of you who are working on being published run into, so I thought you all might benefit. Here's the question:

I know when you get an agent and then an editor, they make changes/suggestions/whatever to the manuscript--but what if you disagree with the changes? What do you do? Are you even allowed to not change something they want you to change? I don't have any exciting reason to wonder this, I just have a really overzealous (but agented) friend reading some of my writing and I'm not sure how to react when I disagree, because I can't help but wonder if they know more than me since they have an agent. So, thought I'd ask someone published :-)

My response: I've been blessed to have an agent and editor who have been dead on 98% of the time, meaning that their advice is great and I should make the changes for the good of the book. You will know when you get good feedback, because your gut will tell you that it's the right thing to do. That being said, 2% of the time, I disagree with my editor or agent and I simply explain to them why I don't think that change should be made. And they're completely cool with that. My editor presents her comments as "suggestions" not something I have to change. But when you do get an agent and editor, you have to distance yourself from your book a little so you can tell what's good for the book and what's not. It's a product now, not just your baby. Just give your editor a good reason, and she'll usually accept it.

As to your agented friend knowing more than you -- no, they don't. It's your book and you know best. Just because your friend has an agent absolutely does not mean that they know what's best for your book. My advice is to thank them for taking the time to help you with your manuscript, and that you really appreciate their suggestions -- then you do what you think is good for your book. That way, your friend's feelings don't get hurt, and you don't maul your book on the insistence of someone who thinks they know better than you. As my editor always says on the rare occasion when I disagree with one of her suggestions: "You're the author."

Hope this helps some of you.
Lisa

Upcoming blog topics based on your questions:

• Making the magic work, or at least make sense.
• How long should you prepare before starting a book?
• Are outlines important? Should the entire plot be written out?
• How much time should you spend developing a character?
• Picking which story to write and how to stick to it.
• Am I moving my story forward?
• How do I figure out what happens next?
• Keeping your hopes up while looking for an agent.

Update on Bewitched & Betrayed: I finished the uber-difficult Chapter 22 on Saturday. I'd have done a victory lap, but I was too danged tired. I settled for a weak "woot" instead. ; ) That leaves probably three more chapters to be done before June 1. I'm officially writing like a crazy woman and the only way I can leave the house in the evenings is if the house is on fire. I'm pushing my writing into overdrive. Or as Phaelan would say: "Take no prisoners, accept no defeat." ; )

This just in: Pop over to Confessions of a Book Habitue for a really fun review of TTWD.

First winner of TTWD review contest

The winner of the first The Trouble with Demons review contest is . . . Kim Faughnan! Woot! Kim, if you'll email your mailing address to me, I'll get your prize pack in the mail to you ASAP.

For everyone else who entered, your names are automatically in the hat for next Saturday's drawing. And if you haven't had a chance to post a review and email me to enter, just do so by next Friday night. Scroll down to yesterday's blog for more details, or to my Wed. April 29 post for why I have this contest every year. Yes, there is a reason. And there will be plenty of other contests.

Close encounter of the Big Red Canine kind: I went to the Cary, NC, Barnes & Noble last night to sign the more orders for my books (Ray and Simone, your books will be shipped Monday). Derek & I had gone out to dinner with friends and dropped by the B&N so I could sign the books, and then we all had baked goodies in the coffee shop. Well, it was family night last night at our B&N, and Linda Maloof their fabulous CRM (Community Relations Manager) and the lady responsible for offering signed books to you all -- was there running the show and taking pictures of the kids with Clifford the Big Red Dog. And I do mean BIG, so big one kid was screaming -- the others couldn't wait to get their hands on him. It was a guy in like a 7-foot-tall blazing red dog suit. Naturally, Linda wanted a pic of me hugging Clifford. Now that's a photo op a girl simply can't turn down. It's amazing all the strange looks you get wrapping your arms around a guy in a big red dog suit in a coffee shop. Hmmm, I wonder what the guy in the dog suit thought of the whole author-hug experience? I'll ask Linda to email me the photo and I'll post it for you all.

Starting Monday, I'll be geting back to why a lot of you read my blog -- writing advice and experiences of a newbie author. Though since my third book just came out, I ain't so new anymore, but believe me, I have plenty of experiences to share. ; )

Have a great weekend! (I'll be finally finishing Chapter 22 of Bewitched & Betrayed -- man, that chapter has been a bear!)

Lisa

The Trouble with Demons contest drawing tomorrow

Contest reminder: If you've posted a review of The Trouble with Demons on Amazon or Barnes & Noble and if you want to be entered in the contest for TTWD goodies, send me an email TODAY to be entered in tomorrow's drawing for the prizes. I'll post the winner's name in tomorrow's blog.

The first name drawn (Derek will be doing the drawing from a hat, bowl, or something) will win a t-shirt with the cover for The Trouble with Demons (I can sign it if you'd like), a key chain with the cover for TTWD on one side and I'll sign it on the other, a collection of fridge magnets of all of my covers, as well as signed postcards and bookmarks.

For those of you who haven't read TTWD yet or have read it but haven't posted a review, there will be another drawing next Saturday, May 16. And if you don't win in tomorrow's drawing, you're automatically entered in next Saturday's drawing. Just don't forget to email me to let me know that you've posted a review so I can enter you in the contest.

Starting Monday, I'll be geting back to why a lot of you read my blog -- writing advice and experiences of a newbie author. Though since my third book just came out, I ain't so new anymore, but believe me, I have plenty of experiences. ; )

TGIF!

Lisa

Editing Letter -- The Movie

For those of you who are pre-published, one of the things you'll have to look forward to when you get your first book deal is the "editing letter." (And yes, when I say "look forward to" I am being sarcastic.) No writer looks forward to getting these. Even if the edits are light, there's always a feeling of paranoia and impending doom while you're waiting to get the danged thing from your editor. Does your book suck? Does it only mildly suck? Should you have nixed that scene in Chapter 16 completely? Is that scene the only thing that makes Chapter 16 worth reading? Is your career over?

For you newbies, this is a letter or email that you'll get from your editor with suggested edits intended to make your book stronger. I'm blessed to have an editor who is always right on target with what needs to be fixed. Other writers ain't so lucky.

Linnea Sinclair sent me this YouTube yesterday from author Lara Zielin. I agree with Linnea's description that this is "freakin' brilliant!" not to mention freakin' hilarious. Enjoy!

Also there's a great review of TTWD over at Lurv a la Mode.

Lisa

I'm back

I cannot thank you all enough for your thoughts, prayers, emails, cards, and blog comments after the death of my dad on Sunday. I know I usually answer each and every email and blog comment, but over the past few days, I simply could not. I knew you'd understand. But I did read each and every one of them. Your encouragement, support, and heartwarming (and tear-inducing) kindness during this very difficult time means more than words can say. Thank you so much.

Of course, my grieving will continue, but I must get back to work. My original deadline for Bewitched & Betrayed was May 1. As you can understand, Dad's long illness put me under a lot of stress. About a month ago, I requested and received an extension on that deadline. My new deadline for B&B is June 1. It's going to be close, but I'm going to try my best to make it. I've got another 4-5 chapters to go. The challenge I have now is getting my head back in the game, so to speak. For me, writing is the best therapy there is, so Raine & Company will be helping me out. : )

A reminder about the contest: A lot of you have read and posted reviews of The Trouble with Demons on either Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or other sites. If you have posted a review, be sure to email me to be entered in the contest I'm having now. There will be two drawings: one on this Saturday, May 9 and the next on Saturday, May 16. The first name drawn (Derek will be doing the drawing from a hat, bowl, or something) will win a t-shirt with the cover for The Trouble with Demons (I can sign it if you'd like), a key chain with the cover for TTWD on one side and I'll sign it on the other, a collection of fridge magnets of all of my covers, as well as signed postcards and bookmarks.

If you've already posted a review (THANK YOU!), be sure to send me an email and I'll enter you in the contest. For those of you who want to post a review, but haven't either gotten or finished reading the book yet, there will be a second prize drawing on Saturday May 16th. And if you don't win in the first drawing on May 9, you're automatically entered in the drawing on May 16. Just don't forget to email me to let me know that you've posted a review so I can enter you in the contest.

And a reminder about the contest recently on Romance Bandits. The winner was Suzana. We have quite a few Suzana's around here, and she has yet to contact Nancy at Romance Bandits or myself to claim her price. Nancy issued the "Hello, Suzana?" this morning.
If your name is Suzana, pop over, contact Nancy, and see if you're the winner.

Lisa

My Dad -- 1929--May 3, 2009

Thank you so much all for your emails, blog comments, thoughts, and prayers -- it means so much to me. Dad passed away peacefully at 1:40 this morning. We all got to spend time with him, and even though he was unresponsive since Saturday morning and couldn't talk to us, that doesn't mean he couldn't hear us. I know he could and I spent the afternoon and evening talking to him and holding his hand. The nursing staff and volunteers at this hospice are absolute angels. I know by talking to the nurses that Dad had the best care there is. I'd sent them a box of my books (3 of each book) and the staff are devouring them. : ) I'll send them more once I get home -- the books, thank yous, and hugs of gratitude are the least I can do for all they did for Dad.

We didn't get back to my sister's house and to bed until around 4:00 this morning. (Derek & I are staying with my sister and her family and they live about 10 minutes from the hospice house.) I've had about an hour and a half of sleep, and Derek's trying to get some more sleep now since we have to drive back to North Carolina this afternoon.

I have a dental appt. tomorrow for a crown (and hopefully not another root canal), so I'll be taking tomorrow and Tuesday off work to get some rest and get my legs back under me. I'll try to be back to business as usual on Wednesday.

Love you all!
Lisa

My dad

My dad has been ill for some time with cancer and has been in a hospice house since the day after Christmas. This evening I received call from my sister. Dad has taken a sudden turn for the worse, and his doctors don't think he has much longer. Derek & I aren't able to leave until first thing tomorrow morning. I'm not sure when I'll be back home and blogging, but I will try to keep you all posted.

Lisa

For those of you who ordered personalized books, I went to Barnes & Noble and signed the second batch this evening. You should be receiving them soon.

Getting back to normal (whatever that is)

The past few weeks have been hectic to say the least. I feel like I've been burning the candle at both ends, juggling way too many balls, and my plate is overflowing. That's what happens when one book is coming out and the next one is on a tight deadline. Blogging as per normal pretty much gets tossed out the window -- along with my temporary sanity. ; )

Starting Monday, I'll be trying to get back to why a lot of you read my blog -- writing stuff, advice, and experiences of a newbie author. Though since my third book just came out, I ain't so new anymore.

Victoria, a fan of my blog, sent me an email this morning when a lot of great questions. And I have a few from some of you written down on my blog topic list (yep, neatnik that I am I have a list). Though to be honest, if I didn't write it down, I'd forget it in three minutes. There's just way too much chaos between my ears right now. ; )

Tomorrow I'll post a Saturday Fun Pic and a great video. And beginning on Monday, I'll get back to the writing-focused blogs. Which means if you have any writing-related questions, either respond to the blog or email me at lisa @ lisashearin.com and I'll put your question in the queue.

Don't forget the contest I have going on -- scroll down to Thursday's post for the prize photo, and Wednesday for the prize/contest details.

And thank you all so much for buying The Trouble with Demons either this week or next -- I'll definitely let you know if I make a certain bestseller list. : )

TGIF -- it's been a long one!
Lisa