I've finished a solid draft of the second story. Looking back at my post announcing the idea, I noticed that it took about one month to write. That makes me happy. It means I've done consistent work and my process of outlining has gone smoothly. I do have a few issues with it. One more… Continue reading November Update
I'm working abnormally fast. It took me less than three days to get a full outline and I'm already writing the story. Killer Pete took forever to outline and even longer to write. This one is flowing. I've learned to be happy for small, good things like having a story flow. Once again, I have… Continue reading Madmen Prefer Blondes Scene One
I previously said 1. I was going to take a break. 2. I was going to read. 3. My next story was going to be more intimate with fewer characters. So, what did I do? I outlined the second story of my new book. It's got 12 characters and is complicated as hell. And my… Continue reading 2nd Story Update
I've had a few stuffy reads lately. Well regarded, well written, well mannered—well, well, well. And then, I read this pulpy, wild tale. It's freeing. The novel teems with coincidences and improbable turns, yet they never feel arbitrary. Within Markham’s feverish style, these chance encounters take on the rhythm of a nightmare—events emerging and dissolving… Continue reading The Devil Drives (1932)
It took longer than expected, but I finally finished a solid draft of Killer Pete. I'm going to take a month-long break. I'm going to read, exercise, meditate...anything but write. Whenever an idea comes to me, I'll make a note of it. The next story will have a smaller cast and more action. Pete is… Continue reading October update
James Scott Byrnside 