March 3, 2011
The ah-ha moment in writing
Filed under: Writing — Tags: Hit and Run, PD Martin, thriller — PD Martin @ 8:39 am
As many of my readers know, I’m currently working on a new book, a new series. The new book (tentatively titled Hit and Run) is best described as an action thriller.
I finished the first draft of this book around the end of December, but it was a very raw first draft and I knew I needed to create more twists and more layers in the plot and characters. Plus it was only 72,000 words.
Anyway, I did a little more research, came up with a few new ideas and brainstormed a bit with hubby. The end result was that I started the book about a year earlier in the main character’s life… and with a much more dramatic, action-packed opening chapter. Then, on top of that I layered some intrigue and an incredibly mysterious back story (set up in chapter 2). So I’m thinking, it’s a very dynamic way to start the book and the new series.
But I still had questions. Someone is trying to kill my girl…but who and why? Yes, I know these are major questions for an author NOT to have the answers to, but that’s the way I write.
Anyway, I dived back into the main body of the work, making adjustments as necessary to fit with the new layers and intrigue. But I got to the last chapter and still had a few issues. And then my character came up with a theory about who was trying to kill her…brilliant. And it added and extra, extra layer to my layers.
It truly was an ahhh-haa moment in writing! And I saved it to the last page.
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“action thriller”
Nah, I’d just call it a “thriller”. When it comes to thrillers, adding the word “action” seem redundant
Comment by Tez Miller — March 3, 2011 @ 9:11 am
Sounds fascinating! And very intriguing. Can’t wait to read it!
Comment by Tay — March 3, 2011 @ 9:53 am
Looking forwards to reading it one day
Comment by Sally from Oz — March 3, 2011 @ 10:05 am
I can’t wait to read it! Sounds brilliant, I love a book that keeps you enthralled from start to finish!
Comment by Helen Mulholland — March 3, 2011 @ 11:17 am
I discovered your books quite by accident, I found the second one in a senior center library. Being a mystery fan I fell in love with Sophie and am on a quest to read all of them. I have not been able to find the last one “Coming Home” yet. I cannot afford new books so I either use the library or a local used bookstore. If I do buy a book used and the library doesn’t have it I donate it for the other fans of whatever author.
Keep up the Great work. I love Sophie and cannot wait to read the next one in the series plus any new books you may publish. I love your writing.
Kudos!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Judi Dymond — March 3, 2011 @ 2:38 pm
Dear Ms. Martin,
I’m a hugefan of your Sophie Books. Simply love them and so do the people I’ve shared them with. Glad to hear about new book, new series. Hope the writing is going well. But, will we see Sophie again? I have my fingers crossed! Looking forward to the new one. Be well.
Linda DiMezza
A fan in New Jersey
Comment by Linda DiMezza — March 3, 2011 @ 6:42 pm
Yippee!!!
A new series, Phillipa! That’s brilliant. And especially when I was starting to give up on the idea that you’re coming up with another book since Sophie’s “resting” from her actions now.
This action thriller sounds fantastic! I can hardly wait to read it.
It’s good to hear from you again after.
Monica
Comment by Monica Subai — March 3, 2011 @ 10:00 pm
Glad to hear you are writing another book, look forward with bated breath. Liz.
Comment by Liz Catanese — March 5, 2011 @ 3:36 am