The Secret (Working Title)

The reason I haven’t posted for awhile is because I’ve been working on a new novella.  It’s set in Regency times, but it’s not a romance.  It’s a mystery/thriller.

Tag #1

Who are the main characters:

Meg Clayton – The heroine of the story.

Ida Clayton – Meg’s sister who helps her throughout the story.

John Crayton – A seemingly trustworthy young man - appearances can be deceiving.

How did you get the idea for this story:

 

I read something that sparked the idea for this story.  After much refining, I came up with a good plot.

 

What is the genre of this story:

 

Regency mystery/thriller

 

Describe your book in three thoughts:

 

Not everything is as it seems.  You can rebuild your life from nothing.  A friend is invaluable.

 

A bit that describes an obscure piece of real life best:

 

Meg was trembling all over as she remembered what she wished forgotten.  Then, coming back to the task at hand – escaping, she got up and boldly started walking towards the nearest doorway.

 

Your favorite piece of description:

 

The flashes come again.  She can almost remember but it remains misty still.  “Help me remember,” she pleads, “Help me.”  No one can help her.  Then the bright slivers of light come.  “Stop!  Stop!”  It is to no avail.  She is in a whirling world of bright, flashing colors.  Then it all goes black…

Your biggest fear in writing this story:

 

I think I might have worked myself into a corner.

 

Last full sentence you wrote:

 

Miss Douglas entertained John to tea the next day.

Favorite character thus far:

 

Meg Clayton.  She’s so refined, kind and just…nice.

 

 

I got this tag from safirewriter.

 

Tag #2

 

What is your current word count? 6,664

What would you consider is best about your novel: plot, dialog, characters, or description?  The plot is very interesting but I think it’s getting a bit too complicated.  My characters are probably my favorite part.

Which of the above would you consider your weakest point?  My dialog is probably a bit weak.

Of all your characters who do you like the best?  Meg Clayton

What was the inspiration for your novel?  A variety of things.

 

What other writing projects have you completed or are in the process of writing?  I don’t have anything planned right now.

 

What would you consider the funniest line in your novel? My novella isn’t very humorous…

Go to the 11th page of your novel and paste the last paragraph here.  

“If you want my honest opinion, I would say just continue as you have been.  Don’t let him know that you know about him.  Of course, not knowing the full situation, that might not be the best advice.  Do you have a better idea?”

What time period is your novel set in?  The mid-1800′s, Regency England

Please paste here the paragraph you consider the best.

“No, I don’t.  Ida…what will we do when John comes back.  We can’t tell him I’ve regained my memory…it might spell our death…they have no scruples…I don’t think I can bear being in the same room with him.”

What are you planning to do when your novel is all written and edited? Writing wise, that is.  Maybe another Regency story.  I’ll have to wait and see.

Excerpts From My Notebook

Today I’m going to share some writings from my writing notebook.  I’ll just pick random bits.  Enjoy!

Note: Have Robert propose to Eleanor.  She refuses.  He marries Fanny Ashby.  Make a better, more detailed ending for E and C.

To-do list:  Read more of Bleak House.

Thrilling story idea: Girl has amnesia, can only remember bits and pieces, in an insane asylum.  A lord killed someone in a duel.  If it leaks out, he’ll lose everything.  Girl gets out of asylum and finds out the lord’s secret.  Treacherous doctor complicates things.

From my writing journal:

February 3, 2012

14,000 words and counting!  I think THG will be longer than E and C.  I just keep adding more scenes – I can’t help it.  Edmund is becoming more interested in Emma – I can tell.  I quite agree with him.  Elizabeth is showing a new side to her.  A bold, almost domineering side.  I posted a Writing Tag today on my writing blog.

February 15, 2012

I’ve finally found my pace, I believe, in MA.  I am at 3,800 words.  Thomas Hilton has proposed – I hated to give him such a disappointment as Marianna’s  refusal but I had to…I think it’s useful to keep this journal because if my stories are published and do become a big thing, I’d like to leave something for people to see about my work…

Let me know what you think.

Snippets of Story – March

Katie is once again hosting Snippets of Story.  You can check out her blog here.  Here are my snippets.

From Eleanor and Catherine:

“Eleanor, what do you think about Mama’s trip to Bath?” queried Catherine as they were sitting together in their shared bedroom.  “Everyone – the townspeople, the servants, our relations, say that it will be a good thing for Mama to leave us for once and travel to Bath by herself.  But what’s your opinion?  And do not give me a well-rehearsed, polite answer.  I wish to know your true thoughts on the subject.”

***

Eleanor felt a pang at the thought of leaving London.  It had been very enjoyable to her and she had been able to see Henry, dance with him and talk with him.  However, she loved her mother and would have done a far harder thing for her.  Catherine, though sadly disappointed also, would not grudge her mother the company she wanted and both girls prepared themselves, mentally and physically for the journey.

***

Eleanor scanned the page and found a short passage:

My brother William will be arriving in Bath soon for a few days.  I hope he will pay your family a call shortly after he finishes up his business.

***

Eleanor stopped breathing.  “Yes, Henry,” she said, and burst into happy tears.

***

Lord Davrille never took much interest in the affairs of his family and was not pleased or displeased, for or against Robert’s case.  He was not a negligent father, but preferred to leave such affairs to his wife.  Lady Davrille was quite angry at Eleanor – for a time.  But it was not her nature to stay angry for long and as a result, Robert got sympathy from neither of his parents.

From The Highborn Governess:

Bartholomew Winkle was a middle-aged man of forty-six.  He was cold-hearted and mercenary and his only reason for coming to claim his inheritance so soon was that the more quickly he did so, the sooner he expected to be reaping the rewards and benefits of the orchards, farm land and other such places attached to Ashby Park.  He had no concern for the feelings of others and did not care if his distant relative, the daughter of his cousin, had to leave the house for good, with no money and no connections.

***

“Well, she should be in the vicinity of Wiltshire,” Eleanor said, and then added to Mrs. Tirrod, “We have need of a new housekeeper.  When we find Emma, we will, if she wishes it, bring her home with us.  If you would like, you may come with us also and work in our employ.” 

***

“We will let you pack and say any goodbyes you wish to,” Henry said, “Don’t feel rushed; take all the time you wish.  And when you’re ready to go, your Aunt Eleanor and I will take you to our home near Atshire.”

***

After consulting Eleanor, they both agreed to Emma’s plan wholeheartedly.

***

“Henry, that’s a wonderful idea!  Emma and Elinor will be so pleased, not to mention all the Petersons.  But,” she added, frowning, “Neither of the Peterson girls will be able to join us, as they are too little.”

From Marianna Arlington:

Emma led the way to the sewing room.  Marianna followed.  As they came into the room, she could not help but be astonished once again at the beautiful gown.  In style it was quite simple, but the material and embroidery was quite another thing.  Sumptuous white satin, overlaid at the sides and back with point lace made up the body of the gown, and they bodice and cuffs were covered in delicate embroidery.  It was a gown to be treasured and only worn on special occasions.

***

Marianna was in short, a snob.

***

Emma sighed.  When would Marianna stop being so…snobbish? she wondered.  “But Marianna, he is a true gentleman.”

***

As she rode down to the river’s edge, she noticed a horse and rider cantering in her direction.  Was it John?  For a moment she thought so but she felt quite vexed when the rider turned out to be Thomas Hilton.

***

Left in her room, Marianna pondered over their short conversation.  Did she like John enough to accept his proposal, if he ever did propose? She wondered.  She believed that she did.  But she decided to follow what she had told Emma and wait.

It’s Not Going To Work Out!

That’s what I always say to myself whenever I start a new novella.  I can’t do this…my novella is going to be terrible…I can’t do this…etc.

In fact, I almost trashed my first novella, Eleanor and Catherine.  I wrote one page into it, decided I couldn’t do it, and laid it aside.  I almost deleted it.  I’m so glad now that I didn’t.  I just laid it aside and a few days later I pulled it out, started typing and never stopped.

All my other novellas have followed a similar pattern.  Eager start, despair, return to it and slog my way through.

Has that ever happened to you?

Your Writing Routine

Most writers have a writing routine.  They write in a certain way, at a certain time, in a certain place.  I’m no different.  And I want to share my writing routine with you.

• Where I work – I work at a large desk and I use a laptop.
• When I work – Any time between 8:30 (p.m.) and 10:30 (p.m.).
• How I work – I sit back in a comfortable chair and type away while I listen to the Pride and Prejudice 2005 soundtrack.
• What I work on – The Regency romance that I have in progress.
• Why I work – I love it!

Usually when I’m writing a novella, I finish it, put it aside for a few days and then begin the great revision process.  A few days before I finish my revising, an idea for a new novella comes to my in the middle of the night.  That way, when I’m done revising one novella, I can start on another.

I’d love to hear your writing routine.  If you would like to share it, just go to the Contact Me page and fill out the form.

Marianna Arlington

I’ve been keeping my latest project under the wraps but I will now unveil it.

My latest project is yet another Regency romance – Marianna Arlington (that’s my working title).  

I’ll do some tags to get you introduced to my story right away.

Tag #1

Who are the main characters:

Marianna Arlington – an eighteen year old girl who’s a bit (a lot) of a snob.

John Albertson – A handsome fortune hunter.

Thomas Hilton – A steadfast young man.

How did you get the idea for this story:

 

Inspiration struck in the middle of the night.

 

What is the genre of this story:

 

Regency romance

 

Describe your book in three thoughts:

 

People may not be what they seem on the outside.  Friends come from the strangest places.  Give second chances and chance.

 

A bit that describes an obscure piece of real life best:

 

In a way she could not blame him.  The note she had written to refuse him had been short, curt, and even a bit sharp.  Besides the note, there was the fact that she had refused him.  The past could not be undone even though she might wish it with all her heart.  She would have given anything to go back and change her answering note to one accepting him.  But it could not be done.

 

Your favorite piece of description:

 

Marianna sat in her room, looking at the tranquil twilight that was settling over the busy city.  The sun was going down, leaving the sky a mixture of pink, yellow, and mauve.  A tear trickled down her cheek and landed on the window seat, leaving a spot of brightness in the light dust.

 

Your biggest fear in writing this story:

 

That some of the minor characters I make aren’t fleshed out well enough.

 

Last full sentence you wrote:

 

Overall, it would be a beautiful wedding. 

 

Favorite character thus far:

 

I like Thomas Hilton a lot.  He’s very trustworthy and steadfast…but I won’t say anymore because I like to keep some things to myself.  :)

 

What books have been written or have you read that are similar in style and flavor to your novel:

 

The only ones I’ve read like this one are the two I’ve written.  :) 

 

I got this tag from safirewriter.

 

Tag #2

 

What is your current word count? 11, 012

What would you consider is best about your novel: plot, dialog, characters, or description?  I like the how the plot is working out, but the characters are also very good.

Which of the above would you consider your weakest point?  My characters.  I know that I just said I like my characters a lot but I think some of them are pretty weak and not fleshed out well enough.

Of all your characters who do you like the best?  Thomas Hilton.

What was the inspiration for your novel?  My last novella, The Highborn Governess.

 

What other writing projects have you completed or are in the process of writing?  I don’t have anything planned right now.

 

What would you consider the funniest line in your novel? Mrs. Pratt was the be all and end all of all the town gossip.  Every bit of news was weighed and sifted by her.  If you wanted to know anything that was going on in the town, she was the one to go to.

Go to the 11th page of your novel and paste the last paragraph here.  

Left in her room, Marianna pondered over their short conversation.  Did she like John enough to accept his proposal, if he ever did propose? She wondered.  She believed that she did.  Yes, she was quite certain she did.

What time period is your novel set in?  The mid-1800′s, Regency England

Please paste here the paragraph you consider the best.

“Maybe my impossibility springs from the fact that I am sitting next to,” here his voice lowered to a whisper, “To a beautiful lady.”

What are you planning to do when your novel is all written and edited? Writing wise, that is.  Maybe another Regency story.  I’ll have to wait and see.

Hope you enjoyed reading this post.

Never Give Up

Rough Plans of My First Novella

I was going through some of my writing stuff when I cam across a scrap of paper.  I would have thrown it away, but I noticed that it had the scribblings on it that had led to my creating my first novella, Eleanor and Catherine.  I’ve decided to type up the notes exactly as they are (with a few changes so they’ll be readable ) and then show what I’ve kept and what I’ve discarded and what I’ve changed.

Rough Notes

• A neighbor invites  them (Eleanor and Catherine) to London.
• Eleanor deliberates; then they accept.
• C. meets a charming young man, Henry.
• E. likes the match except for C.’s young age.
• H. has an accident.
• The girls’ mother calls them to Bath.
• E. has to fend off unwanted attentions from a man – Robert.
• E. meets man – William in Bath.  She falls in love but he doesn’t.
• C. and H. marry.
• H. has another accident.  W. helps him during his recovery.
• E. and W. finally marry.

As you can see that’s quite a tangle.  Let’s see how I made it a lot better.

Finished Plan 

• A neighbor invites E. and C. to London.
• Eleanor deliberates; then they accept.
• The names were switched – Eleanor falls in love back home with a man named Henry.  She is the first one to marry.  In London, Catherine falls in love with a man named William.  She marries later.
• The girls’ mother calls them to Bath.
• E. has to fend of R.’s attentions.
• E. and H. marry.
• W. gets injured.  C. goes to his family in their time of need.
• C. and W. marry.

That doesn’t sound like much either but it made for a much better novella.

An Excerpt From My Newest Novella

My new novella has yet to be named.  Here’s an excerpt.

**********************

Emma still thought that Anna Taylor would make a fine friend for Marianna and decided to invite her over for tea without exactly telling Marianna who she was.  Anna accepted.

She knew something of Marianna’s dislike for her and her uncle and resolved to win her friendship if possible, despite all the many factors against it.

She arrived punctually.  When Marianna asked her name she gave it as Ann, which was, in fact, what her uncle called her.

The two girls chatted amiably for some time when Anna let slip that she ‘knew’ Thomas Hilton.  Marianna asked what her opinion of him was.

“He seems quite a…gentleman.”

Marianna frowned but only for a moment.  “Have you known him long?”

“I have had some acquaintance with him throughout my life, but have only really seen him the past few months I’ve been here.”

The subject was dropped and they talked of other things becoming friendlier as the minutes as the minutes ticked by.  Finally Anna rose to leave and the two girls parted as good friends.

Emma came into the room and asked Marianna what she thought of Anna.

“Her name is Ann, aunt.”

“No.  It’s Anna.  Anna Taylor.”

Marianna was stunned.  “Thomas Hilton’s niece?” she asked quietly.

“Yes.”  Emma expected her to become very angry but instead she stood there for a moment then spoke.

“I rather liked her.”

Now it was Emma’s turned to be stunned.

“She was very charming.”

Then, without another word, she turned and left the room.

Back in her room she thought hard.  Why am I not angry?  Why am I not embarrassed that I chatted with Thomas Hilton’s niece?  She could not know the answer. 

Character Profile: Elinor Davrille

Name: Elinor Davrille

Age:  Twenty

Physical Appearance:  Wavy blond hair and blue eyes

Novellas she features in:  The Highborn Governess

Faults:  She is quite nasty to anyone who comes between her and her parents affections – or if she thinks they do.

Good Point(s):  Kind and gracious and forgives people quite readily.

Who she’s interested in:  Edmund Peterson – sort of.

Excerpt:   

“Is she not a wonderful girl?” Eleanor asked her daughter when Emma had gone.

“She seems…interesting.”

“Elinor, I will not have you treat her badly.  She has gone through quite a lot in her young life and I want you to make her feel at home as only you can do.”

Elinor nodded her head slightly.

“I have given her the room next to yours, Elinor,” said Eleanor. 

“Mother,” Elinor said, vexed, “You know how much I love that room!  I go there all the time to read and think and all sorts of things.”

Eleanor gave her a warning look and Elinor lapsed into silence.  Elinor now was quite sure of what she had suspected all along: her mother held a preference for Emma.  Elinor was fiercely jealous of her parent’s attentions, being an only child.  She would keep the seed of jealousy hidden away, but it was sure to come to light someday.

 

I’m Finished The Highborn Governess

I *finished* (is anything every finished in the writing world?) revising The Highborn Governess two nights ago.  I have written exactly 15, 551 words.  No more, no less.  And I’ve started a new story.  But more about that later….

Let me share an excerpt.

*****************************************

Henry and Eleanor decided to give a ball in honour of their niece’s engagement.  It would also be a good time for the couple to officially announce that they were betrothed to each other.  The plan met with hearty approval.

Invitations were sent out.

The honour of your presence is humbly requested

At Maple Manor

At 9 o’ clock in the evening

On December 12^th

The occasion: A grand ball.

By eight-thirty, carriages were starting to pull up.  The Davrilles had kept the news of Emma and Edmund’s engagement, for the most part, a secret, so this would be a surprise for most of the guests.

Talking, light refreshments, and dancing occupied the first hour.  Then Henry got up on a slightly elevated platform.  “Ladies and gentlemen,” he said, smiling, “I would like to announce the engagement of Emma Ashby and Edmund Davrille.”  They both, at his beckoning came up and stood side by side.

Excited murmurs filled the room.  Emma stood blushing and Edmund stood straight and tall.  Then loud clapping and cheering burst through the room.  Emma and Edmund made their way down and mingled with the crowd.  They were greeted with congratulations from the well-wishers among the crowd.

Music soon struck up again – a lilting, joyful tune that matched everyone’s feelings wonderfully.  Emma and Edmund started the dancing at the head of the set.  Everyone who was not dancing watched them and commented that “they had always known it would happen like this.”

After that dance Emma and Edmund went to a less crowded part of the house.  There were still people milling around, but they could sit down and catch their breath.

“It was so good of Uncle Henry to have this ball, wasn’t it?” Emma asked a bit loudly, trying to make her voice heard over the voices of the guests.

“I certainly was.”

They talked and laughed together for a good half hour.  “We should probably be getting back to the guests,” Emma said, “This ball was given for us, so I think we should go and play our part.”

Edmund agreed and they both went back.  They danced one more dance together and then took separate partners.  All in all, it was a wonderful evening and would not be forgotten easily.  

*************************************

Let me know what you think. 

 

 

 

Plan or Plunge In?

Some writers like to plan out every plot detail before they start writing – what the characters will do and say and think, where it will take place, the dialog, etc.  But some writers like to work with only a rough plot outline in their mind and start writing right away.  There are pros and cons for both ways of writing.

Plan

Pros:

• You will probably never get lost in your story.
• This approach can work well when you are writing for a deadline because once you have the story map, you won’t have to stop and think about what’s going to happen next…usually.
• It can be very relaxing, even fun to work out your story before you write it.

Cons:

• You won’t have the sheer joy from finding out new things about your characters, and meeting new ones.
• If you get Writer’s Block, you can continue to work (sometimes) since you have carefully planned out your story.
• If you can’t think up of a good story plot, it can be irritating to have to write a story map once a burst of inspiration hits you.

Plunge

Pros:

• Just plunging in and starting to write can be exhilarating.
• You don’t have time to think about all the mistakes you could make.
• Sometimes if you don’t think you can write a word, plunging in can convince you that you can.

Cons:

• You can come to dead ends, get lost, or worst of all – you can get Writer’s Block. 
• You can often get stuck in the middle of the story because you haven’t thought your story through that far.
• Some writers can feel insecure, not knowing what’s going to happen next.

As you can see, there are different sides of the argument for both methods.  So I leave it up to you to pick your choice, or maybe a mix of both of them.  Whatever you choose, I’m sure you’ll write something wonderful.

And what am I?  I always plunge right in.  And I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

A Little Humor…

A Writing Tag

Who are the main characters:

Emma Ashby – a lovely girl who has to become a governess against her will.

Edmund Peterson – a handsome, kind-hearted young man.

How did you get the idea for this story:

One night when I was about to go to sleep, the idea struck me and I instantly got up and wrote it down (ideas are such slippery things. ).  After much refining of the plot, The Highborn Governess started coming out of its shell.

What is the genre of this story:

Regency romance

Describe your book in three thoughts:

You can do whatever needs to be done.  Dreams do come true.  People can change over a lifetime.  

A bit that describes an obscure piece of real life best:

 As they were wealthy by all accounts, he decided to engage himself to Emma, find the Davrilles, who would of course settle several thousand pounds on her, and then he would marry her, getting the interest from her money.  He had no love, or even liking for Emma, thinking only of the money he would be sure to get.   

(That’s the best I could find.)

Your favorite piece of description:

She felt suspended between the two levels of the household.  On one level were all the Petersons and on the other were the servants.  She was as highborn as the Petersons, or even more so, and was not a servant.  However, she would have to be content with being lower than the Petersons, but higher than the servants.  It was difficult, for the servants treated her almost with disdain – they knew she was not one of them.  The Petersons also treated her, not with disdain, but they obviously thought of her as not quite on their level.  All except Edmund. 

Your biggest fear in writing this story:

If it isn’t boasting…I actually have no fears.  *blush*

Last full sentence you wrote:

“But I didn’t mind because our, my father’s carriage I mean is so well sprung, I hardly felt the jolts at all.”

Favorite character thus far:

A lesser character – Elizabeth Hamilton.  She’s very sweet and kind, even to Emma who is a governess, and therefore below her.

What books have been written or have you read that are similar in style and flavor to your novel:

I’ve only written one other book – Eleanor and Catherine.  It is in the same genre as The Highborn Governess.  Jane Austen’s novels are the closest in form to my work.

I got this tag from safirewriter.

Snippets of Story February

I stumbled upon a blog called Whisperings of My Pen.  The authoress, Katie is hosting something called Snippets of Story.  You can read about it here.  It looked like fun so I decided to participate.  Here are my snippets for February.

William looked nonplussed at his sister’s talk of fashion.  Women’s fashions had not the least interest to him, but he did acknowledge, quite heartily, that Catherine looked very well indeed.  Catherine was very happy at his praise and the two of them soon fell to walking together.

- Eleanor and Catherine

“Yes, the Parks invited me to their little party and I am very glad they did,” Henry said with a glance toward Eleanor.  She blushed and looked down, slightly embarrassed.  Then she smiled and changed the subject.

- Eleanor and Catherine

“Yes, Eleanor, it was very vexing to bear.  Several times I could hardly contain myself.  How could she speak of you in that way?  How strange that one family could produce such different daughters!” Catherine exclaimed.  “Fanny and Julia are as unlike each other as oil and water.”

- Eleanor and Catherine

“The day you came into the classroom; when you whispered something in their ears – what was it you said if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Not at all.  In fact, I was wondering when you would get up the courage to ask me.”

“What do you mean ‘the courage to ask you’?”

“What I said.  But to go back to what I said to Fan and Lydia…Well, I bribed them.  I told them that if they behaved for you every day, they could go for a horseback ride every day.”

“Shocking!” said Emma laughingly.  “I thought you were beneath bribery,” she said smiling broadly, “But I suppose that desperate times call for desperate measures.”

- The Highborn Governess

She was walking, unmindful of the ditch when she took a slight misstep and tumbled in.  It was low and she could have gotten out easily with nothing more than a fright and a muddy dress, as there was some water at the bottom of the ditch, but upon falling in, she had twisted her ankle quite badly. 

- The Highborn Governess

Mrs. Peterson was evidently well satisfied with Emma’s tale.  Her face showed approval and Emma felt her to be somewhat kinder or better mannered after she had given her the short account. 

- The Highborn Governess

A Silly Short Story

I wrote this story at between 9:00 and 9:30 last night.  I had nothing better to do with my time so  I asked all my sibs what they would like to write a story about and then I took all their ideas and mashed them into a three page short story.  I was pretty tired when I wrote it so if you think it’s stupid, I have an excuse.

*********************************

Chapter 1

Micah loved guns.  He would do anything to have a gun of his own.  But his dad just wasn’t up for it.  So Micah just had to live with it.

Micah lived in a large family.  He had six siblings – three brothers and three sisters.  One day they heard reports of a huge snowstorm heading their way.

All Elizabeth could say was “Yeah right!”  That is until Noah made her listen to the radio…then she changed her tune.

Anyway, the winter dragged on and on and their food supply was running out.  So Micah decided to try and find some food outside…

________

The city of Pickering was in trouble.  They had built a computer chip that had all the city’s data files in it and know it had mysteriously disappeared.  The city leaders had to find it – and fast, or else who knows what would happen.  The city would probably become uninhabited.  One of the problems was that it was quite small so it was easily lost…

________

1455 England.  The castle of Lord Albert was under siege.  Food supplies were running out.  The situation looked desperate, and there was nothing anyone could do.  Many had tried to sneak out of the castle but to no avail…

________

Elizabeth Bennet wandered about the grounds of Longbourn, out for her daily walk.  Mr. Darcy was close behind her.  They had just become engaged two days ago and were now enjoying the fine day together.

“That’s strange,” Elizabeth said as she saw an old shed near the woods.  “I’ve never seen that shed before.  Shall we go inside?”

They walked over and opened the door…

Chapter 2

Micah found an old shed near the mall.  “That’s strange,” he wondered aloud, “I don’t remember seeing this here before.”  He stepped inside.  Wooosh! 

He found himself on the hard stone floor of what looked to be a medieval castle…

________

The situation was getting more and more desperate.  Some stores had begun to shut down because they weren’t receiving the data they needed.  The mayor was getting more nervous every day.  Then they remembered that they had given it to a certain boy named Micah, as he was trustworthy.  But they couldn’t find him…

________

Lady Edith found a boy of about thirteen years of age on the floor of the keep.  He seemed amazed at being there.  She was amazed to see the clothes he was wearing.

She took him directly to her husband.  After having heard the situation about the siege from a servant, Micah said to Lord Albert, “I can conquer them.”  Humbleness had never been his strong point…

________

Whooosh!  Elizabeth and Darcy found themselves on the hard stone floor of the keep.  “More visitors?” asked a servant surprised.

They were shown into Lord Albert’s room of state.  There they met Micah.  After hearing of the siege they asked Micah what his plan was.  After hearing it, they volunteered to help.  Micah had jobs for both of them…

Chapter 3

Micah’s plan was this: he still had the chip, which he knew would emit a high, screeching sound when it was forced open.  He would have Elizabeth go out of the castle to distract the enemy while he sneaked up near the camp, turned on the chip, and then ran, throwing the chip behind him.

Darcy, Elizabeth, Lord Albert, and Lady Edith did not, of course understand what the chip was used for, but they were willing to try anything.

Elizabeth proved the perfect distraction.  She was very pretty and the guards where very surprised to find someone coming out of the enemy in broad daylight.  Therefore, no-one was guarding the camp.

Micah turned on the chip and threw it behind him.  The camp was in an uproar.  Lord Albert, Darcy and the guards all attacked.  The enemy was routed and they were victorious.

Micah was given many thanks, as were Elizabeth and Darcy.  They stayed and had a grand banquet and then, all went out on the castle grounds.  Micah, Elizabeth, and Darcy all suddenly saw a small shed that looked exactly like the one that had mysteriously transported them there.

They all got in.  Whooosh! Micah was back in Pickering.  He went to bed, exhausted after his long journey.  In the morning he remembered the chip.  Was it with him?  He put his hand in his pocket.  Yes, it was!  How it got there he never knew.  He went directly over to the Mayor and gave it to him.  Pickering was saved.  Winter was soon over…and yes, Micah finally got a gun.

As for Elizabeth and Darcy, they arrived home and were surprised that they had not even been missed.  They were married a few weeks later.

The End

Character Profile: Catherine Harcourt

Name: Catherine Harcourt

Physical Appearance:  “…blond-brown hair and brown eyes…”

Novellas she features in:  Eleanor and Catherine

Faults:  Impetuous nature

Good Point(s):  Great affection for her sister, Eleanor; A very warm and loving heart

Who she’s interested in:  William Ashby

Loss Of Inspiration (Prepare yourself for a short, meaningless post.)

I have lost all my inspiration and writing capability at least for the time being.  I don’t understand it – I have the first draft of The Highborn Governess all ready and waiting to be revised and rehabilitated.  However, I cannot write.  I pretend not to know the reason for this and yet I do.  It is a foolish and totally foolish reason…but a reason nonetheless.  I cannot listen to the Pride and Prejudice soundtrack.

I have listened to this soundtrack for several days now, while writing.  It seems that my brain will  not cooperate unless I hear a certain thing.  Has that ever happened to you?    Because of certain circumstances, I cannot listen to it while I write.  I must break the stupid habit I have.  I hope to be able to write soon…

I’m FINISHED!

I am FINISHED The Highborn Governess at around 10, 700 words.  I’m so happy when I finish a novella.  Of course, it isn’t really finished – now comes the great revision process – did you know I like the revising better than writing the first draft?

I will share with you my postscript to the novella:

Edmund and Emma were very happy together.  They had five children – three boys and two girls.  Many a time, they looked back with fond memories to the time when Emma had first entered that little schoolroom, helpless and alone.

Elinor was married two years after the Petersons, to a baronet.  She and Emma kept up a lively correspondence until Elinor’s early death at the age of only five and thirty.  Emma and Edmund took in the Tyrodd’s only child, a daughter named Emma.  She grew up to be very much like her mother in looks and disposition.

Elizabeth, sadly never married.  She was, however, content with her lot and in her later years, using the training she had been given, taught lessons on the piano and harp.  She was able to receive a tidy income from this, and was welcome to the Peterson’s household whenever she wished.

Eleanor and Henry lived a full and happy life, surrounded by their niece’s children.

Just curious – what part of writing do you enjoy the most?  Planning, first draft, revision, etc.  Comment and let me know.

Almost Finished!

I have reached 10,000 words in my novella The Highborn Governess!  I have written over 2,000 words this evening alone and the thing that helped me get through was playing the Pride and Prejudice soundtrack over and over again.  It’s so beautiful.

In fact, I’m listening to it as I write this post.  I just love all the beautiful piano music.  :)

I’m going to give an excerpt – a really romantic one.

************************************************

She choose a lonely haunt where she was sure no one would bother her and then gave vent to her overwrought feelings and burst into tears.  She paced around for some time and then dried her tears resolutely.

“Miss Ashby?”

She started and turned around.  There was Edmund.  Hastily, she again dried her tears and tried to smile.

“You have been crying,” he said gently, “May I ask why?”

“No…no reason.  I…nothing,” she said hesitantly, “How did you find me?”

“I was worried about you so I asked your aunt were you might be found.  Are you certain nothing is the matter?”

“Yes,” she said, then burst into tears again.

He watched her for some time and then spoke.  “The reason I wanted to see you Emma is because I want to tell you how much I admire you.” He said it quickly and then paused.

She looked up, wonder and hope written on her face.

“That is to say…what I am trying to say…well, Emma,” he stammered, “Will you marry me?”

She stared at him for a full minute.  “Yes, I will…with all my heart.”

“Thank you, Emma.  You have made me the happiest man in England!”

They walked, talked, laughed, and looked at each other.

“Emma, ever since the day I saw you in that classroom, standing there, so unsure, I loved you.”

“So long…”

“Yes.  I was a fool not to have made you an offer long before this.  But I was unsure of my own feelings, my own thoughts.”

“It is all resolved now, is it not?” Emma asked.

“It is.  My mother has always esteemed you, though she did not always show it, and while she would not accept a governess for a daughter-in-law, I believe she will accept the niece of the Davrilles,” he said with a smile.

They continued on, not caring where they went.

Character Profile: Eleanor Harcourt

Name: Eleanor Harcourt 

Physical Appearance:  ”…clear blue eyes and medium brown hair…”

Novellas she features in:  Eleanor and Catherine, The Highborn Governess 

Faults:  Apt to judge people too quickly

Good Point(s):  Great affection for her sister, Catherine; Skillful playing on the harp

Who she’s interested in:  Henry Davrille

Bliss…

Happiness is…listening to Bach while writing.  I’m completely, perfectly and incandescently happy.

Book Review: Spilling Ink

Author: Anne Mazer and Ellen Potter

Genre: Non-fiction

My rating on a 1 – 10 scale: 10

Type: How-to

Time Period: Modern

Main Characters: None

My Review: I borrowed Spilling Ink from the library and I find it an invaluable tool for writers, young or old.  I like the down to earth approach both authors have.  They draw from different books to illustrate everything from ‘noisy tag lines’ to suspenseful writing, to good first lines.

My overall opinion:  My favorite book on writing ever!

Get back to work!

I admit it.  I’m a procrastinator when it comes to writing.  I find endless excuses on the Internet, of the Internet, anywhere.  And I don’t understand it.  I love writing but somehow I just try to find ways not to write.  When I get down to writing I’m caught up BUT I still put it off, put it off, put it off.  Even now, as I’m writing this post I’m procrastinating!  Do you have any suggestions on how I can STOP it?

Since you’ve put up with my insane ramblings, I’m going to share an excerpt of my newest novella, The Highborn Governess.  Here it is:

Eleanor and Henry alighted from the carriage and made their way up to the house and knocked at the door.  It was opened by a butler, who showed them into the main sitting room and left them.  They looked around in amazement.

“This room looks much neglected!” said Eleanor surprised.

“How could it have gotten into such a state of disrepair?” Henry said.

Then the butler announced “Mr. Winkle.” Henry and Eleanor looked questioningly at each other.

Mr. Winkle came in.  He seemed bored.  “What is it you want?” he asked.

“Do you know a Mr. William Ashby?” Henry asked.

“He’s been dead these past six months or more.  I inherited,” he said shortly.

“William…dead!” Eleanor gasped.  “What of his daughter, Emma?”

“His daughter…oh, yes.  She left the house a long time ago,” he said with a yawn.

“Where did she go to?” said Henry, trying to control his temper.

“I don’t know.”

“You don’t know!” Henry exploded.  “As far as she might have known, you’re her only relative.  You should have made it your business to know!”

“She was rude and inconsiderate.  All I know is that she went as a governess to some place.”

“A governess?  The daughter of William Ashby a governess?” Henry exclaimed.

Eleanor now spoke.  “If you will take us to her room, Mr. Winkle, we may be able to find some clues as to her whereabouts.”  Her calm voice seemed to quiet both men and Mr. Winkle summoned the housekeeper.

They were taken to Emma’s room.  After searching for some time, Eleanor found the note that Mrs. Peterson had sent Emma. 

“She is in the vicinity of Wiltshire,” she said to Henry, handing him the note.

He expressed his relief and they went out of the house, got in the carriage, and were soon on their way to Wiltshire.

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