What makes me an insecure writer this month?
Working on the sequel to my debut urban fantasy.
It may seem strange to be working on the sequel when the first story hasn’t even seen an editor yet. I should be occupying my time with finding a cover designer, or polishing up my website, or reaching out to other authors, but here I am, typing away on my next story.
Don’t get me wrong; I am working on those other tasks, but my editor isn’t free until July, so I’ve got plenty of time for writing. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned about book marketing, it’s that it’s best for a debut author to have at least two books ready to go before publishing the first. And since it took five years to write the first one, it behooves me to begin the second one as soon as possible.
I have a better handle on my writing process now. I know when to obsess over something during the first draft and when to move on. I’m better at showing versus telling. Many of my characters are already developed. But as I look over what I’ve written so far, my stomach cringes at how much work it will be to polish those words to the same sheen as my first story.
I did it before, so I know I can do it again. I just wonder if we’ll be facing another presidential election by the time that day comes.
February's question: Blogging is often more than just sharing stories. It’s often the start of special friendships and relationships. Have you made any friends through the blogosphere?
OMG, yes. When I first began writing, I did it in a vacuum. I had no idea what I was doing or how many other authors were out there. Now, between critique groups, IWSG, and social media, I've made so many author friends I can't begin to count them. Some of them have come and gone over the years, but I still count them as blessings. Thanks for all the support guys!
Take care everyone, and stay safe!
ChemistKen
No, that's really smart to work on the second book now while you have the opportunity. Get it finished and in the slot for the next edit.
ReplyDeleteI've made a ton of friends here over the years.
Getting a head start on the sequel is definitely a good move. As soon as your first book comes out, people will start asking about the next one.
ReplyDeleteI think working on your next book is the perfect thing to do, and I'd rather be online than in a vacuum any day. :-)
ReplyDeleteAnna from elements of emaginette
I'm with emaginette. That second book should be at the ready when you launch the first one. Good thinking and good luck.
ReplyDeleteNot strange at all. I always begin writing the next story before the first one has been edited and all that. :)
ReplyDeleteI can imagine how good it feels to be this close to publication. I know what you mean about waiting on an editor. I haven't done it but would--mine is wonderful.
ReplyDeleteIt's smart to move ahead and have things ready. I didn't, and I've spent the past 7 years wincing at the fact that I didn't. But my writing has improved, so I suppose there's that. Keep on writing!
ReplyDeleteSmart idea to get going on that second book in the series, Ken! Wishing you success as you keep moving forward. Our blogging friends are truly blessings!
ReplyDeleteI think moving on to the 2nd book is perfect...it's what I do, myself, while I'm waiting for betas, ARC readers, and editors. :)
ReplyDeleteWrite that second book now. Gives you something constructive to do and puts your career a step ahead.
ReplyDeleteI really think you're being smart to write the second book. You'll need to publish quicker once you're published. I'm planning to at least start mine once I finish my first one and am considering finding an agent. I have to be sure it will work and that I could write it faster.
ReplyDeleteIt's always good to keep busy by writing while waiting on edits. Sounds like you're on a roll.
ReplyDeleteI think it's definitely a good idea to get ahead with the sequel, especially if you have the time. I'm not nearly done with my first book, but I think about the sequels all the time just to have the ideas in mind and know where the story needs to go.
ReplyDeleteI think you are right to work on the second book right away. You've got this! The marketing stuff will always be there, and I've slowly discovered that less marketing and more writing time is the way to go.
ReplyDeleteIs it really true that a debut writer needs to have two more books ready before the first is even published? That's useful advice indeed. Happy IWSG.
ReplyDeleteAgreed - it's amazing how many positive connections we can make in this online writing community!
ReplyDeleteI think you're doing the right thing getting that next story down. It's easier & quicker for me when the character & setting are already established too. Good luck!
I agree totally that working on the next book is vital! Good luck and thanks for co-hosting this month! (March!)
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