Tag Archives: inspiration

Well, Well… Look Who ‘ s Not Stuck Anymore!

chit-chatting with Cat, Nightshade (My Series) August 9, 2017 Comments: 2

Hello, folks! Remember I said that whenever there were news and updates concerning my writing I would tell you? Believe it or not, there are! I'm psyched! You know how I've been stuck with my novel (first in a pentalogy) Down to Earth for months now? I have finally written myself out of that infernal corner! YES! That means I now know where the story's going and more importantly what to do in order to get there. I just need to sit down and do the timeline of big events and relationships, but other than that I've solved the big issue. Isn't it fantastic?!

Résultats de recherche d'images pour « fantastic gif »

Also, my Nightshade series is very close to my heart and has quite a strong presence in my mind… You know where I'm getting at, of course. Because of that, I'll try to outline and write the first book (Nightshade: The Death Stone) in that series at the same time as Down to Earth. Call me crazy… I'll just say you're right, but it feels so good. Lastly, I told you a week and a half ago I had an idea for a novella. Whilst it's still true, this ''novella'' of mine seems to be expanding into either a full book or a duology or something of the like. I'm still trying to keep it at its current size, but really it's counterattacking me to get bigger, so I'll look at what to do with it. Moreover, I started researching (I've even got a notebook for that purpose!) fairies, Ireland, and the Seelie Court. I'm having much fun! Although I don't give myself deadlines when it comes to writing (unless it's for a contest or a magazine), I am working hard on disciplining myself. It might seem odd coming from a woman who's studying her bachelor's degree in translation online (no, really!) and who needs a high level of discipline to succeed at it, but when it's about my writing, I'm quite sporadic and spontaneous. I'm quite proud to tell you I've been writing every day of the last week, so it's coming along!

And that's all for today! Watch out for another book review this week. I'll also keep you updated about my writing projects (those three main I just talked to you about!). As always, thank you for being interested in what I have to say and accompanying me on my writing journey. It's an immense pleasure to have you here with me. Where is your writing at? Is it hard for you to be disciplined for your writing?    

I’m Planning on Novelling Up

chit-chatting with Cat, My project July 24, 2017 1 Comment

Hello, folks!

I’m here with exciting news and updates about my writing (yes, finally!) and my health. Let’s start with the latter.

As you know, I had to have my pacemaker changed, but don’t worry I’m doing fine except for the pain here and then (it’s normal, it’s only been a week!). I’m taking more time for myself through sitting still, reading, writing, and meditating.

Speaking of writing, I’ve had a perfect idea for a novella! Yes! This means that I’ll focus on structuring the idea (I’ve had the plot in general!) and writing it. It’s a YA fantasy about a young girl with quite the temper who meets with the Seelie court (or the fairy realm, if you prefer). It’s going to be fun and lovely! Of course, I shall update you regularly on how the writing of the novella goes because it has now become one of my two main projects.

image1

(As a proof, here is the temporary title I am using for my novella – it’s more of a practical use than a real title, but it does the job for now. I’m still brainstorming the right one while I create the outline and research fairies!)

I found two helpful articles on how to write a novella. The first is from The Lady Writer and I think it’s actually the best of the two for it even tells you what are the scenes you need in your outline and it makes use of her 8-stage plot, which I prefer over the uninspiring (in my opinion and experience) 3-act structure. The second is an article from NowNovel, a writing platform I adore, which gives you six tips on writing your novella.

As for my novel project, I don’t even know where or how to start talking about it, but I’ll try. I’ve been stuck for months, as you probably guessed it from my previous posts, but this week I had an epiphany: I’d found the main storyline! So, yesterday, I sat down to write what I thought would save the story… only to find out it was not enough. I’m angry because I can never seem to fly with this particular project. I’m close to giving it up. You see, I have many scenes in mind (others are written) and I have all the characters as well as the ending and beginning, but I cannot for the life of me find the story in it. It’s both frustrating and immensely saddening. However, I keep working hard at it, hoping for a creative breakthrough of some kind. I am making progress, but very slowly… Do you remember the turtle and the hare in the fables of Jean de La Fontaine? The hare takes a break during the race and the turtle, though going at a slow pace, reaches the finish line first, thus winning the race. I like to believe I am the turtle with my novel.

Other than that, I told you I’d give you two book reviews when I’d come back and it’s true: you can expect them in the first week of August!

As for you, do you plan on writing a novella? If so, what is it about? If not, why?

Also, if you have tips on overcoming a major issue in a story (just like with my novel project), please do share them with me!

Thank you for being with me on this crazy but amusing adventure!

Happy writing!

Writing Apps on Android: A Review

chit-chatting with Cat June 18, 2017 1 Comment

Hello again, folks!

I promised you a review of two free writing apps available in the Google Play Store. Well, here it is!

Let’s start with World Scribe, my favorite of the two.

World Scribe by Averi Studios

Just like its name says, this app lets you build a world along with all the connections, concepts, characters it must have for it to be believable and great.

Positive points:

  • It is cute but simple and easy to navigate and create new files (or even worlds). There’s a big ”+” button for that need and it’s quite hard to miss.
  • We can add pictures!!! (I cannot stress this enough as I am one who loves casting my characters or even add a picture that resembles the place I am creating.)
  • There is a space for general information, the possibility to create memberships and roles to groups YOU create, residences (worlds), various connections such as relationships to one another or with a certain item, and snippets of information that do not fit in the bio.
  • A fact I particularly liked: it can backup to Dropbox! So even if you lose the app or it doesn’t work anymore for whatever reason, you can find all you need in Dropbox (if you backed it up once or more, of course).
  • There are different app themes which consist of five colors and even a night mode (the background then becomes black).
  • You can create as many worlds as you wish!
  • There is a search function in each tab (or category) if you ever have too many characters or else.
  • You can even create concepts about your worlds, items, characters, or whatever it is you want the concept to be about. It is fun to have this possibility because we know that there are many concepts in a world in order for it to feel real…
  • Last but not least, no ads!

You’re probably wondering where the negative points are… I am as well for I couldn’t find any! For an app, it is quite interesting and worth the downloading and installing bits. Now, you can have your worlds and basic character descriptions at your fingertips, wherever you are. Doesn’t this sound magical? It is! So, I give this cute and useful app a rating of 5 out of 5. I recommend it to everyone who writes! Even if you’re not worldbuilding, you can just enter the basic information of the real place your characters are set in and then expand on the relationships, groups, concepts, etc. Thus, you’ll have all you need to start writing on a whim on the subway or on the bus or anywhere, really!

Writing Prompts by Datamix Soft

This app gives you writing prompts for when your creativity fuel is running low or only to exercise your writing skills.

Negative points:

  • There are ads, which is annoying.
  • The interface is dark (bleh) and the pixels show; it doesn’t have a nice and beautiful finish feel to it.
  • There is a tab titled ”Writing Guides”, but when I click it, it tells me to download another app from them in which there are all of their writing guides. This would have been very interesting if it were integrated in the Writing Prompts app. Otherwise, one must use more download in order to get to them…

Positive points:

  • The prompts are fun and diverse. However, they are not precise enough with ideas – they’re more about techniques.
  • Easy navigation.
  • The ”Online Writing Communities” tab lists the 7 most popular writing communities you can find online along with short descriptions and direct links to them. I even discovered a few! This is, by far, the best point of this writing app.
  • The interface’s main screen is a fun space – it mimics a corkboard with the prompts written on a small piece of paper pinned to it. If only it weren’t so pixelated…

Unfortunately, I don’t really recommend it unless you want to explore the various online writing communities, that is. I give this app a rating of 2 out of 5 for the easy interface and the discovery of online writing communities.

Next up will probably be a book review or my review of K.M. Weiland’s outlining software!

P.S.: I’m so glad I re-read my last post because I had completely forgotten about my sci-fi short story… Don’t worry! I’ll get to it and share it with you in due time. Once the research and writing parts are done, of course.

P.S. 2: Also, if there are apps or sites you want me to review or anything you’d like to know, just comment and tell me! I’ll do my best to help you.

Will you try one of these two apps? If so, what did you like and dislike about them?

As always, thanks for sticking with me and see you next post!

 

Off the Roller Coaster Ride (Updates!)

chit-chatting with Cat May 7, 2017 Leave a comment

Hello, everyone!

I’m sorry for not having posted lately, but I have three good excuses and updates. I must admit that these last two weeks hasn’t been easy for me in terms of writing. In fact, it was my darkest hour, I would say. I was genuinely considering giving up writing altogether (except for book reviews). I was so desperate and sorrowful I had trouble going through my days. I kept thinking and thinking about my dreams, my stories, and how much I want them to be published. Then, quite unexpectedly, I found a few ideas for old stories of mine! Now, I can’t choose which one to finish writing between four stories! But it’s a problem I’m loving. This means my inspiration has come back somehow and even though my will is still fragile, it’s there and I’m holding onto it!

This brings me to something else that is writing-related: I finally identified the main issue in my stories. So, I bought writing craft books about it and I am reading them, hoping to fix this major issue soon. It’s silly and ironic, really, because I have always loved the villains in stories and preferred them over the main characters (except for Percy Jackson!), but the thing is I can’t seem to write a mean enough villain for my own stories! They’re always either too kind or thoughtful or they don’t really scare the reader or thwart the main character’s plan. See? But don’t worry, I am working on this and shall come back with an awesomely kick-ass villain!

On another note, I have just finished my legal translation class and scored an excellent grade. This helped me to decide that I’ll take a specialisation in legal translation, financial translation, and literary translation at the Master’s degree level. I am still at the bachelor’s level for now and guess what? I have only two classes left to take to be done with the basics! Then, my third and last year will start (it will be mostly about Spanish translation and review classes).

 

The last reason I was away is that I’ve been reading novels that I need to review this month. Thus, expect two reviews soon, my dears!

I shall post updates and news more regularly now, like I used to before these dreadful two weeks of what I call ”writing depression”. Thank you for reading as always and you’re wonderful companions on this journey!

See you next post, lovelies!

News that Gives Wings

chit-chatting with Cat March 30, 2017 Leave a comment

Hello, everyone!

I’m feeling GREAT. Do you want to know why?
Oh, come on, we both know I’ll tell you.

 
Remember that short story I sent to my editor? Well, it came back to me two days ago. The red “track changes” feature in Word has been less prolific than I thought it would! I am pleasantly surprised.

 
I am slowly going through all the comments and fixes. It’s a learning process I simply ADORE. It makes me feel more professional and serious about my writing, too. Let’s admit it: entering an important contest after having your work edited IS professional.

 
I wish you, fellow writers/authors, to have your writing edited one day. The feeling is pure bliss. At least it is to me. I am quite proud of how I’m taking all this – on the positive side.
Thank you all for accompanying me on my journey to become an established author. It all means so much to me!

 
I’ll inform you once I’m done polishing my short story and sending it to the contest.

Meanwhile, be aware that I’ll post about three reviews in the beginning of April. I hope you’ll enjoy reading them and discover new books at the same time.

Until next post, sweethearts!

Two Truths Every Writer Needs to Read

chit-chatting with Cat, Tips February 13, 2017 Comments: 4

Hello, folks! I’ve been reading a lot of writing craft books and magazines lately and stumbled upon two pieces of particularly good advice. Every writer needs to read it, if only to remind us of the important basics. I really hope this post will help you like it helped me. I unleashed my creativity and killed my fears and doubts with these advice.

2-truths-best

 

So, for Advice Number 1, I quote James Scott Bell with the title of one of his books: ”Just write!” Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Actually, it’s a lot harder than what it looks like because in a continuous search for improvement of our craft, we tend to forget what we longed to do in the first place: write. In fact, we read, we talk, we go to workshops, but we don’t write per say. Or, when we do, it’s sporadic – we don’t write everyday for we spend our time thinking of improving our writing through various ways! I love that advice because it enabled me to realise that no matter how good my intentions are, I’m never going to make it if I don’t actually write every day. I seemed to push away my love and desire for writing in order to hone my skills. Don’t do like me! It’s a surefire way to have you stop writing. You have to fight the fear of not being good enough, let your love of writing take over you and write. Repeat every day.

You want to know something personal? I did exactly as I said above, meaning I forgot how much I loved writing and exclusively tried to improve through reading, etc. The result? I didn’t write a work for three whole weeks… Unbelievable! I knew it had to change, but I was looking for a miraculous solution. Then I saw James Scott Bell’s book title and description, and laughed at myself. It was so easy! It was right there from the beginning! I plucked up my courage and this week I’ve been writing every day. More importantly, I feel great about it. Of course, I still read writing how-to books and do writing exercises, but I’ve learned how to keep it all balanced. You can do it too.

I believe in you.

As for Advice Number 2, I’ve read it from two published authors: ”Whatever you do, don’t give up when it’s hard.” Again, it’s so basic stuff we forget it. Especially when it gets hard. What we must do is find back a bit (just a bit will work) of our love of writing and hang onto it through the storms! I know negative thoughts and feelings will take a hold of you. But your job as a writer is to not let them stray you from your own path.

Here’s another piece of my life to show you: These past weeks were not easy on me. I think in terms of writing I hit rock bottom. Why? Because all I’ve felt like was giving it up altogether. No more writing, no more dreaming. I was so desperate. It was becoming real… until I read that ”don’t give up when it’s hard” advice twice. It shook me to the core. It’s a simple truth yet we need to hear it when we’re down.

So, I’ve followed both of these advice this week and guess what? I’ve plotted not one, but two stories at the same time! I’ve got numerous sheets of paper to prove it. I’ve never been so prolific! The advice were so simple yet crucial. When in doubt, tell them to yourself and cling to them.

Do it for the love of writing.

Just write and don’t ever give up.

Did You Know?

chit-chatting with Cat October 20, 2016 Leave a comment

Hello everyone!

Are you feeling good? I am.

Ideas are brewing.

What I mean with this is: surprises are coming your way!

A Freebie

Indeed, I am working on a free ebook for you, guys and gals. It will feature from 10 to 15 flash fiction. Moreover, I am putting some things in place for special events (I can’t tell you more yet!).

Vlogging: The One Question

I’ve thought about vlogging. Should I? What do you people think? Leave me a comment about it!

Where You Can Find Me

Also, you can now find me on Pinterest: click here

Your Writing Tip

Be at the ready for I will post another writing tip on Friday!

Trust me, you won’t want to miss it if you’re confused or torn about choosing the right POV for your story.

Meanwhile, you can read my last writing tip if you can’t wait for the next. Just click here. It’s about growing your self-esteem and confidence. I’m sure you can find something useful in it.

See you tomorrow!

 

At Writer ‘ s Block and Inspiration ‘ s Beck and Call (A Book Review)

Book Reviews October 16, 2016 Leave a comment

Hello, fellow bloggers and readers!

Today's book review is about Conquering Writer's Block and Summoning Inspiration: Learn to Nurture a Lifestyle of Creativity by K.M. Weiland. I devoured this book! It took me only two days to read it thanks to its interesting take on those two (difficult) aspects of any writer's life.

 

writersblock

 

It has many good points. I'll start with the best aspect of this book: it is uplifting, even inspiring to read! Not only does it give you good tips to try and apply, it also tackles an author's hardest topics: writer's block and the ever-so-mysterious inspiration.But Miss Weiland approaches these topics with a dose of humor and a good common sense; there's no burying your head in the sand to try and avoid reality in this book. It's as comforting as it is a wake-up call.

When I finished the book, all I wanted to do was sit down and write (which I did) – I was so motivated by what she had written! I also greatly appreciated that she talked about author's depression and the highs and lows of the job. These are never easy topics to go over, but I think she did well. Plus, she ends the book on such a positive note, touching the topic of being born to be a writer and embracing it.

The only negative aspect was the lack of examples. We read about what to apply but with no guidance as to how we can actually do this. I would have liked more detailed instructions about it all, if I can say.

The negative does not outweigh all the positive points of this book, so I give it a 4.5 out of 5 rating. The book was excellent and encouraging, yet down-to-earth. But it lacked some good ole' examples. That's why I removed a .5. I strongly suggest you all read this, mostly if you're an author or an aspiring one. It will help you or at least rekindle that passionate flame called writing. It is genuinely a good book you want to read whether or not you're struggling with writer's block and summoning inspiration.

At Writer’s Block and Inspiration’s Beck and Call (A Book Review)

Book Reviews October 16, 2016 Leave a comment

Hello, fellow bloggers and readers!

Today’s book review is about Conquering Writer’s Block and Summoning Inspiration: Learn to Nurture a Lifestyle of Creativity by K.M. Weiland. I devoured this book! It took me only two days to read it thanks to its interesting take on those two (difficult) aspects of any writer’s life.

writersblock

It has many good points. I’ll start with the best aspect of this book: it is uplifting, even inspiring to read! Not only does it give you good tips to try and apply, it also tackles an author’s hardest topics: writer’s block and the ever-so-mysterious inspiration.But Miss Weiland approaches these topics with a dose of humor and a good common sense; there’s no burying your head in the sand to try and avoid reality in this book. It’s as comforting as it is a wake-up call. When I finished the book, all I wanted to do was sit down and write (which I did) – I was so motivated by what she had written! I also greatly appreciated that she talked about author’s depression and the highs and lows of the job. These are never easy topics to go over, but I think she did well. Plus, she ends the book on such a positive note, touching the topic of being born to be a writer and embracing it.

The only negative aspect was the lack of examples. We read about what to apply but with no guidance as to how we can actually do this. I would have liked more detailed instructions about it all, if I can say.

The negative does not outweigh all the positive points of this book, so I give it a 4.5 out of 5 rating. The book was excellent and encouraging, yet down-to-earth. But it lacked some good ole’ examples. That’s why I removed a .5. I strongly suggest you all read this, mostly if you’re an author or an aspiring one. It will help you or at least rekindle that passionate flame called writing. It is genuinely a good book you want to read whether or not you’re struggling with writer’s block and summoning inspiration.