Elaine M DeGroot

Sentences. How to structure them? How to start them? How to vary them?

After the story idea inspires, I move forward with my writing. Words become sentences. Sentences form paragraphs. Paragraphs become chapters. Then a story is made.

Well, the process isn't quite that simple.

When I write, I try to vary the structure of my sentences. Some start with introductory phrases. When I do this, I must ensure I don't use similar words too close to each other. I watch out for "When" and "As" while editing.

Other sentences may start off with a single word. This method of beginning a sentence is something I focus on when editing. I've noticed I tend to start sentences, especially in dialogue, with "So" and "Oh." It can get repetitive and annoying, so I end up deleting the word and starting those sentences in a more creative way.

Repetition has its uses, but not in these ways.

The length of sentences should be varied and can be used for pacing purposes. Short sentences pick up the pace. Think fast and action-packed. Longer sentences slow the pace down. Not to the point of boredom, but giving the reader an opportunity to catch their breath and to visualize a setting or a character.

Not beginning a sentence with a name or a pronoun is challenging. I focus more on the narrative parts on this point than dialogue, especially if there are multiple people in the scene. But, in dialogue between two people, think about how often you use a person's name? Rarely, right? I edit the use of names in dialogue with care. I do use a name if the speaking character is using it for emphasis.

Some training has even discussed the beat of sentences. Think of words and/or syllables as creating a beat, a rhythm for the sentence. This isn't something I've focused on…yet. 😊

Writing is fun and challenging. Perhaps that's part of what I enjoy—the challenge.

When I read a story, I pay attention to things like this. It's a way to learn. Does it lessen my enjoyment of reading? Not at all. In fact, I have a new library book to read, so I'm ending this post.

Enjoy your reading!

Please feel free to comment on what you like or dislike when it comes to sentences in books you've read.

One of the many things I enjoy about being an author is sharing bits of myself in the stories I write. How do I do this?

One thing I do is use words or phrases specific to my upbringing and experiences. Growing up in Minnesota, we drank pop, not soda. I translated a visiting NY friend's question to a waitress when she asked what flavors of soda they had. I translated by saying, "She means pop."

A phrase I use when discussing going somewhere and inviting someone to join me is "Do you want to come with?" It strikes some as incomplete, but to me, the where should be understood if you were paying attention to the conversation. 😊

Food items my characters prefer are based on my likes and dislikes. Garrett, in the Consequential Love Series, is a huge fan of snickerdoodle cookies. His preference led to a snickerdoodle-flavored groom's cake! He also drank Gin Bucks, a favorite of mine. Sour cream raisin pie and a favorite way to marinade rib-eye steaks show up in my work in progress, Resolved Regrets.

Items in my life are included in my writing. In my short story, True Treasure, a lamp from my childhood is described as a find in an antique store.

Another short story, Race to Adoption, is based on our adoption of our first pup, Bucko. The questions we faced and our answers are in the story. The fear of not getting to take the puppy home was real.

Of course, my career choices are reflected in my stories. My Air Force service prompted characters who are Air Force veterans, Garrett Dane and Jace Sims, in the Consequential Love Series and Playground Antics. My work with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service inspired Restoration. And my contracting work led me to the scenario that spurs action in Playground Antics.

Does this improve my writing? Hard to say. My readers can decide. Personally, it adds to my ownership of my writing and the pride I take in crafting stories. It makes each story part of me and totally mine.

1. Introduce yourself to our readers. Where do you fit into the story? What should we know about you?

I'm Lois Ramsey, Leigh's mother. For some reason, I feel like I'm portrayed as some sort of villain, simply because I want the best for my one and only daughter. I do add a touch of conflict and an ongoing challenge to the story and that man who's stolen my daughter's heart. I've never used his name in any of the three stories (Resolute Love, Challenged Love, or Victorious Love), so I'm not about to use it now in this interview.

2. What do you think about the author? Tell us everything. We want to know.

The author crafted an interesting tale with very romantic interludes (involving the wrong man with my daughter, I might add), and heart-stopping suspense all because of the main male character's fascination with law enforcement. The author's characters are compelling and unique. Her depiction of my husband, Frank, was impressive. She captured his charm and intelligence.

3. What are your feelings about this story?

Personally, the story is a compelling romantic suspense, but my daughter was the wrong woman to select as the love interest for that man. My daughter is rightly presented as a strong-willed, intelligent, and loving woman, but this series has her falling in love with the wrong man. Throughout the stories, I do my best to battle this injustice.

4. How do you feel about being a character in this book?

My character is portrayed as a scheming woman with discerning taste and an excellent hostess. An accurate description, presented well in my disputes with my daughter and that man.

5. What do you see in your future? (No spoilers please!)

My future may include grandchildren, thanks to my son and his lovely, acceptable wife, Tina. I've also heard rumblings of something called a grandpup. Of course, this news is from my daughter and that man. Heaven help me!

6. Is there Sequel in the future? Will you be part of it?

No one has deemed me worthy to be kept informed of plans for a sequel. It's as though the author thinks I may plan some sort of retribution against that man. I ask you, is this any way to treat a mother? Should there be another book, I must be in it, as my struggle to guide my daughter to her proper position and to a more appropriate husband hasn't ended.

7. Say a movie producer comes knocking. What actor/actress would you want to play you and why?

The only actress who could embody my good taste and ability to orchestrate successful plans would be Frances Fisher. She portrayed Ruth DeWitt Bukater, the mother of Rose, the heroine in the movie Titanic. That character also wanted the best for her daughter, as I do.

Who helps move the story plot forward? Secondary characters are critical to every story. Some of them support the main characters, provide comic relief, and/or mentor the characters. Others are instigators of trouble, creating situations that allow the main characters to grow and reveal more of their thoughts and personalities to the reader.

Let's review a few of my favorite secondary characters from my books.

Karl Frank, the DEA agent, partnered with Garrett for an undercover assignment in Challenged Love. His mentoring on marriage was questionable, but his support was instantaneous when Garrett spotted Leigh with an unknown man. And when Garrett was injured, he administered first aid and was at the hospital to support Garrett and Leigh.

Accidental Attraction brought us Julie, Emily's friend and roommate. She added an uncanny fashion sense and comedic relief. There was a sense of rightness with the romantic relationship that developed between her and Ben, Zach's best friend and partner.

The romantic connection between the main characters, Seth and Alex, in Restoration may have developed more slowly if Michelle Stanton hadn't shown up at the farmstead in skimpy shorts and a too-tight top and had an early confrontation with Alex. Her appearance kick-started Alex's realization that she was attracted to Seth. And we can't forget Seth's oldest sister, Karen. You could say she was a thorn in his side, but with a deep-down sisterly love behind her attitude.

The required meet-cute in Sparks Fly is memorable because of Avis Cole, Ivy's Grandma. She's a true character and instrumental in the evolution of the story and the romance between Caleb and Ivy.

In Playground Antics, Jaxon is a key player in aiding Beth and Jace in their battle against corruption. Without his bravery, they would have remained in a reactive mode rather than being prepared to defeat the mayor's plans successfully. Providing Jaxon a bit of romance completed the story nicely.

A favorite character in Green Eyes & Dimples has got to be Nicky, Tracie's nephew. His "Grandpa Training" with Tiny and Snuffy is a game-changer. We're talking humor and a needed father-son connection thanks to a small boy and his stuffed animals.

As you see, secondary characters are key in any story. Please don't dismiss them as you focus on the main characters!

Feel free to comment and identify your favorite secondary characters.

Writing a story is fun. Writer's block has never (knock on wood) affected me. But writing is only the first step of the process.

Editing of my writing is a necessity. It can be frustrating and a challenge. Fortunately, years ago, Mike gave me a wonderful gift—a lifetime membership to AutoCrit. This is an editing platform that helps with so much of the editing process! I use it to clean up my work and improve the flow. It helps me identify plot holes and helps me be sure my story fits the genre I aimed for!

A variety of reports and analyses help me dive deep into my writing to give you the best story I can write. A couple of things I focus on are the pacing of my writing and the use of generic descriptions. Pacing to move the story along. Eliminating generic descriptions provides stronger writing and clarifies my thoughts. Everything improves my writing. Using this system over the years curbed my reliance on adverbs, so I use strong words to describe what's happening.

With the offer of a contract, my publisher assigns an editor to my story. We work together to further polish the writing. All to ensure you have the most enjoyable read when you select one of my books.

I'm currently in a different phase of writing with a new story. I had five chapters written when I decided to begin the story with the line that started Chapter Three! A big reorganization happened. Now I have four chapters. In the process, I had to commit the dastardly deed known as "killing my darlings." This is deleting portions of your work that you're attached to. I deleted a few darlings and now have a file labeled "My Darlings" in case I can use them later in the story.

This phrase is used often in the training I've taken. It's credited to many writers, such as William Faulkner, Oscar Wilde, Anton Chekhov, and Stephen King, to name a few. It makes sense and must be done at times. That's why this post is titled as it is!

The bottom line is that editing is critical to the creative process. It's more than typos and punctuation. I like to think my efforts improve my story, but I do enjoy writing more than editing! 😊

Happy reading!!

1. Introduce yourself to our readers. Where do you fit into the story? What should we know about you?

I'm Zach, the main male character in this award-winning romantic comedy. Can I say I'm the hero? I love playing golf, which is how I meet the main female character, Emily. She knocks me out with a shank while I'm putting for the course record. At first, I'm mean to her, well, just a bit abrupt cause I was feeling sorry for myself at losing the record. But I score big time by gaining Emily in my life.

2. What do you think about the author? Tell us everything. We want to know.

Elaine has an awesome sense of humor and wrote us all into hilarious scenes. Of course, she also has a talent for steamy sex scenes. Plus, she understands golf!

3. What are your feelings about this story?

I enjoyed being an important part of this story. Interacting with the other characters, especially my best friend and partner, Ben, and Emily's dad, he's a hoot. We have a nice mix of romance and comedy.

4. How do you feel about being a character in this book?

I'm honored to be the main male character. This is a fun story with a wonderful ending.

5. What do you see in your future? (No spoilers please!)

 Tons of happiness and lots of golf!

6. Is there a Sequel in the future? Will you be part of it?

I'd say our story concluded well. Guess Ben and Julie's escapades could be a sequel. Of course, Emily and I would be involved.

7. Say a movie producer comes knocking. What actor would you want to play you and why?

Hmm, someone handsome and athletic. Also, muscular! Because Ben and I own a landscaping business, we're talking loads of physically demanding work, and our muscles have developed. Maybe Jake Gyllenhaal? I'm open to suggestions.

Back in May of 2022, I posted a discussion about naming characters. In that, I mentioned an idea I'd learned about. The idea was to limit a character name to 2-3 syllables long and no longer than 4. Many of mine fit that criteria; some didn't. I also discussed how the names for my characters just came to me. In the case of my first protagonist, Garrett Dane of The Consequential Love Series, his first name was inspired by a road sign (see the picture). The name for my protagonist in Restoration, Seth Tobias, was the name I came up with should I ever have a son. Since I never had one, I gave it to one of my characters.

Today, I'm looking at another suggestion: checking the meaning of the name. Does it match your character's identity? Before I delve into my thoughts on this, I have a question for those with children. Did you peruse books of baby names or conduct internet searches on names? I know many children are named after family members, but did you also look up the meaning of the name?

I have never done such a search for what my characters' names meant, so today is the day! Here we go!

I'm using https://www.meaningofthename.com/names for my searches. It's an interesting exercise. This site identifies multiple explanations for each name.

The Consequential Love Series:

• Garrett: brave and strong as spear
• Leigh: a person with the power to heal others
• Jonas: gracious, merciful, kindhearted (Boy! Did I get this one wrong!!)
• Edna: to delight
• Frank: Truthful
• Lois: battle maiden

Accidental Attraction:

• Zach: remembered by God
• Emily: hardworking, diligent and industrious
• Ben: favorite
• Julie: youthful

Restoration:

• Seth: appointed one
• Alexandra/Alex: helper and defender
• Michelle: who is like God (not this character, so I got this wrong!)

Sparks Fly:

• Caleb: faithful
• Ivy: climbing vine plant (very literal)
• Avis: like a bird
• Rachel: innocent lamb (got this one wrong, too!)
• Josh: God is salvation

Playground Antics:

• Jace: healer
• Beth: one who provides satisfaction and fullness
• Paul: humble (nope, got this one wrong, too!)
• Chuck: strong
• Allyson: noble, exalted, Little Alice (this one is hilarious based on the story IYKYK!!)
• Jaxon: son of Jack

Green Eyes & Dimples:

• Matt: God's gift
• Tracie: warlike
• Nicky: conqueror of the nation
• Lucy: light
• Jack: one who thinks that God is gracious
• Connie: constant, steadfast, permanent

Bourbon Neat

• Connor: Strong-willed, wise
• Maggie: pure as a pearl, child of light

It appears I do a better job at naming heroes and heroines versus villains and nasty characters if you judge by the meaning of the names. After running through this exercise, I'll stick to whatever inspires me for a name and then consider the number of syllables.

Keep on reading. I'll do the same, as well as writing!

Spring is an interesting season. It battles with winter for control. While living in Minnesota, I saw spring weather crushed by snowstorms in March and April. An April snowstorm sent us retirees into relocation mode, and we moved to South Carolina.

The seasons offer fun settings for an author. Spring is one season I haven't explored much for my stories. The only story that touches on spring is Victorious Love. The blossoming of Garrett and Leigh's love throughout The Consequential Love Series and the start of their married life is celebrated with the spring timing of their wedding. Although Challenged Love included a discussion of the timing of their wedding.

"What a lovely time for a wedding. Nature is budding with new life, and you'll begin a new life together."

"You're right, spring's rebirth of nature adds a special meaning for our wedding, and we lucked into the timing."

"Ah, but everything happens for a reason."

"My fiancé says the same thing."

The seasons offer a fascinating backdrop for story settings. I've used a winter blizzard and the heat of summer in my stories. Blizzards are often used to strand people together; sometimes they're strangers and sometimes enemies. During this time, they discover strong feelings/attraction for each other. Winter weather provides opportunities for cuddling under quilts and sitting in front of romantic fires. I used those in Resolute Love, and winter activities like snow blowing and snowmobiling.

Many of my stories take place in the summer. Summer offers heated, sweat-glistening bodies (as enjoyed by Beth and Allison when they ogled a shirtless Jace on the worksite in Playground Antics) and skimpy clothes displaying physical assets. Oh my! In Restoration, there were a couple of scenes involving skinny-dipping. The summer activity of golf was critical for the meet-cute in Accidental Attraction. A summer picnic was important to Ivy and Caleb's relationship in Sparks Fly. Green Eyes & Dimples includes both a summer holiday, the 4th of July, and a picnic.

Obviously, I need to focus on the fall season in a book soon. The vibrant colors, the crunch of fallen leaves, the spicy aroma of hot apple cider, and the fun of corn mazes offer intriguing moments for romance.

Let's not forget all the various holidays celebrated during each season. They offer endless opportunities for story ideas. I identified my holiday ideas in my Blog post on February 17, 2023.

Do you have a favorite season? Fall and winter are mine, so I'm shocked I've neglected fall in my writing. Perhaps it's time for a change of seasons! Hmm…

Adverbs are the bad guys!  Okay, I admit that statement is misleading. Adverbs are bad guys when they weaken my writing. Using them too often can dilute my writing turning a dynamic scene into a blah scene

Here's an example. The word "very" is one of the usual suspects when talking about adverbs. It's way too easy to slap "very" in front of a verb or descriptor to show it's more, but choosing a stronger word in the first place makes for better writing. What do you think of this: Maggie was very mad at Connor. Blah? What about: Maggie was irate with Connor. Better? Maggie was furious with Connor. Stronger? What Connor did incensed Maggie. Getting the idea? Last one: Connor's action ignited Maggie's fury. Woah! What the heck did Connor do?

When I search for a stronger word, I use a combination of a thesaurus and a dictionary to ensure the word I select fits what happened and what the character is feeling or experiencing. The sentence with the weaker word may need to be rewritten, but you readers are worth the effort.

There are times when the word "very" remains in my writing. Usually, this is in dialogue. Think for a moment how often you use "very" when describing how strong your feeling or reaction was to something or someone. You're describing the dessert you ordered. "The cake was very good." A friend asks about a movie you saw. "It was very funny." Sound familiar?

I want my characters' dialogue to sound realistic, so I use adverbs when they talk unless the character is a walking thesaurus. 😊 (What an interesting idea for a character. Hmm…)

I'm fortunate to have AutoCrit for my editing. One of its many reports is one identifying all the adverbs in my work. My dialogue can be highlighted which helps with the selection of adverbs to eliminate or keep.

Did I blow your mind regarding adverbs?

Happy 2025!

A new year filled with endless possibilities has begun. Adding to my excitement about the new year is a 2025 Literary Calendar filled with special months, weeks, and days to celebrate; all are related to writing. It provides inspiration for my blog & Facebook posts and newsletter topics!

To start us off, January is Hot Tea Month! This celebrates the perfect beverage choice to stay cozy on a cold day while you curl up with a good book and lose yourself in a world of characters doing their thing. That shifts my thoughts to the appearance of beverages in the writing of my books.

I used wine tastings to develop relationships between my romantically involved characters. Also, their background, preferences, and experiences come to light.

Scotch was another hero's drink of choice. He sipped it while reflecting on the changes in his life and what he truly wanted. When family pressure produced a pounding headache, he opted for a drink of Scotch rather than searching for aspirin. The amber liquid worked better for him.

After an attempt on another hero's life, his boss introduced him to Bourbon. He discovered he liked the flavor and possibly how it affected his troubled thoughts.

Speaking of Bourbon, the order for a Bourbon Neat in a neighborhood bar provided the compelling title for a romantic suspense story I'm writing. In another story, sipping Bourbon together on a balcony offered moments of openness for a new couple as they revealed secrets of their past.

Of course, hot coffee with curls of steam rising over the mugs is often the drink of choice during other moments of conversation, revealing all manner of characters' backgrounds, hopes, and dreams.

Beer is often a preferred beverage, as are margaritas and Gin Bucks! Somewhere along the way, I need to include a wintry-weather family favorite—hot buttered rum! We have an amazing recipe.

Ending on hot tea, another story had girlfriends and roommates drinking hot tea while discussing their men, offering each other advice, and providing one another consolation.

I'm excited as this year progresses with more writing, beverages included, and literary days, weeks, and months to celebrate.