Before Hemphill Towers, my
writing consisted of limericks for my grandkids. Maybe that’s why I agreed to
write a short humor story about me and two online friends. We projected
ourselves back in age as career women, each described a love interest, and I was
to turn the ideas into a type of spoof story. But the words just kept flowing,
plot twists came in my dreams, and before long, I had written a
novel.
Well, it wasn’t quite as
easy as that sounded. I emailed the novel to family and friends in fifteen
weekly installments, as each was written. God forbid if one happened to be late.
They kept me on my toes and pushed me to finish. They also let me bounce ideas
off them, especially a small MS group. An 85 year old man, caregiver to his 86
year old wife with MS, and smart as a whip said, “Leo, use me in your novel any
way you want.” So I did. He became Mayor
Hemphill. I was almost finished with the book and still hadn’t chosen a name.
Then, it leapt out at me. Hemphill Towers, named for several men who had passed
the Mayor’s hat from generation to generation. My friend was
delighted.
It’s been a long journey
from the first draft to the one I submitted to MuseItUp Publishing. There are
still edits to be done, but I have a contract and my dream of being published
will soon be a reality.
Next week, May 8, I’ll show
you pictures of my (wishful thinking) cast of characters.
You are an inspiration Leona! I love the story of how your book came to be. And I can't wait to see it officially published!!
ReplyDeleteVJ, this blog is BEAUTIFUL!!! You are a very talented lady.
DeleteI agree with VJ, Leo. I find your post an engaging way to catch up in time with how this major accomplishment came to be... and to introduce and welcome us to your blog. It looks beautiful too. Love the indigo and royal blues. From limericks for the grandkids and a dream, here you are. Best of luck and creativity always!
ReplyDeleteThanks very much Les, and VJ. I'm so glad VJ has a lot of patience. She is my mentor for this stuff...another dream...be as efficient as Veronica Jorden.
ReplyDeleteLeo, your blog is absolutely beautiful! And this post is so nicely written, I felt like you were talking to me. I knew a little of the story of how Hemphill Towers came about, but not all of it. Such a wonderful journey. I can't wait to order your book on Amazon. (((hugs))) :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Von! The journey was a long one, but now I see the light at the end of the tunnel getting brighter by the day.
DeleteLeo, I'd love to read your book and see it made into a movie. It looks like your cast will be an awesome looking cast. I'll be watching for your book and will buy it at the first opportunity. Congratulations and job well done!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Dixie, I can't wait to see it on Amazon and the MuseItUp book store. I highly doubt the movie deal will ever happen, but it makes a nice dream too.
ReplyDeleteDreaming brings it that much closer to reality, wouldn't you say? There's more of reality in it than there was before. As long as you are able to enjoy wherever on the dream-o-meter it winds up, through the auspices of your priorities and interests, then it seems that you have the best in hand. I love the way you described and cast the major characters. Definitely some cool choices - diverse. I like that, though this is a comment for the other post. I join everyone here in looking forward to holding a copy of your very own book in my hands!
ReplyDeleteGood Morning, Leo,
ReplyDeleteI absolutely LOVED your author interview with Mysti Parker. This is one of the best interviews I've seen. I highly recommend it to every writer. I especially like how she balances her family and her writing. She is an inspiration. Great job, Leo.
Linda
Ah, THERE's Linda! Leo directed me to your comment, so thanks a million x 2 for all your support!! :)
DeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDelete