Hello friends!

Have you ever thought about the process that goes into writing a novel? It’s said that there are two main types of writers. The planners, and those who tend to fly a bit more by the seat of their pants. Personally, I fall somewhere in the middle.

When I start to write a novel, I have a general idea of where I want things to go. I usually start by gathering my cast of characters, and then I come up with a rough outline for the story, which is often adjusted about halfway through the book. I never plan out a certain number of chapters before I start writing. I prefer to let the story guide itself, and so far, I’m always happy in the end.

I generally like to allow the characters to lead me through the story. I love dialogue between characters. When I get them into a conversation, and literally let them talk to one another, I find it’s so much easier to propel the story forward. As with people, all characters have their own personalities, strengths, weaknesses, and quirks. Each couple should have their own dynamic as well. I never want anyone to pick up my books and feel like they’re reading the exact same interactions they’ve read before, but with a different couple. It’s my hope that each experience will feel unique in its own way.

When I need a little inspiration, I love listening to songs with lyrics or music that take me into a scene with the characters, as if they were a part of a movie. I imagine what they would be saying to each other, how they would look at each other, and the emotions I would feel as a viewer with that music in the background. I also never ignore an idea from a good dream. If a scene comes to me in my sleep, I write it down in a notebook. I don’t know if they’ll all become story lines one day, but it never hurts to have the option.

Something I didn’t know I’d enjoy as much as I do when I first started, is writing a series. I love carrying the momentum of one book into the next. Beginnings originally started as a standalone, but the closer I got to the end, the more I knew in my heart that I wasn’t ready to let go of the characters. Gradually, a little supernatural pocket of the world was built with people who love, struggle, and grow as we all do. I’m so excited for their world to expand, and I hope you will love these characters just as much as I do.  

Enjoy your time within the world of Bridget Nicole Books!