Every writer knows they will struggle with that dreaded first line and probably re-write it over ten times. Why? Because they know a reader will either be hooked and pick up their book or put it down. We don’t want our readers to set our book back on the shelf. We need to grab their attention–and fast! This is how I started Lethal Cover-Up.
When writing for Love Inspired Suspense (LIS), an author has to launch their story with a bang. Put their hero or heroine in immediate peril, so when I start contemplating a story, I begin interrogating my characters. I need to know everything about them. Their darkest moment, deepest fear, their loves/hates, etc. I also figure out what happened to them in their childhood, teen years, early adulthood. This helps me get to know them and also gives me ideas of how my story will play out.
Now…every writer is different. Some plot before they write that first line. Others just start writing. I do a little of both.
After determining my characters’ pasts and what makes them who they are today, I come up with the plot. I’m a pantser, but I need to know where my story is headed. When submitting to LIS you have to provide a synopsis, so this gives me an outline of the basics of how my book will evolve. With the ideas formed, it’s time to start Chapter 1 and come up with that line to catch the reader’s attention. As I continue on with the remaining chapters, I let my characters take me through the story. Yes, they sometimes lead me down a rabbit hole, but they always allow me to crawl out of it!
Next week, I’ll share more about my writing process and specifically how Lethal Cover-Up came about. For now, I’ll leave you with another quote from the book!
TWEETABLE
Beginnings…a Sneak Peek at Lethal Cover-Up @darlenelturner (Click to Tweet)
Have you pre-ordered your copy? Here is a little about the book and the order links. Please spread the word. Thank you!
Lethal Cover-Up
Some secrets are dangerous…
But uncovering the truth could be deadly.
Border patrol officer Madison Steele knows her sister Leah’s fatal car crash was no accident. Someone’s willing to kill to cover up a pharmaceutical company’s deadly crime of distributing tainted drugs. Now they are after Madison to tie off loose ends. But with her high school sweetheart, Canadian police constable Tucker Reed, at her side, can Madison expose the company’s deadly plan before she becomes the next victim?
Pre-order links:
Sounds like a great one! I am starting to write down things about my life with big intentions of putting it alll together some day. Just something I thought they would like to read when I am gone.
YOu are doing great with all these books. You are so talented
Love from Uncle Bud & Aunt Blossom
Thanks so much, Aunt Blossom! Good for you for writing down events in your life. That’s an awesome gift for your children. Love you xo
I meant to say my children, sme writer I am Haha