Randall’s Ramblings – 24 Jan 2016

Today marks the first of my ramblings. Topics will vary from week to week, but will be related in some way to writing.  I’m also open to any suggested topics.

Why I want to Write–What’s Led Me to This Stage in My Life

In my high school, like many others, English was a mandatory subject.  However, writing composition was an elective.  The only problem–the writing composition teacher was an evil person.  I can’t remember her name now; it’s been too long.  However, I’ll never forget that she’d strip our work down to its basic components, and then guided us in creating something that flowed, with a beginning, a middle, and an end.  Was she evil? No. Was she a hard taskmaster? Yes. However, everyone who completed her classes could honestly say they learned something. 

So what happened next?  That’s for next time.

My Work in Progress

My first fiction novel will be called ‘The Kurdish Connection’ and the first draft is well under way.  Earlier this week I posted chapter 41 for review on http://scribophile.com and http://thenextbigwriter.com.  The chapter appeared late on January 20th, and so far there have been six written reviews.  Several excellent suggestions to enhance the chapter. It’s been suggested I post snippets of some of this work and will likely do that in the coming weeks.

I’ve also started work on ‘A Cartel’s Revenge’, which involves a regional leader of a Marxist insurgency group, Islamic State, the CIA and a double-crossed cartel boss. 

Blog Posts I’d Like to Share

I’ve become avid readers of the two blogs I’ve chosen to share this week.  Both provide insight and inspiration by looking at everyday things and sharing their thoughts, one through prose and the other via poetry. 

Fleeting Muse – a great site for poetry with a punch.

Down Many Roads – novels and shorts stories, based on where life has taken the author.

Books I’m Reading

I recently finished ‘The DCI Jones Casebook: Sean Freeman’ by Kerry Donovan.

Here’s my impression: “Sean Freeman is a master craftsman who’s turned to a life of crime. Or has he? What’s the motivation behind his choices? Kerry has written a work full of twists and turns that will keep you reading all night long. Just when I thought I knew how things would progress, something would pop up and surprise me. No wonder DCI Jones and his crew are busy with this case. Fantastic action, a smooth flow from beginning to end, and an excellent read.”

Next up to read: ‘Dead Charming’ by Ian Jackson. 

Writing Resources

There are dozens, perhaps hundreds, of writing resources.  I don’t know about you, but I’m always look for new resources to improve my writing. Here are a couple that are now in my toolbox:

Strong Verbs Strong Voice

You’ve Reached the End

I’m afraid you’ve reached the end of this first edition of Randall’s Ramblings.  I hope you’ve enjoyed your visit and will come back for more.  A new edition will be posted each Sunday, and I’ll maintain the old posts in the archive.  If you have any suggestions for improving my ramblings, I’m all ears (and eyes, too). Thank you for stopping by!