Shannon Style...But NOT Mine

Do you recognize this face? 

Do you follow her blog? 

Every day?

Well, here's why you should . . . 

(longer than normal post, but worth every extra minute!)
 

I have been researching and brainstorming and all the good stuff that goes into prepping for a new project. Yeah, so? Been there, done that, O'Donnell.  I know, I know, but hear me out, people.

After much searching, reading, and spending money, I have discovered something that might surprise you. The best resources I have found--anywhere--for prepping and then writing a novel can be found within our very own blogging circle. One is the home of the brilliant and well-loved Shannon #1 (I am #2, in case you're wondering). The other I will share with you tomorrow, so come back again.

I have two folders that do not leave my side when I'm researching, prepping, or writing. One is now lovingly referred to as my "Shannon Style File". The other is my Angela file, but that's for tomorrow.

When Shannon started her "Shannon Style" entries I thought, "Oh, yay. This will be interesting." Um, it has been SO MUCH more than that. To fully understand why, keep reading.

Instructions for becoming a happier writer:

Go here, to the Shannon Style label on the right side of her blog to see every post. Next, Highlight, copy, paste into a word document and print! Now you have the beginnings of your own "Shannon Style File".  Read and learn!

Also:

Her Creating Characters entry from 11/30/10 has a two-page character profile template. Click on it, and make one of your own. Use it!  

I made one for each of my new MCs and have spent several hours figuring out and filling in info for them. One of my girl characters surprised me by becoming someone I wasn't aware she wanted to be (characters are funny that way, aren't they?).

But wait!  There's more:

I am a fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants writer. Plotter--what's that? 

BUT . . .  Shannon has tips for outlining that are so amazing I find myself irresistibly drawn to them, using them! *shudders at the thought of such blasphemy* She has changed the way I approach a new project.

I know Shannon isn't exactly a new commodity to most (or all) of you, but maybe you haven't seen (or appropriately appreciated) her Shannon Style posts. I  believe there are now 12 of them, which when printed = 14 pages of very wise and uber-useful writing tips, and all for FREE. 

What is one of your favorite free and uber-useful 

writing resources?