I’ve switched gears again. I ran into a road-block with Kiss and a Dare. The conflict is weak and I can’t seem to find enough motivation to make the story work. The reader would be bored before the third page. I’ve decided to put David and Grace away to stew for awhile.
I have a series I’ve started called the Guardians. It was originally set in 1832 but I’ve moved it back to 1799. Why? I need the unrest of England and the threat of revolution. England is at war with France. They have lost the war in the colonies. They see the French Revolution and there is fear that it will happen in England.
It is during this tumultuous time I placed the first story of the Guardian series. I’ve been working on the characters and plot. As part of this process, I’ve been re-reading old friends: Goal, Motivation, and Conflict by Debra Dixon. This book reminds me what drives a good story. I’m also reviewing the history of banking, and Roy Porters’ English Society in the 18th Century. The ideas are flowing now.
I’m taking a proposal approach this time. I’m a plotter. I have to have a detailed outline to write the book. I’m starting with character sketches and a good synopsis. Next will be the detailed outline. I’ve also got a few scenes detailed as well. They are tucked away just in case I need them.
The goal is to have the synopsis, outline and a few sample chapters by RWA at the end of June. I have a lot of work to do.
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