In early May, I had the opportunity to write a guest post for blogger Jody Joy. Jody reviews and recommends mysteries, thrillers, and suspense books to readers all over the world. The topic was about my journey with the concept of Conjoined and how I got to publication. You can find the post here. Give it a read, and please leave a review. Let us both know what you think about my journey with this book!
As an added bonus, there is an excerpt from the book that I haven’t shared anywhere else yet!
An Author’s Perspective
As an author, the journey of crafting a good story is both exhilarating and challenging. Every word, character, and plot twist is meticulously chosen to create an immersive experience for readers. In this blog post, I shared my process, influences, and the strategies that helped me bring Conjoined to life.
Influences and Inspirations
In my guest post, I delve into my literary influences and how classic literature has shaped my writing. Standing on the shoulders of giants such as Robert Louis Stevenson and Mary Shelley has provided a strong foundation for my work. These timeless authors have taught me the importance of atmospheric storytelling and the power of well-crafted prose.
But my journey doesn’t stop at the classics. Studying contemporary authors in my genre—psychological thriller and horror—has been equally crucial. Writers like Stephen King and Lisa Jewell have shown me the art of weaving complex characters and dark, twisted plots. Their works are masterclasses in building suspense and delivering unexpected twists, elements that are vital in my own storytelling.
Studying the Craft
Understanding the mechanics of writing is essential. I’ve spent countless hours dissecting the structure of successful stories, identifying what works and what doesn’t. Here are a few key components that I focus on:
1. Character Development: The heart of a compelling story is creating multidimensional characters. Readers should be able to see parts of themselves in the characters, making their journeys more relatable and impactful.
2. Plot Structure: A well-structured plot is crucial for maintaining tension and pacing. I follow a clear outline but also leave room for organic developments as the story progresses.
3. Atmosphere and Setting: The setting plays a pivotal role, especially in psychological thrillers and horror. It’s not just a backdrop but a character in itself, contributing to the overall mood and tension.
4. Conflict and Resolution: Conflict drives the narrative forward. Whether it’s internal, external, or both, the resolution should be satisfying, even if it’s not a happy ending. The journey and growth of the characters are what matter most.
Learning from Others
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of reading widely within my genre. Analyzing the works of other authors helps me understand different writing styles and techniques. It also inspires me to push the boundaries of my storytelling.
Additionally, engaging with the writing community—whether through workshops, writing groups, or social media—provides support and motivation. Sharing experiences and learning from fellow writers fosters growth and keeps the creative juices flowing.
Crafting a good story is a blend of inspiration, hard work, and continuous learning. By drawing from my influences, studying the craft, and learning from other authors, I strive to create stories that captivate and haunt readers long after they’ve turned the last page.
I hope you can see the hard work I put into crafting Conjoined, as you read it and immerse yourself in the world I created just for you.
Thanks for stopping by. ~ KTG
© K.T. George 2024 | This post was first seen on ktgeorge.com | Image created using Canva and K.T. George assets