Dialogue?

On my manuscript that went to the GOTCHA Contest, they didn't like my first chapter. I had way to many characters and they couldn't tell who was the antagonist and who was the protagonist. My dialogue was stilted.
It broke my heart because I know who these characters. I know what they should say and I think I need each one. Oh well!

They suggested the book Dialogue by Gloria Kempton. I downloaded it from Amazon. I am only half way through the book but I have really enjoyed it and have learned a lot. I can't wait until I have finished it and can get to work on my manuscript.

I write because God told me to. I have always had stories going through my head. I watch a movie or read a book and think; "that's not how I would have done that" or "Wow! I wish I would be able to write that!" Like the Notebook, I love that ending. My mom had Alzheimer's, I would have loved her story to turn out that way. My dad died with only his thoughts on her. "Who would care for her, love her, and be there for her."
I promised to be there for her. She lived several years after he did, the last few a vegetable.

I have not had any formal teaching. I only write what God has given me. Evidently I some how manage to mess it up by getting in His way but I do know I am anointed and the stories are a gift from God. I give Him praise for using a simple vessel like me.