Musings of a Hopeful Author

As I near the end of Part 2 of my Angels story, I cannot help but note the differences between it and Part 1.  There is a difference in POVs for one thing, but not enough that it draws your attention, but more of a feel that there is a certain inevitability to some story lines and characters.  Will Luc keep his word and not go nuts on someone in a jealous rage when the man in question flirts with Amelia, talks to her, looks at her, touches her, or even kisses her?  Will Ray say something to Amelia against Luc?  Will Peyton find happiness?  Will Mick and Gabe have a greater role to play in the story?  Will they meet Luc?  What will happen to Mason?  Is he really going to be allowed to help Amelia in her theatrical pursuits?  More than those questions, I think you feel a darker turn in the story.  It's subtle, because there is a lot of happiness and joy in Part 2.  It's more of a feeling that things cannot continue on because too...

As chapter 19 drew to an end, I couldn't help but think through the many faces of Luc D'Angelo.  He's the suave, handsome, wealthy, and eternally confidant man Amelia meets in New York at the start of the journey, and yet he's also willing to do what it takes to make a good impression on those Nebraska farmers by rolling up his sleeves and helping out.  Can you picture the two men? Here's sort of how I envision Luc in scenario 1:     And this is sort of how I envision Luc in scenario 2: But one of my favorite imaginings of Luc in all of his forms is him with Amelia.

What am I talking about?  Well, it's Part 2 in Book 1 of my Angels story, and we have left the city streets long behind to see different views of the world.  Amelia travels home to Nebraska, taking friends and the story with her, while Peyton struggles to start a new life in Arkansas.  Unlike Part 1, Part 2 goes back and forth between the perspectives of the sisters in order to show the similarities and differences they are experiencing as a result of the choices they have made.  The return to Nebraska is to show what and who they left behind rather than just referring to them in passing every so often. Old wounds are opened/healed/suppressed just as new experiences are gained, loves experienced, and hurts made.  While not everyone might enjoy the journey, a great deal growth should touch of the characters in some way or another.  At least that's the hope.  Who knows what folks will actually think?!  

As I finally turn my attention from Part I to Part II of what is anticipated to be III parts of this book, I thought it might be nice to introduce you to some of the places we've visited thus far and will be visiting in future chapters. Here are a few images to get you in the right mindset for the time period. Ellingsworth, Nebraska (or similar such images) - Amelia and Peyton's hometown New York City, 1910 - Amelia's home when she grows up Gideon, Arkansas - Peyton's home when she grows up These might seem like obscure or random places at the moment, but they will become more real in the story if/when you read through it.  The orchard will play particular significance for Peyton, so keep an eye out for it in Part II.

Mr. Darcy's Little Sister by C. Allyn Pierson My rating: 3 of 5 stars While I did enjoy this book, I don't think that it necessarily went that well with Pride and Prejudice. Yes, it used several of the same base characters, but I think it would have been better to have invented a whole new group and develop relationship points on its own while borrowing some (like having duel dual guardians) when needed. Why do I think this? Mainly because she changed the voices of characters like Elizabeth and Darcy. While she described their personalities in a way that supported their original depiction, their dialogue was just different. I also felt that the use of "my dear" and other such endearments in nearly every conversation made for a slightly annoying read. By the end of the book, I almost felt as though any dialogue that didn't have such a qualifier must have accidentally slipped through the cracks, and I hated having such a petty feeling about a book I otherwi...

I know I'm supposed to be writing (and I am!), but I wanted to give a quick update on my attempt to read FIFTY books this year.  As of right now, I have completed 47 books!  I am 13 books ahead of schedule and well on my way to not only meet my goal but beat it! That said, I do feel that I need to make a few stipulations.  First, 3 of those 47 were books on tape.  Unacceptable?  That's debatable, but I am going to try and read an extra three past 50 to make up for the difference so that I will have a clear conscience when it comes time to see the ultimate total.  Second, not all of these books have been classics or books that are known to improve your mind.  In fact, quite a lot of them are beach reads at the best of times, but I don't care!  I loved reading them!  I have found a new author that I really enjoy, and so I will continue to read (and reread) her books forever.  What is the purpose of being able to read if you can't rea...

In an attempt to be slightly more productive than I have in recent days/weeks/months, I have setup a type of incentive structure to help me keep my eye on the prize.  I am supposed to write at least one new chapter every week or two and send it to my friend Melanie.  She's been my main go to for feedback on my stuff in recent years, and has kindly agreed to help keep me honest in this effort.  She has a series of repercussions lined up for me in the event I get distracted and wander off the writing path again.  But more importantly (at least hopefully), is the fact that I have a deadline to shoot for and someone other than myself waiting for it.  I don't know if it's the trait of an only child or if it's based on personality or if it's just way more common than I realize, but I am loathe to do most things simply because they benefit me (sad I know).  However, if someone else is depending on me, I step up without question.  This was true regarding readi...