Friday, March 7, 2014

Polished to a Glossy Shine

I've spent two days editing Reframing Emma. This was the fourth or fifth time. I've lost track. The other attempts were half-hearted. I'd skim to the middle and depending on my mood either sigh in disgust or shove it away in boredom. (Not from the story itself, but the editing. The book isn't boring. I promise!) Once, I started at the back of the book to make it interesting, but my end reaction was the same.

Two days ago, I realized that I wrote this story almost a year ago. I never do that. I never hold onto stories for very long. I have so many ideas in my head or started in Scrivener that I move nimbly from one story to another. I devote time to editing, of course. I want it to be perfect for readers, but I'm not a writer who will keep a book for three years polishing it to a glossy shine by fondling, tweaking, and reworking it to within an inch of its life.

I'm done with it. I've been afraid of failure. Afraid that this step into the world will throw me flat on my face, and I'm worried about disappointing you, the readers. The result of that fear is a novella that nobody has ever seen. It's a novella, a long novella, but still, it's not even a full-size novel! I'm over it. If it flops, I have other ideas. Other stories that I need to tell.

I can only hope that those of you who have been so supportive will not be disappointed. Next week, I'll devote my time to the blurb, back cover, formatting, and publishing. I write many posts about inspiration, and how to keep motivated, but let's start talking about the end; the publishing process.

See you next week!



14 comments:

  1. If the writing part scares me, the publishing part is gonna be the death of me! Or the editing part. Oy! I can't wait to read it!

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    1. After the editing and publishing, comes the promotion and begging for reviews! Even more crazy-scary things in the future.

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  2. I am so happy that editing is done! I am throwing a virtual cyber party for you!! (at least in my head) I can't wait until you launch that baby. What a cute title! ;)

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    1. Isn't that a completely amazing title? I haven't forgotten that your name will be added to the front of the book with a little thanks for your contribution!

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    2. you know I was just being a smart ass! Can't wait to see the end result. :)

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  3. Sometimes you have to "just go for it". While I have no doubt it is great, haven't you heard, "done is better than perfect"?

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    1. I have heard that. I ignored it for almost year, too. I'm ready to listen now!

      I'm on a countdown to the launch date!

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  4. I was always told to "Feel the fear and do it anyway". In times like this you have to just do it. When it's all said and done, and your work has been published, you'll be sitting back with a satisfied smile on your face and wondering what were you so afraid of in the first place. :-)

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    1. I'm hoping that's true! I can't wait for it to be finished. I'm more than ready to send it out there into the world.

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  5. I am so more than ready for you to take that leap of faith in yourself! I can't stand waiting any longer for this book.. stop teasing me!!! But really.. I freak at just writing a post, let alone a book.. you're amazing and dedicated and want the best for your reader.. I love that about you. I'm certain this masterpiece is amazing.. just close your eyes, take a deep breath and publish!

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  6. I'm sure it will be awesome!!! All of your writing is great! I can't wait to see the finished product!! =)

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  7. I think you are your own worst critic! I'm with everyone else, I'm sure it will be wonderful!

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  8. I know how you feel when something flops. We all go through those times as writers. Keep your chin up!

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  9. You are awesome. I haven't even read the book but your will to get this thing done and even if it's not a success, you'll just move on to the next idea, I love that attitude. I think that's what life is all about - not being afraid to put your ideas out there. I'm excited for you.

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