Aimee Hardy's Blog, page 2

Character Photoshoots

We had a blast with a character photoshoot for Pocket Full of Teeth that we did a few weeks ago. I really wanted the characters to feel like real, living people, so this was a great way to see these characters come to life.

First, Cat is the main character of the found memoir within the book. She returns home after the tragic death of her mother and finds that her childhood home is haunted. Cat attempts to work through grief, becoming an adult, and finding her own voice in a community that is laid with secrets and ghosts of its own. Here’s how the final shot came out.

Next, Mr. Johns is the town patriarch. He’s the guy that everyone knows and loves. His family helped establish the town, and through careful planning restoration, the once- flailing community has another chance at life. But as with all great figures, no one is perfect, and when his secrets are threatened to be revealed, he will do anything to keep them hidden. This was one of the hardest shoots to complete, but I think it came out well!

Then, we shot Liz. She is a breath of fresh air in the novel. She is the local cafe owner and artist who offers Cat a job and a chance at becoming a part of the community. Although Cat is often overcome by the loss of her mother, Liz inspires her to start writing again and trust that she really is deserving of love, no matter what has happened in the past. We had so much fun on this one.

Another fun character to capture was Ray. Disowned by the town patriarch at the age of eighteen, Ray has always had to look out for himself. He works as a handyman and is known for his partying and his charm. Although he loves Sarah, he can’t keep his wandering eye at bay, and soon, he realizes he’s in too deep to ever escape. I love how his photo came out and really think it captures him.

Then, we have Eddy. She is the main character of the novel and tells the entire story. She is being interviewed by police about a body that was found at the bottom of a well, and her locket was found nearby, connecting her to the scene. As she tells the police what happened, she talks about a haunted manuscript found at the back of her mom’s desk drawer. She reads the manuscript aloud and relates how the book’s ghosts began to make an appearance in her own life until that fateful night she found herself at the well. So creepy yet intriguing!

The last shoot of the day was Sarah. When unexplained noises and apparitions plague Cat as she returns home, they also lead her to something unexpected: her mother’s diary. Told from Sarah’s perspective, she outlines the events that led to her death. From falling hopelessly in love with Ray, Mr. Johns’ rebellious son, to struggling with Cat’s coming of age, Sarah’s tender words show the true depth and desolation that come with being a mother and being desperately in love with someone she’s always known was going to leave. When we finally got this shot, we were all in awe. So soft, feminine, sad, yet hopeful. What a great way to sum up the novel!

And here are a few bonus photos for Sarah!

I hope you enjoyed these photos. They were a blast to create.

You can grab your pre-order of Pocket Full of Teeth HERE. The official release date is Friday the 13th of September!

Pocket Full of Teeth Review and Book Trailer

I am so excited to see Pocket Full of Teeth getting great early reviews from readers!

One of my favorite things as an author is hearing how my work resonates with readers. Writing can be a lonely process. It’s just the writer and the page for most of the process. Add in an editor or two, but it’s still very isolating–so I am so happy to hear that my work is impactful and really DOES matter.

The latest review is from Chloe York for Killer Nashville Magazine. You can read York’s review HERE.

Chloe is a fellow Birmingham writer who loves all things gothic. She emailed me right after she finished with “WOW! The ending!” and immediately started writing her review. One of the most special lines in her review was, “This unexpectedly warm message against a background of chilling death and violence is what makes Pocket Full of Teeth so special. That even in the face of loss, abuse, and hopelessness, we might reclaim our power through words and walk away with our own pockets full of teeth.” I’m so glad that Pocket has its creepy moments, but more than that, I am happy that hope shines through under all those gothic elements.

This week, we also have a new book trailer! Book trailers are so special because they treat written storytelling as entertainment (just like movies). I get so excited when books come out from my favorite authors, and there’s nothing like hearing your character’s words come to life in a creepy, yet intriguing, book trailer. Check it out!

And as always, you can pre-order Pocket Full of Teeth HERE. The official release date is Friday the 13th of September, so stay tuned for more!

September Events

Hello, September!

We have some big events planned this month. September always issues in a change in seasons and a new energy like a breath of fresh air. So, how great is it that I get to share some new events and exciting news for this new month?!

Talk of Alabama

I will be on ABC 33/40’s Talk of Alabama on September 6th to talk about inspiration, storytelling, and creativity. I love morning interviews because I love a casual morning spent with a cup of coffee and a good conversation. Mark your calendars and tune in!

Alabama Writer’s Conference

I will be attending and presenting at AWC’s Annual Conference for 2024 from September 6–8 in Orange Beach, AL. I am so excited to present as an editor and an author because teaching and storytelling is so close to my heart.

On Saturday, I will be presenting as an editor critiquing first pages submitted by attendees. This is such a special event because writers will get a sneak peak behind the scenes about what goes into evaluating and selecting pieces for publication.

On Sunday, I will be presenting on how “Take the Leap” from writing short stories and poetry to novels. I will show how I used short stories and poetry to draft Pocket Full of Teeth and how each genre is important to creative storytelling.

Sleep in Cinema

On September 14th, I will make an appearance on Substrate Radio’s Sleep in Cinema as we discuss Dolores Claiborne and horror film adaptations. Tune in to hear our ideas on all things creepy!

POCKET FULL OF TEETH RELEASE DAY!!!

And finally, Pocket Full of Teeth will be released on Friday the 13th! Books are typically released on Tuesdays, but the stars aligned this year, and we couldn’t resist publishing on this creepy date. Pre-orders are now open HERE, so reserve your copy today!

Check out all the planned events and stay updated! Many more events and announcements are in the works, and I can’t wait to share them with you soon!

Five Reasons Why I Became a Writer

I was an explorer from a young age. I collected stories and experiences the way other kids collected trading cards, and more often than not, you could find me playing with books and instead of Barbie dolls. Although I didn’t know I wanted to be a writer at an early age, the journey to this point has been fulfilling and full of surprises.

1. I Was an Avid Reader at an Early Age

From a young age, books were my constant companions. I devoured stories, losing myself in fantastical worlds and thrilling adventures. The magic of books was my introduction to the limitless possibilities of the imagination. Each page was a new adventure, and I couldn’t get enough.

If it hadn’t been for early reading programs like Book It and Reading Rainbow, I would not have falling in love with storytelling, and I’m so thankful to all the adults who fostered my early love of learning.

2. I’ve Always Loved Writing

My love for reading never waned as I grew older. It expanded into various genres and authors, from the spooky tales of R.L. Stine to the intricate worlds crafted by Stephen King. Reading became more than just a pastime; it was a source of inspiration and a way to explore different perspectives and ideas.

But soon, I found myself asking what would happen if the story unfolded differently. I invented new endings and wondered what would happen if characters from one book suddenly met the characters in another… and that’s how I knew that storytelling was my passion.

3. I Love a Challenge

Writing presents a unique challenge that I find incredibly fulfilling. Crafting a story, developing characters, and weaving intricate plots requires not only creativity but also dedication and perseverance. Each writing project is a puzzle waiting to be solved, a mountain to be climbed. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.

Pocket Full of Teeth is not the first novel I’ve ever written. In fact, it’s the third. I still play with the second novel I wrote, but the first one will never see the light of day. Haha! I don’t, however, see it as a failure. My first novel taught me a lot about how to develop characters and plot their journey. Without that first “failure,” I never would have learned how to move forward and progress.

4. I Love Playing with Language

There’s a certain joy in the art of language. Playing with words, crafting sentences, and creating vivid imagery is a delight. Writing allows me to experiment with language, to bend and shape it to convey emotions, ideas, and stories in the most impactful way. It’s a creative playground where I can let my imagination run wild.

I absolutely love poetry, and often when I get stuck or just want to play with an idea, I try to think like a poet. When I described fireworks in Pocket Full of Teeth, for example, I used the term “colorful thunder.” The bright sparks, the booming that you can feel in your chest–these are all things that can bring those feeling to life with just a few simple words.

5. I Wanted to Connect with Others in Creative Ways

At its core, writing is about connection. It’s a way to share thoughts, experiences, and emotions with others. Through my stories, I hope to resonate with readers, to offer them a glimpse into different worlds, and perhaps even help them see their own lives in a new light. Writing is my way of reaching out, of building bridges between my experiences and the reader’s.

Takeaways

These five reasons are at the heart of why I became a writer. Each one has shaped my journey, fueling my passion and driving me to create. Writing is more than just a profession; it’s a calling, a way of life that brings me immense joy and fulfillment. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope my stories inspire you as much as the stories I’ve read have inspired me.

-Aimee Hardy

My Journey into Writing

From Goosebumps to Southern Gothic

Hi, everyone! I’m not the greatest at keeping up here, but I’ve been asked a lot recently how I got into writing and storytelling. Honestly, when I was a kid, I was externally motivated. I am not ashamed to admit that I read for those free Pizza Hut coupons, but doing so, I discovered a love for many different types of books.

I was also a Nickelodeon kid, obsessed with pranks, slime, and spooky stories. Naturally, I fell in love with Goosebumps books at an early age. When my mom went shopping each week, I’d beg her to just “walk” down the book aisle to see if R.L. Stine had anything new (and in the 90s, OF COURSE, he always had a new release).

Needless to say, I devoured each one (and yes, The Ghost Next Door changed my life—haha!). I then moved on to Fear Street, Christopher Pike, and finally, Stephen King. I remember reading It at thirteen or fourteen and being totally blown away by how real the characters were and how cool a villain could be. I mean, what better bad guy than fear itself? Reading more King, I loved the way he told stories but would often get frustrated because I had my own ideas about how his stories should end.

In high school and college, I read a LOT of classics and admired so many writers, but I often found it hard to know what I would have to add to the conversation.

My journey to becoming a writer was not straightforward. I had periods where I had tons to say and then nothing at all for months. I’d have so many questions, but no answers would come through in my writing. As frustrating as that may be, I came to learn that those feelings and fluxes were all a part of the process. Writing is how we work out those hard questions. No, there isn’t a “correct” answer, and everyone’s process is different, but it’s the process—the dedication to writing and storytelling—that really matters. Writing a page a day (or even one sentence) is small, but day after day, it can add up to something big.

And I think we’re all storytellers in our own ways. We tell stories through art, writing, design, and film, but also through the connections between us: the conversations we have standing in line at the grocery store, the mother who holds hands with her child as they fall asleep, the dreams we have when it’s just us and no other interruptions.

Writing has been the constant in my life that has kept me grounded. When things feel out of control, there’s always a clean document. When I’m sad, the page is waiting. When I’m so happy I could burst, my joy dances on the page. After creating various works, I found my own voice. You can see my big influences (Ray Bradbury, Shirley Jackson, Mark Danielewski, etc.), but there’s also something else—something unique, something that’s just me—and there’s no greater joy than seeing it on the page and getting the opportunity to share that with others.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Whether you’re a fellow writer or just love a good story, I hope you find your own joy in the pages you create and the tales you tell.

-Aimee Hardy

Kirkus Review for POCKET FULL OF TEETH

Kirkus Review calls Aimee Hardy’s upcoming novel Pocket Full of Teeth, “Haunting and powerful, this dark little gem of a novel is an absolute must-read.”

Read the full review HERE.

POCKET FULL OF TEETH is available for Pre-Order NOW!

New Craft Article – “Character as a Haunted House”

New craft article is OUT NOW in Killer Nashville Magazine!

Character as a Haunted House

Check out how I approach character development and how I use horror to form fully-fleshed out characters.

If you want to support Aimee or read her upcoming novel Pocket Full of Teeth, you can pre-order her book HERE.

Pocket Full of Teeth Pre-Order!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POCKET FULL OF TEETH” NOVEL AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!

Fans of horror and Southern Gothic narratives, brace yourselves! “Pocket Full of Teeth” is now available for pre-order worldwide.

Set against the backdrop of a small, enigmatic town, “Pocket Full of Teeth” promises readers an immersive journey into the depths of human complexity and the intricacies of secrets hidden beneath the surface. With a seamless blend of horror, literary style, and unforgettable characters, this novel is poised to captivate readers from the very first page.

Kirkus Review called it “Haunting and powerful, this dark little gem of a novel is an absolute must-read.” Hardy weaves a tale that transcends mere storytelling, delving into the profound intricacies of human nature and the darker corners of generational trauma. As the protagonist embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her mother’s death, readers will find themselves irresistibly drawn into a world where nothing is quite as it seems.

“This novel is a labor of love, crafted to mirror how and why we tell stories,” says Aimee Hardy. “I wanted to create a narrative that not only entertains but also challenges readers to question their assumptions and contemplate the complexities of the human experience and how they tell their own stories.”

With its richly drawn characters, tightly woven plot, and unexpected twists, “Pocket Full of Teeth” promises to be a must-read for fans of horror and literary fiction alike. From its haunting opening to its breathtaking conclusion, this novel will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

For more information about “Pocket Full of Teeth” and to pre-order your copy today, visit Bookshop.org or order it from your local Indie bookstore!

For media inquiries, interviews, or review copies, please contact: contact@aimeehardy.com

Creative Writing Challenge Day 10

Character development is the backbone of any compelling narrative. Crafting multi-dimensional characters that resonate with your audience is a hallmark of great storytelling. One innovative tool that writers can use to deepen their characters is creating a playlist that represents their unique musical tastes and emotional journey.

Check out my latest video where I consider what aspects will go into my own character playlist.

Let’s explore how curating a character playlist can be a valuable resource for enhancing character development in your writing.

Establishing Character Identity

Music is a powerful form of self-expression, and it often reflects a person’s personality, values, and experiences. By selecting songs that align with your character’s tastes and preferences, you can establish a clear and distinctive identity for them.

For example, if your character is a rebellious teenager, their playlist may be filled with punk rock and alternative songs, reflecting their defiance and desire for independence.

2. Revealing Emotional Depth

Music has an uncanny ability to evoke emotions. When you create a character playlist, you can select songs that resonate with your character’s emotional journey throughout your story. This process can help you dig deeper into their emotional responses and growth.

For example, if your character experiences heartbreak, their playlist may include soulful ballads that mirror their feelings of sadness and longing, allowing readers to connect with their emotional state.

3. Charting Character Development

A character’s playlist can evolve over the course of your story, mirroring their personal growth and transformation. By periodically updating the playlist to reflect their changing tastes and experiences, you can emphasize their development.

For example, a reserved and introverted character may start with a playlist featuring mellow and introspective music but transition to more upbeat and lively tunes as they become more extroverted and adventurous.

4. Exploring Relationships

The songs a character associates with others can reveal intricate aspects of their relationships. By adding songs that symbolize their interactions with other characters, you can provide insight into the dynamics at play.

For example, if a character has a complex love-hate relationship with someone, their playlist may include a mix of love songs and angsty tracks, showcasing the emotional complexity of their connection.

5. Creating Symbolism

Music can be used symbolically in your writing to represent themes, motifs, or key plot points. A character’s playlist can incorporate songs that foreshadow events or serve as thematic elements, adding depth to your storytelling.

For example, in a story about redemption, a character’s playlist might include songs about second chances and personal growth, emphasizing the overarching theme.

Creating a playlist for your characters is a dynamic and engaging approach to character development. By carefully selecting songs that reflect their identity, emotions, growth, relationships, and symbolic elements, you can breathe life into your characters and make them relatable and compelling to your readers. This musical journey not only enriches your characters but also provides you with a valuable tool for exploring their depths and telling a more impactful story. So, next time you embark on a writing project, don’t forget to hit play and let the music guide your characters towards their fullest potential.

Creative Writing Challenge Day 9

Character development is the heart and soul of storytelling. Whether you’re writing a novel, crafting a screenplay, or embarking on a role-playing adventure, well-developed characters are essential to engage your audience. An exciting and unconventional way to hone your character development skills is by creating your very own superhero.

Check out the video below to see how I come up with a new superhero and how it inspires my own writing.

Let’s explore how the process of inventing a superhero can lead to richer, more multifaceted characters in your writing.

Defining Unique Powers and Abilities

When you create a superhero, you must think deeply about the superpowers and abilities they possess. This process forces you to consider the intricacies of your character’s strengths, weaknesses, and limitations. Translating these aspects into your writing can lead to well-rounded characters with distinct qualities and capabilities.

For example, if your superhero can control fire but is vulnerable to water, think about how this vulnerability shapes their personality and choices. Do they fear rain or have a fascination with heat? Such quirks can make your character more interesting and relatable.

2. Exploring Motivations and Backstories

Behind every superhero is a compelling origin story. Creating a backstory for your superhero involves delving into their past, exploring pivotal life events, and understanding their motivations for becoming a hero. These elements can provide valuable insights into character development in your writing.

For example, if you superhero lost a loved one due to a criminal act, their unwavering commitment to justice becomes more understandable. This backstory can help you craft characters in your stories with complex emotional landscapes.

3. Developing Conflicts and Arch-Nemeses

Superheroes are defined by their conflicts with supervillains. Designing a memorable arch-nemesis for your superhero requires you to consider the motivations, goals, and characteristics of both hero and villain. This process can inspire multifaceted antagonists in your stories.

For example, Batman’s unyielding sense of justice clashes with the Joker’s anarchic chaos, creating a captivating dynamic. Applying similar depth to your characters’ conflicts can add layers of complexity to your storytelling.

4. Examining Moral Codes and Personal Values

Superheroes often grapple with ethical dilemmas and moral choices. Creating a superhero means establishing their code of ethics and values, which can serve as a moral compass for your character. This exploration can lead to richer character development in your writing.

For example, Superman’s commitment to truth and justice guides his actions and decisions. Incorporating such a moral compass in your characters can help you explore themes of integrity, sacrifice, and personal growth in your stories.

5. Fleshing Out Relationships and Alliances

Superheroes rarely stand alone; they form alliances and have intricate relationships with other characters in their universe. Developing the superhero’s interactions with sidekicks, allies, and fellow heroes can help you create well-defined, relatable character dynamics in your writing.

For example, Spider-Man’s relationship with Mary Jane Watson adds a layer of humanity to his character. Exploring similar relationships can bring depth to your own characters and their stories.

Creating a superhero may seem like child’s play, but it’s a powerful exercise that can significantly enhance your character development skills as a writer. By inventing a superhero, you delve into the intricacies of unique powers, motivations, conflicts, moral codes, and relationships. These aspects, when transferred to your writing, can result in characters that are not only relatable but also multi-dimensional and engaging. So, embrace your inner hero, and watch your characters soar to new heights of complexity and intrigue. Your writing will thank you for it.