The Tempest - Revisited

Hello, fans and friends! It’s been a long time, hasn’t it? J

Since you’re reading this post, I assume you’re curious to know about the “Embellishments” I’m planning for “The Tempest.” If you’re interested in spoilers, then read on. If not, you may want to cease your reading right now. Just for the record, one more time…

SPOILERS AHEAD!

OK, you’ve been warned.

First off, let me say that the impact (If I can call it that) of this book has astounded me from the first. While it certainly has its detractors, they pale in comparison with the huge scope and incredible loyalty of devoted fans out there, and you all know who you are. But the detractors haven’t been an entire detriment to me. In fact, they’ve inadvertently led to something good!

Even if you’re a fan, let’s face it – “The Tempest” has its flaws. I’m the first to admit that. But it was written almost 5 years ago, and I will tell you with all honesty that I’m not the same writer as I was back then – I’m certainly not the same person! I like to think that nowadays, I’m much better as both a person and an artist.

Having said that, I’ve decided to make some slight changes to “The Tempest.” Don’t worry! Guy and Cassia aren’t changing much, and their relationship will be as spicy as you know it to be. But for the purpose of strengthening the plot (Which was, in some spots, admittedly weak) I’ve decided to tweak things a bit. Here’s a list of the changes I’m planning.

GUY AND CASSIA’S CHILDHOOD

I didn’t give much background on these two, but I’ve decided it will be a richer story if we found out how they got to be who they are. Guy had a mother and father, of course, so we’ll meet them. We’ll also discover how Guy came to meet and fall in love with Marian, and most importantly, what started the long-standing hatred between Guy and Robin Hood.

CASSIA’S FIRST HUSBAND

You all know he was killed in the original story. But I’ve decided to resurrect him, because in my mind, he would be a perfect source of conflict that is lacking in the middle of the story. What better way to ramp up the tension than to have a genuine obstacle standing in the way of our two lovers? This will also help to move the plot along at a steadier pace.

LOVE SCENES

OK, everyone. I know there will be some major yays and nays about this, but a few of the love scenes are being trimmed. Believe me, I enjoy writing them. REALLY. Nothing gives me more joy than to imagine Guy of Gisborne in a natural state (Ahem). But I think that they can be trimmed without taking away from the story’s enjoyment. Don’t worry, though! There will be plenty of sexual tension throughout, and fear not – some of the favorite love scenes will remain, and they may even be touched up a bit. I’m sure you’ll be pleased with what I have in mind! :D

CASSIA’S FAMILY/ORIGINS

One of the criticisms I’ve gotten repeatedly over the last few years is that Cassia is too good to be true. In my mind, she’s strong and intelligent, stubborn as hell, and extremely passionate. But some have said she needs more development, so I’m giving her a background that should satisfy readers. We’ll learn more about her family, particularly her Grandmother and Grandfather, who were a major influence on her character. I think you’ll enjoy meeting her relations, who are a bit on the eccentric side. I can’t wait to start writing this! J

CASSIA – THE WITCH

No, Cassia will not be getting a pointed hat and a broom. But you all know that she is a healer and loves to practice medicine. This story, however, being set in the medieval time period, makes her practices a matter open to much suspicion and scorn. I’m planning on emphasizing this matter more, as it gives the reader of understanding of why and how Cassia ended up living in isolation.

Guy, of course, will be involved with all of this. I think his first meeting with Cassia will be a bit more dramatic because of his own superstitions. This should be interesting! J

*****

That’s about it, folks! I would love to know what you think of the changes. Please, be kind. I hope these changes make for a much better story. We’ll see what happens when all is said and done!

Happy Reading!

 

Love,

Charlotte