Hi everyone.

A while back, I blogged about critique partners so I won't bore you with that subject again--well, maybe just a little.

As a writer, I view critique partners as a tool, much like my laptop. My critique partner in Memphis gives me great feedback, always asking questions about a certain scene and reminding me to stay focused on moving the story along. She sees things that I, as the author, overlook because I know where the story is going.

But as much as I enjoy the critiquing process, there is another tool I love even more--brainstorming. This can be a casual discussion between writers on the nuts and bolts of plotting a story, or a angst driven session complete with shouting and tears. I've done both and, frankly, get more out of the angst thing.

Brainstorming works best with 3-4 people and a free weekend. The weekend must be spent away from the normal day to day activities of the participants. In other words, unless someone lives alone, go to a hotel. Use Friday night to mellow out with cocktails and dinner and a brief discussion on where each author wants his or her story to go.

Saturday is a day long work session. A friend and I discovered the formula to getting things done several years ago. We rose early, had breakfast, and began our session at 8:00. We worked on one story until noon, throwing out "what ifs" and being honest about the suggestions. (Hence the angst, shouting, and tears. Okay, that didn't actually happen, but it was intense.)

From noon to one we had lunch, and then began the process all over again for another writer until five. That's the time to call it quits, and relax for a while before having dinner. (And nobody cooks! Go out to eat!)

On Sunday follow the same routine. My friend and I plotted 2 books for her and 1 for me during a weekend in Marathon, Florida. All three books have sold.

So the next time you're stuck for a story line, consider brainstorming. It works and is fun.

Oh, and by the way, if you write romantic suspense or mystery, do not discuss how to pull off the perfect murder in a crowded restaurant or on the screened-in porch of a motel bungalow. It could lead to embarrassment.

Until later.

Suzanne