Although my critique partners at www.critiquecircle.com did an excellent job, nothing replaces an editor. She is pointing out scenes that would work better from the other character's point of view, and why, suggesting changes to a certain character to make him fit the story better. It is a lot of work, and I've only made my way through the first six chapters. I'm very excited though, as I think this will all lead to a much better end product.
I know I highlighted Mercedes Lackey not too long ago, but I've decided to share with you the book series that inspired me to start writing my first book (the one that fizzled at 150 pages). Joust is part of a four-book series dealing with war between two countries each struggling to overtake the other. The greatest war weapon available is the fearsome dragons and their riders, often turning the tide in battles.Vetch is a young boy who has been captured by the opposing side and is serving as a serf to a cruel master. When a dragon rider realizes Vetch's plight, he decides to commandeer Vetch as his dragon boy. The rest of the series deals with Vetch's journey toward manhood, and his role in helping to end the war between the countries. You can read more about this book and the rest in the series at Mercedes Lackey's web site http://www.mercedeslackey.com/books/joust.html
When I reached the end of this book, I realized I didn't know of any other books where dragons were portrayed as intelligent creatures that were allies and companions to the characters in the book. (I had, of course, already read Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders of Pern series). I tried out a few series that looked promising, only to realize they weren't really about the dragons like I'd hoped. A story came into my head about a young woman, Lena, who is transported to a magical land by a dragon she soon bonds with, Vallerand. There was an epic struggle between races and Lena would have to right the wrongs. Of course, as I've previously mentioned, I do not really have a fantasy book in me, and I finally realized romantic suspense was were I could shine.
However, this series of books will always have a special place in my heart for prodding me into this wonderful adventure of novel writing.
Have a terrific week, everyone!
