When I began writing Lemon Tart Mystery, I was determined to finish it early because I have more than a few commitments in April, when the story is scheduled for release. But life doesn’t always turn out the way we plan…

I began writing the story, and I thought it was going well, but eventually I realized it wasn’t going where I wanted it to go. After much debate, I scrapped it and began again. And I liked the new story even more, until I glanced at the synopsis, which told about a totally different story — and I really wanted to write that story, not the one I was currently writing.

Stop. Erase. Start again.

It’s times like these that I question whether I’d be better creating an outline for my stories. You see, there are several ways to write — as a plotter, a pantser (writing by the seat of your pants), and as a combination of the two.

I have always considered myself a pantser, but lately, with my mystery series, I’m starting to create an outline of sorts — not everything, but a general idea of where the story begins, how it flows, and where it ends. Maybe, just maybe, if I do this, I won’t find myself re-writing a story over and over again. I wonder how many other writers have encountered this problem. There are so many different directions a story can flow, and the writer must choose which direction is best.

The very first story I wrote was supposed to be a romance, but it quickly turned into something more akin to suspense. It hasn’t been published yet, but I’m hoping it will be sometime in the next year. It was this story that convinced me that I’m better at writing “by the seat of my pants,” since the direction the story flowed was much better than the direction I planned for it.

I hope my readers feel that Lemon Tart Mystery takes them in the right direction. I am thrilled with the story and how it turns out.

How do you write? Do you plot, wing it, or combine the two?

—

Naomi Miller mixes up a batch of intrigue, sprinkled with Amish, Mennonite, and English characters, adding a pinch of mystery – and a dash of romance!

Naomi works full time as an author, blogger and inspirational speaker. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) organization. When she’s not working diligently to finish the next novel in her Sweet Shop Mystery series, Naomi tries to make time for attending workshops and writers conferences. Whenever time permits, Naomi can be found in one of two favorite places – the beach and the mountains.

Naomi’s day is spent focusing on her writing, editing, and blogging about her experiences. Naomi loves traveling with her family, singing inspirational/gospel music, taking a daily walk, and witnessing to others of the amazing grace of Jesus Christ.

Where You Can Found Her Online:

NEWSLETTER SIGN UP:  http://eepurl.com/bPdjGn
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Where You Can Purchase (or pre-order) Books:

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