Author Guest Post
What motivated me to keep writing and how did I overcome the challenges?
This is a wonderful question, and one that I think is so important. As a writer, it's hard to tell what type of stories your readers are going to love. What may start off as a great idea for an award winning novel to you may sound ridiculously boring to someone else. There really is no happy medium with your writing, and not everyone is going to like it.
So then why even bother to write and publish books? Because writing is creative. It's therapeutic and worth doing. So many personal details often get written into my manuscripts, and a lot of what transpires in the story stems from real life experiences. For me, writing has always been a release of what I couldn't quite get out verbally. Maybe some of my readers can relate. I was always shy growing up and never liked being in front of a crowd. I had a hard time expressing my emotions, especially in-depth about love. The easiest way I could do that was by writing it down. That has sort of always stuck. Writing allows you to fully take the time to convey what your message is, and not react just on emotion. This way, I don't walk away thinking "Man, I wish I would've said that instead," because chances are I already did.
When I wrote my first novel, Red Rock, I joined an authors critique group. It was made of three other published authors who offered to help me with my story. The manuscript was finished, but needed some work. I can remember the first email I got back from them with the first two chapters attached and how discouraged I was to see all of the corrections they suggested. I almost wanted to give up. But, one of the other authors must've known how I was feeling because he emailed me and told me to not get discouraged. There are so many edits involved in everyone's books, but it's all for the better if the story itself is good. Overall, I feel like this is what really motivated me to keep writing. After awhile, my writing itself improved so that in my second manuscript there weren't as many errors.
The main challenges always come when your book is finished. The editing and constructive criticism is easy compared to the review process. As I mentioned, not everyone is going to love your book. And those that don't, really have no problem telling the world exactly how much they don't like it. Initially, it's very easy to get your feelings hurt, and take every review to heart. Some you might even want to cry over while you destroy a pint (or more) of Ben and Jerry's, but ultimately everyone has their own opinion. Sometimes you just have to grow a thicker shell and accept that fact. The rest of the time you just know that the story is important to you, and that you are proud of it. I am very proud to have accomplished writing and publishing both of my books. My first book was a YA western, and a little bit harder to market. Although my reviews were great (for the most part), most younger readers weren't into the western genre. My latest book, The Three Month Plan, is a YA Romance with comedy.
About The Author
Other Loves: My family, yoga, skincare and makeup, sushi, and raising money for pediatric cancer. I have two rescue dogs and would have more if there weren't zoning restrictions. I’m always trying something new, as I tend to get bored very easily. Thankfully, my love of driving around with the gas light on fuels some excitement. I love novels with happy endings, and am a hopeful romantic. My latest obsession is browsing Netflix, and I can name all 50 states in alphabetical order in under 30 seconds. Do I feel a wager coming on?
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The Three Month Plan by Kimberley Patterson ~ Virtual Book Tour Page: Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours
Book Review
The Three Month Plan by Kimberley Patterson
Publisher: Independent Self Publishing
Publication Date: August 9, 2013
Format: Paperback - 260 pages / Kindle - 339 KB / Nook - 238 KB
ISBN: 1490589899
ASIN: B00DQ8U3RS
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
BUY THE BOOK: The Three Month Plan
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
Book Description:
Enlisting the help of her childhood friend and confidant, Brian, Kelly manages to catch Jake's attention. She also unknowingly hooks Brian who tries to sabotage the plan. Kelly finds herself with a dilemma; take the final step with Jake and win the plan or follow her heart and reveal her feelings for Brian.
Book Excerpt:
Chapter One - Kelly
The boardwalk wasn’t as crowded today, but it was still early, and the fog hadn’t yet cleared even though it was afternoon. San Diego fell victim to June gloom every year, and it always seemed to wait until summer had officially started. The patio on the Breakwater Café was the perfect place to sit and people watch and crush on the surplus of college students. It was an eclectic mix of teenagers and twenty-somethings flecked with small families here and there, not to mention this was the only restaurant in the area that had a man-made wave machine. When the sand was empty and the weather still cold, this was a popular hangout. It had only been two weeks since I graduated from high school and I was convinced now that it was summer I’d have more options for a boyfriend.
“I just don’t get it,” I complained. “Sara Jennings has a great guy and she is awful.”
“You just have to be patient, Kel. It’s not like you haven’t had your share of dates,” my friend Michelle assured me, “Besides, you’re only eighteen.”
Michelle was right. It wasn’t for the lack of trying; it just seemed all the wrong guys clung to me like lint on velvet. I went through all of the stereotypes: the jock focused only on his next score; the quiet boy that couldn’t open up; I even dated a nerd that spoke in sexual innuendos. I was ready for a real boyfriend, somebody I could be serious with.
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Michelle said, pointing in the direction I was staring. “Him?”
“What?” I smiled, taking another sip from my soda.
“No offense, but you do know he’s totally out of your league,” Michelle replied. I just ignored her and kept staring in his direction, admiring his short, dark hair. His eyes had a piercing blue quality that reminded me of the blue in the ocean. His casual demeanor showed in his flip flops, grey t-shirt and black and grey board shorts that hung low on his hips as he prepared to start the wave machine.
“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” I said, meeting Michelle’s gaze. “But, I bet he’d be interested if he knew my awesomely charming personality.” I grinned.
“Is that a challenge?” Michelle snickered. “You wanna make a bet?”
I just laughed and shook my head. “Um, no,” I said flatly. “I wouldn’t even know where to begin.”
“It’s not like you have anything to lose,” Michelle teased. “You don’t start your yoga training for another three months anyways.”
I replied wistfully, “But he doesn’t even know I exist.” I looked toward him as he continued to ready the machine and talk to the crowd that had gathered. He yelled for the people to form a line – his voice deep, sexy and made me flush at the sound of it.
“That is what it looks like, isn’t it?” Michelle said dryly, looking in the same direction as me.
“Besides,” I explained, “he probably has a ton of girls throwing themselves at him.” I sighed and looked down to my lap disappointed at my own lack of confidence.
“You can always ask Brian to introduce you.” Michelle grinned at me.
I felt the heat really fan my cheeks. “Nooo, I'd be way too embarrassed.”
Michelle looked at the guy again and said, “C’mon Kel, do you see how hot he is?” She lifted one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows. “Three months,” Michelle said, looking back towards me, smiling softly.
“Three months for what?” I asked, meeting her gaze.
“The bet. You have that much time to get him to date you,” Michelle replied smugly. “You can call it the three month plan.”
“You’re serious about that?” I laughed, but was cut short when I realized Michelle was serious. My expression quickly faded to a dull stare.
“I wish you could see your expression right now.” Michelle chuckled.
I paused at the silence, contemplating the challenge as I gazed in his direction. He was smiling to his latest customer who had entered the restaurant and climbed in line for the machine. Michelle had a point. I planned on making this a summer to remember. I wasn’t enrolled in college this fall since I had decided to take a year off before starting. And the yoga teacher training program didn’t begin until four months from now. “You know,” I replied with a newfound confidence, “I think that’s perfect.”
Michelle’s mouth fell open in surprise that all her prodding worked. “So in three months you will have landed him is what you are saying?” Michelle asked in disbelief.
“Yeah. One way or another,” I laughed. “I’m gonna’ do, wear, and say everything that I would imagine a guy like that would want me to do.”
Michelle grinned. “You’re crazy. A guy like that is gonna’ want you wearing nothing.”
“Very funny, Michelle.” I playfully slapped her hands from across the table. “But since you were so instrumental in creating this bet, I am going to need your help.”
“I was just kidding,” Michelle laughed. “Why am I getting dragged into this? You should ask Brian to help you.”
“Well, you certainly encouraged it,” I responded and looked at the guy again. “But you’re right, how else am I going to get into his head, without some guy’s input?”
“I’m sure his head isn’t the only place you want to get in to,” Michelle smiled. “Virginity is overrated anyways.”
My face flushed, “You’re a bad influence, and you know that, right? I’m not going to sleep with him.” I must admit my mind did have a tendency to drift to such things. I’d never allowed the guys I’ve dated get very far with me, but watching him had me fantasizing of pressing against his lean body.
“Of course. But you still love me anyways.” She grinned.
“Yes, yes I do. But that may change after this whole three month plan is over.” I cocked my head to the side sarcastically.
“Well, you had better get started then,” Michelle said. “And your first step might be getting rid of what looks like competition.” She lifted her head and looked behind me.
I turned my head slowly to see him casually talking with what looked to be a supermodel. She twirled her naturally curly long blonde hair around her perfectly manicured pink nails, while batting her lashes up at him. Her low cut, cleavage revealing top left little to the imagination as she pressed her chest against his. She was thin, leggy, and annoying already even though I had never met her. “Uhm,” Brian cleared his throat, startling me. “Do you want any more drinks?” He arched his eyebrow at me, and I realized I had been scowling. I swear he was meant to be a spy the way he seemed to sneak up on us. Brian was my oldest friend, and before we were friends I had a huge crush on him. He never knew, and I was too afraid to tell him and ruin our friendship. Now he was more like a brother to me, although a much cuter brother than I imagined I’d have. Brian worked here part time as a server. It was yet another reason we came here. He always gave us a great discount.
“Brian, thank God you’re here,” Michelle hurriedly said, “Do you know who that guy is over there talking to that girl?”
“Who, the new guy?” Brian replied, motioning the direction of the hot guy as Michelle nodded. “Oh, that’s Jake; he just started two weeks ago.”
Michelle looked at me and smiled.
“Jake,” I mouthed, a slight smile turning up my lip on one side.
Brian just laughed, “Sorry, girls. You might wanna’ get in line for that one. You see that blonde girl he’s talking to? That’s his girlfriend.” He nodded toward the Amazon girl. “And you see all those other girls in line. Well, let’s just say they aren’t in line for the machine.”
Crap. This isn’t going to work. I mumbled under my breath.
The boardwalk wasn’t as crowded today, but it was still early, and the fog hadn’t yet cleared even though it was afternoon. San Diego fell victim to June gloom every year, and it always seemed to wait until summer had officially started. The patio on the Breakwater Café was the perfect place to sit and people watch and crush on the surplus of college students. It was an eclectic mix of teenagers and twenty-somethings flecked with small families here and there, not to mention this was the only restaurant in the area that had a man-made wave machine. When the sand was empty and the weather still cold, this was a popular hangout. It had only been two weeks since I graduated from high school and I was convinced now that it was summer I’d have more options for a boyfriend.
“I just don’t get it,” I complained. “Sara Jennings has a great guy and she is awful.”
“You just have to be patient, Kel. It’s not like you haven’t had your share of dates,” my friend Michelle assured me, “Besides, you’re only eighteen.”
Michelle was right. It wasn’t for the lack of trying; it just seemed all the wrong guys clung to me like lint on velvet. I went through all of the stereotypes: the jock focused only on his next score; the quiet boy that couldn’t open up; I even dated a nerd that spoke in sexual innuendos. I was ready for a real boyfriend, somebody I could be serious with.
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Michelle said, pointing in the direction I was staring. “Him?”
“What?” I smiled, taking another sip from my soda.
“No offense, but you do know he’s totally out of your league,” Michelle replied. I just ignored her and kept staring in his direction, admiring his short, dark hair. His eyes had a piercing blue quality that reminded me of the blue in the ocean. His casual demeanor showed in his flip flops, grey t-shirt and black and grey board shorts that hung low on his hips as he prepared to start the wave machine.
“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” I said, meeting Michelle’s gaze. “But, I bet he’d be interested if he knew my awesomely charming personality.” I grinned.
“Is that a challenge?” Michelle snickered. “You wanna make a bet?”
I just laughed and shook my head. “Um, no,” I said flatly. “I wouldn’t even know where to begin.”
“It’s not like you have anything to lose,” Michelle teased. “You don’t start your yoga training for another three months anyways.”
I replied wistfully, “But he doesn’t even know I exist.” I looked toward him as he continued to ready the machine and talk to the crowd that had gathered. He yelled for the people to form a line – his voice deep, sexy and made me flush at the sound of it.
“That is what it looks like, isn’t it?” Michelle said dryly, looking in the same direction as me.
“Besides,” I explained, “he probably has a ton of girls throwing themselves at him.” I sighed and looked down to my lap disappointed at my own lack of confidence.
“You can always ask Brian to introduce you.” Michelle grinned at me.
I felt the heat really fan my cheeks. “Nooo, I'd be way too embarrassed.”
Michelle looked at the guy again and said, “C’mon Kel, do you see how hot he is?” She lifted one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows. “Three months,” Michelle said, looking back towards me, smiling softly.
“Three months for what?” I asked, meeting her gaze.
“The bet. You have that much time to get him to date you,” Michelle replied smugly. “You can call it the three month plan.”
“You’re serious about that?” I laughed, but was cut short when I realized Michelle was serious. My expression quickly faded to a dull stare.
“I wish you could see your expression right now.” Michelle chuckled.
I paused at the silence, contemplating the challenge as I gazed in his direction. He was smiling to his latest customer who had entered the restaurant and climbed in line for the machine. Michelle had a point. I planned on making this a summer to remember. I wasn’t enrolled in college this fall since I had decided to take a year off before starting. And the yoga teacher training program didn’t begin until four months from now. “You know,” I replied with a newfound confidence, “I think that’s perfect.”
Michelle’s mouth fell open in surprise that all her prodding worked. “So in three months you will have landed him is what you are saying?” Michelle asked in disbelief.
“Yeah. One way or another,” I laughed. “I’m gonna’ do, wear, and say everything that I would imagine a guy like that would want me to do.”
Michelle grinned. “You’re crazy. A guy like that is gonna’ want you wearing nothing.”
“Very funny, Michelle.” I playfully slapped her hands from across the table. “But since you were so instrumental in creating this bet, I am going to need your help.”
“I was just kidding,” Michelle laughed. “Why am I getting dragged into this? You should ask Brian to help you.”
“Well, you certainly encouraged it,” I responded and looked at the guy again. “But you’re right, how else am I going to get into his head, without some guy’s input?”
“I’m sure his head isn’t the only place you want to get in to,” Michelle smiled. “Virginity is overrated anyways.”
My face flushed, “You’re a bad influence, and you know that, right? I’m not going to sleep with him.” I must admit my mind did have a tendency to drift to such things. I’d never allowed the guys I’ve dated get very far with me, but watching him had me fantasizing of pressing against his lean body.
“Of course. But you still love me anyways.” She grinned.
“Yes, yes I do. But that may change after this whole three month plan is over.” I cocked my head to the side sarcastically.
“Well, you had better get started then,” Michelle said. “And your first step might be getting rid of what looks like competition.” She lifted her head and looked behind me.
I turned my head slowly to see him casually talking with what looked to be a supermodel. She twirled her naturally curly long blonde hair around her perfectly manicured pink nails, while batting her lashes up at him. Her low cut, cleavage revealing top left little to the imagination as she pressed her chest against his. She was thin, leggy, and annoying already even though I had never met her. “Uhm,” Brian cleared his throat, startling me. “Do you want any more drinks?” He arched his eyebrow at me, and I realized I had been scowling. I swear he was meant to be a spy the way he seemed to sneak up on us. Brian was my oldest friend, and before we were friends I had a huge crush on him. He never knew, and I was too afraid to tell him and ruin our friendship. Now he was more like a brother to me, although a much cuter brother than I imagined I’d have. Brian worked here part time as a server. It was yet another reason we came here. He always gave us a great discount.
“Brian, thank God you’re here,” Michelle hurriedly said, “Do you know who that guy is over there talking to that girl?”
“Who, the new guy?” Brian replied, motioning the direction of the hot guy as Michelle nodded. “Oh, that’s Jake; he just started two weeks ago.”
Michelle looked at me and smiled.
“Jake,” I mouthed, a slight smile turning up my lip on one side.
Brian just laughed, “Sorry, girls. You might wanna’ get in line for that one. You see that blonde girl he’s talking to? That’s his girlfriend.” He nodded toward the Amazon girl. “And you see all those other girls in line. Well, let’s just say they aren’t in line for the machine.”
Crap. This isn’t going to work. I mumbled under my breath.
My Book Review:
The Three Month Plan is an enjoyable YA contemporary romance story about friendships and relationships ... sometimes you have to look right in front of you to recognize the person who loves you most.
Author Kimberley Patterson weaves an entertaining romance story set in San Diego, that follows the trials and tribulations of longtime childhood friends Kelly Callahan and Brian McMillan, as they stumble along love's path to recognizing the feelings that they've held and denied each other because they were too afraid to lose their close friendship.
Told in the first person narrative by Kelly and Brian in alternating chapters, the reader follows along as Kelly is in search of a serious relationship, and is goaded into a bet with best friend Michelle to get hottie surfer boy Jake Carter to ask her out within three months. But there is just one little problem, Kelly's hid her true feelings for Brian, and was afraid of ruining their friendship. Brian knows that Jake's a player who will break Kelly's heart, and when he reluctantly gives advice to Kelly to help her snag Jake, he realizes that he has always had feelings for her that goes beyond friendship. What should Kelly and Brian do: deny their true feelings for each other for the sake of their longtime friendship, or follow their heart?
The Three Month Plan is a lighthearted and tender love story about best friends who have deeper feelings for each other, and the trials and tribulations that they go through during a three month plan that leads them back to each other.
This is a cute coming of age romance with quirky characters, funny dialogue and amusing interactions, and a predictable storyline that still puts a smile on the reader's face. I really enjoyed that the chapters alternated between Kelly and Brian's perspectives, the reader is given the chance to get into each of their minds as the angst over their true feelings for each other duels with their reluctance to lose their close longtime friendship. This is the type of YA contemporary romance story that took me back to my own post-high school days when I was like Kelly, trying to figure out what to do with my life mixed with the youthful giddiness of agonizing over guys at the local beach.
I would recommend this fun romantic story to YA fans, it is an entertaining and easy read with a satisfying and sweet HEA ending.
RATING: 4 STARS ****
Virtual Book Tour Contest Giveaway
Win A $20 Amazon Gift Card
Contest Dates: Oct. 21 - Nov. 11, 2013
Virtual Book Tour Schedule
Tour Schedule:
October 21 – Chick Lit Plus – Novel Spotlight
October 22 – Change the Word – Guest Post & Excerpt
October 24 – Storm Goddess Book Reviews – Review & Excerpt
October 24- Living in a Book World – Review, Q&A & Excerpt
October 29 – Bookish – Review
October 31 - Samantha March - Novel Spotlight & Excerpt
November 4 – Keep Calm and Blog On – Review
November 4 – Traveling With T – Excerpt
November 5 – Once Upon a YA Book – Review
November 5 - Forget the Housework I'm Reading - Review
November 6 – Book Suburbia – Guest Post & Excerpt
November 8 – Jersey Girl Book Reviews – Review, Guest Post & Excerpt
November 11 – Reader Girls – Excerpt
Thanks for being in the tour and Happy Friday!
ReplyDeleteHi Samantha! Thank you for the opportunity to host the virtual book tour event. Have a great weekend! :)
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