One More On Nightmare

Lately, I know, I've been posting alot about Nightmare in Pink, a part of the Travis McGee series by John D. MacDonald. Does it warrant this much posting? Probably not. But, when reads so few novels these days thanks to homework, and work work, well then one posts alot about the things he enjoys. 

Regardless, the other day I wrote that there were some lines which I found particularly compelling and I wanted to share them with someone, so this audience will do.  

Nightmare in Pink Cover

I'm sure many of you will find it odd, but there's very little these days makes me happier than going back and finding the pulp (and other) covers that are associated with he books I read. Naturally, when I say that there is "nothing that makes me happier" I'm being hyperbolic, if only because my best friend Sadie is around. 

Having just finished John D. MacDonald's Nightmare in Pink (see HERE) I was very eager to get out there and see the evolution of the covers!

More From a Nightmare in Pink

One of the things I love about Travis McGee novels by John D. MacDonald, is the simplicity of writing. It's direct and honest and quick. I have been accused of this as well (see HERE). And I'll happily accept that accusation/honor.

Some of the other authors I read who are similar include Louis L'amour - with his simple stories that are easy to follow and fun in a predictable way, Lee Child - Often times I find them a bit too simple (see HERE), but they're fun. Even Dick Francis has an economy about his writing and his stories that is fun and easy (see HERE).

Trav McGee

I’ve been referencing a book a lot lately that I’m in the midst of reading. It's another John D. MacDonald, Trav McGee mystery (see HERE).

Here is the first line to add to my own series. 

This is the second of this series I’m reading and I can’t imagine I won’t keep reading the rest of them. 

Wonderful writing imagery. 

Perspective and Tense in Writing

I recently read a post in the writing community that I am a part of that was about the fact that first person present tense perspective is not well regarded and he argued that it is just as valid as others.  He got a lot of flack from others for saying that. I completely agree with his post. I love reading first person present and enjoy writing that style too. I’m partial to all first person pov’s and I don’t understand why it gets such short shrift.

I remember a writing group/class I was a part of for a long while and the leader/teacher was constantly trying to get me to stop writing in first person and shift to third. 

Theme or Plot

A writing group that I'm a part of had an interesting and long running discussion on writing . . . is it plot driven or theme driven. 

When I write, and I've published 3 novels (see HERE), I start with plot and from that develop characters and theme. 

More on Sunset Perfect

As you all know, I am a fan of this loose series of mysteries and thrillers. Vapor Trail, On the Edge, Toe the Line all have working out and athletics as a theme (see HERE). 

As a part of Sunset Perfect there is a theme of culture and trust, there's also a murder that brings up a theme of family and simmering betrayal, but all of this takes place around and among a football team that is going through some drastic turbulence and challenges. 

Coming Back for More

I am fairly certain I know who Kim is, but it’s nice to see that she likes my writing (see more HERE). If she is who I think, this is not a “friend” review. Not only that…. She liked the writing so much she wanted more! I’ll be happy for the rest of the day!

The review above is of On the Edge (see HERE). 

First Line Right Now

 The other day I mentioned how I'm trying to get back into writing via reading. Well, to help spur that along I picked up a Travis McGee and a Dick Francis. I'm mid way through the Travis McGee and just started the Dick Francis. 

The Dick Francis (unlike some of his others, see HERE) has a less than inspiring first line, but it's not that bad. Makes me want to find out what happened. But the Trav McGee won out!

Trading Up for Winter?

A while back I posted about writing areas and desks (see HERE). This summer I traded my office writing area (see below) for the pergola. Nice big, soft fans, a breeze, surrounded by nature and a bubbling pool fountain, outdoor speakers, bird song and squirrels, the whole bit. 

It wasn't bad. There's actually some nice chairs out there, and all that nature is a nice distraction.