Zylinski Books

Monday, June 7, 2010

     My blog has moved to http://kimberlyzylinski.blogspot.com!  This is an actual blogging web-site which will more easily allow you to post comments and have conversations with me as well as other readers!  Yay, we are moving up in the world!  Check it out, but don't to visit this site.   

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 Sunday, June 6, 2010

     You know how you are doing a project or something that you've done a million times and you know you are capable of better?  Well, I have to confess that I have been feeling that way about my writing, but then Friday night it started clicking into place.  I've reached a critical point in Andy's story and it is just flowing out of my mind so quickly that my fingertips can barely keep up!  A part of me feels like I have just won a marathon because I feel like I have been battling to write something solid in this story for quite a few pages. 

     This reminds me of when I was writing chapter seven for RoV.  I knew I had to introduce the love interest, Mark, but couldn't figure how I was going to write him in.  Then, all of the sudden it fell together: have him be Anne's personal knight in shining armor by avoiding a run in with the police at a frat party.  And just like that I had them running in the neighborhood together and on their first date.  I think that's one of the things I love about writing: it's the craziest situations that end up being the most relatable.

     Reflecting on my past two paragraphs, I guess it is fair to say that I have been struggling making Andy relatable.  As I have mentioned before, I've never written through a guy's perspective, but was excited for the challenge.  I still am.  So I will continue thinking of crazy, relatable situations to place in the story because the high of doing something that I love (and doing it well) it truly addictiing. 

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Friday, June 4, 2010

     A few days ago I mentioned that I had no idea what was going to happen next in the story.  I still don't, but I have a better idea of what is coming next for our star, Andy.  Going back through the story and revising things was very helpful in deciding what my next move is going to be.  I may reread it again soon, just to see what I think is lacking. 

     Seeing that the summer is here, I was wondering what else is new in the literary community?  Is anyone excited about any upcoming books or certain beach reads for their vacation.  I still would like to use this blog as a discussion board for other kinds of literature out there and what anybody's interests might be as far as books are concerned.   

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Thursday, June 3, 2010 

     I remembered today why I turned to writing activities in high school-I'm not an athlete.  I went bike riding today after work and let's just say that it's easier to write about an athletic character, than to be one.  Needless to say that while pedaling uphill all I could think about is pedaling and not the story I was writing.  I'm hoping that this will become easier as time goes on. 

     The plot in Andy's story is thickening and it's totally exciting.  Well, at least I'm excited so maybe I'll post a snip-it up on the web-site soon. 

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Wednesday, June 2, 2010

     Last night, I totally got sucked into writing-thank you caffeine- and stayed up an hour past my usual bed time to write.  Surprisingly, I didn't pay for it this morning so I don't know how that works, but it's something I'm not questioning.  I am slowing down the story and I think that will slightly change my plot line and thus lead to my big light bulb moment! 

     When I did this last year with RoV, I was able to put all the pieces together much more cohesively.  I'm also lacking feedback on the story because I haven't released it to anyone.  I feel like I'm in competition with myself to produce a better first draft, which is just silly because it's a first draft.  I'm a firm believer that sequels have to meet or exceed the first book, movie, etc. otherwise it's a bit anti-climatic.  That's why we are all sucked into Harry Potter, right?  They just kept getting better! 

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 Tuesday, June 1, 2010

     I must confess that it is more difficult to concentrate on writing when the summer season is upon us.  Summer is my favorite season and I'm sure a small part of it is due to the fact that my birthday is in July.  I love golfing, watching baseball, walking, swimming, and my latest and greatest obsession-biking.  I found my bike in my parent's garage this past weekend and found the freedom of riding around while exercising exhilirating.  I'm hoping that bike riding will be a tool to a smaller number when stepping on the scale, but also clearing my head to think about the plot line to Andy's story. 

     Two nights ago, I had difficulty falling asleep because I was immersed in thinking about the plot line of the story.  This was annoying because I truly was tired, but exciting due to the fact that I spent a number of nights not being able to fall asleep while writing RoV.  I am interpreting this as a sign of progress because my sleepless nights last year have made me successful. 

     On a side note, please stay posted because I am putting together my mini-summer book tour.  I already have the date set up at the Fire Escape and I may be returning to affogato. 

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 Sunday, May 30, 2010

     I'm getting places with Andy's story.  I am going back through what I have and slowing the story down by adding descriptive details and adding more plot.  I have always written like this, even with school papers.  I would write the pertinent information and then go back and make my points stronger or add a paragraph of fluff.  It's always sort of worked for me. 

     I need to think of a real title for this story that I am writing.  I always knew that the title of Rules of Vegas would in fact be Rules of Vegas.  I'm up for suggestions even though you don't have a whole lot to go on with what this new story is about.  I don't want the nickname of Andy's story to stick too much.  It's sometimes all you can think about when you look at someone or something that has a nickname and suddenly the real name doesn't fit. 

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Saturday, May 29, 2010

     As promised, I said I would think about the whole bridal shop story idea for a few days before deciding what to do with it.  I have decided to keep the idea in mind, but not act on it until I have Andy's story written.  Too many partial stories can't be a good thing. 

     I started writing Andy's story the other night and I was ready to get all into it, but then I became distracted with laundry (my lazy cats don't do it for me) and then talking to my husband when he came home from work (just because I love him), and by the time I got back to my story I was too tired so I went to bed.  I'm still trying to find my new groove with balancing my new job and home life.  It really would be easier if my cats would clean during the day-they could totally dust the furniture with their tails!  Okay, so I'm going to go write while I'm not tired yet!     

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Thursday, May 27, 2010 

     So tonight after reminiscing over the bridal shop tales from work with a few co-workers and friends, I thought about writing a fictional story that would feature a character who worked there.  This idea intrigues me and I will probably entertain the idea for a few more days before deciding what I want to do with it.  That would be a lot of wedding stuff and discussing weddings since my full-time job involves bridal gowns.  I can't watch Say Yes to the Dress  or similar shows because it's just too much weddings.  Perhaps it will be different since I will be controlling the wedding writing.  I suppose that is my question to my fellow writers or anyone who wants to add their two cents: when is too much of a good thing, too much? 

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Wednesday, May 26, 2010

      For a fleeting moment today, I thought about writing a memoir; but my life isn't all that interesting.  I've done interesting things, but my twenty-some years of interesting experiences would only fill a few pages.  I feel the neatest thing I have ever done is publish a fiction novel, which is old news to you by now.  I've also met Al Roker, which was a good time as well.  I'm just curious as to what interesting things you have ever written about?  Or if you have ever added your interesting experiences to a fictional character? 

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Tuesday, May 25, 2010 

     I had a a small idea regarding my story through Andy's perspective.  I was brushing my teeth and I was like, "oh, that could be interesting."  Then, my automatic tootbrush stopped becaused I had thought about it for too long.  At least my teeth were super clean this morning!  I find it amusing how some things just hit me out of nowhere.  This isn't my big idea to connect the dots from what I have to my idea for the end, but it definitely might make the path easier.  I'm looking forward to finding the time to actually write it! 

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Monday, May 24, 2010

     The itch to continue writing Andy's story has got me again.  I had set it down for a few days for two reasons: one, I have been busy with my new job and two, I just don't know what to do with it.  Granted, I still have no idea what to do next with it, I am still waiting for my big light bulb moment.  However, I think if I read through it, add some notes, and keep forging forward I will get something that I can work with.  That's right kids, like a runner I am going to power through because the end is a bittersweet moment.  I'm searching for the sense of accomplishment to have written two novels before the age of ???  Well, numbers aren't that important when you're a writer. 

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Sunday, May 23, 2010

     So today I was at the Pirate game and began wondering what a novel about a sports star would look like.  This isn't the first time that I thought about writing about a sports superstar.  Steeler's QB, Ben Roethlisberger, and his recent legal troubles made me wonder how compelling a story about a sports star who doesn't have the cleanest record (nothing as gross as what number 7 has been accused of) who's wacky agent tries to promote his image. 

    However, a traveling sports star story could be fun too.  I don't know, what do you think?  Maybe as I cheer for teh Pirates as the summer goes on, I will work out a better story line.  I'll keep you posted.   

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Saturday, May 22, 2010

     It's rainy and dreary outside thus, making it a great day to sit in and read.  I think it's amusing how any time of year is a good time to read.  Just yesterday I mentioned how I would be able to read since I am going on summer vacations.  Other times one may hear that because it is winter, it is a good time to read since it's cold outside.  It might be all a ruse by educational leaders in order to make kids read or adults for that matter.  Night is falling, so I am thinking I am going to go read for a little bit because it makes me feel cozy. 

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Friday, May 21, 2010

     Hello readers!  I am glad summer is upon us because I have some long weekends and a vacation planned where I hope to get some reading done.  I have The Seamstress of Hollywood Bouvelard, The Lovely Bones, and for some reason or another, I always end up reading the Harry Potter Series.  What are your summer reads?

     Crazily enough, I think I might reread my own book again (I've stopped counting the number of times I've read it) in order to prepare some different sections for my book readings.  I have a feeling that my groupies (yes, I have a handful of groupies) might become tired of hearing the same section.  Plus, I think it would be helpful to acquaint myself with Andy's personality quirks as I'm still waiting for my big idea with his story to click. 

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Wednesday, May 19, 2010

     I was talking to someone today who is the process of reading my book.  When I asked how far they have read, they responded by saying you were fighting with Andy at the apartment.  I didn't give much a response, but I began wondering how many people read stories and see the author in the book.  I'm definitely not Anne, but I did throw some of my interests in her personality such as the love of moose tracks ice cream and Justin Timberlake. 

     When reading Nicholas Sparks novels, it is very apparent that he loves the Carolina region.  Even Stephenie Meyer made Edward and Alice Cullen love her favorite band, Muse.  It makes me wonder how other authors place themselves in their books, if at all.  I feel that you have to put a little bit of yourself in the book, otherwise it's not really your work.  What do you think? 

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 Tuesday, May 18, 2010

     I'm sorry avid readers for not blogging in a few days.  I have started a new full-time job and thus have been super busy.  I must admit, I have nothing brillant to write about.  Perhaps that is the life of a writer.  Some days are full of ideas, others are not so much. 

     How do others deal with writer's block?  I think I have to focus on other stuff even if it's something mundane such as cleaning.  Sometimes I like listening to music that goes with the mood of what I am writing.  Just in case Rules of Vegas becomes a movie, I have a whole soundtrack worked out in case Hollywood needs my help. 

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Saturday, May 15, 2010

     The book reading tonight was a success as I had the largest turn out since starting my coffee shop tour with my book.  The Fire Escape was such a gracious host that I will be returning there on Friday, June 18.  Please mark your calendars! 

      I have to say that the thing I love most about doing book readings is the conversation that evolves afterwards.  Tonight after reading, I began answering questions about whether or not this is based on a true story.  It's definitely not anyone's life, but there are some truths to it like Anne's grandmother's recipe was the one that my grandmother had in her home or some of Andy's college shenangin's are modeled after things that I heard about in college (Dorm life in itself is an education). 

     One of my favorite lines from the movie, Never Been Kissed, is when Drew Barrymore has her "light bulb" moment and she says, 'You have to write what you know.'  I may not know anything about sharing an apartment with a stepsibling or frat parties, but I know about my grandmother's recipe tin or the excitement about dressing up for a first date.  And I feel that those are the details that bring any book to life because they are so highly relatable.

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 Thursday, May 13, 2010

     I am looking forward to my book reading this Saturday at The Fire Escape.  I know there has been more hype surrounding this reading thanks to the employees there.  Also, I am feeling better than last Thursday so I anticipate no 'Little Mermaid' issues where my voice is lost.  Plus, an added bonus to coming to the reading is live music following my reading. 

     Due to time constraints and a lack of a light bulb moment, I have written much lately.  It's amazing how writing this story contrasts from Rules of Vegas because it seems that I was able to pound out the whole story before taking a break.  This time I am finding that I need more time to think it through.  It makes me wondering just how long the plot for Rules of Vegas was festering in my head. 

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 Wednesday, May 12, 2010

     I had a light bulb moment this evening driving back home from dinner with my mom; however, it was unrelated to Andy's story.  I was thinking of creative ways to sell Rules of Vegas when it dawned on me: a party that is similar in fashion to Tupperware or candles.  I'm not saying this is my best idea or even a good one at that, nevertheless it was an idea.  So if you are a self-published author or even a musician with a album and want to join me in my crusade to party it up Mary Kay make-up style then let me know.  Also, on the flip side if you want to have a party where I read my book, let me know.  Just sometimes the craziest of ideas turn into something big: I would know, I wrote a novel because I was bored. 

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Tuesday, May 11, 2010

    I am still waiting for my big light bulb moment for Andy's story.  In the meantime, I have found myself going back through what I have written to make notes of what needs to be added.  The reviewing toolbar is my best friend; just ask anyone who has ever written the prepublished version of Rules of Vegas or one of their own papers for school.  It may take a couple times reading through it, but I know it will all click.  This is the reason why a section of Andy's story hasn't showed up on the Future Works portion of my web-site.  Stay tuned though, it's coming. 

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Monday, May 10, 2010

     I am at an exciting point of my writing of the sequel through Andy's perspective.  What makes it so exciting?  I have no idea what's going to happen next!  I have ideas of what I would like to happen and I have a general idea of where I want it to go, but I have not a clue as to what Andy is going to do next.  A little bit of mystery is healthy and fun.  I don't think I would want to write a story where I knew exactly what the final outcome is going to be just as I would not want to live life knowing what is going to happen tomorrow (although knowing the winning Powerball numbers wouldn't be such a bad giveaway). 

     One of my favorite chapters from Rules of Vegas is the one where I knew I had to introduce Anne's love interest, Mark, but had not a clue as to how I was going to get him there.  Then, while sitting in my office between switchboard calls, it was literally like a lightbulb when on above my head and I had my idea.  Chapter seven wrote itself.  So for this next part with Andy, I am waiting for the lightbulb to come on above my head.  It may take some time or some more editing down the road, but that's okay.  It's totally worth the wait and I'm enjoying the fact that Andy is just as unpredictable to me as he will be in book form to you. 

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Saturday, May 8, 2010

     I have been getting some interesting feedback about my book.  It's fun to hear from people who are in the midst of reading my book because they have theories as to what's going to happen.  If asked, I tell them they will just have to read on.  Even those that have read the book have told me that they thought the book would end a different way.  Also, it is intriguing to think about their theories because when writing something of this this magnitude, it can go in any direction.  It's exciting to have my book being discussed and receiving feedback. 

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Thursday, May 6, 2010

     Well, tonight was a very interesting book reading.  I arrived at the Beehive to start the reading when my voice disappeared.  Needless to say, I didn't get to read my book.  However, I had some awesome tea with a good friend of mine and I have hope that my next book reading on Saturday, May 15 is more successful.  It was a bummer not to do my book reading because the Beehive has a great vibe and the crowd was certainly there.  On a positive note, my self-designed business cards arrived today and they look fantastic!  It's the first time that I have had my name on a business card.  I'm moving up in the world!

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 Wednesday, May 5, 2010

     Tomorrow is my third book reading at the Beehive in the Southside.  I am hoping to catch the college crowd celebrating their finals being over or escaping from the confines of their dorm rooms for a break or to even study.  I give props to anyone who can study in a noisy environment.  Even when writing for fun, I have to remove all distractions otherwise it's useless.  Often, I write with classical music, which I like to think makes me more intelligent.  However, if nothing else it keeps me mellow. 

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Tuesday, May 4, 2010

     Today while driving home from work, I began wondering about what I wanted to write and hoped that I wasn't writing any super pinnacle scenes near my bed time.  Anyone who knows me well, knows that I am a much more functional and nicer human being when I have had at least six hours of sleep.  There have been a few evenings lately where the clock on the cable box glares me down with it's gold numbers alerting me that I should go to bed.  However, no matter how loud my pillow calls me, I can't pull myself away from the crucial scene. If I do go to bed without finishing the scene, I find myself lying awake thinking about it; therefore, it would have been beneficial just to finish it.   

   This made me wonder what people like Stephen King, J.K. Rowling, Danielle Steel, etc. who throw out book after book do.  Do they have a structured schedule or do they work all through the night to finish the piece they work on?  Perhaps it is different if they have a deadline set by the publisher.  Anyway, this is my random thought for the day. 

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Monday, May 3, 2010

     I received some awesome news a few days ago and got confirmation to share it with you today!  Joseph-Beth Booksellers located in the Southside of Pittsburgh has purchased a few books to place on the shelves of their store!  Perhaps in a few days I will post a dorky picture of myself from the book store admiring my book on the shelf.  It's the small things in life, is it not?  My book in an honest-to-God bookstore-I'm totally psyched about it!   

     Today is a rarity for me-I'm home this afternoon, so I have been entertaining the idea of a sequel to Rules of Vegas that would be told through Andy's perspective.  I have never written from a guy's point of view and certainly like the challenge of it.  Definitely feel free to drop me a line or two with your thoughts about this whether it be through my e-mail address kimberlyzylinski@kimberlyzylinski.com or via the Facebook fan page. 

    Looking forward to your feedback and conquering the world's bookstores one at a time!

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Sunday, May 2, 2010

      Good morning!  It has been over a year since I have started writing Rules of Vegas.  In fact, at this time last year I was finishing up the story.  It has been a wild and exciting journey.  However, like any journey worth taking, it has also had its bumps.  I have decided to start this blog as a way to continue writing and hopefully connect with readers as well as writers who share the same passion that I do.  Also, I would like to use it as a platform to share my thoughts about the beloved characters that I have placed onto paper.  Like publishing the novel, I am looking forward to this blogging adventure and hope to hear your feeback about my wonderings, writing, and your personal experiences with the literary world!