by

Book Review: Atonement in Bloom

I’ve been aboard Teagan’s tour bus for a few days and just hopped off for some biscuits and gravy in Atonement, Tennessee. While I’m at it, I’ll attempt a little magic for Teagan and share my review of Atonement in Bloom.

But, oh, not so fast. First I had to delve into Teagan’s amazing technicolor pantser brain and find out how she does it! Here is my question:

I know that you’re a pantser, Teagan, and I assure you that this is foreign territory for us dedicated outliners. Your stories are full of magic – people, objects, places, lore – and they all converge on the small town of Atonement in a zany adventure with eight plot threads whirling around at once. How do you keep this literary cyclone straight and make sure that it arrives at “the end” in one piece? I’d love to learn about the method to your madness. How you keep your stories straight?

Here’s her answer:

Teagan’s Tips for Pantsers

Diana, thank you from the bottom of my heart for letting me visit Myths of the Mirror. I love your blog name. I can’t help being reminded of the wickedly mischievous mirror in my Atonement stories.

Horsefeathers! Did I really have eight plot threads? I suppose that statement alone is a good way to illustrate the differences between pantsers and plotters. (A pantser is someone who “flies by the seat of their pants,” writing in a completely unplanned way.)

If I had my druthers, I would have a rather loose plan and a vague outline — I’d be a combination pantser and plotter. However, my job keeps me in a stress overload. When I’m stressed, I can’t cope with the planning of writing. The serials on my blog are full-on pantser, 100% spontaneous and unplanned.

atonement notebook

While Atonement, Tennessee actually was planned (those were better days!), the sequel, Atonement in Bloom… not so much. Plus, because of work, I had to start and stop repeatedly over several years. That would make it even harder for me to plan.

How to keep it straight? I create a character matrix before I start writing. Even though I’m not planning, the storytelling can’t start until I have a character. So I note some details about that character. Then as other characters, artifacts, and places come into the story, I add them to the matrix. Sometimes I give the reader a clue — yet I don’t know where it’s going. Things like that get a note in the matrix too.

I do have a couple of tricks

The matrix is in Excel. I have a lot of columns and I try to fill in the same details for every character – whether or not I actually use the detail in the story.

Electronic notes

MS Word – Styles. As I write the story, I make notes in the manuscript regarding where in the story certain things happen. I use the Styles feature in word combined with enabling the “navigation pane.” When I apply a heading style to the note, it lets me see it, at a glance, on the left side of the screen. So it’s very easy for me to keep track of where or when something happened.

Atonement 2 nav pane

Diana, I’m absolutely thrilled that you enjoyed Atonement in Bloom. Thank you again for letting me visit. Hugs!

Diana’s note here: As an outliner, I also keep a number of Excel grids, but I’ve never considered using Word’s Styles to make notes! Great tip for all writers. Thanks, Teagan!

And now my review:

Atonement in Bloom begins at the point where Atonement, Tennessee (book one) ended. Although the events that took place in book 1 were erased from the memories of most of Atonement’s citizens, Ralda and her Goth friend, Bethany, remember very clearly.

Not only has little returned to normal, but the presence of magic in the small town is much deeper and broader than first imagined. As it turns out, more people know about the local magic than just Ralda and Bethany, and magical characters are constantly popping in to sway events. There is a wide variety of objects with a range of supernatural powers, most which came from Sunhold, Ralda’s old house by the cemetery.

Geneviene is at it again with a whimsical, magic-filled story that is full of surprises. The gal pals take a back seat this time, except for Bethany, as the plot thickens and runs off the rails – in a good way! The action starts immediately, and the pace speeds along with multiple events and mysteries piling one atop another. One of my favorite scenes was when a love spell goes haywire and the characters are all attracted to the wrong people.

Besides the author’s wild imagination, I was once again enamored with a host of delightful characters including glowing pigs that talk, a woman who’s a living Meadow and leaves flowers growing in her wake, and a slithering dragon that is mistaken for a bear. Robin, the Shakespeare-quoting sheriff has a bigger role. And, of course, Ralda’s cat, Lilith, makes a reappearance as the only other POV character besides her owner.

In keeping with the tone of the first book, this is a light and fanciful read with plenty to keep a reader entertained. Appropriate for all ages and perfect for anyone who loves playful magic.

Ready for a magical read?

Global Amazon Link

You can also visit Teagan at:
Amazon 
Twitter
Facebook
Pinterest
YouTube
LinkedIn

193 thoughts on “Book Review: Atonement in Bloom”

  1. Book Review: Atonement in Bloom — Myths of the Mirror – SEO says:
    January 26, 2019 at 6:50 am

    […] via Book Review: Atonement in Bloom — Myths of the Mirror […]

    Liked by 1 person

  2. thebookwormdrinketh says:
    November 5, 2018 at 8:00 am

    I can’t wait to read these!! I just recently hopped on the bus and I’m looking forward to forcing the bus to stop for a bathroom break so I can sneak off and share my thoughts! So interesting to see the process behind the work!! A character matrix is definitely not something I would have thought of doing!! 💖

    Liked by 3 people

  3. Marcia says:
    November 5, 2018 at 5:46 am

    Reblogged this on The Write Stuff and commented:
    Teagan Geneviene is a guest on D. Wallace Peach’s Myths of the Mirror blog, sharing news about her latest book, Atonement in Bloom and some great writing/outlining tips, too. Add to that Diana’s lovely review of the book, and you have an awful lot of good stuff in one super post! Check it out! (And then pass it along so others can enjoy.) THANKS! Good job, Diana and Teagan! I really enjoyed this one a lot! 🙂 ❤

    Liked by 4 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      November 5, 2018 at 10:11 am

      Heartfelt thanks for sharing from your place, Marcia. You’re a treasure. Mega hugs!

      Liked by 1 person

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      November 5, 2018 at 1:49 pm

      Thanks so much for the lovely comment, Marcia. I enjoyed digging into Teagan’s creative head to figure out where these wild stories come from and how she keeps them straight. 🙂 I’m glad you enjoyed her answer as well as the review. Happy Writing, my friend. Are you doing Nano this month?

      Liked by 2 people

      • Marcia says:
        November 5, 2018 at 1:57 pm

        You’re welcome, Diana. It was a great post! No-No NaNo for me. 😉 I am way too far behind on my series to take on anything else. I feel like I’m falling deeper into the hole every day!

        BTW, I owe you an email. I read both the Shattered Sea series and the Rose Shield books, and hope to get a MINUTE somewhere to leave reviews for both. I’m behind on that, too! But rest assured, I loved them, in particular the Shattered Seas. I knew as soon as I saw that gorgeous hero … er … I mean, cover … I’d like that one! 😀

        Liked by 2 people

        • D. Wallace Peach says:
          November 7, 2018 at 6:21 pm

          Thank you for the wonderful comment, Marcia. I’m so glad you enjoyed the series and the hunk.. I mean… hero on the cover. Ha ha. I’ll look forward to your reviews. Yay! I’m embroiled in Nano and it feels great to write again after a hectic summer. I wish you great luck catching up on your series. Happy Writing!

          Liked by 1 person

  4. America On Coffee says:
    November 3, 2018 at 4:48 am

    I love this post with the summary and interview/overview. Teagan really shared some nice writing tips… which will aid many writers. Happy new month to all!!

    Liked by 4 people

  5. Miriam Hurdle says:
    November 2, 2018 at 10:48 pm

    I enjoy this interview, Diana. Teagan, I’m sure your book 3 will be done in no time. I used Excel and the grid, but haven’t used MS Word Styles. I must look into it.

    Liked by 4 people

  6. Robert Matthew Goldstein says:
    November 2, 2018 at 6:19 pm

    Reblogged this on Art by Rob Goldstein and commented:
    Book Review: Atonement in Bloom

    Liked by 4 people

  7. Robert Matthew Goldstein says:
    November 2, 2018 at 6:16 pm

    Excellent review Diana. I can imagine Teagan’s smile.

    Liked by 4 people

  8. Sean P Carlin says:
    November 2, 2018 at 4:19 pm

    Just more proof that there’s no definitive, right-or-wrong way to be a writer: It’s all about finding a mode that works for you.

    I love that you included a little insight into Teagan’s process along with the review, Diana! I never tire of hearing how other writers approach the craft!

    Best to both you ladies for a lovely, restful weekend…

    Liked by 4 people

  9. Teri Polen says:
    November 2, 2018 at 9:13 am

    Amazing review, Diana – I loved spending time with these characters again.

    Liked by 4 people

  10. Staci Troilo says:
    November 1, 2018 at 9:29 am

    Fabulous review. And what an interesting use of styles to keep track of things. I write in Scrivener now, but if I still used Word, I think I’d try that.

    All the best to both of you ladies.

    Liked by 4 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      November 1, 2018 at 4:33 pm

      Thanks for taking a peek at the review, Staci. I know so many writers who use Scrivener, and I’m just so comfortable with Word that I haven’t made the leap. I’m so glad you stopped by, and Happy Writing!

      Liked by 3 people

      • Staci Troilo says:
        November 2, 2018 at 6:01 am

        It took me forever to make the leap. In fact, the first time I tried, I gave up for more than a year, I think. The interface was daunting, and I thought the learning curve was too steep. So I stayed a power-user of Word and wondered what I was missing. The second time I gave it a try, I was hooked. I write so much faster now with everything I need all on one screen.

        So, yes, I’m an advocate, but first and foremost, you have to do what’s right for you. The use of styles is innovative and seems to be working for you. (I used to create a visual outline in PowerPoint to go with my Word docs, but I can see where this could be even more useful.)

        Have a great day!

        Liked by 3 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      November 3, 2018 at 5:27 pm

      I appreciate you visiting, Staci. Have a wonderful rest of the weekend. Hugs!

      Liked by 2 people

  11. ljshouse2015 says:
    October 31, 2018 at 8:45 pm

    I never heard of this series before. So I had to go and get the first book. I’m kind of jealous that I never found all these magical places here in Tennessee that other authors seem to come up with – although there are certainly a lot of beautiful places here.

    Great review, and I loved the writing tips – whether I ever get the chance to use them or not.

    Liked by 4 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      November 1, 2018 at 3:53 pm

      I hope you enjoy the books. Teagan has a great imagination and the magic just spills out of her brain. I hope you find that Tennessee place that reminds you of the book and brings it to life. Happy Reading!

      Liked by 3 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      November 3, 2018 at 5:31 pm

      I’m honored that you got Atonement, Tennessee. LOL, Actually finding the town might be more than any of us would bargain for. 😀
      I lived in TN two different times, and grew up just across the state line, and always felt it was full of magic. Thanks so much for taking time to visit this post. Great big hug!

      Liked by 2 people

  12. Julie Holmes, author says:
    October 31, 2018 at 5:30 pm

    Great interview, Diana and Teagan! I never thought about using Excel for character grids. I use Scrivener to write, and I use OneNote (with binders set up following Karen Wiesner’s First Draft in 30 Days worksheets) to keep track of everything. And my TBR list is going to bury me 😀

    Liked by 4 people

  13. Jina Bazzar says:
    October 31, 2018 at 5:41 am

    Sounds like a lovely story. . Glowing pigs that fly, love potions gone wrong. And more important, entertaining.

    I read parts of Teagan’s stories on her blog and the magic is always thick in the air – in a fascinating way

    Liked by 3 people

  14. Adele Marie says:
    October 30, 2018 at 11:27 am

    A great review. I love Atonement and am looking forward to reading this one too. xxx

    Liked by 3 people

  15. Sarah says:
    October 29, 2018 at 11:25 am

    I’m always fascinated by reading about the writing process and the different approaches they chose to let their magic loose. 😉 So thank you, Teagan for this lovely insight, and thank you, Diana, for the lovely review! 😄

    Liked by 3 people

  16. Mae Clair says:
    October 29, 2018 at 9:34 am

    An awesome review, Diana. Congrats to Teagan.
    I also loved getting a glimpse “behind the scenes” of Teagan’s work progress. I use tables in Word, but maybe I need to switch to Excel!

    Liked by 4 people

  17. lampmagician says:
    October 29, 2018 at 8:16 am

    Reblogged this on lampmagician.

    Liked by 3 people

  18. olganm says:
    October 29, 2018 at 8:15 am

    Great review and great question, Diana. I love Teagan’s writing and her latest one is quite fabulous, and fits in well with the whole series. I’m not great with Excel but like the suggestion of using Styles. Great post!

    Liked by 3 people

  19. Teagan R. Geneviene says:
    October 29, 2018 at 8:05 am

    Reblogged this on Teagan's Books and commented:
    I feel like everything is coming up roses for “Atonement in Bloom” (you know I couldn’t resist the pun). I’m tickled pink that Diana Wallace Peach hosted me at her Myths of the Mirror blog. She gave me a one question interview. Then she added a review of “Bloom” that made me positively giddy! Click on over to visit Diana. I’ve disabled comments here, because I want you to visit her amazing blog. Hugs!

    Liked by 3 people

  20. patriciaruthsusan says:
    October 29, 2018 at 6:39 am

    Reblogged this on Musings on Life & Experience and commented:
    A book review of ATONEMENT IN BLOOM

    Liked by 3 people

  21. acflory says:
    October 29, 2018 at 1:42 am

    I hear you, Teagan. Pantsing is a release, but that doesn’t mean it’s totally disorganised. I use Word navigation for my technical writing but StoryBox’s navigation for fiction [so much easier to move things around].

    As always, a great review, Diana. 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 29, 2018 at 9:28 am

      Thanks for the visit, Andrea. You’re a tech wizard so I’m not surprised that you have found ways to track your stories. I’ve never tried Word navigation or StoryBox. Or most of the other writing aids. I’m stuck in the 90’s. 🙂 I’m glad you enjoyed the review. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      • acflory says:
        October 29, 2018 at 3:31 pm

        -giggles- oh I love that…’tech wizard’.

        Seriously though, Teagan is right, the navigation function is one of THE best things in Word. Just go to the VIEW tab and click the checkbox for ‘Navigation Pane’ [it’s under Ruler and Gridlines. The doc. screen will shove a bit over to the right and you’ll see a vertical column on the left.
        Use any of the Heading Styles, say for your chapter headings or scene headings, and whatever you type as the heading will show up in the navigation pane. If you only use Heading 1 you’ll just get the top level of headings. If you also use Heading 2 or 3 etc, you’ll get indented headings in the navigation pane.
        It’s such a quick and easy way to keep track of your story outline as you write. I think it would be useful for plotters as well because any changes to the original outline will show up in the navigation. Kind of like track changes for the story.
        -sigh- And you probably didn’t want to know all that. Can’t help myself. 😦

        Liked by 3 people

        • D. Wallace Peach says:
          October 29, 2018 at 6:41 pm

          Oh. Ha ha. I do that already… and love it. It’s my main way of navigating my doc. I just didn’t know it was called a “navagation pane.” Hee hee.

          Liked by 1 person

        • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
          November 3, 2018 at 5:47 pm

          And not as messy as using track changes either. I use the lower level headings for “notes” or maybe a better word is “makers.” If I want to make sure I’ve dropped enough clues, or mentioned an element enough, I leave a little note like ‘bear hint’. It lets me easily decide if I gave enough clues.

          Liked by 1 person

          • acflory says:
            November 3, 2018 at 9:25 pm

            I do something very similar with StoryBox! You can name each scene, which shows up in a sort of navigation pane like in Word. But StoryBox also lets me add a short synopsis to the name of the scene. That’s where I put breadcrumbs and also dates, it time is an important element of the story.
            High Five!

            Liked by 2 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      November 3, 2018 at 5:50 pm

      Thanks so much for saying that, Andrea. Just because we don’t plan a story does not mean the work is not organized. I appreciate you taking time to visit. Hugs!

      Liked by 1 person

  22. tracikenworth says:
    October 28, 2018 at 3:45 pm

    Reblogged this on Where Genres Collide.

    Liked by 3 people

  23. Don Massenzio says:
    October 28, 2018 at 10:22 am

    Reblogged this on DSM Publications and commented:
    Check out this book review of Atonement in Bloom by Teagan Riordain Geneviene along with some bonus tips from the author herself in this post from the Myths of the Mirror blog.

    Liked by 3 people

  24. rijanjks says:
    October 28, 2018 at 7:42 am

    What a fantastic review, Diana! I am reading Atonement, Tn now and then will move on to Atonement in Bloom. What a great idea, Teagan to make a character spreadsheet in Excel. I’m going to own that technique. 🙂 Thank you both for a lovely blog!

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 28, 2018 at 10:55 am

      I do the spreadsheet thing too, Jan, and love it. Just wait until you get to the second book… you’ll see why Teagan needs a way of keeping track of things. 🙂 Thanks so much for the visit, and I’m so glad you enjoyed the review. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      October 28, 2018 at 11:08 am

      Hey Jan! I’m honored that you are reading Atonement.
      My spreadsheets transferred from a detailed one I came up with back in Albuquerque when my job involved writing all the software manuals for a large collection of applications. I decided something similar would be useful for the (still unpublished) novel I was working on, because it had an array of characters big enough for Robert Jordan or Tolkien. Not to compare myself to either master — just the number of characters. It worked for me, and since then I’ve started a character matrix for every novel. Great big hug!

      Liked by 3 people

  25. Jacqui Murray says:
    October 28, 2018 at 7:12 am

    What a fun book this sounds like! My one and only fantasy was way too dark to even finish. This sounds delightful–“a woman who’s a living Meadow and leaves flowers growing in her wake”–who couldn’t love that.

    And how you write, Teagan–how interesting. with a spreadsheet, I would have called you a plotter but I suppose it has to do with the plot being spreadsheeted. Very interesting peek behind the curtain.

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 28, 2018 at 10:53 am

      Meadow is a unique character, Jacqui. I’ve never come across another with this ability. And who can resist glowing, talking piglets?! The series is really fun and, of course, I had to pick Teagan’s brain a bit about how she does it. Thanks for the visit and Happy Editing!

      Liked by 2 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      October 28, 2018 at 10:59 am

      Hi Jacqui. Thanks so much for your kind words. The first Atonement novel was definitely planned, if loosely. The tools I describe are more a means of keeping track. The spreadsheet develops as the story develops, not in advance of the story. LOL, I tend to have a lot of elements and details to track! Although I could certainly use Styles in Word to make an outline… a sort of fill in the blank. Hugs!

      Liked by 2 people

  26. michnavs says:
    October 28, 2018 at 6:43 am

    A very comprehensive review Diana..thanks for sharing.

    Liked by 3 people

  27. Steven Baird says:
    October 28, 2018 at 6:34 am

    Nice interview, Diana. It’s always fascinating to discover the madness and methods of other writers. A wonderful and insightful read.

    Liked by 3 people

  28. Jill Weatherholt says:
    October 28, 2018 at 4:35 am

    Great interview, Diana! That Teagan is so smart, isn’t she? I’m a pantser all the way, even though I’m forced to write a synopsis when submitting a proposal…yuck!

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 28, 2018 at 8:51 am

      I think writing synopses is hard, even as an outliner. So I agree with your Yuck, Jill. Yes, Teagan’s writing is charming and a hoot. I don’t know how she does it. Thanks for the visit and have a lovely week!

      Liked by 2 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      October 28, 2018 at 10:43 am

      Hi Jill. I cringe at the thought of a synopsis! I’m not smart at all — I just use Word and Excel all the time for my “real job.” so over the decades I’ve learned my way around. Thanks for visiting. Hugs.

      Liked by 3 people

  29. inesephoto says:
    October 28, 2018 at 3:19 am

    Thank you for the great review, Diana. I enjoyed the book #1, and look forward to returning to Atonement again.

    Liked by 3 people

  30. Molly Stevens - Shallow Reflections says:
    October 28, 2018 at 3:10 am

    This is so interesting, Diana, to gain insight into the process of writing a complicated storyline. I feel like reading this series would be a mini-trip to Disney World. Or attending an impromptu tea party hosted by Alice.

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 28, 2018 at 8:34 am

      The tea party hosted by Alice is a great analogy, Molly. Ha ha. The magic in Teagan’s series is zany and a delight to read. You never know what’s going to happen next. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your Sunday. Happy Reading!

      Liked by 3 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      October 28, 2018 at 10:32 am

      Hi Molly. Thanks for taking time to leave your delightful comment. Haha! I’ve never thought of a visit to the town of Atonement as Disney or Wonderland, but I love the comparison. It’s a quirky town though, and you are always welcome. Hugs!

      Liked by 3 people

  31. failingatwriting says:
    October 27, 2018 at 7:21 pm

    Sounds like a really fun read! Also, it’s nice to know I’m not the only pantser in the world who would love to work up to being just a little bit more of a plotter. It’s amazing to get the insight into a writer’s process – great review, Diana!

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 27, 2018 at 7:28 pm

      Thanks for stopping by, Mary. Teagan’s stories are charming and a bit zany with all the rampant magic. I don’t know how she does it… thus the question. I’m glad you enjoyed it. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      October 28, 2018 at 10:26 am

      Hi Mary, it’s a pleasure to meet you. Yes, I think being a hybrid of the two, pantser and plotter would be ideal — for me anyway. But writing spontaneously from a random prompt is all I can handle when stress takes over. And that’s become the normal state. Whatever lets us write, right? Hugs.

      Liked by 3 people

      • failingatwriting says:
        October 29, 2018 at 6:57 am

        Lovely to meet you as well! I often feel like the process of writing is just me telling myself the story. There’s definitely an element of surprise, fun, and spontaneity in being a pantser (but it makes the editing process pretty tricky!)

        Liked by 3 people

  32. Dan Antion says:
    October 27, 2018 at 2:49 pm

    Thanks for sharing this great review, Diana and thanks for getting Teagan to reveal a little of the way the magic works. I learn so much from you all. I feel like I’m in a writing class except it’s always fun! I hope you both are having a great weekend.

    Liked by 3 people

  33. Bette A. Stevens says:
    October 27, 2018 at 2:36 pm

    Wonderful review, Diana. And Teagan, I thoroughly enjoyed getting the inside scoop on how you manage to ‘pull it all together’ with your writing tips 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

  34. dgkaye says:
    October 27, 2018 at 1:45 pm

    Wonderful review Diana and good tips from Teagan. 🙂 x

    Liked by 3 people

  35. Antonia says:
    October 27, 2018 at 1:44 pm

    I am always amazed with the writing process, and enjoyed the insights from Teagan. Wonderful review, Diana, and congratulations, Teagan!

    Liked by 3 people

  36. Billy Ray Chitwood says:
    October 27, 2018 at 11:55 am

    Great review, Diana and Teagan. ♥

    Liked by 3 people

  37. thecontentedcrafter says:
    October 27, 2018 at 11:34 am

    Fascinating interview Diana. It’s so interesting to learn of a ‘pantser’s’ way of doing things – love it!

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 27, 2018 at 11:59 am

      Thanks, Pauline. I write with an outline and can’t imagine just winging it. But it does appear that pantsers have a bit of structure, including ways of keeping the story on track and tying up loose ends. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. 🙂 Happy Sunday!

      Liked by 2 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      October 27, 2018 at 2:25 pm

      Hi Pauline! I’m delighted that you enjoyed this post. I’m really a bit of a hybrid. LOL. Plotter and pantser. I’d prefer to have a loose outline, but stress gets in the way. There are books that I have in basic draft stage, that really do need some serious planning… so those are on my “shelf” waiting for the day when I can plan again. Thanks for visiting. Great big hug!

      Liked by 3 people

  38. Jacquie Biggar says:
    October 27, 2018 at 11:29 am

    Congrats on the wonderful review, Teagan! I have Atonement in Bloom on my reader, and will be starting it soon.
    Great advice on Excel and Word. I’m a pantser, too. One Note is my friend, lol

    Liked by 3 people

  39. robbiesinspiration says:
    October 27, 2018 at 11:12 am

    A wonderful review of Teagan’s book, Diana. I have it on my kindle and am looking forward to reading it.

    Liked by 4 people

  40. Mary J. McCoy-Dressel says:
    October 27, 2018 at 10:22 am

    I never thought of using Styles the way Teagan does, either. It sounds like a great idea. Thanks for sharing your ideas, Teagan. And, Diana, thank for sharing your review for Atonement in Bloom. Congrats, Teagan.

    Liked by 4 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 27, 2018 at 11:26 am

      I’m going try using styles in my current WIP for notes about things I need to go back to. It’s a great idea. Thanks for visiting, Mary. Hope you’re having a lovely Saturday. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

      • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
        October 27, 2018 at 2:15 pm

        I don’t know what inspired me to use Styles that way, Diana. But I think Atonement was the first time I did it. It works so well for me, that I don’t even look for a better way. It works when I want to make sure I’ve left enough clues about different things. (For instance, I might use heading 3 and simply put “Bear”. Or if I note the first mention of a “thread” I can make sure I haven’t brought things up out of order. It is particularly helpful for work that one has to start and stop a lot, over time… Like Bloom.

        Liked by 4 people

    • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
      October 27, 2018 at 2:17 pm

      Thanks so very much, Mary. I know everybody has different things that work for them. That was my sincere answer to Diana’s question. And it’s fun to share! 🙂
      I look forward to your book featuring the matriarch of your ranch series. Happy writing! Hugs.

      Liked by 3 people

  41. balroop2013 says:
    October 27, 2018 at 9:57 am

    Thanks for this review Diana…what head-spinning magical imagination you have Teagan! Bravo! you amaze me.

    Liked by 4 people

  42. wordsfromanneli says:
    October 27, 2018 at 9:53 am

    Great review, and I was also very interested in the writing methods Teagan described in her tips.

    Liked by 3 people

    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      October 27, 2018 at 11:14 am

      I keep spreadsheets on all kinds of things, but never considered using styles for notes. I’m trying that as I start my next book. 🙂 It’s a fun series for fantasy readers who love lots of zany magic. I can see it as a tv series without a problem. Thanks for stopping by, Anneli. Have a wonderful weekend. 🙂

      Liked by 4 people

      • wordsfromanneli says:
        October 27, 2018 at 11:29 am

        This post has inspired me to try a few new things. I always did spreadsheets for my novels by hand – big sheets of paper with boxes for so many things. It helps to see the bigger picture. But doing it on the computer makes so much sense. I’ll have to check out the styles thing too. Happy writing.

        Liked by 3 people

        • Teagan R. Geneviene says:
          October 27, 2018 at 2:08 pm

          Each of us responds to different things, Anneli. Some people need that tangible, touchable means of tracking. When I first began “educating” myself about writing, in preparation to try my first novel, I read an interview with Fannie Flag. You probably don’t remember her, but she was famous in the USA back in the 90s. She wrote Fried Green Tomatoes. She said she wrote the story out of order (randomly sequenced scenes). Then she strung a clothes line across the room and hung the (paper) scenes from the line, so she could look at them and decide what order she wanted them to be in. There is a lot to be said for your paper method. Happy writing!

          Liked by 4 people

          • wordsfromanneli says:
            October 27, 2018 at 2:41 pm

            I have done a bit of Fannie’s method but not with anything organized in mind – just trying to sort out where things should go. But each novel has different challenges and it’s good not to be too rigid in our structure. It keeps life interesting, don’t you think? Sure appreciate your ideas.

            Liked by 3 people

          • D. Wallace Peach says:
            October 27, 2018 at 7:04 pm

            What a great story about Flag, Teagan. How different we are all is one of the things I love about chatting with other authors. 😀

            Liked by 2 people

  43. Teagan R. Geneviene says:
    October 27, 2018 at 9:20 am

    Dear Diana, I’m truly thrilled to be here at your blog. Your review means the world to me. Heartfelt thanks.
    Also thank you for your feedback about the plot threads. I tried to add fullness, and what I call “layers” to the story. So, I’m happy to know that I managed it.
    I will reblog either Sunday or Monday. Happy almost Halloween. Hugs!

    Liked by 4 people

  44. Priscilla Bettis says:
    October 27, 2018 at 8:57 am

    Teagan, thanks for this insight into your writing process, and Diana, thank you for sharing your review. “A woman who’s a living meadow” made me smile, what a beautiful image. I am intrigued enough that I’ll have to go back and read the first book!

    Liked by 4 people

Comments are closed.