Romance and Mystery Authors on Writing: Sweet Romance Author Joselyn Vaughn on Dialogue, Characters, and Editing, Giveaway

Hello and welcome to the tips on writing series, Romance and Mystery Authors on Writing. Today I'm thrilled to have my friend, critique partner, and talented sweet romance author, Joselyn Vaughn share her tips on writing dialogue, characters, and editing.

This is an especially big week for Joselyn because her eighth book, In for a Pound, was just released from Astraea Press on Tuesday, November 4. I'm doin' a happy dance with her. I was privileged to be "in" on the development of this novel and now so excited to help introduce this touching romance to readers right here on my blog.

Joselyn is giving away the e-book version of one of her books. The winner can choose which e-book. Check out Joselyn's Amazon Author page to see all the possibilities. To be in the drawing, please leave a comment. 

Hi Joselyn,

Before we get to all the great tips you've shared, let me ask you this--What is the question you get all the time from budding or experienced authors and your readers?
People always ask how long it takes to write a book. It takes me about a year. Writing takes time. You have to be willing to eat the elephant bite by bite. If you want to write a book, you will find the minutes or hours in your day to make it happen.

DIALOGUE

            Dialogue can be broken up using actions, internal thoughts, and emotional responses to the conversation. Instead of scrounging through the thesaurus for alternatives to said, these options will allow you to develop your characters in subtle ways.

CHARACTER

            Avoiding stereotypical characters, especially for supporting roles, can be difficult. Sometimes simply changing their gender can add new dimensions to the plot or add a whole new subplot.   

EDITING

a. When proofreading, read your manuscript out of order. It keeps you from getting caught up in the story and missing typographical mistakes.

b. Find critique partners you can trust. People who will help you make your work better. A good group can help develop and direct ideas as well as evaluate individual scenes for strengths and weaknesses. 

Please share a “light bulb moment” about your writing experience.

I tend to get caught up in marketing and promoting and wondering what works and what doesn’t that I forget how fun creating stories is. Don’t lose the joy in writing. 

# # # #

I know this is a whirlwind week for you, and I appreciate you taking time to stop by the blog to share writing tips. Now let's find out about that new book, In for a Pound.

In for a Pound, sweet romance by Joselyn Vaughn

Back of the book:

Joshua Pounds speeds to Pine Bottom to take care of his ailing dad, expecting to spend his time bouncing between doctors’ appointments and cancer treatments. His first task, however, requires a canoe paddle and helping his father’s friend win the honeymoon of her dreams. He doesn’t count on falling in love with an engaged woman.

Sidney Walker had her life all planned: the wedding, the honeymoon, and the dependable husband --until her fiancé crushes her dreams by putting riches above their relationship.

As her engagement crumbles, her heartbreak rocks Joshua’s confirmed bachelor status. He picks up the pieces, but the challenge threatens both of their ideas about love.

Will Joshua’s resolve to keep his heart untouched break Sidney’s?

About Joselyn:

I am a stay at home mom who has walked on the dark side of potty training. When not traversing

that valley of shadow, I write, run, and sew. Sometimes with successful results. For more information, check out Joselyn's blog.

Please leave a comment to enter the drawing for one of Joselyn's e-books. Are you a stay-at-home mom who is writing and potty training your toddler? We'd love to hear from you.