Tag Archives: writing tips

Where Do I Get My Ideas for Novels?

One of the questions I’m asked most often as a writer is: Where do you come up with your ideas? The truth is, inspiration strikes me on a daily basis. Sometimes, it’s in the middle of my morning walk when I’m surrounded by the rhythm of everyday life. People going about their day, snippets of conversation, the way someone carries themselves—all of it sparks my imagination. For instance, there’s a handsome guy with a cute dog who owns a bicycle shop that I pass every morning. Naturally, he’s going to find his way into a book someday. Plot bunnies, as I like to call them, are everywhere.

But it’s not just strangers or random moments that inspire me. Many of my ideas come from my own life experiences. It’s these stories, memories, and even challenges that help me create characters and plots that feel authentic. For all of you who want to be writers, I recommend keeping a journal so you can refer to your prior experiences. Let me take you on a journey through some of those experiences and how they’ve shaped my writing.

Writing What I Know: The Arts, Makeup, and Latinx Culture

When I was younger, I had my heart set on becoming a concert pianist. I was steeped in classical music, not just as a pianist but also playing brass instruments and guitar. If you wanted the perfect example of a geeky kid who loved going to the symphony, I’d be the zitty teen face on a poster. While life took me in a different direction, that passion for music never left me. It’s no surprise that I’ve written several novels about musicians. In Mr. Mouthful, a symphony conductor falls in love with a cellist who owns a coffee shop. The Boundary tells the story of an opera singer falling in love with his makeup artist, and The Big Time explores the journey of an up-and-coming pop star. Music has always been a deep well of inspiration for me.

Later, my artistic path led me to the world of beauty. I became a professional makeup artist and had the honor of working for Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, opening the very first Bobbi Brown studio and retail store in the United States. Working with Bobbi was totally amazing! My experiences there helped me shape the love interest in The Boundary, adding layers of authenticity to a story about ambition and artistry.

And then, there’s my personal life. I’ve spent many years living in Mexico and was in a 23-year relationship with my former partner Ricardo, who was Mexican-American. This immersion in Latinx culture has naturally found its way into my writing. For instance, The Big One, and Electric feature characters with rich, Latinx backstories. Writers often hear the advice to “write what you know,” and for me, that’s proven to be invaluable.

The Birth of The Money Shot

The novel I’m currently polishing up, The Money Shot, came from a very different kind of inspiration. I’m not going to lie: I was casually perusing porn on Reddit (research, obviously!), and I noticed a growing trend. Many of the guys posting nudes and videos were linking to their OnlyFans pages. That sparked an idea. What if I wrote a story about someone turning to OnlyFans out of financial desperation? Enter Liam and Jack, two roommates navigating this uncharted territory, all while falling in love.

While developing the plot, I found myself binge-watching The Nanny on YouTube. Fran Fine’s larger-than-life personality inspired Vanessa Martinez, a Latina version of Fran with her own unique flair—and let’s just say, Vanessa is a lot naughtier. She brings comic relief and a dash of chaos to The Money Shot, and she’s quickly become one of my favorite characters to write.

Open Minds, Endless Ideas

One thing I’ve learned as a writer is the importance of keeping your mind open. Inspiration can come from anywhere: a conversation, a memory, a random observation, or even something as mundane as scrolling through social media. The key is to notice the sparks and fan them into flames.

That said, I doubt I’ll ever write about something I don’t at least have a working knowledge of. For instance, I’ve never written about ice hockey or deep-sea exploration because those worlds feel too far removed from my own. But who knows? If I ever take up scuba diving or start caring about sports, maybe that’ll change.

For now, I’m content letting my past experiences and everyday observations guide me. Life is full of stories waiting to be told, and I can’t wait to see what sparks my imagination next.

Using Side Characters to Enrich Your Novel: A Look into Laura’s Story

In fiction, side characters often function as more than just background noise. Done well, they can add emotional depth, thematic resonance, and nuance to the main story. One way to accomplish this is through vignettes—short, evocative episodes that reveal a side character’s perspective, history, or inner life.

Take Laura, a dominatrix introduced in Money Shot, as an example. While she isn’t the protagonist, her chapter—detailing an evening that blends professional detachment, personal reflection, and emotional vulnerability—shows how vignettes can elevate a narrative. Let’s break down what her vignette adds to the story.

1. Humanizing a Professional Persona

In Laura’s scene, readers glimpse the duality of her life. Professionally, she’s confident, composed, and dominant, creating content for her FantasyFans platform. But as soon as the camera stops rolling, we see her as a layered individual—someone grappling with wistful memories and the gap between her dreams and reality.

This balance between strength and vulnerability doesn’t just make Laura relatable; it challenges stereotypes about her profession. Through Laura, readers are reminded that no one is defined solely by their job, and every character has a hidden complexity.

2. Reflecting Themes of the Main Story

Laura’s flashback to Seth—the man who shattered her youthful faith in love—echoes themes of disillusionment and second chances that permeate Money Shot. Her longing for something real and meaningful mirrors the struggles of the main characters, Liam and Jack, as they navigate their feelings in a complicated world.

By tying her personal heartbreak to broader themes, Laura’s vignette strengthens the emotional core of the novel, making her a narrative bridge between side plot and central story.

3. Introducing Subtle Plot Developments

The vignette also moves the plot forward in small but meaningful ways. When Laura stumbles upon a video of Liam and Jack, her reaction—shock at their chemistry and recognition of genuine love—foreshadows the emotional payoff in their relationship. As a seasoned observer in the adult content world, her perspective carries weight, validating what readers may already suspect: Liam and Jack aren’t just partners for the camera.

These subtle nods to the main plot keep the vignette relevant, ensuring it feels like a natural extension of the story rather than a detour.

4. Adding Texture to the Worldbuilding

By diving into Laura’s personal and professional lives, the vignette expands the world of Money Shot. Her experiences add texture to the broader community of creators, giving readers a sense of the diverse personalities and stories within the industry. This rich backdrop makes the story more immersive, as readers feel they’re stepping into a fully realized world.

5. Engaging Readers with Unique Voices

Laura’s voice—pragmatic yet tinged with longing—stands out. Her commentary on life, love, and work is sharp, insightful, and occasionally self-deprecating. This distinct voice keeps readers engaged, even when she’s not driving the main plot. It’s a reminder that side characters can shine as much as protagonists when given the chance.

Conclusion: More Than the Sum of Its Parts

Laura’s vignette demonstrates how side characters can contribute depth, complexity, and resonance to a story. By giving them space to reflect, connect, or react to events, you’re not just adding texture to your novel—you’re inviting readers to explore its emotional and thematic undercurrents in new and meaningful ways.

When crafting your next story, consider giving your side characters the spotlight for a moment. You might be surprised at how much they have to offer.

The Money Shot will be released this December.

Using Current Events to Enrich Fiction

In the ever-evolving landscape of literature, incorporating current events into fiction offers a unique way to enrich storytelling. It allows authors to create narratives that resonate deeply with readers by weaving in elements of the world they live in. In this post, I’ll explore why and how current events can enhance fiction, using my upcoming novel Breaking The Ice by my pen name Tessa Vidal as a case study.

Why Incorporate Current Events?

Integrating current events into fiction isn’t just about mirroring reality; it’s about creating stories that feel immediate and relevant. By grounding your narrative in real-world events, you can engage readers on a more profound level, sparking conversations and connections that go beyond the page.

Be Careful!

The one real drawback to incorporating current events into a story is you end up dating yourself, which can shorten the shelf-life of your book. Because of this you should always be careful to pick current events that are also evergreen topics. For example, in my current work in progress I’m using a political setting without engaging in specific events that happened in real life. Politics is evergreen, meaning it’s almost always current, but if I wrote about the actual election of 2024 between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the book would be dated almost immediately after the conclusion of the presidential race.

Balancing Accuracy and Creativity

While using current events can add depth to your story, it’s crucial to balance accuracy with creativity. Extensive research is essential to ensure a respectful and accurate portrayal. However, fiction allows for flexibility—use real events as a backdrop while crafting fictional elements to suit your narrative.

Crafting Characters and Plotlines

Current events can significantly influence character development and plot progression. Characters’ reactions to these events can reflect real-world perspectives and add layers of authenticity to their motivations and conflicts. For example, in Breaking The Ice, the fictional “Vision 2025 Coalition” is inspired by Project 2025, highlighting the tensions surrounding environmental policies. The antagonist, Victor Blackwood, embodies the morally ambiguous tactics often seen in contemporary politics, drawing loose inspiration from figures like Roger Stone.

Case Study: Breaking The Ice

In Breaking The Ice, the “Vision 2025 Coalition” is a critical plot device. This fictional organization is modeled after Project 2025, a real-world initiative with controversial implications. By adapting this concept, I’ve created a compelling antagonist, Victor Blackwood, whose lobbying efforts for off-shore drilling present a formidable challenge for the protagonist, Representative Ellie Thompson.

Victor’s character is loosely based on Donald Trump ally Roger Stone, reflecting the cunning and controversial nature of some political figures. His blackmail tactics—using Ellie’s secret as leverage—introduce a moral dilemma that deepens the story’s conflict. This approach not only provides a gripping narrative but also mirrors real-world political drama, enhancing the story’s relevance and impact.

Enhancing Reader Engagement

By incorporating current events, you invite readers to engage with your story on a personal level. It stimulates discussion and encourages readers to reflect on contemporary issues through the lens of fiction. This connection can make your story more impactful and memorable.

Conclusion

Incorporating current events into fiction offers a powerful tool for creating engaging, relevant, and thought-provoking narratives. By blending real-world elements with creative storytelling, you can craft stories that resonate deeply with readers and spark meaningful conversations. I encourage fellow writers to explore this approach, balancing creativity with reality to enhance their storytelling.

Have you used current events in your writing? If you’re not a writer, are you ever drawn to books about current events? If so, share your experience in the comments below. Happy Reading!

Breaking The Ice is now available for preorder exclusively on Amazon.

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The Unseen Layers of Writing: Embracing Symbolism in Storytelling

As writers, we often focus on plot, character development, and dialogue, sometimes overlooking the subtle layers that add depth to our narratives. One of these layers is symbolism, a powerful tool that enriches our stories and resonates with readers on a deeper level.

Interestingly, many of us incorporate symbolism subconsciously, drawn to certain images or motifs without fully understanding their significance until later. This realization dawned on me recently, prompting a reflection on my own use of symbolism in my novels.

Symbolism in “The Big Day”

In my novel The Big Day, I used grackles as a symbol of Mexico, embodying both the beauty and the challenges of the country. The grackles, often seen as common and even troublesome birds, represent the resilient spirit and vibrant life of Mexico. Here’s a snippet from the final chapter that demonstrates this symbolism:

“Sergio, when the service is over, the bird man will release the doves from their cage. All you need to do is aim the camera toward them, flying into the sky.” I moved the camera arm to show him how to do it. “Can you handle that?”

“Yes, sir.” Sergio nodded gravely, then a smile split his face. “Congratulations.”

“Thanks.” I strolled up to the little stage and stepped up. Sofia beamed at me, then she cleared her throat. I turned around to see Ram coming out of the house.

“Sergio, hit the start button on the camera.” I said, then I felt like I was about to have a heart attack. Ram strode toward me, his strides full of confidence. His white tuxedo with the scarlet bowtie set off his dark looks perfectly.

“You are a dream come true,” I breathed. Ram was so handsome, so perfect in every way. I couldn’t believe that this was my husband-to-be.

He stepped onto the stage and stood next to me. We stared at each other, taking in the moment and all its significance. Ram took my hands in his own, squeezing them tightly as if to reassure himself that he wasn’t dreaming.

“Manolo,” he breathed, his gaze never leaving mine. “You are stunning.”

I felt my cheeks flush at his words and I smiled shyly back at him. He’d chosen an elegant black tux for me to wear, and I felt like I was in a classic movie from the 1950s.

“Gentlemen, are you ready?” Sofia asked, then I noticed the light. The sun was setting soon, and we had to get married now for the camera.

“Sergio, start filming.” I called over my shoulder. “Please, begin the service, Sofia.”

“No music?” She lifted a brow.

“No, I’ll edit some in before we post it on social media.” I shrugged, and Ram swallowed. “We don’t have to post it if you don’t want me to.”

“I want to shout it from the rooftops, Manolo.” Ram looked to the sky, then back at me. “Make this the best wedding video the world has ever seen.”

Sofia cleared her throat, then began the service. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of two souls, Ram and Manolo, in the sacred bond of marriage.” A crowd of people gathered around, mostly security guards and the other workers Hugo hired.

“Your love and commitment to each other have brought you to this beautiful moment, and it is an honor for me to officiate this ceremony.” Sofia’s brown eyes glittered. “Marriage is a journey of joy, growth, and unwavering support. It’s about sharing life’s triumphs and challenges, holding each other through laughter and tears.”

Ram sniffed, and I fought to keep my tears at bay.

“Today, you pledge your love to one another, promising to be true partners, friends, and companions in this life and beyond.” Sofia opened her hands and tilted her head. “Now, as a symbol of your unity, please exchange your vows.”

We’d only had a few minutes to write them down, and I hoped they sounded good on film.

“Manolo, you are my light, my rock, and my heart’s home. With you, I am complete. I promise to love you unconditionally, to stand by you through thick and thin, and to cherish every moment we share.” A tear slid down the side of Ram’s nose. “Go on, it’s your turn, Manolo.”

“Ram, you are my greatest blessing. You bring joy and laughter to my life every day. I promise to support you, to be your confidant and your partner, and to love you fiercely until the end of time.” My voice sounded so thick in my ears.

“In the presence of your loved ones and all those gathered here, do you, Ram, take Manolo to be your husband, to love and cherish him for all the days of your life?” Sofia nodded toward Ram.

“Yes, I will.”

“And do you, Manolo, take Ram to be your husband, to love and cherish him for all the days of your life?”

“Yes, always.” I felt hot tears pouring down my cheeks.

“By the power vested in me and the love that surrounds us, I now pronounce you husbands. You may seal your love with a kiss.” Sofia stepped back. Then Ram took my hands and pulled me into his arms.

“I love you now and forever, Manolo Castro.” Ram whispered, then his soft lips pressed against mine. This was our love, our truth, and I felt like my heart was about to burst inside my chest.

“¡Los pájaros, amigo, ¡suelta los pájaros!” I heard a man’s voice in the background ordering the birds to be released. A fluttering sound filled the air, and Ram and I stepped apart to see the sight.

“It’s so beautiful.” Ram sighed, throwing his arm over my shoulder. “Just like you.”

The doves circled the yard, their stunning white feathers glowing orange in the light of the setting sun.

“Oh no,” Ram pointed toward the edge of the yard. “The bandit birds are coming for them!”

“Poor things.” I shook my head as the grackles chased the doves away. Apparently, this was their territory, and no peace-loving doves were allowed. I heard a man laugh and realized it was Sergio, who was filming the whole thing. A few of the doves tried to land, but the grackles weren’t having it. This was their house, and they merely tolerated us. If the grackles had their way, we wouldn’t be here either.

“We now have the rest of our lives to look forward to.” Ram smiled, and the sky turned a pinkish purple as the sun set. “I love you so much, Manolo.”

“And I love you more.”

In this scene, the grackles assert their dominance over the doves, symbolizing the complex, often harsh reality of life in Mexico. The contrast between the peaceful doves and the assertive grackles reflects the dynamic, vibrant, and sometimes challenging nature of the country.

Embracing Symbolism in Writing

Symbolism can be a conscious choice or an intuitive one, but recognizing and embracing it can elevate our storytelling. It allows readers to connect with the narrative on a deeper level, finding meaning beyond the surface plot. Whether it’s a recurring image, a significant color, or an animal that represents a broader theme, symbolism enriches the reader’s experience and adds layers of complexity to our work.

As writers, we should remain open to the symbols that naturally emerge in our stories. They often hold the key to deeper insights and emotional resonance, making our narratives more compelling and memorable.

The Big Day is available at all major online retailers, plus you can request that your local library stocks it. To read it now, purchase it from your favorite stores such as Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and Smashwords. If you are a subscriber to the Kobo Plus program, you can read it for free with your subscription!