After much debate!

I have settled on my pen name.  Following the KISS method, I decided on C. S. Marshall.   I really like the name C. Mars Hall. But for publicity sake, it will be easier to stick with my original pen name of many moons ago.  This will simplify my life and use of social media venues.
Slowly reading my book aloud.   Believe me, when someone suggests reading your book aloud, do it!   So far, it has made a world of difference.

The Last Stages

One of the methods of self-editing that I have read is reading your book out-loud.   That's where I am.   Neighbors beware!   There's going to be some dramatics.

In the meantime, I have started a blog strictly for The Time Savers Club.   I agreed to be the keeper.  The blog is called The Time Savers Club.   I have started to add information there as the club allows.

Enjoy!

Show, Flow, Tell... Oh my!

It's been a couple of week since my last posting.   Taking a reading break, I have spent time learning show versus tell as well as flow in writing -- all suggestions from my chosen seven readers.   The reviews have been positive which makes me feel great.   I laugh whenever I look back at my earlier editions.  The first incarnation was a paragraph long and basic.  And now after almost three years... I am ready to complete it and send it out into the world.

On a completely different topic, when I discover a writer, I immediately search for their credentials.   Where did they go to school?   What was their major?   Was it English?  Creative writing?  How many books have theyr written?  Awards?  Tell me more!   Why do I do this?  I want to know that I am not the only writer out there with no background in English or creative writing.  

I have discovered others like me.  I am inspired by them to keep writing and chugging forward. 

One of my readers recommended Rebecca Stead and her book, When You Reach Me.   I checked it out from my local library and love it after only a couple of chapters.   However, I am also encouraged from her personal story.   She was lawyer turned writer.  I love her statement (found on her website under "About"):

"Some people will tell you that real writers don’t use parentheticals (which is nonsense). The most important thing to know about writing is that there are no rules."

Look Rebecca, I used them too...