Thursday, November 19, 2020

Does it ring true? 🔕(Updated)

Writers can create crazy plots, but unless it rings true, the audience won't connect. 

First of all, I'm going to point out that I'm not talking about any specific genres. For example, science fiction or fantasy may not ring true to most people because it's a step away from the world as they know it, but I'm not talking about that aspect. I'm referring to the substance of the story and the characters involved. Is what they're doing in a given situation make sense? Are they reacting appropriately when considering their experiences, history, ethnicity, health, beliefs, age, and the people in their world?

For example, I recently watched a television show where a couple hired a live-in nanny to look after their children. So, what didn't ring true? She was a total stranger with no (known of) experience and, as far as I can tell, no credentials. These characters are wealthy and live in a mansion, which adds an extra layer of wtf. What's wrong with this scenario? Does it ring true? Would most parents, let alone rich parents with resources, hire a total stranger to look after their children? My guess is no. 

Our logical side is automatically skeptical in the same way as when we hear a lie. This same skepticism tends to move us away from the character because regardless of what disastrous thing this babysitter will potentially do, we're wondering why the hell the parents so casually hired a stranger in the first place; Are they unfit? Stupid? Are they too self-involved to think about their children's welfare? It doesn't make us root for the parents, but the children. So, unless this story is slanted to create compassion for the kids involved, it's not working. The viewer/reader must feel some connection with the character to be drawn in. So, unless you're also careless with your children, chances are you're not on their side.

Again, we have to consider many variables. Maybe if this family were poor, we'd have more compassion because they mightn't have as many options for childcare. Were the parents neglected as children, so didn't recognize that it was strange to hire a stranger to look after their children?  Is it normal within their culture/family to be goosey loosey when looking for babysitters? Are they young, inexperienced, as parents? The point is that this situation normally wouldn't ring true. It just seems kind of stupid, actually, and makes me question if the writer just threw it together as a way to work a character into the storyline.

Can you think of books, television shows, or movies where things didn't quite 'ring true' for you? On the other side, can you think of a character you connected with and why?





Saturday, November 14, 2020

The future of my Youtube channel 📺(Updated)

The first time I recorded a YouTube video, I thought I was going to hyperventilate. I don't think I took a breath the whole time because I was so scared and definitely out of my comfort zone. Almost 200 videos later, I've long let go of these fears, as my confidence built over time. Now, I enjoy making videos and don't even give it a second thought. 

So why did I start? Well, it certainly wasn't to become a YouTube star. I created the channel in hopes of connecting with my audience and potentially finding a new audience. I wanted people to see who I was and to maybe learn a little about me. Also, it gave me a chance to talk about my books, my process and maybe answer a few common questions along the way.

I'm not sure if having a YouTube channel is common amongst writers, but I think it's a good idea. You never know who is watching, and that's kind of neat. 

My goal in the future is to improve and update my videos while diving into more topics that people want me to discuss. It's even been suggested that I start a podcast but I'm not quite there yet. 

If you have any ideas or suggestions, feel free to contact me at info@mimaonfire.com. Sign up for my newsletter and keep up to date! Subscribe to my YouTube channel, hit the bell for notifications, and share the videos. Thanks for reading this blog. 




Sunday, November 1, 2020

How do you start a series? 📚(Updated)

The idea of starting a series may seem exciting, but the truth is that you need a few factors to carry it through and keep it interesting. Here are some of my thoughts on what matters in a series. 

The first and probably most important factor for me would be to create compelling, 3-dimensional characters. Regardless of exciting plots, intensity, or the concept behind the storyline, if readers aren't interested in the characters, they will eventually lose interest in the series. Readers need to connect with characters, their issues, and heartbreaks. They also need to find them exciting and sympathize with their situation. 

I also find that an ambitious or conflicted protagonist also contributes to a series, especially if that character has lots of dragons to slay. When I introduced Jorge Hernandez in the second book in my Hernandez series, that's when things started to pop! This character seeks out and thrives on power and has no issue stepping up or on anyone in his way. For him, control is vital. Of course, it takes time to do these things, which is why the Hernandez series continues to grow. 

Of course, you need lots of excitement to keep a reader interested. It's a good idea to introduce compelling secondary characters with their journeys and issues. With lots of stuff always cropping up, it keeps readers from being bored. A mixture of plots and subplots keeps readers turning the page because it may not be the protagonist that captivates them but another character. 

I have one last note regarding creating a series. Some people like to figure out an outline before they start, but I would warn to keep them very general, allowing room for creativity and new ideas that might spring up once you begin to write. 

And last of all, if you find the idea of writing a series a bit overwhelming, I would suggest you don't think too far ahead. Sometimes you have to see how things naturally flow.




Saturday, October 3, 2020

Let's talk about Jorge Hernandez - el diablo 👿(Updated)

Jorge Hernandez is the leader of the pack in the dark and gritty Hernandez series. The charismatic former cartel boss has come a long way from his Mexican roots to take over the Canadian marijuana industry while infiltrating many areas in the country, from the government to the media. 

A complex character, Jorge was forced to grow up quickly after the death of his younger brother, Miguel. His family became emotionally distant, ostracizing their remaining son for his accidental part in the tragedy, which forced Jorge to become stronger in his teen years. Before he was 20, this strength and his ability to emotionally disconnect proved invaluable as a criminal, which would push him up the food chain very quickly. This power grew over the years until he was the boss and his associates, in turn, became the family that he needed. 

Jorge’s charismatic personality is captivating to those around him while his enemies fear the man who was called el diablo, the devil, for a reason. Many people find this character appealing because of Jorge's blatant disregard for the thoughts and opinions of those around him. He feels no need to receive approval as he powers through life, only thinking of his family and associates at any given time. Jorge is bold, arrogant, and is not shy to express his opinion when necessary. On the flip side, he shows undeniable loyalty and love for his family. Jorge Hernandez would, quite literally, do anything for the people he loves. 

There is no black and white when it comes to the liability of a character; there are a lot of grey areas. 

 Learn more at mimaonfire.com

Friday, September 25, 2020

Let's talk about Marco Rodel Cruz - the hacker 🖥(Updated)

In certain circles, Marco Rodel Cruz is simply the 'IT guy' however in this series, it would be much more accurate to call him the hacker. While most of the other characters commit brutal crimes to maintain their power and control, Marco is working tirelessly in the background to ensure their victory. His expertise includes hacking security cameras (and deactivating them when needed), hacking emails, accounts, and of course, breaking into various company and organization systems. He literally can do anything IT, and he does. 

Jorge Hernandez met Marco while staying at a hotel where the Filipino worked. Impressed with his professionalism, he instinctively took the immigrant under his wing. Learning that Marco was an IT specialist before moving to Canada, Jorge did a little digging to discover that his abilities went well beyond creating a website and solving minor IT problems. However, it was Marco's assurance of confidentiality that was considered his most valuable trait. Keeping quiet is a big part of this dark world.

Marco is a likable guy. Often described as having a smile on his face, he's an interesting contrast to the more sinister characters. After all, he mightn't carry a gun to the potential crime scene, but he clears the path for the others. Perhaps this makes Marco the most lethal one in the group.



Friday, September 4, 2020

What is the Hernandez series about? ☠️(Updated)


If there ever were characters that not only made it their business to color outside the lines but seemed oblivious to living any other way, it would be the group in the Hernandez series. Living by their creed of love, loyalty, and winning above all, this is a series where readers witness characters who don't let anyone stand in their way. With their unique sense of what's right and wrong, we follow them down a countercultural path that goes against the usual, 'the good guy always wins' theme. And to readers, this is refreshing.

A former Mexican narco transitions into Canadian life with family, politics, and business while holding tight to his ruthless, criminal ways. Meet Jorge Hernandez.

Except for the first two books, the series centers around the protagonist Jorge Hernandez. With his combination of daily life problems, (not to mention, his unique way of solving them) and enemies coming out of the woodwork, Hernandez shows the strength and resilience that is alluring to the reader. Somewhat of an anti-hero, this villain reveals the darker side of society, one where corruption, collusion, and conspiracy are often the name of the game.

As the CEO of Our House of Pot, Jorge gives the impression of an immigrant that came to Canada to strive while at the same time demonstrating how public image and reality are often a million miles apart. 

This is a series for people who enjoy being entertained while being open to the other side of many situations. And often, it's a side that asks as many questions as it gives explanations. But isn't that what any good series does?


Friday, August 28, 2020

How characters affect each other 🤝(Updated)

Much like real life, fictional characters affect each other in many different ways. The reader must see the contrast and dynamics of various relationships within the story. Again, like with reality, everyone brings out various qualities in each other. Sometimes good and sometimes bad. That's what makes things fun.

In my Hernandez series, we can see the relationships between characters and how they evolve or change throughout the story. For example, the protagonist, Jorge Hernandez, has a powerful effect on others. He brings out everything from fear to admiration, and loyalty, depending on the character he's dealing with and the specific situation. We can sense the strength in his personality and how people react in turn. For example, some characters try to impress him, while someone like his teenage daughter instead might challenge him. His reaction to each also tells us a little more about who he is and his values. That's the beauty of character interaction; it allows us to see what pushes their buttons and what brings out both their best and worst traits.

One thing to keep in mind is that these connections change over time. Characters grow, some fade from the story, and others devolve. This is much like the people in our lives. It's interesting to see how each plays off the other, creating fascinating plot twists and subplots.

The most important thing is to bring out the 'human' in characters, and really, is there anything more human than our relationships and interreactions with one another?