Character Introduction #8: Mom

Posted on October 13, 2010 by Laura Albright

Emily’s mother is quite a woman. She juggles a full time job, three children and the singles scene. Granted, in the small town she lives the singles scene isn’t so much a scene as it is the occasional set-up by one of her married friends. “You know Susan, my brother is recently divorced,” is something Susan would hear from time to time and cringe at the thought. “Great! The newly divorced are always so much fun,” she would say.

Emily’s mom is fun loving but strict; sweet but stern all at the same time. She trusts Emily to make the right decisions but eases her in the direction she thinks is best.

Now to address how I created Susan Parker. Let me first say that arriving at a name for this very influential character was difficult. I’ve gone through about four iterations finally settling on Susan. Like all of my character names, this one just felt right. Did I base her on anyone I know? What do you think? Not only does she embody some of the characteristics of my mother but I also drew from my friends mothers. When I was in middle and high school the sleep-overs were many. Almost every weekend one of my friends was at my house or I was at hers. I grew close to all of my friends mothers and learned to appreciate them individually. I watched as they influenced their daughters and I learned so much from them. It’s this combination that makes up Susan.

Below is an excerpt from the beginning of Call Me Emily. Emily arrives home after her first day at school to find a message from her mom. She’s determined to unwind in a bath but calls her mom back first.

The bathroom was tiny but had a nice tub, which was one of the features that made me decide on this particular apartment. I started the water and added some lavender bubble bath – a gift from my mom. Oh, Mom! I needed to call her back, too. I could call Jessica from the tub, but I had better call my mom first or I’d never hear the end of it. I let the water run, sat on the closed toilet seat and dialed Mom’s work number.

“This is Susan,” She answered on the second ring.

“Hey Mom, it’s me.”

“Hi honey.” She sounded happy. “How was your first day?”

“Good, I picked up all my textbooks and got my student ID. Oh and I met a girl, a freshman like me, from out of state.”

“Really, that’s great. You made a friend sweetie.”

“Mom, knock it off! I’m not four years old.”

“I was just kidding,” she said. “So tell me about your day.”

You can choose the reliable side effects viagra source to grab handful opportunities at the MRP cost of the medicine.This is an erection-helping medicine consumed in three different forms. A person has to first see to it that viagra sales on line what kind of disorder he is facing. It is defined as achieving orgasm in less than 5 minutes to satisfy her. canadian discount cialis Buy Kamagra from an online store as you can buy this medication easily from a registered online pharmacy, but only after generic viagra cheap prescription. “I met Allison while we were in line to get our photo IDs taken. She’s just as nervous as I am about starting school. Then we had lunch together after. It was fun.” I shifted to get more comfortable.

“Yeah? That’s great! Did you see Ethan?”

“We ran into him at the bookstore. He was picking up a few books himself.” I paused remembering running into him. “I called him to see if he wanted to get together this afternoon, but he wasn’t home.”

“Well, I’ll tell him …”

“No! Mom, don’t call him. We’re fine; he doesn’t have to spend every waking hour with me.”

“But you don’t know anyone there, Emily.”

“Yeah I do. Remember my new friend Allison.” I laughed. And it really was OK. I knew my brother wouldn’t want to spend all his time with his little sister. It was true; I knew this, but still, I was a little lonely.

“Hey Mom, I’m going to get in the tub now. Thanks for checking on me; I’ll call you soon.”

“OK dear, be good.”

“I will. Love you.”

“Love you too. And don’t forget…phone home.”

She always said that to my brother. It must apply to me now, too. I hung up and turned off the tub water. It was just like I liked it: super deep and full of bubbles. The scent of lavender filled the room and seemed to float down the hall in clouds. I walked into the bedroom and kicked off my flip fops, pulled my tee-shirt over my head, and wiggled out of my jeans. Tossing my clothes on the bed, I turned on the little clock radio next to it and walked back to the bathroom. Yes I could hear it fine from here. Like I said, it was a pretty small place.

Character Introduction #7: Christian

Posted on September 20, 2010 by Laura Albright

My final character introduction for the first book, Call Me Emily is Christian. He is a phantom character in Call Me Emily, but important none-the-less. Christian is by far the most interesting character to talk about. At least I think so. And probably not for the reasons you’d assume. He is Emily’s first love. She meets him the summer before she leaves for college. Just when she’s mentally dismissed her home town and is ready for a new life, Christian enters bringing love and wonder. He’s articulate, sweet, well traveled and passionate. And behind his eyes lives a world of possibility she never knew existed.

So, who is Christian to me? What’s most interesting is that Christian represents a place. A place that has, and always will live inside me. A place that fills me with something I can’t really even describe. But, then again, can be perfectly described with one word – love.

I refer to Emily’s home town as “Two Rivers.” I describe it in Call Me Emily: “I grew up here. In this small northern California valley, where the livestock and grape vine counts exceeded the population by thousands.” I absolutely base Two Rivers on my home town Potter Valley. When I lived there, from the time I was in second grade through high school, I accepted it as the jail that kept me limited and behind the times. I longed for the day when I would see the welcome sign in my rear view mirror for the last time. To get out and experience life, that’s what I wished for.

When I left, The Valley didn’t take offense or even hiccup. It stayed, just as it had been, perfect and magical simply waiting for my return. It never judged me, nor did it try to lead me in a direction it thought best for me. Instead, it observed my trials and tribulations hoping that someday I’d find myself and consequently find it again.

During my personal journey of thirty nine years I have fallen in love with my home town again. It happened recently at my reunion. I always knew it was a beautiful place, but I never remembered its beauty the way I do now. I don’t hang my hat there anymore, but I know when I visit it welcomes me with open arms and reserves a place on the coat rack for whatever I choose to leave there.

Emily stays away from her home town for years, returning in the final book, Meet Emily. Upon that return she feels a new connection with her town and the memories of the time she spent there take on a new light. And we wonder after such an up and down journey, has she found love? A true love without conditions and judgments. And who is that love?
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Here is an excerpt from Meet Emily:

I was impressed, but he brushed it off as if it was no great feat. We laughed and talked about so many things, yet really nothing at all. When we reached the water’s edge we both dipped and scooped a handful of rocks as if we knew the others plans. He skipped one across the surface and I looked on surprised because it was my intention to do the same all along. I counted my skips under my breath and he heard me. His crooked smile said it. He pointed toward the water with a handful of rocks still rattling around in his palm.

“So these are two separate rivers?”
“Yeah. See over there?” I pointed. “See where they come together?”
He leaned in closer to me and looked down my arm. “Oh, yeah.” he replied stepping back just a half step. “But then …?” His eyes narrowed.
I looked over my shoulder at him knowing what he was seeing. “Then they separate again. I know.” My words were laced with sadness and I didn’t really know why.
“So they don’t meet up again?” he asked.
“No, they only come together here.” I dusted my hands off against my legs and moved away from the water’s edge. I sat back against a near tree and crossed my legs. He moved in beside me.

Sensory Detail vs. Small Action

Posted on September 8, 2010 by Laura Albright

Recently I learned the difference between sensory detail and small action. And that statement makes me a little sad since I am in the process of writing a series of books. (Meaning, I should already know this.)

When asked about sensory detail I thought, “Of course I have plenty of detail.” Then I reviewed my manuscript again, only to find I had no idea what I was talking about. To put it out there, sensory detail is defined by answers.com as “sensory details are ways of describing things using the 5 senses.”

I’ve italicized an example from Call Me Emily below:

The morning light was orange and yellow as it cast through the trees and onto the sidewalk. As I ran, I watched sunlight dance across my feet as I tried to keep the pace and avoid the expansion joints in the sidewalk. I know, it’s a little obsessive compulsive, but it’s a fun game to keep my mind off the fatigue of running. Making a turn to go up the hill, I spotted another apartment complex I hadn’t seen before; or was it condos? I couldn’t really tell because everything kind of looks the same around here: beige stucco buildings with white molded trim. The fresh cut grass and the sound of Rainbird sprinklers ticking was a nice addition to my run. I looped around and followed the sidewalk back to my apartment complex. The sun was further up in the sky now, and streams of light were beginning to warm up. Yep: it was going to be another hot day.

This paragraph has quite a bit of description to bring the reader on that run with Emily, but it’s the scents and sounds that pull it together. See? Sensory details rule!

***

Small action is just that; action that is small. It doesn’t contribute to the story but instead slows the reader down. It’s bad and you don’t need it (to keep it simple.) See the passage from Call Me Emily below:

“Where’s the bookstore?” I asked.

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“Sure, that would be great.” When I got to the front of the line I handed the photographer my paperwork.

“Emily Parker,” he said reading it aloud. “OK dear, have a seat.”

I didn’t say anything and tried my best smile. I knew it wouldn’t look great since none of the muscles in my face would relax at all. Whatever.

The card went into the laminator and popped out the other side with a loud thump. I picked it up as the photographer handed my paperwork back to me. I was, officially a college student. What a trip. I waited for Allison as she went through the same routine, then we headed out of the library to the bookstore.

Allison led the way to the bookstore. We went out of the library, down the ramp that led right to the bookstore. From the outside it looked the same age as the library but had wood siding instead of stone. It was far more rustic and smaller. We walked up the steps, went inside, and were immediately surrounded by the buzz of voices and cash registers.

You see the repetitive and unnecessary nature of the last paragraph? Good, because I didn’t. This is why I read things many times and sweet friends and family point out potentially disastrous bad habits.

Isn’t learning a wonderful thing?

Character Introduction P.S. : Shayla and Jessica

Posted on August 30, 2010 by Laura Albright

It occurred to me as I drifted off to sleep that I didn’t leave you with any excerpts to demonstrate the relationship that Emily has with Shayla and Jessica. I was so caught up in what those characters mean to me I forgot. So, to pull you back from reality and into the story again, here are a couple of dialog exchanges that will give you an idea about the dynamic between Emily, Shayla and Jessica.

First, to set the scene, this exchange is in the beginning of Call Me Emily. Emily is preparing for her first day at University as well as settling into her new apartment. It’s late afternoon, and following a long day of orientation, Emily slips into the bath.

Chapter 2

Putting the Past Behind Me

I heard the phone ring.

I grabbed the edge of my bath towel to dry my hands and reached for the phone.

“Hello,” I said groggily.

“Don’t you call back your best friend?”

“Jess, hey! I’m sorry I was just about to.”

“Yeah, likely story. Were you already sleeping you lazy lump? It’s like five o’clock,” she said.

“No, taking a bath. I was just thinking of all the things I want to do to this apartment.”

“Why, what’s wrong with it? I’m sure it’s a lovely shade of white,” Jessica joked.

“Exactly. You know I can’t stand boring for a second. This place won’t feel like home until I add some of my own touches.”

“And for you that means more than the average college student.”

“Jess, you do know me.” I said.

“Of course I do silly,” she said.

“So tell me, how are things? How’s the weather up there?” I asked.

“Oh it’s fine, cold though. But since classes started, I’m getting used to it.” She said.

“So you met him, huh?” I asked knowing exactly what she would say. I had known Jessica since grammar school. She was settling in fast which meant only one thing.

“What are you talking about Emily?”

“You know exactly what I’m talking about. You met someone. So spill it. I’ll need all the details, thank you.”

“Ok, so there is this one guy,” she said.

“Go on,” I made a circular gesture with my hand even though I knew she couldn’t see me.

“I met him in my sociology class. He’s a veterinarian medicine major.”

“And what about the rest of him?” I asked. I know it was shallow, but come on, everyone wants to know.

“Oh, well, not like that’s the most important thing. But, he’s tall, with kind of sandy blond hair and yes…a cute butt.”

I smiled to myself thinking about Jessica flirting with a guy. She was kind of shy but she never had trouble finding the nice ones. Apparently the shy thing worked for her.
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“I’m so glad you met someone. That’s great,” I said.

“So, what about you?” I knew she was asking if I’d met any guys. But, she asked with a slight hesitation.

“Yeah, she’s kind of short with blond curly hair and she’s from Michigan.”

“Cute Em, that’s not what I meant.”

“I know. No, I haven’t met any guys,” I said, exasperated.

“You’re still coming home for Thanksgiving aren’t you?” she asked changing the subject from guys. Thank you Jess.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

In this scene, Emily goes back to the Valley for Thanksgiving break. She’s home only minutes when Jessica and Shayla arrive.

Chapter 9

Home for Thanksgiving

“So, I’m sure you kids want to catch up to your friends, but be sure to be home for dinner.”

“Sure Mom.” I knew she missed us and I wouldn’t miss dinner with her for anything. At the same time, I knew Jessica would be in town and probably Shayla too. I couldn’t wait to see them. I looked around and ran my tongue across my teeth. I needed to clean up before I saw anyone. “You know what Mom? I feel scummy from such a long drive. I think I’ll take a bath. Do you mind?”

“Go ahead honey,” she hugged me and added a little kiss on my cheek. “It’s good to have you home,” she smiled, holding my shoulders. She switched gears quickly yelling for my brothers. I took that as a good indicator that I could slip into a hot tub without being bothered. I grabbed some jeans and a tee-shirt and retreated to the bathroom. Passing the linen closet, I grabbed a washcloth and towel and locked the bathroom door behind me. As I inched my way into the piping hot tub, I thought about my week ahead. I was looking forward to seeing my friends and family. It was good to be home. I yawned and closed my eyes letting the hot water seep in and surround me. Just as I thought I could easily drift off to sleep, I was startled with a knock at the door.

“Guys, I’m in the tub,” I shouted without opening my eyes.

“It’s not your brothers!” a voice shouted back at me.

“So let us in,” said a second voice.

“Jess? Shayla? Grab the key above the door.” We kept the key there in case my little brother locked himself in; as he used to do. I quickly got out of the tub and wrapped myself in a towel.

“Hey Em! You didn’t have to get out,” Shayla said with a smirk. Jessica just smiled at me.

“No big deal. I just needed a quick soak.” We gave them each a quick hug. “How did you know I was here?” I asked perplexed by their quick arrival.

“Please, Brad saw you guys drive by and called me.” Shayla’s cousin could always be counted on to keep the town up on its gossip.

“So what are your plans while you’re home?” Jessica asked putting one of her fingers to her chin.

“No real plans. My mom wants me home for dinner tonight. But other than that, I’m free. What’s up?”

“So, she won’t mind if we steal you?” Shayla asked.

“No, we don’t have anything going. What do you want to do?” I couldn’t wait to fall back into hanging with Jessica and Shayla. I really missed them. I wanted to find out how they were doing in school, how it was going with Jessica’s new guy, and how all the gang was.

The three of us took off shortly after that. A bunch of people we knew were getting together in town at the coffee shop. There were a few people I would love to see and a few I wouldn’t mind avoiding, but that was another story.

As we drove out of the valley I watched the blur of the pasture fences, the occasional farmhouse and the mountains in the distance. Everything passed my vision like a slideshow. It was fall now, and the valley looked different than when I left it, but still every bump and turn mixed with the scent of fresh, damp hay smelled like home. I felt myself sigh and my chest tighten. I don’t think I bargained for how much I would think of Christian.

Character Introduction #5: Trish

Posted on August 15, 2010 by Laura Albright

Trish moves into the story just as Emily is starting to really get into her design classes. She is introduced in Call Me Emily but her character really evolves in Emily Calls It. Trish is one of those deeply evolved friends you meet when you yourself have far to go. She’s cool, calm and collected and always seems to make good decisions. (Something Emily longs to do.) Trish is older than Emily, but only by about four years. She’s from the East Coast and is attending California West University to get her second Bachelors degree. Trish is quite beautiful; model-like in fact. But it’s not her beauty that invites you in, it’s something else. She’s warm and caring, but sarcastic and funny at the same time. Trish is supportive of Emily and wants her to date and have fun. But she also has a little bit of big sister in her, and keeps a close eye on Emily and her relationship with Graham.

When I created Trish I didn’t base her on any one particular girl, but instead I thought back to several of my college friends that helped guide me during those fairly tumultuous years.

Below is an excerpt Call Me Emily. This is one of the first exchanges that Emily and Trish have that lends itself to a deeper friendship than the kind that simply passes once a shared class has ended. Their friendship takes off after this.

Chapter 12

The Balancing Act

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“So this Graham, he’s good to you?” she asked in a way only a person who had a few years on me would.

“Yeah, of course.” I shrugged and a coy little smile snuck out of one of the corners of my mouth.

“You’ve never felt like this before?” she asked as she held one of the balsa wood columns in place.

“I don’t know, it’s early.” But the truth was I hadn’t felt this way. The intensity was unparalleled. Trish smiled a smile that I’m sure came from experience and moved our conversation back to our project.

Charater Introduction #4: Joel

Posted on August 6, 2010 by Laura Albright

Character introduction #4 is dedicated to Joel. Fourth to appear in the story, Joel could be mistaken for Emily’s love interest. And to speak to that, I’d have to say, you’ll see. Joel is a character that appears throughout the first three books. He’s Ethan, Emily’s brother’s best friend. He and Emily cross paths regularly in Call Me Emily and even more frequently in Emily Calls It. And don’t forget his regular appearances in Emily’s Calling. Joel is the quintessential nice guy from the south. He’s tall and muscular but also smart as a whip, and he passed on an athletic scholarship to accept an academic one. While Ethan is fully submerged in Southern California life, Joel still maintains his southern character and charm.

As the story progresses and Emily gets involved with Graham, you wonder if she’ll ever see the potential relationship that lurks in Joel. And if and when she does, was she right to make that leap? The presence of Joel and the introduction of new male characters makes you question who will be the guy for her, and if she will make the right choice. Here’s an excerpt from Joel and Emily’s first meeting. After the first day of school, Emily starts decorating her apartment to make it hers. She begins by painting the kitchen. Just when she’s finishing up there’s a knock at the door.

Chapter 4

Joel

Cleaning up, I caught a glimpse of my reflection in the microwave. What was that on my forehead? I leaned in closer to see a big streak of green paint. And the spatters across my shirt and down my right arm. How did I do that? As I pulled down the last of the tape, there was a knock at the door. Great! Who could that be? And furthermore, I was not dressed for visitors. I set down the big mess of tape and went to the door. Through the peephole I saw a couple of guys faced away from the door. Oh, no, neighbors. I opened the door and decided to get it over with.

“Hey Em. What’s up? You renovating or something?” My brother moved past me, not waiting for a response.

“No, just painting the kitchen,” I said looking up at the second guy.

“Hey. I’m Joel,” he said with a slow, deep drawl. I immediately paid attention.

“Oh, this is my sister Emily,” said Ethan, turning back to us.

“Come in. Oh, and forgive the mess.”

“We were just heading out for a run and decided to stop by. Want to come?” Ethan asked.

“I need to finish cleaning up,” I said, looking down as I tried to smooth out my shirt. It was a hopeless attempt.

“Wow, Em, this looks great,” Ethan said.

“Thanks.” He walked toward the wall. “Oh, be careful, it’s still wet.” I warned him.

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“You’d have to know my sister. In no time she’ll completely change this place.”

“I could use some tips,” Joel said.

I smiled not really knowing if he was posing a question or stating a fact.

“Well,” Ethan said looking from me to Joel then back to me, “we better go.”

“It was a pleasure Em’ly,” Joel said leaning up against the front door.

“Nice to meet you too,” I translated to California style. Then I glanced at my brother, whose sober frown indicated he didn’t approve of our little flirtation.

“Bye Ethan. Maybe I’ll see you on campus tomorrow.”

“Actually, did you want to see that new Tom Cruise movie Saturday night?” he asked. I wanted to reply with something smart like, Saturday night? With your little sister? But I figured he was going for nice, and so far this alone thing wasn’t that great.

“Yeah, sure.”

“Cool, I’ll call you with the times.”

“OK, I’ll see ya,” I smiled a smile only he would understand and shut the door. OK, I knew three things for sure:

First, my brother didn’t like it when his friends flirted with me – despite the fact he’d been doing it for years with my friends. And, I liked it a little that he was so annoyed with me. Second, it was nice to have someone flirt with me when I was covered in paint splatters. And third, I knew Mom must be on his case to not leave me alone too much. But alone I was and I had plenty to do. Back to my reading assignments I went.

Character Introduction #3: Graham

Posted on July 31, 2010 by Laura Albright

Ah Graham. Week three of my character introductions continues with Graham. Emily meets Graham almost immediately when she starts University. He charismatic, chivalrous, persistent and above all, hot. It’s obvious upon meeting him that his experience outweighs hers by leaps and bounds; which let’s face it, is extremely sexy at her age. The way he looks out of the corners of his eyes at her with a sly and flirtatious smile drives her crazy. And his ever so often rescues from her ridiculous clumsy streak only endear him more to her.

After numerous advances, Emily agrees to go out with Graham, sending her down a fast and turbulent path that leads her to question a great many things that she has come to know in her life.

So to address the endless question about who I based Graham on. It’s funny actually. Graham has always stood completely on his own two feet for me. I see no ex boyfriend or past crush. I only see him. I picture his face, his now typical smirk and the fast black car he drives, and he seems like a real person to me. And I can honestly say, I fabricated him completely out of thin air. That said, he absolutely lived in my life when I wrote Call Me Emily and Emily Calls It. There were days when I knew I was about to write a twist and turn with Graham and I dreaded it. I didn’t want to taint the connection I felt to him. I know, crazy talk right? Well who knows, but that set of feelings I felt for him helped me to create an amazing character that I think all women will fall in love with and all men would want to hang out with. I could go on and on about Graham – and I have. But I think this example from Call Me Emily will give you a nice little picture of THE guy. The one that turns Emily’s world upside down. Sometimes in a good way, and sometimes not.

To pick one excerpt that sums up Graham is like picking one pair of shoes. And if you know me, that’s almost impossible. So after reviewing about twenty Graham scenes, I decided to include the scene that shows the intensity that is Graham. The moment when Emily’s life stands on end. It’s a pivotal scene for a few reasons. See if you can pick them out.

It’s Emily and Graham first date. While they’ve spent time flirting in Spanish class, this is the first time he’s taken her out. Over dinner they discuss her love of art history. And the evening takes off from there. Oh, and yes, there is the kiss. THE kiss that says much more than “I like you.”

First Kiss

I learned that his parents were still married and lived in the area. His mother was the fine arts curator at the Pacific Center for the Arts and his dad was a custom home builder. He had an older sister who went to school in San Francisco and a younger brother still in high school. He lived off campus in a condo a little further from school than I. He was poised and confident. He almost seemed older than he was. Part of me felt young and self conscious, but I tried not to give into those feelings.

We talked about my family, the convoluted story of marriages and half and step-siblings. We learned we both loved art and art history, architecture and traveling; although I had done little traveling at this point. After our plates were cleared, he reached across the table and touched my fingers with his.

“My parents have a Toulouse-Lautrec. Maybe you’d like to see it sometime?” He moved his thumb across my fingertips. It wasn’t surprising that his mother would own exquisite paintings, but to get your hands on an original Toulouse-Lautrec was no small feat.

“I’d like that.” The thought of meeting his parents was kind of nerve-wracking and seemed an early topic, but I really wanted to see the painting.

“Actually,” he paused and looked for a second like he might not say anything else, “they are out of town previewing colleges with my brother, and the house is just a few blocks away. What do you think?”

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When we drove up, the place was black. Not one light was on, so I knew they must be out of town. Again he placed his hand in the middle of my upper back to lead me to the front door. The way he did this made me wonder if it was a typical posturing for him and his dates. But I didn’t dwell on that thought.

He reached inside the door and turned on the porch light and the entry light, or rather the chandelier. There were several lights across the front that illuminated the long house. I would describe it as a beach house, but there was nothing quaint and beachy about it. It was big and illustrious with heavy white shutters and a sweeping roof that came down and ended in thick eves. It was monumental, like the rich grandfather of all beach houses. I was impressed.

“Come on.” He passed me in the entry and took my hand to lead me to another room. I followed along, but looked up at the chandelier as I passed under it, mesmerized by the light as it danced across each of the cut glass pieces. He paused in front of the open door to the next room and flipped on a series of light switches. Against the far wall was the painting. I knew it immediately. It was smaller than I thought it would be, and framed in a heavy gold-tipped frame. It was placed with nothing around it, and three lights above that were probably installed specifically for viewing it. I walked straight over, not waiting for Graham.

“See the way he used the brush? The strokes are so unique.” I reached up and hovered my fingers above the painting, not wanting to get too close. I traced the brushstrokes in the air above the painting following every loop. I heard him come up behind me.

I looked out of the right corners of my eyes without turning around, trying to see how close he was to me. Then I felt the buttons of his shirt graze my back. I stopped talking; his closeness had stopped my train of thought. I felt his breath caress my back. Looking over my shoulder, I met his eyes. Without breaking our eye contact, he turned me around taking a step to the side of the painting and me with him.

I stood with my back against the wall questioning him without saying a word. He never took his eyes from mine as he wrapped our hands together. He leaned into me touching his lips to mine. It was a gentle and quick kiss. When he pulled away, I was surprised at my reaction; I followed his kiss wanting more. I kept my eyes with his, trying to figure out what he would do next. As he pulled back from me just one corner of his mouth turned up into a smile; I think he knew I wanted him to kiss me again. He lifted his hands to my face and pulled me closer. This time his lips parted mine softly. He moved his hands from my face along my neck as his kiss became deeper. His body pressed against mine pushing me further into the wall behind me. I pressed my hands against the wall to brace myself. His kisses slowed, soft again but rich with pleasure. As he pulled away, he swept a few strands of hair from my face and tucked them behind my ear.

“I guess I can’t call you Spanish Girl anymore,” he said as another smile snuck out of the corner of his mouth.

“I guess you’ll have to call me Emily.”

“I guess.” He leaned into me again and swept his lips across mine. I moved my hands from the wall along his chest, up to his face and kissed him back. It was divine.

Character Introduction #2: Allison

Posted on July 23, 2010 by Laura Albright

Week two of my introduction of characters continues with Allison. Allison is a sweet girl. Coy and almost meek. On the surface she seems like the kind of girl that doesn’t really get it. She’s shy, impressionable and a little behind the times. But realizing that first impressions are not always correct, Emily’s opinion of Allison changes over time.

Allison comes from a tight knit family in the Midwest. She lives on campus, but takes an interest in the Greek system almost immediately. She’s petite, with small doll-like features and chin length blond curly hair. She befriends Emily the first day of school without judgment or agenda. And, as time passes, her warmth and caring nature shine through any preconceived notions Emily may have had.

To say that I based Allison on any one individual would be like saying I only like one brand of chocolate. How is that even possible? When I started writing Allison’s character I pictured her as an average college student. Then as time passed, she grew into an amazing woman and friend to Emily. And I must admit, I’ve met girls like Allison who later evolved into incredible women. And I’m fortunate to call those women my friends today.

Allison is Emily’s support system. It’s no secret that I’m aiming the book’s theme at young women. And I often think we devalue the importance of friendship and support, especially at that age. Emily goes through a great deal during her journey through young adulthood, and the support of her friends is a large part of why she is able to carry on. Allison is the backbone of that support. Allison is friendship.

Below is an excerpt from Call Me Emily.

Allison and I met for coffee bright and early Monday morning. Our Bistro was bustling with college students. I got there before her and grabbed a table in the back. Although I had met a few people, I didn’t see anyone I knew. I tapped my fingernails on the table and sipped my coffee as I watched people walk by and waited for Allison. She arrived without Melinda and Heather, which was what I was hoping for. They were nice girls, but seemed very self-involve.

“So what have you been up to?” she asked, or shall I say accused. I called you a couple of times this weekend; what’s up?”

“Oh it’s been crazy with this new job,” I said and she nodded. “Oh, and I went out on a couple of dates.” I looked down at my feet and smiled. “Other than that, I was around. I didn’t have a message from you.”

“What? Who?” Allison prodded. “Don’t tell me, that guy from the club?” she asked and I nodded.

“So, What’s going on there?” she continued, taking a sip of her coffee.
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“Just a couple of dates, Allison. He’s fun.”

“Huh. And hot!” She made an attempt to wink at me. I thought it was cute. I shrugged my shoulders in agreement. “So Spanish Girl, do you want to go shopping with me this afternoon?”

“Totally, but you can stop calling me Spanish Girl; Graham has.”

“Really, how did that come about? My guess is …well, never mind … you tell,” she said taking another sip of her coffee.

“You know, just spending time together.” Allison didn’t buy it, but I thought I’d try to sell it.

“So have you?”

“Allison!” I was surprised she was so forward. I guessed her association with Melinda and Heather was changing her a bit. Not quite the awkward and quiet Michigan girl anymore. “No, we haven’t. So far just a couple of amazing kisses.” I looked at the ceiling when I said “amazing” hoping she would get the point.

“That’s what I was thinking actually. That good huh?”

I sighed. “That good.” We both sipped our coffee at the same time. I had a hard time creating a seal with my lips due to the large smile I had plastered across them.

Character Introduction #1: Ethan

Posted on July 11, 2010 by Laura Albright

Week one of my introduction of characters starts with Ethan. Emily is one of three children. She has two brothers, Hunter who is twelve and Ethan who is twenty. While Hunter makes brief appearances in all three books, Ethan is an integral part of her journey.

Emily and Ethan attend the same University, which isn’t without its challenges. While she cringes at the thought of bumping into him at a party, she’s often comforted by his loving gestures and protective nature. Ethan is warm, caring and above all present for her in a world full of new harsh realities. But, those qualities are all melded together and wrapped up with chiding and teasing as well as typical sibling rivalry.

Now, I have drawn on pieces of my personal experience to concoct certain characters, but not most of them. Emily herself is a complete piece of fiction, formed strictly from my imagination. Other characters I give a small, fractional nod of truth. Ethan is one of those characters.

For those of you who know me, you know that I am surrounded by men. I live in a house with my husband and son, as well as my dog William. I have three brothers, and just as God started to feel sorry for me, he gifted me with a sister and another little brother. So while I don’t discount the girl power between my sister Bree and I, my eldest brothers are the ones that helped guide me into the woman I am today. Ethan is a blend of Tom, Josh and Robby. In Ethan, there exists Tom’s way of turning every compliment, sentiment and practical observation into an opportunity to tease Emily and keep her safely tucked under his older, wiser arm. Together with the influence of Tom, is Josh’s ability to turn any situation into a possible rescue attempt. While Emily may be perfectly able to take care of herself, Ethan isn’t about to risk it. Package that all up with Robby’s ability to live in a world created just for him. Where common practices of caring what other people think, simple escape him.

So I raise a glass, as well as an eyebrow, to my brothers who helped bring to life Ethan Parker.

Below is the first of many exchanges between Emily and Ethan in Call Me Emily.

A New Beginning

I heard a click then a whoosh. My front door.

“Emily?”

“Back here.” I called back.

I stood in front of the mirror holding a sweater up to in front of me. I felt suddenly ridiculous. It was late September, and it had to be at least eighty degrees outside.

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“What does it look like?” In jeans and a t-shirt I was tossing around the idea of wearing a sweater. Wasn’t it obvious?

“You must be out of your mind.” He stood across from me wearing shorts and gestured toward the sweater I was holding. Maybe I should re-think that sweater.

I grew up in a town that had hot summers, but by October the leaves start to drop and there is a sharp chill in the air. This place didn’t show any signs of a change in season.

“Orientation huh?” he asked. I nodded, still staring at my reflection in the mirror. “Maybe I’ll see you on campus. I’ve got a few books to pick up.”

“Ok.” I shrugged not really caring whether I ran into him or not. Then it occurred to me. “Why are you here?”

“To see you off on your first day.” He patted me on the back. “Later.”

Whatever, I thought to myself. I turned around and watched as he moved through my apartment on his way out. He grabbed an apple from my fruit bowl on the kitchen counter and took a bite.

“And Em?” He chewed. “Lock your door. You’re not in Kansas anymore.” He shut the door behind him and it was quiet again. I sighed.

I set the sweater down on my bed and looked out my window. If I were down on the street, I’d hear the flip flop of sandals on the sidewalk and the VW vans as they passed me with surf boards on the roofs. Southern California was a different place, but seemed almost like a different country compared to the small Northern California town I had grown up in. My home town wasn’t Kansas for sure, but the similarities were undeniable. The change in scenery alone was a jolt, but add big brother to the mix and whoa. This was going to be quite a different experience with both of us going to the same college.

A Tale of the Beta Party

Posted on June 27, 2010 by Laura Albright

It’s been interesting for me to talk to people about what they want and expect from me and this blog. It felt narcissistic to first launch this site and second to release a new post each week. I wondered who would read it, and what those two people would think when they finished reading. (Ha!) So I decided to get over myself.

It turns out there might be more than two people reading my posts. And to you three, thanks for visiting. But in all seriousness I’ve learned that in addition to posts about my writing journey, my readers want more excerpts from my books and what those excerpts mean to me. The second part of that request actually took me by surprise. But surprised as I am, I’ve included an excerpt and what it means to me.

So here’s a passage from Call Me Emily Chapter 7, A Tale of the Beta Party. In this scene Emily and her friend Allison are invited to their first Frat party. And nothing spoils it like her brother showing up. Or so she thought.

What it means to me?

I think about young women and how important it is to temper what your heart feels with common sense. When the goosebumps rise on your arms and the tiny little hairs on the back on your neck stand on end, listen. If you think something is wrong, it probably is. (And I’m not just talking about this one instance.)

This particular part of the book is a jumping off point of sorts for Emily. She’s starting to see that college is different than she thought it would be. She has the opportunity to choose from a few different paths, but as we all know our feet will only carry us down one. Let’s hope she chooses wisely.
Enjoy!

-Laura

Chapter 7

A Tale of the Beta Party

“So Emily,” Kevin made his way over. “Can I get you another beer?”

“Thanks, but I’m good.” I smiled a forced smile. He was cute but clearly not my type. He had bleached blond hair in the front and darker in the back and his shirt was too tight which didn’t do it for me. I wondered if he was interested or just trying to keep me busy so Dave could get some alone time with Allison. I noticed Dave handing Allison his full cup of beer and taking her almost empty one. While I’m not typically the Mother Hen type, I thought it best that I keep an eye on her.
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The group grew to more than twenty people in no time. Heather and Melinda seemed to be the catalyst for socializing. During my conversation with Kevin about, what else, Beta house, I heard my name. It wasn’t Allison calling me; maybe it wasn’t me they were calling. Then I heard it louder.

“Hey Emily!” It was Joel, my brother’s friend. My brother followed a few feet behind him with the girl with the short shorts on his arm.

“Hi Joel, how are you?” I asked, shooting my brother a look that only he would understand; what a slut! “Ethan,” I said, as seriously as I could.

He mimicked my tone, “Em.”

“We were just wondering if you needed a ride home,” Joel offered.

We? I seriously doubted that. My brother looked like he had his hands full. “Thanks but I drove and I have Allison with me.” I looked around for her, but where was she? Panic filled me. “Allison?” I called her name, but no response.

“I have to go find Allison.” I waved to both Ethan and Joel, ignoring the short shorts girl and started to move through the crowd.

“You don’t have to worry about her; she’s with Dave.” Kevin took hold of my arm. I saw my brother’s attention shift to me and I gave him the ‘I have it handled’ look.

“Thanks,” I said, just a little bit on the snide side, “but I need to find my friend.”

“Really Emily, she’s fine,” he didn’t let go of my arm. I looked back at his hand clasped on my arm and saw another hand in the way. That would be Ethan.

“Come on Em, I’ll help you find Allison.” Ethan didn’t look at me while he said this but at Kevin. Kevin dropped his hand from my arm.

Laura Albright

Author of The Emily Series

Category Archives: Excerpts