Phantom of the Opera discussion
Our Authors Book Releases
>
The Author Writes!
message 1:
by
Sandi *~The Pirate Wench~*
(new)
Nov 29, 2010 04:40PM
Mod
reply
|
flag
For me, I really didn't have a choice. I've been a Phantom fan for many years, but after seeing the 2004 film, something just burst inside me and I felt inspired! It's like there was already a story there, but I had to birth it through my own eyes and experiences. When I first began writing, it was really just a challenge to myself to see if I could write a novel, so I began posting the chapters as I wrote them on a Gerard Butler fansite. The instant interaction with readers helped me work through my often crippling insecurities, and I kept going even at the worst of times in my life.My biggest regret is that it took me so long, many of my readers who had followed me since 2005 are no longer around in fandom, and so I have not been able to reach them.
I think the ups and downs of becoming an author are many. I tend to be very insecure, but I'm also a perfectionist so that makes it really difficult. All along in the writing process, I doubted myself and feared that my book wasn't good enough and never would be. It was also a tremendous sacrifice of time, mental, spiritual and physical energy. I found writing Chanson to be exhausting and invigorating. It's been a rewarding experience on so many levels.
It was VERY difficult creating my characters, because even though they are based on Leroux, the stage play and the 2004 film, I was determined to give my *version* of these beloved characters their own original voice. I wanted a Christine who had depth, courage and strengths that the movie and stage play Christines lack. When you write the Phantom, you know that he is deeply personal to many readers, so you have to jump into writing him with a clear vision of who he will be. In my case I wanted him to be mysterious and insane like Leroux's Phantom, but I also wanted his mental illness balanced by sensuality, intelligence, and the very human story of a wounded soul. It was not easy finding him, because Gerard Butler kept getting in the way! LOL!
My most challenging character to write was Raoul. He had to be more in my story than just a supporting role. He had to be a star, so I elevated him from the wimpy Raoul we see in the original novel, or the cardboard hero figure of the stage show. I made my Raoul a true hero, whose personal conflicts define the boy as he grows into a man. My aim was to make the ladies fall for him too.
It is very hard letting this story go. As Book Two is released next year, I'm sure I'll be having a melt down! LOL.
I do want to write another non-Phantom and totally original novel next, but I must wait for the inspiration.
Sandi wrote: "Im hoping here some of our Authors will share their"growing pains" of the gifted talent of writing a book. What inspired you to write? Why did you pick the subject on which your writing? Was it har..."My novel started as a short story whose characters woulnd't be quiet. ;-> I've been a writer for most of my life (I made my living as a journalist and newspaper editor at one point), but I had never written long-format fiction. The whole thing came out of "what if Erik met an older woman, one who was not a simpering virgin and had seen a thing or two." That's how Claire was born; she's 30 when they meet and has lost her fiance in a fire. She's definitely not looking to meet anyone -- let alone someone like Erik.
Their story is not an easy one, and a few times I had to go back for major re-writes as I recognized that some storyline premise was flawed and I had to fix it. It took three years to write, one year to edit ... and then another three months before I could go back with an open mind and make some of the fixes recommended in a very detailed rejection letter. I now tell people that if they get a letter like that, they are fortunate. It means someone read their full manuscript and cared enough to give them something that would improve their writing. There was one change (the POV) that I refused to make, so I did not re-send to that publisher.
A friend of mine provided an introduction to her UK publisher, which sent me to the top of his slush pile. Three days after I sent my MS, I had a contract. (That's pretty much unheard of, LOL.) I had already self-published the tale as an eBook and focused on promoting that because the exchange rate made the UK book (IMO) prohibitively costly for my US friends.
About 10 months later, I was contacted by a US small publisher who was interested in the novel. Wary of scams, I asked a lot of questions before I signed on. And I must tell you, I have been absolutely delighted. They are also publishing my aforementioned memoir.
I am working on a sequel to the first book, but I am finding it much harder going (sophomore slump, maybe?). I have always been more of an essayist at heart.
Mod
Thats why I posted this thread..I want members to understand & respect what you go threw to give us the pleasure to "escape" into your world. dont stop! you both have a special gift..even at your lowest..to be an Author is a rewarding job for you & a pleasure for us readers! thank you!
It’s your query on the ups and downs of writing that hit me the most so I will share that via part of an interview I did. I feel the ups and downs a lot of late as I am urged to write Regency now and still have the deadlines to meet for my other books. It all takes a lot of understanding of how you, as an author, tick.Publishing takes guts. It takes patience and a lot of time spent understanding the building blocks of fiction, the industry itself, and the rejection that comes along with it. I learned what it takes to compete in a very difficult business. It was not writing Madrigal that was the incredible experience for me, it was the journey in seeing it manifest.
For me it is not the thrill of the ISBN that matters when you are a writer, or seeing your book on the shelves. The journey to publish must be a rich experience and you get out of it only what you put into it. To watch your work go from idea to publisher is humbling experience. Getting the phone call saying a publisher wants to sign you as unreal as it is frightening. I met though my publishing career some amazing agents and authors, and I have three incredible critique partners all multi-published with major presses. The most rewarding part of being a professional is passing on what you learn along the way. Clicking away on my laptop in a hotel lobby a few years ago, I met an author who was a RITA nominee, now RITA winner. She set aside her edits and deadlines for Harlequin to spend a few minutes answering the questions of a frustrated and nervous new writer. In teaching me a thing or two about being a professional, I promised her I would pay her time and advice forward—as I got it, as I learned it. Running into her a year later I was able to pass on my thanks and the news of my first contract. It was an experience I would never forget. That is what I adore out of writing—mentoring. Sharing the journey and telling others if you want to fly… then believe.
Building upon classic literature has rewards of its own. It is a daunting task involving research and creative thinking on a whole new level. Crafting characters for original stories has its own challenges and rewards but bending characters around a preexisting idea and plot is a completely different challenge. Writing around a work of classic literature is not to be taken lightly. Doing so is to tinkers with well-beloved characters and the reader’s perceptions of them. I have met thousands of Phantom fans through the years and have been blessed to share and understand many different points of views on this fascinating piece of fiction. Their support of The Madrigals has been absolutely amazing.
Mod
Mod
Anyway, a friend from one of the Gerard Butler Phan pages told me about self-publishing and recommended the one who had published her book. I decided to think about it, and kept writing. My book was originally planned to be about 300 pages and ended up at 512 published. Had I known that Bonnie was so industriously working on over 1000 pages, I might have written a bit more-LOL. I thought mine was a bit long before I read about how long hers was. Anyway, when Vcki told me what a thrill I would have when I first held my book in my hands, I finally knew what she meant. I wish I could afford to publicize it more. As Sharon says, it often takes a lot of money but the prize can be worth it or you can be a bomb. I could not afford to take the chance. For instance, it costs $2500 for a mention on a page in the NY times monthly Book review. That is way more that I laid out originally, and still have not made back much. I did not write it with the idea to make money anyway. I just wanted to find Erik happiness. Anyway, it will be a thrill to see"published author" in my obit as I look down from heaven-LOL!
Mod
Mod
As a reader I try not to take to heart what others "rate" or say ...because I may love a book while others do not..
I'm sensitive to meanness, but not to constructive criticism. It's how we learn. During the first year of posting my chapters on-line, a woman who was brutally honest pointed out several problems with my writing style. At first, I'll admit I was upset (knee jerk reaction) but after reading her comments several times I realized that she was right. She helped me pin point an area of weakness I may not have recognized on my own.I have not yet received a negative review for my published book, which kind of worries me. I don't want people to shine me on. I'm expecting to be blasted for my use of grammar and the typos, and although a few people have left comments about those issues on my website, they insisted me that they still loved the book.
At some point I plan to send off copies to people who review books professionally.
Sandi wrote: "So now as an Author with your first book out how does the readers "reviews" affect you as a writer? do you take it personally? do you use it constuctively?As a reader I try not to take to heart w..."
If there is something constructive for me in the review, I have no problem with it. I had one review that was scathing and focused almost entirely on what the reviewer thought I didn't know about an historical personage in the book -- which I ignored because it was inaccurate. I did a significant amount of research for my book.
The one that vexed me was actually an "average" review -- because the person implied that I didn't know my own characters by saying that they "deserved better" in a couple of cases. Okaaaayyyy ... I developed the story, including some original characters ... and I don't know what "deserves" to happen to them?
Those are the only negative reviews I've gotten. A friend and fellow author had some constructive criticisms that will help me with the sequel (one of his things was that I presumed that my entire audience knew POTO ... and he didn't ... which made some of the allusions confusing to him). He was right.
I agree with Swannie -- I don't want people to shine me on. If there is a valid gripe, I am happy to accept it. I'm waffling as to whether the 3-star review "gripe" was valid, but the 1-star gripe? Ignored due to knowing better, LOL.
Here's the thing: it's unrealistic to think that everyone will love what you've written. I have read books that I thought were brilliant and seen people give them 1 or 2 stars. But the other factor is the reviewer's rating "profile," for lack of a better way to put it. I tend to skew high, so if you see a 1- or 2-star review from me (and you'll always see the reasons written as constructively as I am able), there's a good reason.
That horribly edited book I mentioned? I swear, the nicest thing I could find to say was that the author was very brave to publish it. :-( I disclosed that I had not finished it and why. It is actually rated on Amazon as the most helpful critical review of the book. I don't just say "I hated it because I didn't like something that happened to the characters" or similar. That's an artistic decision that belongs solely to the author.
Mod
And Sharon what you say about one's likes and dislikes is so true. Like my mother used to tell me-De Gustibus non est Disputandum- or in English, Concerning taste there should be no arguement.
Anne wrote: "I know what you mean, Paisley-I had two reviews which i feel were cruel-they did not like the Christian aspect of my book. Well then why did they buy it???It is clear it is a journey of faith for P..."Disclosure: I have not read Anne's book, because I'm still finishing my sequel to In The Eye of The Beholder.
Anne, anyone who complains about the religious aspects of your story has clearly not read Gaston Leroux. There is significant Christian symbology (including Christine's name), and it's made quite plain that Erik is Catholic and a believer, albeit primarily unchurched as an adult (for obvious reasons).
People amaze me sometimes with what they think authors should do. It makes me wonder why they haven't written their own damn book ...
Mod
Hugs,
Anne
Mod
Reviews are part of a career in my eyes and I respect each one whether done by Publisher's Weekly or Amazon. I appreciate their time and effort to promote my books.
Mod
Mod
I finally bought a Phantom book two months ago, Paisleys great "Chanson de l"Ange-book I" and could not put it down once I started it. it was wonderful and I gave it five stars. I am looking forward to book 2. Now, I have been writing several Phantom based short stories.
Mod
Mod
I also have one i wrote called "The Phantom's Diary" which is about his life. All of them have Erik's in them with disfigurement, but not all are the POTO Erik.
Mod
Sandi,I read within my genre of historical fiction, but when expanding classic literature the only book I needed was the original author's. Research is needed for any novel and how you use history is a choice you must make in the planning stage. History can be a major plot element or what is called "wallpaper" in that it is in the background blending things together. An author must connect with and understand the time period they are writing in and that takes research on many levels. I've interviewed people who have worked with title nobility right down to bounty hunters and local doctors in the course of my books. Research is great fun!
I write historical fiction and historical romance with unusual themes and locations, such as autism and the social mores of the mentally ill in the 19th century. However, currently I am working on a Regency.
It was my love of research and classic literature which brought me to expanding Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera.
Mod
It must be quite a challange to have a balance of both? And how do you know when one is over-powering the other? I think I would love the research part..Im always looking up something Im reading in a book or out of interest.
Hi Sandi,I think I did something a little different in my version of POTO because I wanted to give the reader a sense that all of life was within the walls of the opera house. I do give an overview of historical fact to my story, but I never allow the facts to diminish the story I am concerned with. I want YOU as the reader to be absorbed into life at the opera house, and I wanted to give you just a taste of the claustrophobia Erik would feel. Historical events outside the opera house are only mentioned in passing.
In Chanson, nature and the changing seasons are extremely important, and although the story does primarily take place either backstage, on the stage, in the living quarters, or in Erik's domain beneath the opera house, I do bring my reader out of doors for a breath of fresh air. I love trees, so I had to research different species of trees for each setting. Honestly, the internet does make doing research for writing a novel very easy.
I am fortunate because my subject matter is something I have already have knowledge about. Having been classically trained and spending a good part of my youth in theater, in terms of research I just needed a refresher course on terminology. I wanted the backstage environments to be organic and accurate for my readers without getting too technical that I lose them. I had a great time creating that bohemian world. Researching ballet was a bit more challenging, but the dance is only a minor underpinning in Chanson.
Mod
Oh everyone likes the well "what if?" and thats ok as long as we dont lose the "soul" of character we love so much. At least thats how I feel as a reader..I can tell when a Author has done her/his research because you can feel, smell, & are totally absorbed into their world.
Paisley..would you find it much harder if it wasnt POTO? do you ever plan to write something different?
Sandi wrote: "Sharon..Anne...Paisley...Jennifer....Have you read each others books? or do stay away from other POTO novels? When writing your books is their alot of "research" needed...or is it just what comes f..."I haven't read any of their books, no. As I mentioned, I don't read other peoples' similarly themed novels because I don't want to subconsciously incorporate someone else's idea. I have read Leroux several times, and I did so again during the course of writing my book. I did some research about geography, social mores, historical personages ... that was part of what took so much time to write. :-) When it was just a short story for my own entertainment, I didn't worry terribly much -- but when you get a detail wrong in a published work, people do notice.
Sandi, I do plan to write an original novel at some point, but I'm sure I won't get the "ok" in my spirit until Book 2 of Chanson is out there. I'm toying with a few ideas, but I know myself. I won't be able to go forward with a new book until I am inspired. Before I ever started writing Chanson I was a song writer, but I have never written a song unless inspired to. That's just how I roll!
I was very concerned that "my" Erik ring true with my readers. This is a challenge because there are many different *Eriks* out there based in the various books, stagings and films. If you write a POTO novel, you can be certain that some fans will not like it. As a matter of fact, some fans will not even read my book because it was influenced in part by the 2004 film. I knew that going in so I tried to give my Erik shadings from all the sources readers are familiar with. I was very concerned that my Erik remain true to my vision, but I also worked hard to keep that vision consistent throughout the story. I found this very tricky because you have to give your character and an arc where they undergo significant change and growth, yet in Erk's case that had to be done without losing some of his darker characteristics. I did not want him to become bland, so I had to preserve a bit of that dark sarcasm and menace. It was a balancing act!
Mod
Mod
We do tend to put things into our books which interest us. I happen to love classical music, both opera and instrumental so it was easy to research composers who lived during the period my Erik lived in order to discuss music Erik may have played or heard.I pretty much stuck to the movie dates, starting in 1871. That research was loads of fun for me. I also included two other loves, Arabian horses and dogs in my story.
I also had to go and research into French society at the times, also WWI and how it affected France, as well as some things about Ireland, England and US all which figure in my book. Also ocean travel as planes were not around at that time. Godbless in the internet!!!I remember back in 1963 when I wrote my Master's Thesis, lugging home armloads of books to do research with, stacked up a mile high on my table!
I also had Erik fascinated by certain inventions which came about during his lifetime. I have him as a genius but also a man fasinated with knowledge, including astronomy, history, etc. he is also an avid reader. There are so many idea of Erik that I decided to temper mine as he grew-which bothered one reader as they said I took away his weirdness, but that was my idea. I did not want another Leroux Erik, but like Paisley, Gerard Butler was mainly my inspiration because his acting impressed me so deeply.
To another subject. Iwas thinking of putting my short stories into a book together, but right now, things are rather iffy as to health and other things so until I have enough to fill a decent sized book-300-400 pages, I will not consider publication.
Mod
I'm sorry to hear you were the subject of a scathing review, Sharon. One of my biggest pet peeves with reviewers is that too many reviewers do nothing but criticize the work, without pointing out any of the positives. I've written over 150 reviews, some for Goodreads, some for private blogs, and recently a review/feedback for a well known author. Not one time have I not been able to find something positive to say about a given book. There's no excuse for such negative behavior.I began writing a novel a few years ago, and I can tell you from experience, constructive criticism is appreciated, bashing is not only hurtful, it's rude and immature.
To the published authors - Do you take advantage of Goodreads self promotion features such as giveaways? And I heard from another author friend that Goodreads might begin charging authors to promote their books. Have you head this and if so, what impact would that have on your relationship with Goodreads?
Vicki wrote: "I've come to recognize one fact: everyone is touched differently by the words we pen and the stories we write. "That is so, so true. And especially true for people who want to lose themselves in your story. I'm one of those readers - the kind that feels what the characters feel - their joy, their sorrow, their worry, their peace... I've shed many a tear while reading. Then there are people who just for something to occupy their time. Both reasons are excellent ones for wanting to read, but you're certain to get different reviews from both readers.
I'm looking forward to learning more about the authors in this group, and their books.
Thanks for answering my questions and sharing your thoughts!
I'll be honest. I'm here on Goodreads to promote my book. At this point in my life I do not have time to read other books. My personal life is too challenging right now to participate in book discussions that have nothing to do with my own interests. I am still revising Book Two of my novel for release next year, so my on-line time is very limited.I for one will be disappointed if Goodreads charges authors to promote their work and probably would not participate. Just this week I witnessed a major smack-down on the Amazon discussion board for Romance books. The fight was between readers who want nothing to do with Indie authors who try to promote their work on those threads, and the authors. It was downright nasty with both sides using personal insults to make their point. In the end, the anti indie author group suggested that we indie authors head over to goodreads to promote our books! I guess I'll never stop being shocked by how people behave behind the cloak of a computer screen. *shakes head*
I haven't actually done any giveaways through goodreads. Instead I've sent off free copies of my book to certain organizations for charity fund raising. Mainly because these are folks I know, and many are fans of POTO. At the moment I am reconsidering my marketing strategy, trying to decide how I want to go about promoting my novel after Book Two comes out. It's a lot to deal with, so I'm taking things slowly as I learn more about this business.
I do appreciate the conversations here!
Swannie
One of the things we're hoping to accomplish by making this group more active is to draw in not only people who already love POTO, but also those who've been interested, but haven't yet taken the plunge. As I embarrassingly admitted in another thread, I hadn't had any idea that there was a book called Phantom, and thought it was only an opera. But now, I'm going to read that book, and maybe alternative versions as well, or books with a similar feel.There are several groups here on Goodreads that hold author interview/events and give authors the opportunity to promote their books. I think it's a great way to spread the word, because on Goodreads, word of mouth is huge!
You might already be familiar with this, but in case you're not, I'll explain how they work. This is just a basic idea, and the finer points might vary from group to group.
What authors do is, they hold an event in a particular group (closely focused to their genre) which spans anywhere from 1-5 days, usually about 2-3. A thread is opened and devoted solely to asking the guest author questions about their book(s) and the author comes in a few times a day, or more if possible, and answers their questions. The authors usually have a signed copy or two of their book that they give away to a poster of their choice, maybe some book marks, etc. These events are usually very popular, and are a fun, free way to promote your book.
If you'd like to see an example, here's one I did for author Pamela Clare, over in the Dangerous Heroes Addict Support Group. Getting to Know Pamela Clare
We had a great time! Long time fans were able to hang out and chat, and she also got some new readers that way.
These events are held all over Goodreads and I know some of the people who host them. I'd be more than happy to try and hook up any author with someone who could host an event for them. Just let me know.
Oh, and I meant to mention that I no longer participate in Amazon book discussions because the people there are rude, immature, and very self centered. Not just the readers, but I've seen horrid comments from authors and professional reviewers, as well. I don't have time in my life for that kind of anger and hostility.And frankly, it shocks me to see how some authors behave. Don't they realize that the impression they make on the readers will directly impact their pocketbook?
Readers want authors who are approachable. Not those who place themselves on pedestals, thinking themselves too good for the common reader. Some of the most popular authors on Goodreads are those who pop in and comment on reviews, or take the time to chat with readers, as you're doing now. It tells us you're human, you care about what we think, you want us to connect to you.
Rude, standoffish and uppity authors aren't doing themselves any favors.
Sandi wrote: "Jennifer..I always wondered how Authors find that perfect "balance". Sometimes I read a book & the "historical background"takes the lead & I lose interest..like (too much information) & you forget ..."Sandi, balance comes with finding your voice and writing style. It takes an author about four books before they truly understand voice. That is how they write, the way they write and what the need to form a story. Going in to a book you must choose how you will use your setting and research. That can't be determined midway through.
UniquelyMoi *~*Dhestiny*~* wrote: "To the published authors - Do you take advantage of Goodreads self promotion features such as giveaways? And I heard from another author friend that Goodreads might begin charging authors to prom..."
I have done two giveaways, and found some success as a result. As for the Premium Author package (which is still in discussion stages only), it's entirely optional. Once the information is finalized, I'll be able to make a decision as to whether I'll participate.
I'm not only here to promote; I was on GoodReads before the books were published in either the UK or the US because I read a lot and enjoy posting reviews. However, the promotion aspect has been pleasant.
Mod
Jennifer..I never realized it could be such a long process... when you know your book is ready it must be such a great feeling. So when you start your book..its all planned out? do you ever have it were the characters themselves take over & your story leads in a different direction than you planned?
Mod
Had I known, I might have tried to publish it in ther regular way, but I know that can be even harder.
Still, to publish a book at age 68 for the first time, well taht is an accomplishment for which I am very proud.
As for reading, I continued to read non-Phantom books while I was writing. I could not imagine not reading when I go to bed at night, and during TV commercials-LOL.
Sandi wrote: "Jennifer wrote: "Sandi wrote: "Jennifer..I always wondered how Authors find that perfect "balance". Sometimes I read a book & the "historical background"takes the lead & I lose interest..like (too ..."Planning the book depends on your approach, whether you are a "plotter" or a "pantser". A true plotter will know each and every plot point(including turning points and black moments) and lay it all out in notes first. These notes will be followed during the course of writing. A pantser--flys by the seat of their pants. They don't know every twist and turn until they write them. Plotting works best for plot driven books, and a pantser will usually find they have character driven books.
All books must be finished to perfection before submitting to agents and editors. During the editing process the professionals you work with can offer guidence if there are certain elements that may need polish or even cutting.
I have had a few historicals where the characters take me in new directions. My new Regency is certainly character driven. The Madrigals are a mix of plot and character driven. It strikes a balance between what my publisher needs and what I as the author need.
Mod
Has it ever happened where the plot is moving along fine & the characters are "behaving" but you get stuck even though you had a direction? I truly admire you authors & what you go threw to put something out there to give us the pleasure to escape. Do you get much sleep? LOL :)
Sandi wrote: "That is so interesting! So..sometimes an Author could have it all plotted out..but the characters take over and would the plot itself have to be re-written? Would that cause you to have to go back ..."Oh, absolutely. I had to go back for a major re-write at one point, as my characters had plans that differed wildly form my original intent. Sometimes it just happens that way. :-) Another minor re-write came about when I realized that a plot arc was not going to work as I thought it would.
Mod
Mod
Mod
I can't read anything else (other than devotional books) while I am still working on mine? Why? In all honesty it is because I have no confidence in my own writing skills and when I read someone else's work, I do nothing but question my own abilities. It takes away my enjoyment in reading AND writing. I tried to read the OUTLANDER series while I was working on Chanson and ended up setting my own writing aside for 3 months because I got so depressed that I could never achieve that skill level in composing my book. Dumb, I know. But that's the truth! I have a whole list of book I want to read after book 2 comes out!
Anne wrote: "OMG-I am an avid reader. I LOVE books. I read while I was writing my book as well. Icould never be without a book in my hand, and unless you are able to sit for more than a few hours at the compute..."I'm with Anne. I have a book with me wherever I go, and often have two or three in progress at once. Part of this is because I'm part of Amazon's cadre of Vine reviewers, so I have a number of unreleased books I'm reading at any given time. It's unusual for me not to have a Vine book, in fact (just finished the last one, but in a couple of weeks I'll have a list to choose some more).
I think that part of being a good writer is being an avid reader, myself.
Mod
