I wrote my first YA fantasy novel in 2010. It was one of those bolt-out-of-the-blue concepts that tend to hit writers right between the eyes.
I had never written YA before, and so it was a real learning curve. Several agents expressed interest and I was really lucky to get some fantastic advice and critiques, including one from Rosemary Stimola (Suzanne Collins agent). I knew I was too inexperienced at that time to get an agent with the manuscript, but I also knew the premise was too good to hit the delete key and forget about it.
In 2011 I spent a good four months rewriting it. I then got sidetracked by another ms which was also getting a lot of interest.
A new year though brings with it a new outlook and I decided to give that first ms another look.
Fucking hell it is good!!!!!
Am I even allowed to say that? I'm not an arrogant person, but I'm not filled with self-loathing or insincere insecurities either. I'm not saying it is going to land me a publishing deal or anything - lets face it, few books are doing that these days - but hell it is certainly good enough to have another crack at it.
So that is my delightful distraction whilst I format for e-publishing. I am going to give the traditional route another shot.
I now have one book to query, one book to finish writing, and one book to format for e-publishing. I'm a woman - multitasking is my middle name!
16 comments:
You can do it. I feel 2012 is going to be a good year.
Aren't we (women)all happy when we're juggling things in there air.:)
Yes, you are allowed to say that. It's nice, having that sort of moment, isn't it?
A lot of tasks for you. Good luck with them all and do happy to hear your enthusiasm for that first YA book.
Awwww well done you!!! Love that you love your story!! All the best and I know I've said this already but you GO GIRRRRL!! Take care
x
And you're totally allowed to say that! Sometimes a story just rocks, and it's even better when you can say that about your own story.
It's a multipronged literary attack! CHARGE!!!
Woo HOO! Isn't it gr-r-r-eat to be able to distance yourself enough from your own work that you can genuinely appreciate it through fresh eyes? Good for you, and good luck.
Purr-sistence will get you everywhere! You can do it!
You really are the Multi-tasker queen! No wonder your nickname is "Super Donna" 2012 is going to be YOUR year, and you soooooooo deserve it xxxxx
Every time I go back to a ms. I haven't looked at in awhile I get this horrible fear that it will be awful garbage. It's always such a nice surprise to see one that isn't. And the author is the worst critic, esp after some time has passed, so this is good news indeed for your fantasy ms. How exciting to have so many pots in the fire!
Keeping busy is the way to go. Good luck Donna and keep us posted on release dates.
what a greaaat post love your blog =) follow
I'm glad you've gone back to that earlier manuscript and still find it awesome. Is that the one you're epublishing?
I wish I had your enthusiasm, tenacity and talent. I revisited an old manuscript over the holidays and I was heartbroken by how bad it was. I am now considering giving up on the whole business.
That is brilliant to read. Having put it away and going back to re-read it gives you a bit more perspective on it and if you still love it after that, you know you can do it. Wishing you lots of luck with it!
Thanks for the support everyone.
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