Naughtie’s Comments (group member since Aug 29, 2013)

Naughtie’s comments from the Q&A with Naughtie Scribe group.

And now, before you go, how about a snippet from your book that is meant to intrigue and tantalize us:

“Her intoxicating scent permeated my nostrils with every thrust. Unfortunately, it was not from the full-figured beauty writhing beneath me.”

This has been a lot of fun for me, I hope those of you reading this discussion feel the same.

Until next we chat...

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

“You can't catch a dream you don't chase”, Naughtie Scribe

Over twenty years ago, as a single mother I learned that the only way to break the stereo type and give my children a chance at an opportunity to succeed, was to take a risk on myself and reach past the low hanging fruit.

Now that their grown and very much my pride and joys, it's my turn to go for it. This process has taught me that it really isn't too late to pursue my dream, and achieve it. I've also learned that I not only have the passion, I have the determination to do the hard work that is needed to become a full time writer.

“Naughty Notions Vol. 1” is proof of this, and a tangible inspiration I can hold in my hands.

One book on the shelf, countless more to write.

How did you come up with the title?

Well the title isn't too hard to figure out, lol. Naughty is clearly a play on my pen name and a descriptor of more than a few stories between the covers ;-). Notions however, does have a bit of a back story. Each story in this collection resulted from a contest. Some flash fiction (500-1000 words) or short story (1,000-8,000 words) entries with specific topic requirements. The spark for each story nagged at me for days, until I had no choice but to start sketching out a framework for the characters to call home.

See, part of my writing process is that I don't go with the first idea that pops into my head. In fact I ignore it. The ones that demand attention, won't leave me in peace until I at least jot them down, these are the notions that by their sheer persistence become stories. And in a few case will soon be featured novels.

Assuming the other inhabitants in my head don't get ticked, form an angry mob, and march on my imagination. Goodness knows, I just don't need the added distraction. Uh!

Hi James:

Well that's kind of the point lol. I want readers at large to have an understanding of my passion and to know that I throw my complete self into what ever I'm jazzed to write. Whether it be emotionally disturbing or a side slitting laugh fest, I want the reader to know I love, and hope one day to live by the creative expression of writing.

Thanks for stopping by, we have a few more insights before I call it a wrap. ;-)

James wrote: "Love reading these, they have added depth and dimension to you."

Have you ever been surprised by fan/reviewer reactions to a character?

Chico! ROTFL. Chico is a miniature Schnauzer and a lot smarter than the average wolf. In “Let the Fur Fly” Marques, head of household and beta wolf of the largest pack in North America, competes for his wife's affections against the family dog.

When I wrote this short the humor was in your face. However, I never thought that Chico would end up with his own fan base. On FanStory.com where I'm a member (and post most of my pre-pub writing), I received several requests to read Chico's story. Problem, Chico was never meant to be a main character, just a mirror to Marques insecurities.

Needless to say Chico will be featured prominently in the expanded (full novel) version of “Let the Fur Fly.” Though I'm not sure one book will be enough to contain the upcoming canine smack down.

Do you read reviews of your work? If so, do you pay any attention to them, or let them influence your writing?

Yes, and yes, within measure. Let's be honest, reviews are the power readers wield over authors, more so than the bucks spent on their work. While it is impossible to please everyone (which is why an author should write what they would want to read), too many bad reviews can damage a career, sap the confidence of the author, and in extreme cases – cripple/kill the desire to write (I've seen this happen).

Writing is for the passionate, publishing is for the iron skinned.

A smart writer learns from their reviews. Enough positive reviews can help a writer gage what aspects of their craft work. The flip-side, several critical reviews will allow a writer to grow emotionally, and help them to concentrate on their weaknesses. “Bad Reviews” can be more constructive than their counter parts.

However, not every critique is meant to be helpful. I look not at individual reviews but at patterns. If twenty reviews trend toward the same concerns with my work, I need to give this aspect of my writing serious consideration. If I get a few not so nice reviews, I will the ground to split apart and swallow the offender whole. If that doesn't work I shake it off and remember my style of writing isn't for everyone.

Which of your stories was the easiest/hardest to write?

While writing “Back Door Blessings” the impact and transforming power the secondary characters had on the main character became overwhelming. I actually choked up several times in the writing, and toward the conclusion cried out right. This story still has the power to bring me to tears, and I find it hard sometimes to re-read it (there are two such shorts in this collection, BDB being one of them).

“Back Door Blessings” was so hard to write that my brain began cracking jokes to relieve the emotional tension (or else I would never have completed it). Hence “Paranormal Hotline” came into the literary world. PH is hilarious, a story written for no other reason than to give the reader a good laugh with a paranormal twist. No spoiler alert, but...

If you were ever curious where Werewolves go for advice, you must read “Paranormal Hotline.” The advice is hair raising.

James wrote: "what was the inspiration for it?"

Hi James:

The inspiration for individual stories in "Naughty Notions" came from several short story contests I've entered over the past seven years. And, yes a few of them were 1st Place Winners (I'll let you figure out which ones).

The specific inspiration for the Collection was to show the readership that anything can be expected of me as a writer. I write what jazzes me and therefore pen from a variety of genres. I want the reader to know that when he/she sees my name on a work of fiction a wild and emotional ride is sure to come.

Thanks for the question James, I hope you are having a wonderful Saturday morning.

Good Morning Naughty Ones:

Time to get started. I'll answer your questions as they are posted, in addition to posting answers from off site Q&A's.

Let's begin with James' question.

Good Morning Naughty Ones:

This forum will begin at 9am e.s.t. and end at 9pm e.s.t. So grab your coffee/tea and a bagel and get ready for a nice long chat.

Hi Gang:

It's really kewl we can get together in our own Goodreads virtual town hall. For the next 24hrs you can ask me anything about my current book, blog posts, or any of my writings. Trust me, I'm stoked you'd be interested.

Big Hugs,

Naughtie