Tuesday’s Writing Update

Hey, Joa here! This Tuesday, I’m pulling back the curtain on my latest adventure in storytelling, and trust me, it’s a ride you won’t want to miss. As I dive deep into the chilling depths of my current work, The Devil that Haunts Me, I’ve stumbled upon some revelations that have both haunted and invigorated my spirit. It’s a psychological horror that promises to send shivers down your spine, and it’s slated to hit shelves in the fall of 2024.

The Art of Traumatizing Horror

You might be wondering, “Joa, do you even enjoy crafting stories that are bound to leave your readers sleeping with the lights on?” To be honest, it’s complicated. Writing horror is not about loving the darkness but about confronting it. There’s something incredibly liberating about facing your demons, laying them out on paper, and realizing they don’t control you. So, yeah, I’m starting to really enjoy this process. It’s like therapy, but for my creativity.

A Pivot in Process

In my journey through this manuscript, I hit a snag. Something felt off. That’s when I turned to The Seven Drafts—an absolute gem for writers, especially for those of us who tend to dive into stories without a detailed outline. Here I discovered the Crazy Eight structure, a narrative framework that felt like it was tailor-made for my story. Previously, I had been wedging my tale into the Hero’s Journey structure, but it was like trying to squeeze into a pair of shoes that were a size too small.

Realizing the mismatch was a pivotal moment. It reminded me of a truth I’ve encountered time and again: when I hit a roadblock, it’s not a sign to abandon ship but to dive deeper. Delving into literature about the craft of writing often shines a light on the path forward. Once again, this approach didn’t let me down, and I found myself more invested in this manuscript than ever before.

You can download the story outline here

A Sneak Peek Just for You

I’m thrilled to announce that the first seven chapters of The Devil that Haunts Me are available for download on my website. And if you’ve journeyed with me before, having downloaded earlier drafts, your insights are gold to me. Which version resonates more with you? The evolution of my work is partly shaped by your feedback, and I genuinely value your thoughts.

Let’s Connect

This story is more than a book; it’s a part of me. It’s a dialogue between the page and the reader, between the darkness and the light. I invite you to be a part of this journey. Your engagement, feedback, and anticipation fuel my passion and persistence. Together, let’s explore the shadows and discover what lurks within.

For those who dare to dive into the darkness, the journey promises to be one of reflection, discovery, and, perhaps, a touch of horror. But then again, what’s a good story without a little thrill?

Until next time,

Joa (Johanny Ortega)

P.S. Your thoughts and feedback are not just welcome; they are essential. Let’s keep the conversation going. Share your impressions, fears, and excitement. After all, the story may be mine, but the journey? That’s ours.