Apparently, I’m not too quick on the draw. It took me two months and over fifty followers before I realized, “Hey, it might be a good idea to tell people what I’m doing.”
So here goes...
Last spring, I wrote a YA paranormal romance as a way to take my mind off this epic book series I was working on. I didn’t want to quit writing all together, but the rejections kept piling up. So, I decided to write something on the side, a quirky little story/satire on life in my small town. I would tell you more about it, but then I would have to kill you, which would be a shame because I LOVE you all…passionately.
After six weeks of writing, I stepped back and said, “Wow, this is pretty good!”
I took a few weeks to polish and package it then queried about three agents, including the lovely, kick ass, and cuddly Kathleen Ortiz, who signed me a week later.
I have to say, I had mixed feelings about this. I worked on my old series for five years and got over 30 rejections and yet I jot down a quick story and I got signed right away. It’s odd how life changes, how timing is EVERYTHING and how things work out so much better if I stop trying so hard. It took me a while to truly ENJOY my writing and not bust a blood vessel in order to get it done. Honestly, I can’t express how much fun I had writing that new manuscript and I believe that’s how it should be. It took years to find confidence in what I say and allow it to flow naturally.
I recently looked back at my old series and realized that not only was if flawed, it was too long and it sounded like twelve different writers. Maybe after a serious editing job and face lift, I’ll resubmit it, but right now I’ll take it for what it is— a great experience and a lesson that I’ll never forget.
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I love to hear stories like this! Seriously. Thanks so much for sharing and good luck to you!
ReplyDeleteHey, in those five years, you learned your lessons.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you learned a few lessons along the way, and it's great that one of those is that writing should be fun. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteHave I already mentioned that you've inspired me to delve into something new? My first "baby" has been driving me crazy lately, and I've seen a ton of rejections. After reading your comment on my blog post, I've already written a page on something new--and you know what? I kinda enjoyed myself. :)
ReplyDeleteConsidering your YA novel sounds great, I'm not too disappointed about your series. Now I just have to hope the YA book gets published so I can read it. :)
ReplyDeleteTHAT is fantastic!! Congrats =)
ReplyDeleteNot trying too hard is something I def. have an issue with. It's good to read your post and realize that others are the same way as well. I am very much inspired to work on my "fun" project now and step away from the idea that I HAVE to put blood, sweat, and tears into everything I write. Thanks!
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