By Jennifer Hallmark

Have you ever read a book and wondered how in the world the author thought that up? Well, it’s true that we writers have vivid imaginations and we might just eavesdrop and people-watch occasionally.  Uh, make that all the time. But we’ve learned if we observe our surroundings, that action can spark ideas.

Take this coffee cup. One day, while drinking hot tea, I had a scene come to mind where a character would be drinking from a similar cup and thinking about peace, the word repeated on the surface of the mug. The scene is now in Jessie’s Hope.

Also in Jessie’s Hope, part of the story is set in two different bridal boutiques. Bentley’s, the boutique that doesn’t treat people very nice, is patterned after a bridal shop I went to once that is over an hour away from my house and no longer in business. My daughter and I were looking at prom dresses and let’s just say I never went back.

The other shop, The Central City Creative Clothier, is patterned after a shop that I really like. Mary’s Bridal and Formal Wear, is now located in Moulton, Alabama. I shopped there when it was still outside of town over in Colbert County. My son rented tuxedos and my daughter purchased prom gowns and eventually her wedding dress there. They have first quality clothing and go out of their way to satisfy their customers.

The owner, Vera Rutherford, was gracious enough to read the rough draft of my book and give me guidance on creating my own imaginary bridal shop. Thanks again, Vera!

So, as you can see, ideas are everywhere, if you just keep your eyes and ears open. In fact, just the other day, I saw a lady with two distinct necklaces while I was in the mall. My mind started racing about who she was and why two necklaces. I jotted down my ideas and plan to use it in another book in the future.

All in a writer’s life…

Click to tweet: Jessie’s Hope: Where Does a Writer Get Ideas? It might surprise you. #amwriting #MondayMotivation

Jessie’s Hope

Available for purchase on June 17th