Join me on the adventure…

I’ve come a long way with writing novels. I am still learning as I go; it remains a hobby. My initial, naïve foray into the past-time years ago was with considerable effort. I didn’t know what I was getting into but I have always subscribed to one of Goethe’s couplets in the process…

“Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it!”

That’s precisely what I did. I began giving it a shot — boldly — a little over 17 years ago. Here is the result.

Review a Sample of the Book

  • Here are a few quick details about the workshop…

    First, it’s an informal affair. I’m not looking for copy editors, albeit the manuscript will likely need one eventually. I’m pleased that it’s in readable condition, nonetheless. At this stage, I’m simply looking to get a feel from people on how the story strikes them. I’m entirely open to criticism and happy for discerning eyes to point out problems in the story, in my presentation of the history, and/or in my style of writing. A thick skin comes with the territory.

    Second, you are welcome to participate in the way that suits you. There is a syllabus online to follow for help, and I will schedule roundtable sessions on Zoom for those interested in giving direct feedback. There are more details on the site about how to participate.

    Finally, the only commitment I ask is to give the story a chance. One outcome might be that parts of the book may need to be cut back. I did deliberately overwrite the draft. But no one needs to commit to the entire workshop if you find it too time-consuming. Read as much or as little as you want. Any bit of feedback is helpful at this stage and knowing where I might lose you is as important as finishing.

    I hope you will consider joining me. Since it’s an informal exercise, which I am doing on my own, I may only be able to take a handful of participants. But I will do my best to include as many who wish to look at the work with me.

  • Easy Syllabus for Blue Death Workshop

    The workshop will start in January 2023 and run through May. It is divided into sections to cover four different portions of the book. Each section will end with an optional roundtable on Zoom.

    I will provide a pdf copy that can be read on most standard readers/iPads. You will have permission to print a copy if you like, but the size of the book might make that costly.

    Read as much or as little as you feel inclined. You can provide feedback in any way you feel most comfortable. A general rule is to cite page and paragraph numbers as follows:

    Example: Page 27, paragraph 3: the section is inconsistent with the opening chapter

    Once the entire group of participants is seated, the final Zoom sessions can be worked around scheduling. I am open to one-on-one discussions and/or simply taking comments in an email. Some people may read the book from start to finish and then comment; others may work along with us on the section schedule. If, through the process, you get bogged down and lose interest in the story, please simply drop me a note giving a brief explanation of where it went off track for you. This information is as helpful as anything.

    Section One

    The session roundtable will be on the weekend of January 28th; Chapters 1-5: Introduction and Backstory

    Section Two

    Session roundtable will be the weekend of February 18th; Chapters 6-10: Rounding out the Characters

    Section Three

    The session roundtable will be the weekend of March 4th; Chapters 11-13: The Rising Tension

    Section Four

    Session roundtable will be the weekend of March 25; Chapters 14-17: The Dénouement

  • If you would like to participate or have questions email me at: bluedeath2022@gmail.com