One of my favorite experiences at a book signing involved the person who approached the table at which I sat, my fresh-off-the-press books arrayed neatly in front of me. I smiled at the man, and avoided launching into a hard sell. "Feel free to have a look," I said, gently, so as not to scare him off. I urged him to pick up a copy and peruse. He did. I watched as he flipped through the first few pages, and then read the plot summary on the back.
Then he placed the book back on the table and said, "Looks interesting. I think I'll wait for the movie to come out."
I sighed inside, and tried hard to keep a smile on my face. I don't think that there has ever been a mystery writer who hasn't dreamed of seeing one of his or her books optioned for a Hollywood blockbuster, Movie of the Week, or perhaps just adapted as an episode of a popular crime drama. The reality is that lightning doesn't strike nearly that often.
But, I can dream, can't I? Yeah, I know I already said that. :-)
One of the techniques I use as I write is to picture the action as it might be seen through the lens of a camera. Viewpoint is important in writing, and whether I'm using first- or third-person (I use both) it is important for me to "see" what the protagonist sees. It makes it easier to bring the scene to life on the page.
I did dip my big toe into the movie making world once when I created a short video to promote UNFORGIVING SHADOWS, the first book in my Brad Frame series. That story helped to set up why Brad Frame had become a detective.
Lights, camera, action... this one minute video may be the only Brad Frame movie you'll ever see.
Promotional Video for UNFORGIVING SHADOWS
I liked the video. My debut novel will be out for pre-sale next week. It is based on a screenplay I wrote over twenty years ago. I definitely agree with "seeing the movie as I write it." Your book was fabulous. You fooled me. It has been a long time since I could not figure out whodunnit.
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