Southern Fried Chicas

Several itty bitty topics came to mind this week … again. Further evidence that I’m getting more unfocused by the day. Whatever the case, here’s the stuff that’s been floating around in my gray matter. Since this is a hodge-podge, feel free to respond only to what interests you. And if nothing does, at least say hello so I’ll know you stopped by!

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Southern Fried Chicas—Just another damn group blog.

That says it all doesn’t it?  If you come here on a regular basis, or if you’re web surfing you probably have a blog too, and most blogs have a name. What’s up with yours? I mean, what’s the meaning behind your blog name? =================================

ONCE MORE ….. WITH FEELING!!!!

Dull as dishwater love scenes…. I read one recently that convinced me the writer had phoned it in. This also made me try and remember the last good one I read. I’m not talking about the HOTTEST sex scene.  I’m talking LOVE SCENES.  You know the ones where the prose sings of conflict and character.  The ones that tug at your heartstrings and make a certain body part wet. Get your mind out the gutter! I’m talking about your eyes! Can you name a love scene that made you cry? Or at least made you all mushy inside with emotion? Okay, if you can’t think of a tearjerker love scene, what about just a regular scene?

For me, one of the best tearjerker love scenes I’ve read is the first one between Honey and Dash in Susan Elizabeth Phillips’ Honey Moon. It had me bawling.  As far as regular scenes go, the one in Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander where Jamie has to tell Claire about John Randall raping him (physically and mentally) left me a wreck.  I was no good for hours after reading it.  It was that poignant.
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FILL IN ONE (OR BOTH) OF THESE BLANKS:

_____ is the most overused plot devise ever!

If I read another book with a ________ hero/heroine/side-kick I’m gonna scream.

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OUCH! BUT THANK YOU!

Years ago, a writer posted a copy of his query letter to agent Ashley Grayson as well as Mr. Grayson’s response.  I saved the link because:

1. It’s timeless.
2. It reminded me of what I *must* and *must not* do regarding storytelling.
3. It proved that yes, some agents/editors care enough to tell the truth even when it hurts.

This post is about four years old, but it’s a keeper.  While I’m sure the rejection was tough, I’ll bet the author appreciated the feedback.  Ninety-five percent of the time, we’re told ‘no‘ without having a clue as to why.

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Yes, that’s what I want you to do. PLEASE bitch!  Rant. Rave. Go off.  What has your thong/panties/briefs/boxers in a bunch this week?