Sunday, February 26, 2012

The Boat, a Zombie Book

So, here's what I did: I wrote a zombie book. I've been a fan of zombie movies for a long time, and always been especially disturbed by the thought of that sort of half life after death. It always bugged me...do you know on any level that you're a zombie? Much as it's always been a question for me, I didn't explore it in the book, do you know why? Because in the context of an apocalypse, it's the survivors who are interesting; not the catastrophe itself.
So I wrote a book called 'The Boat' and it is about the survivors and how such an event might, potentially, change people. You might find yourself identifying with one or more of the characters or at least recognizing some of them as people you see on a daily basis. Next time you have an idle minute, look around and ask yourself not only what would I do? but...who else would I want there with me?

I wrote it under a lot of pressure, because we wanted to have it in time for the show in Cherry Hill, Monster Mania Con, where we'll be vendors. The husband and I figured a zombie book was perfect for the event. I think the pressure shows through. It's a very fast-paced story. Exciting and also scary.

I hope you'll check it out! The info is on the website.

On another note:
Faith Creation reveived another lovely review (five stars this time!) on Confessions of a Reader. Please check out the link: http://confessionsofreader.blogspot.com/2012/02/faith-creation-by-christine-dougherty.html?showComment=1330278663509#c337453036259761459

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Lasagna and Bravery

We have friends coming over for dinner today and I am making lasagna. I love lasagna, but I don't make it very often; it is a process not to be taken lightly. There are a lot of steps, a lot of prep, burned fingers (damn you, noodles!) and a lot of dishes to wash when you're done. And there are NO shortcuts to a really good lasagna. I learned that from Italians, so it must be true.

Is there an analogy here that can be drawn to writing? I guess. But I actually have to watch the noodles right now. So, maybe you could let me know what you think about lasagna and writing (or any craft, really).

In the meantime, I am going to be brave and post a link to a review I received this week on "The Devil Stood Up". I've posted all my reviews in the past and always wondered what I'd do in the case of a bad review...could I post it? Would I have the mental fortitude?

The answer, as it turns out, is 'yes'. While this is by no means a bad review, I would call it conflicted. But Devil seems to do that to some people. So but anyway, I am going to be brave and post the link:

http://thegingernutcase.blogspot.com/2012/02/devil-stands-up-by-christine-dougherty.html

I actually get it, because I can relate. When I read "Gerald's Game" by Stephen King (my hero) I really didn't like it at all. It wasn't the writing that I objected to, it was the content.

And "The Devil Stood Up" definitely has objectionable content in spades.