If I’ve learned anything, it’s how my process for writing a book starts. I’ve got it down pretty good. It kind of goes like this:

1. Title
2. A few basic plot sentences
3. Overall book plot from the plot sentences
4. Detailed chapter plot from the overall book plot
5. Write the shit

That’s it. Lor’s process for all to see. Real difficult isn’t it? It took about two books before I really got it down and figured out what I needed to do in order to get things going. But before this I sort of had an overall idea of what I needed to do. It was just the finer points needed a little ironing.

This week Animus and I (mostly Animus) decided to try a new venture. Serial Fiction. Truly, this blame belongs to Storm Moon Press via Samantha Derr. LONG STORY. Anyway, when Animus decided to do this I, the author, had no idea how the hell to get it going. I’ve tried to do it my usual way but it wasn’t working.

While I was trying to hammer this out Animus (the asshole) whispered to me. He said to draw up a crude map. I told him to shut the hell up and stubbornly trudged on. It didn’t work. He laughed at me. Poor Epicene stood on the opposite side of the room eyeing the both of us.

I caved and drew the damn “map” and I’m loathed to admit Animus was right. Took a break, petted my cat, came back from the kitchen and Animus said, “Bio’s for all the characters in the serial fiction, even the little supportive ones.” I said, okay.

I’m not going to fight him on this. Not even in the least. The fucker was right about the map so I shall foolishly assume he’s right on this too.

The thing that pisses me off the most about all this is it isn’t quick. Okay, lie. Nothing about writing a book is quick but each process once I start, besides number 5, can be completed in a sitting. Usually.

This serial fiction thing is frustrating. Frustrating as hell.

Funny thing is, I think I like it. It’s something a little different than what I usually do and a welcome change.

I’ll be sure to keep y’all posted.

If I remember.