Done!

(This is a very rough pencil sketch of a chapter opener. I'm very big on visual manifestation! While I'm writing, I always draw little pictures that go with the story. It's not perfectly polished because I need to spend my time writing, not drawing. Overall, the exercise keeps me focused and excited to finish!)


It only took four months, maybe even longer, but tonight I sent over the first two chapters of my (hopefully) third novel, along with a 20K word outline.

It wasn't a matter of procrastinating, it was more about finding the right story to tell. And I've learned that if I put emphasis on a healthy outline, it makes the writing process go much faster. Granted, the final outcome will likely vary from the outline, but it feels good to have the major plot points worked out. An outline is like a pencil sketch.

People always ask me if the process is easier after writing two other novels. Yes and no. It's easier because I know what NOT to do. The hard part is coming up with new characters, new names, new jobs, new drama, etc. They have to be different from my previous characters. You have no idea how many awesome story arcs I drafted for this new book, only to step away and think - "Oh, that's Chloe." or "Eeee, that's Scarlet!" I had to go back in and recraft!

What happens now is that my agent will read all of it and then let me know of revisions, and then it goes to my editor. It's up to her to decide if she wants to buy it or if she will send me back to the drawing (sketch) board. It's the whole "hurry up and wait" game, but I'm used to it and mentally prepared. Besides, I have plenty of other work to keep my mind occupied.

I'm using this post to send a message out to the universe in honor of Desi, Edie, and Juliet. I have come to love them and hope their stories make their way to the printed page so you can read all about them! 

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Signing at the Creative Connection Event

 This week I went to Minneapolis to sit on a panel for The Creative Connection Event. It was amazing and I sold a lot of books, so happy! I also had something totally amazing happen here. I can't reveal it just yet, but I will!

 Booksigning event.

 Here I am with Vickie Howell and Cathie Filian, we went into B&N, found our books and signed copies. The clerk added that cute little sticker to the front. Success!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Buy: Crochet It. Love It. Wear It!

Anyone who has read my recent novel, knows that I have a character named Ofie in there who not only crochets, but crochets fast.  Well, that aspect of Ofie's life is inspired by ME! I love to crochet! I learned many years ago from a Jamaican woman at a reggae party. She taught me how to whip out crocheted tams and beanies. I used to crank one out a night and then sell them at Patrick's concerts! I only know the double stitch, but I sure work it at miracle speed.

I still crochet tams to this day - yes, during Patrick's concerts!

Because of this personal history with yarn, I've always had a soft spot for crochet. I once wrote a story for the newspaper about how crochet was the Jan Brady compared to knitting's Marcia. Knitting gets all the attention. I also interviewed Lily Chin when she won the International Speed Crochet competition!

Yup, I love me some crochet. In my opinion, we hot handed hookers are quirky as much as we are sassy.

If you agree, you'll love the spirit behind the new book, Crochet It. Love It. Wear It! by Drew Emborsky, The Crochet Dude.

There are thirteen projects that range from beginner to heavy duty expert. From skirts to scarves, there is something for everyone - even a type of crocheted corset.

Now here is my take on this book - I love all these offerings. They are tailored to show off a woman's best curves, the styles have movement, yet also structure, and come in gorgeous solid colors. Drew has a fun, conversational tone that makes you feel like he is right next to you, explaining his inspiration for the projects. This dude knows his stuff and is excited to share!

If you are like me and want to "chicafy" these looks, take each project as a wonderful foundation in which to build upon. Maybe a little weaved-in ribbon around the neckline, beads stitched in throughout, appliques here and there, etc.

Bottom line? No matter what your personality, there are oodles of opportunities with Drew's new page turner!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)