One Day I'll Write Like Tim Winton and Elizabeth Jolley

Submitted by Elaine Fraser on 5 October 2011 - 2:02pm

I have just registered a barcode/ISBN for Perfect Mercy, the first in the Beautiful Lives Series of novels for young adults. 

I am planning to release the novel at the end of January in time for the new school year. It's taken longer than I thought but it was worth the rewrite. (Thanks to Anne Hamilton for the detailed critique.)

I have also written the first draft of the second novel, Love, Justice. This one will come out much quicker than the first, now that I know what I'm doing!

Writing my first fiction piece has been a huge learning process.  I have always struggled with fiction. I actually studied under brilliant WA writer Elizabeth Jolley in the 80's, however, I struggled to get C grades as my writing was quite forced and awkward. When I look at it now, it reads like the script of a B Grade chase movie.

 

I never thought I would ever be able to write fiction. I think I wanted to write like Elizabeth Jolley and Tim Winton-two greats and felt I could never reach that standard. I have found you just have to write as yourself and find your own style.

 

My audience is made up of young adults and therefore I have been able to write in a realistic fashion and keep my 'down to earthenss'. 

One day I will write a literary piece. i already have an outline after being inspired on the terrace of a Tuscan villa. For now, I will complete my Beautiful Lives Series of 15 books then perhaps be ready to write a more mature piece when I am older and wiser. Perhaps I need to grow up a bit more.

Anyway, here is the blurb about Perfect Mercy: Coming in January 2012

Perfect Mercy, Elaine's first novel, is the start of the Beautiful Lives series for young adults. Perfect Mercy is the story of Mercy hamilton who has the perfect life. She is gorgeous with amazing fashion sense, is intelligent and has the perfect boyfriend, family and home.

However, things start to unravel when Mercy does something she regrets at a party. Mercy's perfect world falls apart as she discovers her parents haven't been as happy as she believed, her reputation is ruined and her relationship with her boyfriend breaks down.

 

In real life our choices have consequences and, just when you think there is no hope, along comes Perfect Mercy.

Beautiful Lives Series: Book 2: Love Justice coming 2012