Home Page of Anne Ashby Writing Warm Fuzzy and Fun Stories

Monday, August 31, 2009

Research

Seeing US biological anthropologist Helen Fisher on TV twice in one week must surely have been a sign from above. Googling her lost me a whole morning of planned research for my new story but boy, did I end up with some interesting information. Instead of developing new characters, settings, and plot lines for my next assignment, I was glued to the Net, reading barely understandable scientific papers on love and lust and sexual appeal. Wading through numerous articles I was able to make copious notes about dopamine and serotonin. (My daughter had recently had a baby, so I HAD heard of serotonin). While the information in all these articles is not specifically for my next WIP I'm sure I will incorporate many of her findings into my future writing. Now I have scientific proof - the heart does really pound when we're attracted to someone - its not just a romance writer's superfluous use of flowery language.

28 August

What an incredible month I've had. Away from my computer for three weeks I sometimes suffered such intense withdrawl symptoms I was almost tempted, almost but not quite, to resort to pen and paper to muse. But holding my first grandchild in my arms did amazing things to relieve any angst. Experiencing this totally new emotion is also suggesting interesting subplots I could weave into my stories. Or perhaps I could even get brave and try writing a 'senior' romance. That could be fun and very different. who knows? Would you be interested in reading a contemporary romance where the hero and heroine were in their fifties, or even their sixties? Drop me an email and tell me what you think...

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Invigorating return to work

A successful week after weeks away from my keyboard. Drafted a synopsis for my recently completed WIP - now if only I could come up with a decent title. Forwarded another complete manuscript for consideration and completed the line by line galley edits for Worlds Apart. Seeing my work laid out ready for printing was so exciting. I'd forgotten what I'd said for my back blurb and dedication because I'd written it so long ago. Could there be a bigger high? I doubt it. The next thrill will be its actual publishing.