Back to Writing

Or rather, I'm back to plotting! Finished editing book 2 and am sending it back to my agent next week. So, I turned my focus on the outlining of book 3. Let me explain, I don't really "outline" like normal writers. I do an in-depth character synopsis of each of the main characters, with their ACTs listed, in which I write the plot points. Then, since mine are mysteries/suspense, I do a "crime chart". To work with the internal conflicts, I use the "plot blob". Ideas crop up in this stage and I can just jot them down. Might use them, might not. And my brainstorming partner for this stage of this book? My 4 year old daughter. Yep. In the car rider line to pick up her sister. I'll throw out a plot point and jot down her initial reaction. It's so honest and pure. I love it. And, it's great for her in learning all about the difference between make-believe and reality.