I needed to read this. When my UK publisher picked up my first novel for their Digital Original release, I was led to believe it would go to print. It never did (it was published just as the pandemic was ramping up, so that's probably why). They didn't like the next novel I wrote, so we parted ways, just like you did with yours. Since then, I parted ways with my agent and have written two more novels. I can't seem to hit the sweet spot in the market, and while agents have told me they love the concept, they see it as a hard sell. And honestly? I've felt so disillusioned and frustrated these past few months. There are days I want to chuck it and just go the self-publishing route. But that's not what I want for my career. So there's really only one way to go: forward.
Oof, Melissa. It’s so hard. Self publishing is a totally valid path but it was its own ups and downs and struggles. There’s no easy way to do this thing. And by easy, I mean there’s no way that’s not fiendishly difficult.
Writing for me is one of those intrinsic things which makes me who I am. I have short stories published, and came so deliciously close to having a novel published this year.
Does the disappointment make me want to stop writing? Heck no! No more than saying the s**t going on in life would make me want to stop breathing.
I’m so glad that you find writing what’s on your heart so personally rewarding. I feel the same way about my writing. My books will be in bookshops one day, but in the meantime I shall write literally to my heart’s content ❤️
I love the 6-step Creative Process note taped above your desk, Sara. It could be the time of year, but I'm currently stuck between 3 & 4, so I love reading something that inspires me to keep going. Thank you for sharing your personal struggles with writing & publishing. I look forward to reading your Finland story. Sending hugs & a bucket full of luck. ❤️
It’s tricky because on the one hand I realize how fortunate I’ve been to get this far, and I totally believe in my work. On the other I want to be transparent without being too oh-poor-me, you know?
If it’s any help at all, I loved your last book, I think you are an excellent writer, I included your book in my #booksky 20 days of books posts, and I can’t wait to read whatever you put out next.
THIS: "If I make a bad sandwich, or a sandwich I don’t necessarily want anyone else to eat, it doesn’t mean I didn’t make a sandwich." *big thumbs up*!
Oh never mind. I guess I thought it would be one contract per book, but you must have had a two book deal (sweet!) Anyway, never mind me. I’ve been holed up with a cold for four days. Not thinking straight! Carry on!
I needed to read this. When my UK publisher picked up my first novel for their Digital Original release, I was led to believe it would go to print. It never did (it was published just as the pandemic was ramping up, so that's probably why). They didn't like the next novel I wrote, so we parted ways, just like you did with yours. Since then, I parted ways with my agent and have written two more novels. I can't seem to hit the sweet spot in the market, and while agents have told me they love the concept, they see it as a hard sell. And honestly? I've felt so disillusioned and frustrated these past few months. There are days I want to chuck it and just go the self-publishing route. But that's not what I want for my career. So there's really only one way to go: forward.
Oof, Melissa. It’s so hard. Self publishing is a totally valid path but it was its own ups and downs and struggles. There’s no easy way to do this thing. And by easy, I mean there’s no way that’s not fiendishly difficult.
I won’t give up. But yeah, there are days when I sure do think about it…
I really, REALLY don’t want to self-publish.
Writing for me is one of those intrinsic things which makes me who I am. I have short stories published, and came so deliciously close to having a novel published this year.
Does the disappointment make me want to stop writing? Heck no! No more than saying the s**t going on in life would make me want to stop breathing.
I’m so glad that you find writing what’s on your heart so personally rewarding. I feel the same way about my writing. My books will be in bookshops one day, but in the meantime I shall write literally to my heart’s content ❤️
That’s what makes it all worth it.
I love the 6-step Creative Process note taped above your desk, Sara. It could be the time of year, but I'm currently stuck between 3 & 4, so I love reading something that inspires me to keep going. Thank you for sharing your personal struggles with writing & publishing. I look forward to reading your Finland story. Sending hugs & a bucket full of luck. ❤️
Thanks! It’s definitely cyclical.
It’s tricky because on the one hand I realize how fortunate I’ve been to get this far, and I totally believe in my work. On the other I want to be transparent without being too oh-poor-me, you know?
If it’s any help at all, I loved your last book, I think you are an excellent writer, I included your book in my #booksky 20 days of books posts, and I can’t wait to read whatever you put out next.
Thank you so much ❤️
THIS: "If I make a bad sandwich, or a sandwich I don’t necessarily want anyone else to eat, it doesn’t mean I didn’t make a sandwich." *big thumbs up*!
😁
Can't wait to read your Miyazaki/Finland/Del Toro mashup!
Thanks Jill. I do hope it becomes a book.
I am seeing this post, so many days later, because apparently I absolutely need to. So many pieces track. Thanks Sara.
Love that. I’m glad it helps
Yes, yes, and YES. Make those sandwiches. :)
😘🥪
The only person who can call its quits is who we see in the mirror. As long as we keep showing up, anything is possible.
👊🏼 for this. And, that graphic for your writing club is 🔥
Thanks!
Seven books! That is so completely great.
Thank you!
But I’m confused. Didn’t you have two books out from Graydon House?
Yes. Did I get confused and say something else?
Oh never mind. I guess I thought it would be one contract per book, but you must have had a two book deal (sweet!) Anyway, never mind me. I’ve been holed up with a cold for four days. Not thinking straight! Carry on!
😅 Yes. Two book deal. Hope your cold gets better!
Sorry about that. And thank you.