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Showing posts from November, 2014

Music Feature: Within Temptation

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Within Temptation:  Memories Album: The Silent Force 2004 I have been listening to this song for years, hearing it as Misa's anthem.  I admit, I had not seen the video up until the moment I wrote this post. I am completed delighted. About fifteen seconds in, I thought it really resonated with the look and feel of Aurumice. Sharon den Adel has a very similar look to Misa, especially in that feathery extravagant dress.  At 1:31, I pretty much flipped out.  You'll see why.

NaNoWriMo: Writing a Novel

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People often ask me how I wrote a novel.  Like all art forms, it has a process.  I developed my method of writing over years of practice.  I'm sure it's not the same for everyone, but it's a process developed through trial and error. Marked up outline for Return to the Castle 1.Outlining To prevent meandering plot holes, I begin with an outline. My outline is mapped out as an excel document.  I track different elements, like tension resolution and character POV.  I also look for balance between Aurumice and Earth. 2. Planning a Scene Undeniably, my favorite part of writing never happens at a computer.  I would define myself a kinesthetic writer .   I write best when moving.  I run and walk, listening to music, often to the same track over and over again.  The music and movement activate my brain in such a way that it is easier to imagine and see the scene.  It's a surreal and delightful way to write, sort of like reading a book with no book in front

Character Inspiration: Misa

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I absolutely love watching horse videos for inspiration.  If you've ever ridden you know it is NOT easy to get a horse to behave.  They're 1200 lbs of free will and can chose to exercise that free will at any time. The rider in the video reminds me so much of Misa, from her costuming to her long black hair. Her command of her horse is absolutely awe-inspiring.

A Journey of Seventeen Years, or Eight Months?

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Reblogged from RoseCatherine.com As I look back at the past year, I find myself asking 'how did I get here?' I just sold my last copy of the first print run of  Return to the Castle.   Just a few short months ago, my dining room table was covered in cases of books. I had a hefty little charge on my credit card and a looming feeling of dread. I've been working on this strange endeavor since 1997.  Few people know I deliberately built my entire career around it, (which is a story for another day...). Centernia, circa 1997, back when the story read like a Disney movie In October 2011, after a series of serendipitous events, I decided to create a webcomic based on the story of  Centernia .  I had wanted to release a novel, but after the stress of  The Mathmagical Wish , another printed book seemed too daunting. I was encouraged by my artist friend Jackie, who convinced me to join her selling art at conventions. I created a pile of art for established fandoms while

Music Feature: Dream Theatre

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Dream Theatre: Lifting the Shadows off a Dream Album: Awake 1994 For me, this song has always echoed the restoration of Aurumice and the relationship between Nico and Jessi. Amazon Download Link: Lifting Shadows Off A Dream