Day three and my fingers haven’t fallen off yet.
So, here I am again. When I started this blog, my idea was to discuss everything about mysteries. Not just reading them but writing them as well, so from time to time, I’ll try to throw in a few writing tips. For instance, do you ever listen to the music of your words? I used to do it all the time, but recently I’ve forgotten. I just pulled out Gary Provost excellent book, “100 Ways to Improve Your Writing.” I try to re-read the book at least once a year because the advice is good and I tend to forget or get too busy. So, how do you listen to the music? Read your piece out loud. With a book, read a chapter at a time. Believe me, you’ll hear the clinkers. If you have trouble writing dialog, this is essential. Or, and this is a bit more time consuming, read your words into a tape recorder. Wait a few days and play it back. You’ll be amazed at what you hear! Your words may be Bach, or Tiny Tim . They may be a symphony or grunge rock. Either way, you’ll know where to make changes. Try it and let me know how you make out.
Book Review - I’m half way through reading Dinah McCall’s “The Survivors” and while it has a great premise and a good start, I’m starting to scan. Why? It’s got so many subplots I get lost and some parts are just toooooo unbelievable. It’s long and I think would have been better with about 50 - 100 fewer pages. I won’t spoil it for you in case you want to read it, but if you do, you’ll know. So, what are you reading these days?
I guess that’s it for today. I’m going to try and update at least twice a week in the future. Let’s face it, I’m pretty verbal - okay I talk a lot but even I will run out eventually, so I’d best slow down now, before disaster strikes! Enjoy the weekend.
