After talking to several friends who have written books, I decided to try “writing” the end of my book first so I know where it’s going as I write. Kate Collins says this allows you to salt hints into the story at the start and throughout the plot. I’ve discovered this also allows for red herrings! What fun! So I have started a Mrs. Walters novel involving kidnapping and other nefarious activities. I have a timeline setup to sort of follow. People have shared that the characters will turn left when I intend to go right so we’ll see who wins. It’s also been suggested to have some tension between the characters and possibly have a traitor in the midst like Boromir.
Part of the prep work has included a character “bible” in which the people in the story are fleshed out. This is a bit like the attic full of notes Tolkien wrote in prepping to write the Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings. OK I’m a huge Tolkien fan.
I am planning a Thanksgiving short story so stay tuned. Not sure what it will be about but I’m guessing Mrs. Walters’ family decides it’s her turn to host. What will happen when they meet Lex the Gargoyle outside and Henry the Frog of the potted geraniums inside? Will Mrs. Walters do what I do? Take everyone out to eat at a really great restaurant! Perhaps wild Christmas shopping on the way home? Or will they stay and have family drama? Any ideas?