Category Archives: writing life
Building a Novel
I have used a lot of different methods to write my books over the years. The technique depends on the story and if I already have an idea or not. One tactic is to build inspiration upon inspiration, like a house, from the ground up. Creating a novel in phases not only gives you a …
My Frankenstein Bio
I wrote my Frankenstein-bio back in 2012 when I was trying to come up with my “About me” page for my blog. At first, I was reading other author’s bios on Goodreads to get ideas on how to write one, but when I notice my similarities to other writers (Except for that little, tiny NY …
Don’t Forget to “Save the Cat.”
When I was writing the rough draft for The Trouble with Scarecrows, I received comments back from a critique partner. It was clear that she hated my main character to the core. Of course, I defended my reasons as to why I had given Brenda a Scrooge personality. For one, she is actually the antagonist …
Writing Update September 2016
Hi friends, I hope everyone had a fabulous summer. I have a few things going on with my writing projects and some fun promo stuff coming up, too. The Trouble with Snowmen: I’m super excited because I just received news that The Trouble with Snowmen eBook will be FREE from October 9, 2016 – October …
Tex-Mex Turkey Street Tacos (Food from “The Trouble with Scarecrows”)
I love tacos, and since I was born, raised, and stayed in Texas, I’ve had access to a huge variety of different kinds, but the ones from my childhood are the most memorable. Growing up, my parents made taco meat from ground beef and a packaged spice mix. Taco night was always served family-style with …
Writing Update – April 2016
Hi Friends, Here’s what I’ve been up to with my writing. Young Adult Fairy Tale Inspired Book: I’m pretty much finished with the first 10 chapters. I’m working on rewrites/edits through the middle of the book, and I’m satisfied with the way those are going. But the end, yikes, it is still a …
Dorlana’s Writing Diary (9th entry)
The Trouble with Scarecrows (Book 2 Trouble with Men) – I have my cover and my official summary/blurb , and a few days ago, I received my final galleys. But every time I get my edits back, I find tons of things to change – from commas to entire paragraphs. It’s not as much as …
Dorlana Vann - Author 