Tag Archives: writing

A Quick Update & a Big Leap for Me

chit-chatting with Cat March 26, 2017 Leave a comment

Hello, folks!

I hope you’re all doing well. As for me, I just sent my short story for the contest to my editor. It’s the first time for me sending any writing of importance to an editor, so it’s a big leap. I am both thrilled and nervous, although I can’t wait to get it back. I asked them to be as tough as possible to make it the best version it can be. Plus, this is how I’ll learn what works and what doesn’t.

I’ll let you know how it went once I get it back from the editor! They say I should receive it by Wednesday. I’m so excited I can barely stay still.

Until next time!

P.S.: Expect a few reviews for I have many that are due in the beginning of April. Be understanding. Thank you!

 

Not Everything Dies (Princess Dracula) – A Review

Book Reviews March 25, 2017 Leave a comment

NotEverythingDies

On Amazon

On Goodreads

On Barnes & Noble

* I received an ARC of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *

I’ve been interested in Princess Dracula for a very long time so when I saw Not Everything Dies by John Patrick Kennedy on NetGalley, I jumped on it. I was lucky enough that this second book in the series is about Ruxandra suffering from amnesia, so even if I was new to the series, I could still read it starting with the second one.

Ruxandra, an amnesiac vampire, is fighting for control against the Beast within. She finds herself locked up in Countess Elizabeth Bathory’s castle. Ruxandra needs to learn the ways of royalty and help Bathory, her odd mentor, keep her lands. But in the end, is the countess friend or foe? Romance, magic, and supernatural elements are all part of this intriguing tale.

I must say this book about vampires did not disappoint me! The cover is simply mesmerizing and well-chosen. It is eerie, gorgeous, and true to the story. The author uses a good vocabulary throughout the book, which makes it pleasant to read. The battles are rough and realistic, just like his depiction of fear. The author makes it all believable. He writes an interesting transition between the Beast to Ruxandra, then back. We can feel the Beast’s anger and its ache for food. The descriptions of settings and characters are precise. There is also a clear difference in characters – I like that! Realism (even though there are supernatural elements) plays an important role in this book. I particularly enjoyed that the novel was divided in short chapters because it made for a quick yet entertaining read. Plus, everything that can go wrong does! There was a lot of conflict, which made it even more enjoyable. I liked how the author describes trivial matters – it’s marvelous to discover such things as soap through Ruxandra’s eyes. It’s as though everything is magnified and impressive.

The friendship between Ruxandra and Elizabeth Bathory was sweet to read. Speaking of the countess Bathory, I thought this was an interesting take on her character. I’ve read a good deal about her as a teenager and seeing her being used in a vampire story makes perfect sense. The character is weird and sensual – a good move from the author, I must admit. This book is true to the vampires’ sensuality. It is also worthy of original, bloody (no pun intended!) vampires with a remnant of a human side. Their cruelty is faithful to folklore with the harsh reality of deaths and tortures. The author is quite respectful of their powers too. Plus, there must have been a good deal of research involved to get the eras and settings well done along with the characters (mostly the countess Bathory), but the author aced it in my opinion.

Everything is logically put into place like pieces of a puzzle. The author pulled it off brilliantly. Let’s talk about dialogue… it was (thank God!) believable. The characters said just enough things to leave us wondering, yet they gave us the necessary information at the right time. Moreover, the way Ruxandra recovers her memories, how she learns of things past, and the way she discovers her powers is interesting and well-written. Finally, the ending was awesome! It was quite thrilling and intriguing, as well as gory and dark. The very end surprised me and I usually figure out the plot twists well in advance!

As for the negative points, the description of the action and fights and the drinking of blood could be expanded. It is quite short compared to the other descriptions. Or when it’s long, it’s because the description is mostly of sexual nature. I understand vampires are usually sensual, but I want to know more about the fights and how it feels to drink blood to survive! In general, more detailed descriptions are needed. Also, they were loads of typos and words that should have been erased. I really hope the book will go through another round of thorough editing because this novel deserves to be read without confusion. Moreover, there are a few inconsistencies in the wording, like in the beginning when Bathory tells her people to use the pronouns ‘’she’’ for the Beast, yet in the next line the countess uses ‘’it’’ too. Lastly, one thing that bothered me was Ruxandra’s lack of motives and goals while the Beast does not. She doesn’t decide anything for the most part of the story… Events just happen to her.

This book (and I bet the series too) is perfect for fans of Anne Rice’s vampires and the Vampire Diaries series and for those who love the sensuality of vampires and their gory life. Even though one hasn’t read the first one, they can jump into Not Everything Dies without any problem for we learn little by little of Ruxandra’s backstory just as she does (of course, reading the first one once you’re hooked to the series is probably a good idea). I give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 because of how true to the vampire’s myths it was and how much of a captivating time I had reading it.

I will definitely read the rest of the series. In fact, I cannot wait for the third book to come out! I highly recommend Not Everything Dies by John Patrick Kennedy – if you love vampires and action, you’ll probably love it just like I do.

Plot vs Story: What Is the Big Difference?

Tips March 4, 2017 Comments: 7

Hello, gals and guys!

Today, we’re going to tackle the confusing ”plot vs story” question.

plot-vs-story

Indeed! Why can’t they be used interchangeably?

I’ve been taking a writing class on Skillshare this week and finally came to learn the answer. The difference is so big, yet we never really hear about it. We keep on using plot when we mean story and story when we mean plot. I figured I’d share this information with you because I kept wondering why the heck were they different. Isn’t that all just the same thing?

No, it’s not. One might think that they differ subtly, yet it’s far from the truth. In fact, it is quite clear.

Plot is actually the physical action of your novel. Let’s use my novel Nightshade:The Death Stone as an example. Rosellia, the main character, travels to different dimensions (this is physical), then she is kidnapped (again, it’s physical), and saved by the Nightshade (physical). This has nothing to do with how she feels about all this. Plot is that: action. It’s what happens to your character in terms of events and situations.

As for the story, it is simply the contrary. Rosellia’s emotions and feelings towards the events happening to her and her growth as a character are what make the story. Story is emotions. Her relationship with herself? Story. With others? Story.

Story is emotions and feelings whereas plot is physical (action).

Don’t we just feel better knowing the big difference?

I sure do!

Now it’s easier for me to understand whenever I read about one of those two important pieces of the creation of a novel. I hope it is easier for you too.

Do you still have any questions about plot or story?

You’re always welcome to leave a comment.

A Step on the Publishing Path (and Other Great Stuff!)

chit-chatting with Cat, My project, Short Stories March 2, 2017 Leave a comment

Hello, ladies and gentlemen!

I have two good news for you, an update, and a question.

Let’s start with the good news (it’s my favorite part!).

I will participate in the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Contest this year in the genre short story category (Romance). Yes, you’ve read it well! I am so thrilled it’s unbelievable. It’s the biggest contest in which I have ever participated. What is pleasant about it too is that they give every participant a free webinar. So everyone wins in a way! I’m just happy to be in.

The second fun thing I want to tell you is making me bubble up with joy: I’ll have my short story edited! I have never had an editor work on a short story of mine, so this is a huge step toward publication and I’m as excited as one can be – I’m ecstatic actually. I can’t wait to read the edited version and learn from it!

As for the update, I am still working hard on Nightshade: The Death Stone. Truth is I had to slow down a little due to midterm exams; however, I now have more free time to dedicate to writing, yay! My main focus is on characterisation and world-building this week and the next, along with outlining (of course!).

With that being said, I have a question: would you be interested in character, world-building, and other worksheets if I made them? Some free and others you would be able to purchase.

What do you think?

Or would you prefer a story binder or a writing planner, or other products?

Moreover, what writing issues would you like me to tackle in order to help you, guys (and girls)?

Tell me your opinion in the comments below! I’m always happy to interact with you.

P.S.: Book reviews are coming your way as well!

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.

A Pinch of Greek and Worldbuilding

chit-chatting with Cat, My project February 5, 2017 Leave a comment

Hello, folks!

I know it’s been a while but my life has been pretty rocky lately. But I’m here now, that’s all that matters. I wanted to let you know how hard I’m working on my novel Nightshade: The Death Stone. I am currently worldbuilding, yes! Not one world: four. And you want to know the best thing about it? It’s fun and going great!

Moreover, this has nothing to do with writing but I figured it’d be fun to share: I have started to learn Greek this week. It’s such a marvellous language! I printed free sheets about Greek and I’m practising. I’ll even order workbooks and CDs for it. I love learning languages: it’s thrilling! Just like an adventure. 🙂 Oh heck, it’s one! I already speak French, English (obviously), Italian, and Spanish.

So that was for my update ^.^

Thank you for staying with me! I love you, people!

P.S.: I am thinking of a poem I’ll soon write for you, guys. I’ll keep you updated about it too.

Something New and Cold

chit-chatting with Cat, poetry January 6, 2017 Leave a comment

I’ve got a little something for you today. It’s a poem. However, it’s quite a dark one so don’t expect anything uplifting or neutral. But to me, it’s one of my best works of poetry so far! Oh, I also meant to tell you that I shall be learning the proper way to write poems, such as sonnets, haikus, sestinas, etc. So I’ll post them online for you to see me grow into that lovely field that is poetry. Moreover, I seriously plan to make a collection of poems, which I have been thinking about for a long, long time.

Here is today’s poem. Enjoy!

 

Cold

Lowering my head to the side

In shame,

Your woe is clear through your crying out.

 

It has reduced you to a bawling lump,

Unattractive and pathetic,

Wounded and huddled up,

Blood continuously pooling around your mass.

 

It slowly flows to me,

Surrounding my body.

I wipe the blood off my feet

On the entrance mat.

 

Then, I lift them,

One after the other,

And walk out the miserable house,

Leaving you alone with your grief.

 

But I don’t care you see,

You never meant much to me.

With a disdainful grimace,

I glance at you one last time.

 

Your bloodied hand reaches up

Don’t you know you’re on your own?

You always were and always will be.

 

I put on my top hat,

My scoffing echoing in the night.

The air is as cold as my soul,

But I don’t feel anything at all.

This Isn’t a Writing Tip!

Tips October 29, 2016 Leave a comment

Hello, everyone!

I know I’m a day late. I had university work to do, I’m sorry. Today’s tip isn’t much a writing tip per say, but more of a tip to manage your time to write.

Do you know about bullet journaling?

If not, trust me, it’s worth it!

Bullet journaling is cheap. You just need to get a blank-paged journal, number the pages, and date it monthly and daily.

Here’s a short video (5 minutes) to show you what it is and how it works:

Once you have your bullet journal, it’s so easy to keep track of your tasks, events, and notes. I’ve been using it myself for the past week and gosh, I have never been this motivated to cross out a task! This also leaves you with a reasonable schedule in which to include some writing time. Thus, you can enjoy it and not be stressed about forgetting what tasks you have and whatnots. Daily life can be exhausting and I wanted a way to keep track of everything including my writing AND university. This way I can do both instead of being upset all the time. Bullet journaling is the best method for task and time managing I have found!

Although, this method is not bulletproof (oh, the pun!). What I mean by that is that you MUST fill in your daily and monthly logs, otherwise it will do you no good. But once you get the hang of it, it totally works.

So simple, yet so worth it (and fun)!

Don’t forget to decorate your bullet journal with pictures and stickers, or even drawings if you like! It makes it even more entertaining and unique.

What do you think of bullet journaling?

Do you want to try it out?

 

This Isn ‘ t a Writing Tip!

chit-chatting with Cat, Tips October 29, 2016 Leave a comment

Hello, everyone!

I know I'm a day late. I had university work to do, I'm sorry. Today's tip isn't much a writing tip per say, but more of a tip to manage your time to write. Do you know about bullet journaling? If not, trust me, it's worth it! Bullet journaling is cheap. You just need to get a blank-paged journal, number the pages, and date it monthly and daily.

Here's a short video (5 minutes) to show you what it is and how it works: Once you have your bullet journal, it's so easy to keep track of your tasks, events, and notes. I've been using it myself for the past week and gosh, I have never been this motivated to cross out a task! This also leaves you with a reasonable schedule in which to include some writing time. Thus, you can enjoy it and not be stressed about forgetting what tasks you have and whatnots.

Daily life can be exhausting and I wanted a way to keep track of everything including my writing AND university. This way I can do both instead of being upset all the time. Bullet journaling is the best method for task and time managing I have found! Although, this method is not bulletproof (oh, the pun!). What I mean by that is that you MUST fill in your daily and monthly logs, otherwise it will do you no good. But once you get the hang of it, it totally works.

So simple, yet so worth it (and fun)! Don't forget to decorate your bullet journal with pictures and stickers, or even drawings if you like! It makes it even more entertaining and unique.

What do you think of bullet journaling?

Do you want to try it out?  

A Year? But It ‘ s Too Short!

chit-chatting with Cat October 28, 2016 Leave a comment

Hello, folks! After much thought, I won't be doing NaNoWriMo like I was supposed to. It was making me too stressed out – it even made me lose my love for my story! So, this was no good for me (and my studies!). I also decided that my novel Nightshade deserved better. So, I have found a great alternative: Shaunta Grimes' A Novel Idea course! It is a year-long novel-writing course and I am so glad to be part of it. Shaunta Grimes is the author of the Viral Nation series, a YA dystopian. I'll take the whole year to write and polish my manuscript. This way, I'll be prouder of my work. I hope you all understand. With this said, know that tomorrow is Friday: your writing tip day!

 

P.S.: I'm still working on the surprises I talked to you about and the free ebook and workbook! 😉