Tag: romance
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Writer’s Shop Talk: Got Any Hobbies?
Jim Garraty, a history professor, balances his time between teaching and diverse hobbies like building model kits and playing classic computer games. His girlfriend Maddie, a pianist and stamp collector influenced by her diplomatic family, shares a deep intellectual connection with him, rooted in a mutual appreciation for history and music.
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Writer’s Shop Talk: My Twist on the ‘Meet Cute’ Trope
The discussion revolves around the “meet cute” trope in storytelling, specifically in romance genres. While the author acknowledges its challenges, they reflect on their own successful execution of it in their novel featuring Jim Garraty. In a noisy Brooklyn nightclub, Jim encounters a captivating stranger, Maddie, whose eloquence and charm draw him in. Their conversation…
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Writer’s Shop Talk: Outline THIS!
“Reunion: Coda” intertwines Jim’s high school and college professor years, exploring his emotional journey towards love. The narrative follows Jim’s struggles with unexpressed feelings for Marty, his romance with Maddie during his teaching career, and eventual reconciliation of his past. It emphasizes personal growth, emotional conflict, and unconventional romantic resolutions.
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Writer’s Shop Talk: Lovers’ Quarrel?
James and Maddie, navigating through NYC traffic, argue over their plans for the evening. Maddie, exhausted from her flight, expresses frustration at James’s insistence on getting her home. Despite the tension, their conversation reveals their desire to be together, ultimately leading to a compromise as they seek connection amidst their concerns.
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Writer’s Shop Talk: Memories are Made of This….
In a heartfelt exchange, Jim and Marty reflect on their shared experiences as they approach the end of high school. Jim presents Marty with a letter, asking her to open it after graduation. Their emotional farewell culminates in a tender kiss, marking a bittersweet moment of departure and longing for the future.
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Writer’s Shop Talk: ‘Let Me Slip Into Something a Bit More…Comfortable’
The female lead surprises the male lead in the bathroom already naked, and they both retire to bed where they express their deep affection for each other. The scene is described in detailed, evocative language, creating an intimate and tender atmosphere. Maddie’s unique charm and the comforting cocoon of the bedroom are elaborated upon, emphasizing…
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Writer’s Shop Talk: Of Brothers…and Sisters
Jim Garraty, an only child, forms a close bond with his friend Mark, who plays a protective older brother role. Mark’s relationship with his younger sister Leslie is mostly loving. Maddie had a strong bond with her younger sister Libby, who excelled in music before her premature death, leaving Maddie deeply affected.
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On the Effect of Bad Burritos on a Novelist’s Life…and a Writing Exercise with a Special Twist
On a sunny but chilly day in New Hampshire, the author shares their recovery from an adverse reaction to a burrito. Amidst challenges, progress on the novel “Reunion: Coda” is hindered, but the writer finds pride in a meaningful journal entry. The book’s layered elements of romance, coming-of-age, and fiction are explored.
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Writer’s Shop Talk: ‘Dear Diary…’
Maddie writes a late journal entry to Libby, detailing her guilty feelings about meeting Professor Jim at the Moonglow Club. She speculates about his interest in the club, describes her outfit and perfume choice, and reflects on their interaction, expressing both admiration and unease. Maddie ends the entry feeling emotionally overwhelmed but content.
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Musings and Thoughts for Friday, July 26, 2024: A Writer’s Worries…and Hopes
The paperback edition of “Reunion: A Story” is a deeply personal novella by the author, Alex Diaz-Granados. Set in Miami during the author’s high school years, the story delves into adolescent love and nostalgia. The main character, Jim Garraty, navigates unresolved feelings for his high school crush. The author invites readers to experience this heartfelt…
A Certain Point of View, Too 