Welcome to Toni Andrews and her next stop on the…
virtual book tour.
First—Toni is giving away a free copy of Cry Mercy to a randomly selected commenter. So, don’t be shy! J
Second—Click the link if you want to find out how Toni can send you a signed book plate.
And now, here’s Toni herself—
Tags: Cry Mercy, how to plot, Mercy Hollings, Toni Andrews
June 19th, 2009 at 10:10 am
Awesome! Thanks for the advice. I was having some issues with my writing about how to balance action with the downtime and not make it too “Hollywood action” or too “sleepy”. I like hearing how you plot the story. I’m not a chart type person yet…but I do a bullet point outlines for starting out. Although I have yet to actually follow one I outline! =)
June 19th, 2009 at 10:35 am
As a college student I found your post to be most insightful. The equal balance levels on defining your characters and books. As for graphs and charts- what a great and analytical way to organize your thoughts and goals. I have never written more than an essay while being in college, but if/when I decide to write a novel or memoir I will refer to your guidance. Thank you!
June 19th, 2009 at 11:39 am
I loved when you said turning points and then clarified by saying raising the stakes.
I think a lot of writers forget that for fiction to keep readers glued, every turning point needs to be a turn for the worse.
Except of course for the very last one. Then it’s ok for the protagonist to win.
June 19th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Hi Toni!
I’m really enjoying your virtual tour! Not sure how you come up with all of your ideas, but keep them coming!
Keeping my fingers crossed for that copy of Cry Mercy!
Thanks again!
June 19th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
The video is neat! I also like the colors on the blog–the blue is very soothing.
June 19th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
Hello, Toni! I particularly loved this video, it was great to know more about your writing process. Thank you for sharing that!
June 19th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
Hi:)
This was a terrific vlog. Thank you for giving us avid readers an insight into your process. You’re the best.
Be well and thank you for writing & sharing.
Love From Canada
xoxo
June 19th, 2009 at 4:33 pm
Good luck on winning a copy of Toni’s book to everyone who left a comment. I enjoyed Toni’s vlog today too.
And thanks to Victoria on the compliment to my blog — glad I could “soothe your day. 
And “hi” to Rob from another Canuck.
June 19th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Hey Toni,
I was finally able to watch the whole video (I’m journalwriter7 on twitter). My computer must have gotten stuck. I’m glad I was able to listen to the rest of your plot point advice. It was similar to what I had just read in Donald Maass’s book Writing the Breakout Novel on increasing the stakes. I’ve come to the realization part of my novel and am working out the plot right before the summary.
I will definitely look into the Discovery Story Magic you mentioned with the grid.
Thanks for the great advice.
Look forward to your next video!
June 22nd, 2009 at 11:01 am
Hi Toni, as a reader, I find it fascinating hearing about your writing process. Thanks for another great vblog.
July 1st, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Sorry to take so long for this update, but Dawn Herring is the winner of the copy of Cry Mercy!
Dawn, please contact me through my website, and send me your mailing address, so I can make sure you receive your copy.