13 March 2024

#WritersLife: How to Develop an Effective Writing Habit

  

As long as I can remember I’ve always admired writers who can crank out thousands of words per day. When writing was merely my hobby, I often struggled to carve out time to write in between my day job, family, and life in general. But since writing has developed into something more I've learned that developing a daily writing habit helps to 1) make more money with your writing, 2) consistently produce quality content, and ultimately 3) achieve your writing goals.

So, what is a habit? It is a learned behavior pattern which is regularly followed until it has almost become a reflex. Over the years everyone acquires daily habits which are performed without much forethought, such as brushing your teeth, putting on sunscreen, or washing our face in the morning. In the beginning, these habits took more than likely a concerted effort, since someone such as a parent had to remind us of them frequently.


But eventually, these desired actions somehow worked their way into the subconscious mind, and are now performed as easily as breathing. So, just imagine how incredible it will be to sit down to write every single day because it is a habit! It would certainly remove a lot of guesswork and ensure you achieve your daily word count with relative ease. While there is no simple path to writing success, there are definitely several things you can do to develop a good writing habit.


It all starts in your mind. 


We become what we repeatedly tell ourselves, so take a moment and tell yourself a personal writing affirmation, even if you have to look in the mirror in the morning to do so. I know it sounds silly, but science has proven long ago that if you say something to yourself long enough, you will act by those words because you cannot hold a personal belief and then move in an opposing fashion.

Ask yourself why. 


The "why" is almost more important than how, when, or what you are writing. I write every day even if it's just for a few minutes so I can consistently publish, to include blog posts and articles that are helpful to others. If I don't write for a while, I just don't feel like myself. A strong "why" will encourage a consistent writing habit, even when you are ill, tired, or stressed out.

Set goals. 


Developing a new habit doesn't mean you are going to decide to write every day and just do it. You might want to start out writing for three hours every day, but that might just be an unrealistic goal. By doing so, you more than likely just set yourself up for failure, and ultimately reinforce the belief that your goal is unattainable. Instead, begin with baby steps by setting an easy-to-achieve objective, such as writing for a quarter of an hour every other day this week. Once you've found your groove, you can slowly increase the time you spend on writing from there.

Set a daily writing time and add it to your schedule. 


I'm very much a morning person, and I like to write every morning from 6 to 8 am, while sipping my first cup of coffee. Many times I write more, but then there are days when I just can't seem to focus. But, getting my writing done early in the day provides me with a sense of accomplishment and reinforces my daily writing habit.

Say 'Goodbye' to distractions. 


Your schedule says it’s time to write, but you haven’t been on (insert favourite social media) yet. Write first, then catch up with your friends and followers. FB, Instagram, and Co. will still be there after you've finished writing for the day. If necessary, close all other windows on your computer so you can focus. Turn off the TV, Radio, etc. if you are one of those people who can't concentrate on a task properly when there's excessive background noise. Sometimes I even turn off my phone or at least put it in airplane mode.

Keep it professional! 


Don’t feel like writing today? Think about this....when you work outside the home you find yourself going to work even when you are ill, exhausted, busy, or dealing with personal issues. Well, treat your writing like a profession, and you quickly find yourself writing more. When you view your writing seriously, then the productivity will follow soon, even when you're not in the mood for writing.

Always be prepared...


to write! This motto doesn't just work for the boy scouts. I usually carry a tablet computer or at least an old-fashioned notebook with a pen around in my handbag in case I think of something to add to one of my current writing projects and find myself with a little extra time to write while I'm out and about.

Don't forget to keep it fun! 


Writing is an incredible and rewarding journey, and it should be fun, not just mind numbing work! It's true, writing takes a lot of effort, and it can be stressful when faced with deadlines, but it can also be loads of fun. So, do what you must to keep it that way. You’ll be more inclined to write often if you actually enjoy the process. I find writing more enjoyable when it's a subject matter that's important to me.

Developing a daily writing habit will take some time, effort, and patience on your part, but it is so worth it!


Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedInFacebookMedium, and Goodreads.
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06 March 2024

#WritersLife: My Musings on Writing Historical Fiction

 
 

When I began to write, I focused on non-fiction, military lifestyle, and canine health to be more precise. Four years into my writing journey, I added my debut novel IN THE SHADOW OF HER MAJESTY,  a Tudor whodunit, to my expanding collection of scribbles. Set in 16th century England, it seeks to solve the circumstances of Lady Amy Dudley's untimely death. But what is it about historical fiction that makes it so charming? And what ensures its continuing popularity? I had, after all, up until just recently, written nothing but non-fiction.  I will gladly admit that I’ve always been a bit of a history buff and enjoy researching different eras and cultures. But my love of this genre goes well beyond that.

These days I write primarily biographical historical women’s fiction, with my current focus on 19th century Austria. I know, it's quite a time shift, but, so far, it's been an enjoyable one. When I first started on the path of writing historical fiction, I wanted to explore history, religion, people, and combine it with a touch of mystery. But these days, I am much more focused. And yes, I was partly influenced by market trends, but ultimately it was the subject matter I found most intriguing. It’s one thing to write historical fiction and speculate about the suspicious circumstances of Lady Amy Dudley's sudden demise within the confines of one book. However, it’s quite another to write about one of the most beautiful and fascinating women of her time, and turn it into a series that can hold readers' attention.

My debut novel is set in Tudor England. I was quite enamored with the drama and formality of it, and intrigued by this historic "unsolved murder case". I also liked the fact that although the political situation seemed so far removed from our own, it was still relevant. Some things just haven't changed all that much. One of my most recent works, The Country Girl Empress series, is set in 19th century Vienna, spanning the years 1837 to 1898. Yes, the series will come to an end just before World War I. Did I just give away the ending? Not really, since the destiny of such a prominent historical figure, such as Empress Elisabeth of Austria (affectionately referred to as "Sisi"), can be easily researched.

You may wonder how I went from writing about events during the reign of the last Tudor monarch to focusing on one of the most powerful empires on the European continent. Well, in my mind, it made perfect sense, since one is a stand-alone novel, the other a series of books about a woman whose life I've always found intriguing. And while Empress Elisabeth was, for the most part, not politically involved, she was one of the best equestriennes of her time, quite an athlete, and an active philanthropist. Her political ambitions were discouraged by her mother-in-law, Archduchess Sophie, early on in Sisi's marriage to Emperor Franz Joseph I. I suppose I've always been a bit of royalist. After all, royals are the original superstars whose lives have fascinated people from all walks of life for centuries. Needless to say, researching Sisi's life has been and still is exciting.

People often ask me the value and purpose of historical fiction, and if I've changed my mind about it over time. To me, historical fiction is not only entertainment but also an art form. Does it really need to have another purpose or value beyond that!? Why does anyone even bother reading books? What pleasure do people derive from a well-spun tale? I think most would argue that a good story takes us away from our daily hum-drum. We trust the author to provide us the opportunity to immerse ourselves in a completely different world as soon as we turn the pages of a book to the first chapter.

Historical fiction can also educate readers. As writers of this genre, we can, if we’re fortunate enough, even make contributions to the historical record because novelists often ask different questions than historians tend to do. We are not bound by the limits of pure historical facts. We can even go so far as to ask: What if...? Historical fiction affords a writer the rare opportunity to right wrongs. We can create a story starring historical figures in a new light. We can restore them to life, although theirs was stolen or exact justice on their behalf, although they received tragic condemnation. We can even award posthumous accolades to the heroes who left us all too soon.

Why am I so passionate about historical fiction!? I feel strongly about preserving the biographical portion of historical novels as an art form. It makes me unhappy every time a historical fiction writer has to justify him/herself. Like so many of us, I’ve often been asked with all this research, why wouldn't I just write a history book or biography instead of a piece of fiction? Because I believe that some tales can only be told in a responsible fashion in the form of a novel. Not to mention that history books are typically dry reading material, which just isn't my style.

For a storyteller, this genre requires more research than most other forms of writing. This is my favorite stage of the writing process! I get to transport myself to that time and place in history and "experience" (albeit second-hand) the same things as the people of that time. Using modern-day phrases, or mentioning inventions that have not yet been discovered, could negate all of my efforts. However, despite the extra challenges, or possibly because of them, I feel it is also the most rewarding type of writing. It allows me to introduce the relatively unknown people and periods in history while indulging my inner history buff and writer in the process.


Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedInFacebookMedium, and Goodreads.
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28 February 2024

How To Outline Your Book

   

Outlining a book can sometimes get complicated, as I recently discovered while trying to structure one of my newest writing projects. But, while most of the time, I'm one of those authors who writes by the seat of her pants, this time, I decided to outline. Like a roadmap, it can help identify plot holes, cut out unnecessary fluff, and reduce writer's block. And on a quick side note: Most traditional publishers require a complete outline of your story. Additionally, if you're searching for a writing grant, almost all demand a comprehensive outline.

Many authors feel outlines save them time and help them create better stories. However, if you're just starting out and aren't sure if this method is for you, then give it a whirl! You may find that it can help you a great deal. If it doesn't work out, you don't have to do it again. And once you have created one, don't be afraid to change things up! Most writers will deviate from the initial outline at some point, but having a plan for your manuscript can go a long way toward saving time and reducing stress.

There are many different types of outlines. These are some that I have tried:

-Skeleton Outline



A skeleton outline only shows the critical plot points of the story and is more straightforward than a synopsis, for example. First, it gives you a big-picture idea of the flow of your story. Then, you can adjust your story and add subplots as needed.

-Chapter-by-Chapter Outline



For this kind of outline, list a working title for each chapter. Then, write a short description of what happens or what you will talk about in each of them. These can be as simple or as detailed as you deem necessary.

-Synopsis



This is a two-to-three-page long recap of the plot, characters, and conflict. It includes the story's hook, major plot points, climax, and resolution.

-The Post-It Note Method



While I don't recommend you stick your notes to the screen of your computer, this is a simple, effective, and creative way to establish your outline. All you need is a blank wall or whiteboard and a boatload of Post-It notes. Of course, it helps if you have a pad on hand wherever you go; that way, you can scribble your outline on the go. First, write your ideas and inspiration on your Post-Its when the mood strikes you. Next, attach the notes containing words, snippets, doodles, and phrases to a wall or whiteboard. Then, organize these notes into an outline format. 

-Character-Driven Outline



This kind of outline focuses primarily on character development. Where are your characters currently? What causes them to change and evolve? Where do they end up?

Now that you've determined what will work best for you, let's outline a fiction and nonfiction book:

-Nonfiction

As a first step, build a map of your book in your mind. Then, write it down at the center of a piece of paper. Then draw lines to all the words that come to mind related to your topic from your subject. This will provide you with your main topic and the possible chapters. 

Next, take the most exciting ideas and turn them into a simple book outline. This should just be basic and brief. Begin with the title, which you can always change later, followed by a list of all the key points. Eventually, your simple outline will morphe into a chapter-by-chapter outline. 

-Fiction

Start with a well-written premise. What is your story about? Who is the protagonist? What is the situation and your protagonist's objective? What stands in their way? What is the story's central conflict? The premise should be one or two sentences long.

Next, list your prominent characters. How did each get where they are when the story started? What are their goals and dreams? What are their strengths and flaws? What is their history? What is their worldview? How do they think?

After that, create the scenes. What will advance your story's premise, and how will that help develop your characters? Brainstorm scenes that can move the plot along and write them down. You may not use them all, but it's always good to have options.

Now it's time to explore the setting. Where is the story taking place? Does the location compliment the premise and the scenes you've been exploring? Finally, incorporate your ideas into the outline form you've chosen. 

It might also be advantageous to write a start to finish plan touching on significant plot points, scenes, and character growth. You may include dates for each scene to get the timeline nailed down. Depending on how exhaustive your outline is, consider including a description of the setting, the characters, and subplots if any.

Double-check Your Outline

Before you start writing your manuscript, it's always prudent to double-check your outline to spot any inconsistencies and possible plot holes. This works for nonfiction or fiction. 

-For nonfiction: Is there a subject you should have included? Maybe you need to reorganize some of the topics? Are you covering something that isn't really pertinent to the main subject?

-For fiction: Do you need to connect two scenes? Is there a scene or plot left unresolved? Are there any redundancies?

Revise your outline as needed to fix any issues. Then it's finally time to follow your roadmap and start writing that book!

I hope this article will help you get started on your next writing project. I know my list is not all-inclusive, and there are many more ways of outlining a book. So, what has worked for you? Feel free to share your experience in the comments!


Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedInFacebookMedium, and Goodreads.
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21 February 2024

First Drafts Don't Have to be Perfect...

 ...They Just Have to be Written! -Anonymous 


I try hard to follow that motto. I cannot even begin to tell you how good it felt to be able to write the words 'The End' on the last page of my upcoming historical fiction novel RISE OF THE LAST WARRIOR QUEEN. The first thing I did was to perform my happy dance in the kitchen. Not counting research time, the manuscript took me a bit over two months to write. After I typed out the last few words, I sighed a deep breath of relief, and then I couldn't help but think:


I can't believe I finished!



While I was in the midst of writing, I couldn't help but feel a sort of mid-book panic, and I asked myself: Where is this story going? How will I finish it? Is the plot strong enough to keep the readers' attention? 

I suppose second-guessing yourself while writing is not an unusual occurrence, and I feel that way every time I put words on paper (or in most cases on a computer screen). So, it is with great relieve and satisfaction when I somehow manage to finish my manuscript without too much trouble.

Time to take a break!



After finishing the initial draft, I find it helpful to gain some distance by setting the manuscript aside for a while. When I finally begin my first round of editing, I can do so more objectively. 

It's such a relief! 



It's exhilarating to write an initial draft, to dream about the characters, their lives and the way the story might unfold. This phase of the creative process can be quite taxing, and can take up a lot of my time. But, after the emotional and physical drain begins to subside, it is replaced by a great sense of accomplishment. 

Thank goodness there's an editing process!



While we would like to believe that there's no way our writings need editing, we all know that they all need it, whether we like it or not. As a matter of fact, my upcoming book will undergo many rounds of self-editing, before any editor gets to put their hands on it. No matter how many books I write, I would never skip the editing process, and although it can be grueling at times, I am thankful for the feedback, which can only make my books better. 

Don't get too attached!



I just created this fantastic piece, but I know I really shouldn't get too attached. They are just words jumbled together in sentences and paragraphs, which I hope make sense to readers. But as much as I might love what I wrote, I need to go back through the entire book and eliminate what doesn't work. To make this process seem less of a loss, I cut and paste my deleted items into a blank document for future reference. Waste not, want not! 

Hopefully people will read it!



I love to write stories I enjoy. Otherwise, why bother? Of course, different people read my books with different expectations, but I've learned long ago that I can't please everyone. And so, I shall continue to write what I love, with the hope that my writings will bring joy to some of my readers, and provide others with the information they seek. I can't help but wonder, which parts of my book will or won't please readers.  

So, what about you? How do you feel after you've finished writing an initial draft? I'd love to hear from you!



Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedInFacebookMedium, and Goodreads.
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14 February 2024

Wholesome Canine Nutrition: Drool-Worthy Valentine's Day Cookies

Valentine's Day Cookies. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor. My dogs love these drool-worthy treats - and soon, your furry friends will crave them, too!



Since today is Valentine's Day, I thought this the perfect time to share this yummy dog treat recipe with you. Show your furry companions that you love them, with homemade Valentine's Day Cookies. They are made with all the things dogs love, such as peanut butter (please read the label beforehand and make sure it doesn't contain any artificial sweeteners, especially Xylitol), pumpkin puree (soothes the stomach) and coconut flour (an excellent grain alternative for dogs with allergies). Another drool-worthy dog treat that's easy to make!




For Cookies:

1 1/4 cups coconut flour 
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup of shredded carrots
1 Tbsp pure pumpkin puree
1/3 cup honey
2 large eggs 

For Frosting:

1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
1 Tbsp beet juice
Sprinkles (optional)





- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit 
- In a large bowl mix flour, peanut butter, carrots, pumpkin puree, honey and eggs. If dough seems a little dry add a bit of cold water; if the dough seems a little too soft, add a bit more flour.
- Roll out cookie dough, cut out cookies with cookie cutter, and and place cookies 1/2 inch apart on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake cookies for approximately 18 minutes.
- Let cookies cool completely.
- When cookies are cooled, mix yogurt with beet juice and beat the mixture until it has thickened. 
- Let frosting sit for 10 minutes to thicken further.
- Frost cookies and add sprinkles.
- Chill cookies in refrigerator for at least two hours. 


Since these cookies are made without any preservatives, I recommend keeping them refrigerated. Hope your furry friends enjoy those cookies as much as mine do!

Happy Valentine's Day!


Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedInFacebookMedium, and Goodreads.
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