Ask the Author: Rita Ames
Answered Questions (8)
Rita Ames
It's difficult to meditate as a writer. My experience is that when an idea enters my mind it festers there and grows. There is a light bulb moment when the plot angle kicks in and then I have the most urgent need to open a word page and start getting the opening paragraph down. Those opening words must work on me just as they should a new reader. If my imagination wants to continue past that first few words then I have the beginning of my next book. I currently have three totally different genres on the go at the moment. This stops any writers block as I can switch lanes fast when stuck in word traffic. Personally I need the stimulation of a busy brain and therefore meditation does not factor. I am sure other writers may find that it would help them focus within the calm. The joy of books and authors is that we are all so very different. I hope this answers your question. It took me a while to think it through. Rita.
Rita Ames
Just saw your message Raven. I am busy getting those shorts stories finished and can't wait for the launch of Fantasy Five Alive. I am happy to be collaborating with you on this collection and the next one.
Juggling three book projects at once is testing my multi-tasking abilities a little but at least I cannot claim writer's block as I have options!
Juggling three book projects at once is testing my multi-tasking abilities a little but at least I cannot claim writer's block as I have options!
Rita Ames
The answer to that is a resounding yes. I was Carl Dawson, serial killer and I had to detach my personal beliefs, morals and tastes in order to portray him as nasty as he was at times. I also felt his pain when he struggled with the dual aspects of his personality. I do a lot of acting and it is the same there. You cannot portray someone evil if you bring your own goodness into the performance. Mine can be a brutal way of delivering but it will always be emotive. If I suffer a little pain on the journey back to my reality then I feel that I have given the reader good value for their money and a true escape into fiction.
In the romances I am always the beautiful heroine in my own mind and yes, I thoroughly enjoy those moments. In short I write what I want to read and sometimes try to fill in the gaps that other books have left out for me as a reader. I hope this answers your question and well done for coming up with one that made me think hard about the answer.
In the romances I am always the beautiful heroine in my own mind and yes, I thoroughly enjoy those moments. In short I write what I want to read and sometimes try to fill in the gaps that other books have left out for me as a reader. I hope this answers your question and well done for coming up with one that made me think hard about the answer.
Rita Ames
The biggest challenge is realising that you will never stop learning or improving your writing. It is a constant. My recent work, Book 1 almost done now, has taken much longer as it has a more complicated plot and I am working on layering my characters. My first books are good but now I know I can imrove on this. Consequently some of the beta characters in my latest effort have now taken over and want a book of their own!
I also realised that what is called gripping about my previous books could, in some stories be too brutal and therefore I am experimenting with more descriptive, in the right places, of course.
I also realised that what is called gripping about my previous books could, in some stories be too brutal and therefore I am experimenting with more descriptive, in the right places, of course.
Rita Ames
Well, I get to romance the hottest heroes, wear some great clothes, travel the world and fight in some great battles. I have also been a serial killer in Love You To Death. It's like playing a part on stage only when you write a story, you get to play all the parts and also decide how it will end, although sometimes those darn characters decide to go a different way than expected. And yes, when I kill someone off or a character gets romanced, I do occasionally picture someone I know! Don't we all?
Rita Ames
If you have a good story don't be put off by literary snobs who turn their nose up at the occasional apostrophe gaff. Everyone has a story to tell and each story has a reader. Get it down on paper then find a couple of friends who can proof read it for you. Most of all, don't be afraid to put it out there. Every download is a complete success story! Write the story you want to read, not what you think is commercial.
Rita Ames
To avoid writers block I tend to work on more than one at a time. Currently working on the next Thriller - The Eyes in the Mirror. Contemporary Romance- The Rebound Guy (Book 1 Green Mountain Trilogy). I have also begun a Fantasy Fiction Saga - Book 1 - City In The Sky. Not sure which one will complete first but watch this space.
Rita Ames
I always wondered what makes a person become a serial killer and if it was any one experience that did it. Taking it further, what would happen if an established killer lost his memory? From that small gem of an idea grew the plot for Love You To Death.
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