A Peek Behind the Curtains: An Insight into the Daily Routine of a Collaborative Writing Duo
In the world of literature, a unique partnership has emerged between authors Christina Delay and Julie Glover. Known for their seamless storytelling, they have blended their voices to create a harmonious narrative that captivates readers.
Their journey began at Under the Volcano, a grill and bar in Houston, Texas, where they first met. Since then, they have been inseparable, not just as friends, but as collaborators. They have shared manuscripts, building a bond that has only strengthened their writing.
Their cowriting process is a testament to effective collaboration. They plan meticulously, creating characters, building worlds, and structuring the story before they begin drafting. Agreed-upon outlines or story beats ensure both writers are aligned on plot progression, reducing conflicting interpretations or inconsistencies.
Their approach to disagreements is commendable. They assume good intent and focus on what's best for the story. They flag sections with disagreements and discuss them, either through messages, phone calls, or video calls. It's not a competition; it's a duet.
Flexibility isn't a weakness, and editing each other's work doesn't dilute the voice; it strengthens it. Each works on the manuscript almost daily, with Christina writing in the morning and Julie editing and adding chapters in the evening. They use collaborative tools like Google Docs, version control platforms such as GitHub, and communication apps like Slack to facilitate ongoing conversations and quick feedback.
Their cowriting process has taught them how to be better listeners and more empathetic storytellers, not just with each other, but with their characters as well. Big plot twists can come from a joke that causes one of them to laugh.
Their daily workflow is structured yet flexible. They start with a morning check-in to decide on the day’s focus, followed by a writing session in a shared document. They leave comments for each other if uncertain or want feedback. Afternoon syncs are used to discuss flagged sections, creative differences, and next steps. Milestones are celebrated with rituals, like voice notes, GIFs, or virtual toasts.
Their collaboration has led to the creation of several full-sized novels over several years. They invite readers to preorder their upcoming book "Together, We Write!" for tips, real-world examples, and encouragement to help you build something magical with your writing partner.
In the end, their cowriting process emphasises the importance of clear communication, mutual respect, and collaborative technology. By integrating these elements, cowriting teams can merge their voices and deliver a seamless story that feels cohesive and unified.
- As a writing coach, the duo, Christina Delay and Julie Glover, offer guidance and assistance to other writers, helping them develop their characters, plot, and overall writing style.
- In addition to their successful cowriting ventures, Christina and Julie also host retreats in their home-and-garden, providing a serene environment for writers seeking inspiration and guidance.
- The unique lifestyle they've cultivated, centered around writing, has led them to collaborate with other writers, offering their insights and experiences to help others navigating the writing journey.
- Drawing inspiration from their own collaboration, the pair have penned a book titled "Together, We Write!", offering practical tips, real-world examples, and encouragement for writers looking to collaborate and build something extraordinary together.
