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
