Some Food For Thought

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and enjoys their holiday. I'm leaving you with those quote to go over in your mind for the weekend.

Limitations only live in our minds. But if we use our imaginations, our possibilities become limitless.

~Jamie Paolinetti~

Step One: Edit, Edit, and Re Edit

There, you've done it, you've completed your first novel, poem, screenplay, etc. And while you sit back and gaze at the huge accomplishment you've just made, you sit back and wonder, what comes next? Now, it's time for the editing process. Go back through your piece of work and correct grammatical errors, check for misspellings, and make sure you've gotten everything nearly perfect. After completing that step, go back through your work again and edit again. Chances are, you might have missed something, and it never hurts to double check.

The Five Steps You Should Follow After Completing Your Literary Works

I wish I had someone there to guide me while I was learning how to write. I wish I had someone telling me don't do this, yes, you should do that. I had to learn everything on my own, and now that I have, I'm going to share my knowledge with you, for those of you that are thinking about writing.

When I saw Andrew.....

Andrew is a character who has a very short lived part in this book but, all in all, his part is a principal one. Andrew teaches Cara to embrace herself and he also teaches her to be what she truly is, a vampire. Although Andrew is described as being drop dead gorgeous, he is never more than a friend, or ally to Cara. He is more of like a father figure, guiding the young and feeble vampire through her new born years. I could see someone like Paul Walker playing the part of Andrew.

The Grim Reaper...

In 2007, I had minor surgical procedure done. It was the first operation I had ever had done so I assumed, that it would be nothing. I'd go home the next day, recouperate, and go on with my life. What I didn't assume,is that the doctor would nic one of my major arteries and that I would be a twenty two year old who was basically fighting for her life. And as I laid on the bathroom floor in a pool of my own blood, I had a moment of clarity. I was living this normal life, working in a hair salon, just doing day to day stuff, not really pursuing my dreams. You see, I was lucky, I got to the hospital soon enough that they could save my life.. So you have to wonder. How many of us get second chances at life? And if you had a second chance, what would you do with it? I know I'm not taking my second chance for granted. I'm living my dreams, and doing what I love to. Because I know if I had died, I wouldn't of wanted to look back on my life knowing I sat around with my thumb up my butt saying what if.

Once Upon a Time.

When I was ten, I won a local essay contest and I knew at that point, someday I would be a writer. It didn't matter how or when I got there, I just knew that someday, I would, get there. Although I had been writing for most of my life, it wasn't until I was twenty two, that I decided to complete my first novel. Why, do you ask? Because it wasn't until I was knocking on death's doors that I truly realized if I didn't do what I loved I would regret it for the rest of my life.

Blood Lust....

Suddenly, I felt my newly sharpened teeth plunging into the man's neck. I didn't seem to notice the man's agonizing cries of pain. I felt the warm fluid from his veins trickle down the back of my throat and ease the hunger in my belly. The sensation of a full stomach overwhelmed me. I snapped back to reality and stared at the crumpled dead body beneath me. Did I just kill him? I thought to myself. Oh Lord, what have I done? What's wrong with me?

Listen to your peers...

I was once told by an emmy award winning writer to maintain the positive attitude I have, or this business would eat me alive. She said great writers never doubt themselves, and great writers believe in their work. She said so many people crash and burn in the writing industry because they take one rejection way too personal. Rejection letters, to me, are only a minor roadblock. You see if you do things correctly, follow your heart, and keep writing, you can move those road blocks, one step at a time.

Lorelei....

When thinking up the character of Lorelei in Love Sucks, I tried to model her after someone I'd want to be friends with. She's kind, eccentric, loving, and trustworthy. She's all the qualities that I'd want in a best friend. She's always there when you need her, and she has a huge heart. Although if she isn't careful, Lorelei can let her naivete get the best of her. Sometimes being too trusting isn't the best thing.

Shake it up baby....

When writing The Truth About Delilah, I wanted to show a man obsessing over a woman. In so many romance novels, it's the opposite the woman is always pining after a man. Grayson Carter is a very strong, bold,loving, character, and I thought it was important to dispay what lengths a man would really go to for the woman he loves. We, as women, almost always let emotions get the best of us at times. Men, on the other hand have a way of hiding their emotions. I think it's important to display that men will stand up and fight for love. If it's something they believe in.

Thank You Your Grace

For my next project, I've decided that I'm going to pen a screenplay about one of the previous Queen's of England. And no, this one has never been done before. I found her story beautiful, seductive, and intriguing.

Don't write for the wrong reasons.

You shouldn't write for a paycheck. You should write because you love to do it. For me it's all I do all day. I think about writing when I wake up in the morning, and I think about it at night before I go to bed. It is the air in my lungs and the one true thing I love to do more than anything in the world.

Hey There Delilah

There was something odd about Delilah Black, something that Grayson Carter couldn't quite put his finger on. But regardless of Delilah's odd and mysterious ways, Grayson was drawn to her. He had to know her, he had to see her, he had to love her. He wasn't quite sure why he loved her but he didn't care. To him Delilah was like oxygen, he needed her to live. That was until all of Delilah's deep, dark secrets come flooding to the surface. Now Grayson has discovered who the real Delilah is and that leaves Grayson Carter with one question. Would he defy Heaven and Hell for the woman he loves?

A Ride With The Devil....

When I began writing The Truth About Delilah, I immeadiately had to think of two sides of the spectrum that would make a challenging obstacle in the book. Then it came to me, Heaven and Hell, two completely opposite sides of the spectrum, two very different places. And it also leaves with a lot of room to use your imagination. What do we know of Heaven and Hell? We know what we've read in books, or seen on television. We have never really seen either place ourselves so that leaves someone like me, with ability to get creative with it.

S.O.S Someone Help Me!

I opened my eyes to shear and utter darkness. It surrounded me on all four sides and consumed me. I put my hands out and slowly felt around. I realized I was trapped. I screamed out raspily at the top of and pounded on the top of the box I was inside of. "Let me out!" I shouted with panic in my voice. Ther was an intense ache in my stomach that was throbbing. I listened for the sound of my own breath, but heard nothing. I continued pounding on the inside of this box the suddenly, I stop feeling defeated. I ran the tip of my tounge over my teeth. My once flat and smooth teeth were now sharp and pointy. During that moment, I was literally stunned. What has happened? Where am I? Why am I trapped in this box?

Excerpt from Love Sucks

How is Love Sucks Different?CONTD

I also wanted to make Love Sucks different in love story department. In most of the books I've read it's the females who are always pining after the guys. Now maybe because I am a strong willed, independent, woman, I felt that we should switch this around for once. Why not show the woman goin after what she wants. I didn't want Cara to be weak. I didn't want to her to have to rely on anybody but herself and I think that's important. Because in real life,(and I know, this book fictional and doesn't have to do with real life) we often have to rely on ourselves. Life is about taking chances, otherwise, you might never get anywhere.

How is Love Sucks Different?

With so many vampire books on the market, there are bound to be similarities. But I prided myself in making this book different. It's not your typical vampire romance. It's more of a character driven book. You follow the main character Cara, through her growth as a vampire, from the 1700's to the present day. I wrote the whole novel completely in first person. I wanted the readers to feel what it would be like to be in Cara's shoes. Imagine if you woke up in the middle of nowhere, buried in some box, without knowing who or what you had become. What would you do? I wanted my readers to relate to that and I think they will.

Go Ahead, Bite Me.CONTD

So then a few years had gone by with Love Bites sitting on my desk top. I had several other writing projects in the works so, I casually tossed it aside. I decided I'd come back to it one day then, in 2010. I did. I found Punkin House. They were a small, beginning publishing company and they were looking for new authors. So I pulled up Love Bites from my desk top and sent it in. I thought to myself, what do I have to lose? The worst that could happen would be another rejection letter and I had already recieved thousands of those in the past so I was used to it. But all it takes is one person to like what you've written and your back in business. So when punkin house offered me a contract I took it.

Go Ahead, Bite Me.

So a few days ago, someone asked me, why another vampire book, don't we have enough of that stuff? No we don't. First let's go back to 2007. I decided I was going to write a screenplay and call it love bites. I wrote it, It was pitched a few places but hit a dead end. Then I went back to it. I loved the story so much, so I thought to myself, this would make an excellent novel. Then every vivid detail, became a road map in my mind. Six months later, a novel was born. So, I sent it to a few agents here and there, got some good feedback and surprise, surprise, another dead end.

Do Work

A lot of writers think that after you become published, it's up to the publishers to promote your work and all you do is kickback and enjoy the revenue stream coming in from your masterpiece. You know what I say to that WRONGO!!!! You should be out there promoting yourself too. You took the time to write it, you believe in it, now tell people about it. You've earned it.

Let's Make A Difference!

I'm determined to make a difference in my community. I think we as people often let vanity and material objects take us over and we forget what's really important in the world. There are so many people that are less fortunate than I am, and it is my mission to help them. I plan on starting some after school programs for inner city kids. I'd rather see a kid pick up a book and read it rather than see them out in the streets doing things they aren't supposed to be doing.

Blog tour!!!!

I'm excited to announce that in the near future I will be doing a blog tour. When I get the dates and locations I will let everyone know!!!

Jared...

When I created the character of Jared Sayers, I didn't want him to be like any other typical guy. I made him a man who's based on values, truth, and someone who knows what true love is and goes after it. If I could think of any actor who could portray him, it would probably have to be Ryan Reynolds.

Epilogue

My life as I knew it, seemed to have a purpose. I had found my beloved and he loved me enough to become a creature of the night. I defied odds and took chances while making it out alive. That was a lot for someone of my kind. People say every story should have a happy ending. But when you have forever to focus on happiness, this is only the begininng.

Don't let skeezy people ruin you CONTD

So what did I say back to Nick after he told me this stuff? Absolutely nothing. I didn't email him back or ever talk to him again. Quite frankly, I didn't want to. Everyone in life has some kind of talent. Whether you are a math whiz, a great actor, or in my case a writer. And I am not going to waste my god given talent so I can form myself into something I'm not. Sorry Nick. I do have to thank Nick for one thing though, it's one skeezy a hole like him that has made me push myself harder. I'm out to prove you can make it in hollywood on talent alone, and you don't have to dumb yourself down, to do it.

Don't let skeezy people ruin you CONTD

Then Nick asked me if I was pretty. I said I beg your pardon? I was a little taken aback by the question. Then he said what actresses do you look like and are you pretty. Now, I'm a bold, strong, confident, woman so, I answered him. Yeah, I'm pretty. He basically told me that these were the steps to making it as a writer in hollywood. Step 1. Lie about your age... Excuse me? You heard me, lie about your age. Step 2. Get all dressed up and look hot and don't be overweight. Oh yes and we can't forget 3. Get hired as a writing assistant and flirt with the producer, director, or whoever is interviewing. That my friends is making in hollywood 101 with Nick, the skeezy producer.

Don't let skeezy people ruin you.

I once spoke to a producer about one of my scripts.. He seemed genuine and nice. Let's just call this guy Nick. I began speaking to Nick because I discovered we were from the same area. I think it's nice that people in the business can talk to one another if they are from the same place. It's informational to trade stories. Well let's just say Nick had other things in mind. You see Nick, falls under the stereotype of that typical, perverted, skeezy, hollywood, producer. No, they are not all like that. I have actually met some really nice and helpful ones. But Nick, on the other hand, I'd rather die of suffication on my own vomit than ever speak to him again. Nick told me I needed to move to California. And I was like I'm planning on it eventually I'll have to. Because not only am I a novelist, I write screenplays as well. And Nick said to me, do you want to know how you can really make it? And I was naive so I said sure...

Wanting To Write A Book

When I first told people I was going to write a book, they looked at me like I was stark raving mad. But I did it, I completed my first novel, then the second, and the third. I was on a writing high. But nobody can prepare you for what comes after. Everyone may think it's easy to be become published, I assure you, it's not. The important thing is that you keep writing. Never quit writing. If I would have quit who knows where I'd be.

Little Flames

I kissed her. I kissed her slowly, and softly lingering on every flutter of her lips. I never wanted this moment to end. I loved her, I loved her so deeply that I was positive that what I was doing was right. When she pulled out of the kiss and gazed longingly into my eyes is when I saw it. I knew I wasn't imagining things. When she pulled out of the kiss, I know what I saw. I saw little flames, dancing around in the irises of her eyes

How can one name be so deadly?

When coming up with the character of Delilah Black, I instantly thought of the biblical story of Samson and Delilah. Delilah was one strikingly beautiful woman who led to Samson to his un doing. But in this story, Delilah Black is a flawed character. Yeah, she's beautiful, and yeah she makes the main character Grayson, defy heaven and hell for her. But she is dealing with the issues of doing what's right and doing what she's told to do.

Recommended Reading....

This book is a number one on my list. The Crimson Petal And The White By: Michael Faber. This book follows Sugar, a young prostitute, and her climb from the bottom of the ladder to the top. It was intense and magnificent. Read it, re-read it, and love it!

Inspiration

Over the weekend, try to think of someone that inspires you. It can be anyone, a friend, a family member, or a random stranger on the street. For me, I'd have to say my mother is my inspiration. She's always pushed me, she's always believed in me, and she is my number one supporter. So when you have a moment to think, think about it, who inspires you?

I Vow to always be myself

I made a promise to myself that I would never be one of those writers. What are those writers, you ask? Those writers, are the writers that have no interest in helping the younger writers of the future. I once asked a writer a question. They were pretty well known. And you know what I got? A BIG FAT NOTHING. They never answered my question, in fact, they never responded, period. I know, they must be busy, but I was referred to speak to them by a friend and was truly upset with how they just flat out ignored me. So I promise, any questions that anyone has, I will answer to the best of my ability. The writers of the younger generation are our future, and we shouldn't ignore them...

What does it take to be a writer?

Somebody asked me one day, how can you write? And what does it take to be a writer? I think if you have the passion, drive, and dedication you can do anything you set your mind to. I also think if you have a vivid imagination, you should use it.

TGIF

It's the end of the week, and I hope everyone begins their weekend with some positive thoughts.

Reach for the Stars....

I'm you're going to dream, dream big. I'm aspiring to be a positive role model for all the dreamers out there. If you have a piece of paper, a pencil, and a dream, jot your idea down. If you hold back from your dreams, you might regret not pursuing them.

Negativity, Schmegativity

I've absolutely had it with people being negative. No, nothing in life comes easy. Yes, you may have to work toward your goals to get somewhere. But eventually, you will get somewhere. Today I over heard someone talking about their child. The parent in question was saying her kid would never be able to pursue his dreams because of this and because of that. And I thought to myself, way to be supportive,(not). You're supposed to be your child's number one supporter. What are you thinking? It's no wonder some kids have self esteem issues and are insecure.

Hello Gray.

When I first thought of a concept for The Truth About Delilah, all I pictured was a man and a woman in a coffee shop. Then I thought, for once let's flip this story. In alot of books today it's often the girl who is wooed by the guy. Why not have the guy going nuts over the girl? Then we bring Grayson Carter who is the main character in the book. Grayson, is attractive, smart, and successful. He works at a bigtime law firm on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. But there is something missing from his life. That is, until Delilah Black walks into it. Grayson was never the type to swoon over a woman. But he can't help but feel drawn to Delilah. There is something about her that is pulling him in.

Overcoming obstacles

Do you know how many rejection letters you get in this business? Thousands. It's important than you don't let those letters get to you. Those letters are one person's opinon, and there are thousands people out there who believe in you. If I would have given up after my first rejection letter, I'd be nowhere, literally, nowhere. So most importantly, if you love what you do, keep trucking. You'll get there some day.

Love Sucks, no literally, Love sucks

Maybe Jared was right about me. My whole relationship with him was a lie. I replayed the thought of me telling him he was in love with a monster. Then, I thought about his reaction, it wasn't good. If he was angry about what happened at the beach then he would definitely be angry about me being a vampire.

Sample excerpt from my upcoming novel, Love Sucks.

Team Eric, or Team Bill?

Also on my to do list, picking up Charlaine Harris's new book, Dead In The Family.. I recommend the series it's a must read. Trust me, when you pick up the first book, you'll read the rest of the series within the next couple weeks. I know I did.

A New Week A New Beginning

First and foremost, I'm starting off my monday with a cup of coffee and a smile. My writing goals for the week are: editing my screenplay Marquita, editing Remember Me My Love,(my other screenplay). And last of all working on my one thousand word synopsis for my screenplay, The Barmaid, which I am proud to announce is now in development with Director Brian Hickman@ hickman films.

Cara, Cara Jones

The first image of Cara Jones I ever had was a pale, chestnut haired, beauty punching her fist through the lid of her wooden coffin. And so began Cara's journey in my mind. She is the main character in my novel Love Sucks.

Life, One speed bump at time.

Nobody ever said life was easy. Nobody ever said that the welcome committee would be waiting for you at the beginning of your journey with a pie and some words of wisdom. The writing industry is a wicked, grueling business. My strategy for my writing is to never quit. Ah, the word quit. It shouldn't be part of anyone's vocabulary. The first obstacle I had to overcome in my journey to become a published author and established screenwriter, was telling myself to never quit. And I will never QUIT.

Stick with the Status Quo?

Would you sell your soul to Hollwood if it came knocking on your door? And if you did, would you change who you are? You can be many things in life. One thing you should always do is stay true to yourself. Never sell your soul. You are original, one of a kind and you are worth far more than that.

The Truth About Delilah

Delilah. One name, one meaning, Delilah mean beautiful temptress, and that's exactly what she was. When I saw her, standing by the counter in that coffee shop, I was at a loss for words. The only word I could think of that described her beauty was intoxicating. She was intoxicatingly beautiful.

The editor at Punkin House is reading this. My second book. The Truth about Delilah. I'm excited about this one.

Write about anything

When it comes to writing there are no boundries, no limits. You can creative an alternate universe, be a different character, or even create a different setting. And it's not about making money. I mean sure you have to make a living somehow but when comes to writing, it's about the love of it. So if you're sitting in your room, or at you're computer. Write something down, you never know what you can come up with.

A Leap of Faith

Just finished writing a screenplay about the life of the Latin Legend Marquita Rivera. It was truly a moving story and a priviledge for me to write such a touching piece. So now, on to the next project. What will it be?