Suspense. Action. Romance.

Guests were treated to a marvelous blend of the masculine and the feminine at Let's Talk Romance on Wednesday, September 17, 2003. Contemporary suspense thriller authors Todd Stone and Peter J. Thompson provided interesting commentary into their recent releases while educating the group about the writing craft. Romance author Lindsay Longford shared her insights into the writing process and, as always, provided tidbits of wisdom to readers and writers alike.

We all enjoyed a chuckle while learning how writers string together words to create a scene. Todd Stone solicited the assistance of Peter J. Thompson and Donna DeFalco to act out a brief action scene to illustrate the lesson.

Todd asked that guests observe a specific element of the action, i.e., emotions, physical action, facial expressions, etc. It was fun listening to the various observations of the audience. Todd explained that a writer essentially slows down the action when creating a scene. Details we would normally see occurring all at once in "real" life is broken down into brief, sometimes descriptive, action sequences. Todd’s demonstration was enjoyed by one and all!

Peter J. Thompson provided guests with insights into what inspired him to create the plot for his book, Living Proof. He advised that if you pay close attention to the news or a television clip, you can gain all kinds of fodder for your work. Peter advised us that he took approximately six months to conduct the research for his book. This is the type of dedication to details that make a story come to life.

Peter also addressed the old school of thought - that writers should write what they know. Following a discussion with the group, the consensus was that this line of thinking could be limiting to the creative process. In the end, it seemed a positive challenge to write what you don’t know, but do the research to make the final product a success.

According to Lindsay Longford, all writers are curious. We all would agree! Details of her discussion included how writers write to create an impact. In addition, she reminded us what the commonality is between all writers - it’s people.

Lindsay also shared her thoughts regarding first person research. For the writer, it is important to learn what things taste like, feel, etc. for yourself. A writer needs to "be able to communicate to the human spirit…because it shapes the research and the character."

Lindsay Longford

It was enlightening when Lindsay discussed the difference between how men and woman approach writing. An audience of women would work more with emotion than "process."

Members and guest of Let’s Talk Romance would agree. One of the marvelous benefits of reading and writing is the variety of work and topics available to everyone. This particular evening was special in that guests had the opportunity see how both men and women approach writing.

No matter the targeted audience, the writer’s goal is still the same. Create a compelling story that the reader can’t put down. These authors have certainly achieved the goal of a page-turner.

Happy Reading,

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