My Road To Publication Is Paved With Yawns
Someone fetch me caffeine. This woman’s about to bore us.
Good thing I’m not a historian or the world would be in trouble. I don’t keep tabs on times and events, and I don’t maintain a journal. I also tend to trash papers and documents after reading them.
This tidy lack of sentimentality complicates posting a summary of my writing journey. The good news is, the story is boring. And therefore short.
When my family relocated from Iowa to Ohio in 2001—we Rubins like to move up in the world—I took time off with my toddler and infant, back when the only turds I had to deal with were from diapers, not mouths. I’d always wanted to write a book, so I said, “Why not now?”
In a year I had my first novel completed.
And it blew chunks. Big, smelly ones.
Trust me, it stunk.
So I started another story. In 2003-2004, I wrote The Seneca Scourge. Once ready to submit, I purchased the latest Writer’s Market, the go-to manual for a list of agents and publishers. But just in case I produced another stinker, I sought a professional manuscript critique.
After revising uncovered plot holes, I queried a handful of agents. And got rejected. I queried more agents. And got rejected. I don’t know how many times—I don’t save anything, remember? I’m guessing fifteen to twenty?
Not all dismissals were the standard form letter. Some agents requested sample chapters, but I inevitably heard, “We like the medical thriller angle, but we don’t represent science fiction.”
Crossing genres is a no-no when you’re a wannabe author. I know that now. Wish I’d known it then. But I was trying to shake up an overdone genre.
Another agent claimed my story intrigued, but a thriller should never be written in first person. Never? Really? I’ve read some that were. But I appreciated any feedback I could get, so I took her advice and rewrote the manuscript in third person. Then I sent it out again.
Rejected, rejected, you just got rejected.
Well, I can always go back to cleaning fast food restaurants. That was fun.
And so, over a five-year period, this cycle repeated. But by now I was back at work, juggling job and family. The manuscript vanished from my thoughts for months—even years—at a time. Occasionally, I’d click it open, tweak a few scenes, and maybe even query an agent or publisher.
And as always, life got in the way.
But despite my busy existence, the desire to write never diminished. In 2011, during a time of career transition, I decided to either give the manuscript another chance or let it forever rest in peace. In other words, s**t or get off the pot. I opened the file, its pale pages devoid of sunlight since the last revision in 2009 (which is why the story takes place in that year), and gave it a reread. And another chance at life.
Researching my options, I discovered the publishing world of 2011 no longer resembled its 2006 predecessor, the last year I seriously queried. Why keep chasing a bigger publishing house? I’d never capture that flag.
I explored e-book publishing. Many electronic publishers had sprouted in my absence, and I researched their various sites, particularly those that would accept a cross-genre novel.
Selecting one with an eight-year track record and a print-on-demand (POD) option, I submitted my query in June 2011. Three months later I received an acceptance letter.
To which I figured, it’s now or never.
Last time I did this I got a water enema.
In my next post, I’ll share my experience since signing the contract. Remember, I told you I’d post three entries related to my novel, and then I’d shut up about it. Until the novel’s release, that is…
When do you get your writing done? Morning? Evening? If you’re writing a book, how long have you been working on it? Have you ever queried an agent or publisher? If you’re not a writer, do you have a hobby that’s difficult to pursue due to family and work demands?
All images from Microsoft Clip Art
Related Articles (My first three blog posts, before I enacted self-imposed word limits. Read at your own risk.)
Every Which Way But Traditional
142 Responses to “My Road To Publication Is Paved With Yawns”
I feel discouraged. My desire to write is clearly greater than my available time and talent. You give me hope. If nothing else, it sounds like a really exciting journey.
Oh, and never a boring post! People are clearly interested in your journey as a writer.
I think a good degree of “talent” comes from practice (not all, of course, but a decent enough percentage). It’s the time factor, however, that’s often the tricky part.
[...] I chronicled my journey in a post entitled My Road to Publication Is Paved With Yawns on my blog. But the short version is, I wrote a novel in 2001-2002. It stunk. I started The Seneca Scourge in [...]
i come by way of sheila pierson. your synopsis of how you got into writing and all the ups and downs that came along with it is understandable. novel writing is certainly a huge undertaking especially when one throws all the intanglibles of life in with it – kids etc. i certainly understand about how it feels to get rejected in the early going, and it can dampen one a bit. congrats to the contract on your novel. i’m merely a poet and i tend to focus on the shorter writes, but if they’re not entirely to large i’m good with that.
Yes, life definitely has a way of taking over, pushing the writing to the side. Then again, as they always say, if we really want something, we’ll make time for it. I suppose for a while I figured the rejections meant it wasn’t going to go anywhere. But when it finally came time to either throw in the towel or get with the program, I decided I’d get with the program. There. How’s that for a lot of clichés?
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I appreciate it.
cliche’s are fine…*L*. but i did forget to say that you kept at it and persistance means everything:)
That “P” word is important when it comes to writing, that’s for sure.
I have to say…you and Jennifer Eaton have some admirable fortitude. I lose interest in anything that rejects me. Hehehe. I once submitted something to a publisher (cant remember when or who) and he was very positive and helpful. Told me to keep writing and sending, that it was good. I guess I was too busy to pursue it. If I’d gotten a rejection I wouldn’t have even wanted to. There’s tons of stories about authors who repeatedly get rejected, for brilliant work. Just keep going!!
The rejections are hard at first, but looking back now, I realize I sent it out before it was ready. Still, I’m sure it would continue to be rejected by agents and big publishers–I’m not Stephen King. But I’m all right with that. At least I’m taking the first step. If I fall, I fall.
Thanks for stopping by. I hope your world is tolerable.
It is.. Going on vacation in a month. Peachy!
Enjoy!
I just loved this post and your sense of humour just makes my week. My gosh we have all been there. Looking forward to the next installement! Cheers!
Thank you!
“Never give up. And never, under any circumstances, face the facts.”
Ruth Gordon
Oh, that is a great quote! I love it. Isn’t that the older woman who starred in those Clint Eastwood movies with the orangutan? She was hilarious.
Well done. Persistence is part of being a writer.
Thank you. Yes, sometimes you have to just keep pushing on.
Informative and inspiring. I’m taking notes.
Glad to hear it was helpful. Thanks for stopping by.
I am so amazed you sat on the book for 5 years, but can so understand it as I’ve started & stopped & started for more than that. The reason I began this blog was to force me to”expose” my intended work. I never imagined I’d get such wonderful comment, but it encouraged my low self esteem to see I just might have “something” to offer…
I’m definitely coming back to hear # 2 & # 3. I congratulate you! Excellent
Thank you! And yes, I, too, have been overwhelmed by the supportive comments people have left me. Helps keep the self-doubt at bay.
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting.
As so often happens, I have arrived late to the party. However, although I am likely covering ground which has already been thoroughly trampled by other commenters who have likely said it better than I can, I shall offer this redundant rhetoric in my own inimitable way.
Iowa to Ohio. That adds a bright new panel in the broad quilt that is The Life of Connie Rubin. To cut to the chase, have you ever resided in a state that boasted either a) livability or b) a variation in elevation of over 1000′? I wonder where else you’ve lived? Oklahoma? Saskatchewan? Siberia?
I think your story, as unsentimental as it is, is a great one not just for aspiring writers, but for anyone who has aspirations of doing a thing outside the scope of the everyday. As I’m sure you’re aware, the one constant in your narrative (excepting the 2005-11 pause, although I do think “the break” or “pause” has its place in any writing regimen) is your persistence in the face of rejection. Talent is only a baseline–if you didn’t have it, you most likely wouldn’t reach the second and subsequent steps. However, without persistence, reaching that second step would be just about as difficult. There are ‘true” overnight success stories, but they are so rare as to be statistical anomalies.
You are a true success story, and an example toward which to aspire.
I do consider myself an historian, albeit an amateur. Dates often hold an immense amount of significance to me. And I’ve kept a daily journal all but the first nine months of my adult life. Just saying.
Where to begin? Where to begin? First of all, thanks so much for those nice words. They mean a lot, and sometimes, when my self-doubt is kicking my ass, I actually come back and reread some of these wonderful comments. I know that’s dorky, but it helps.
Second of all, I knew that Iowa to Ohio thing wouldn’t escape you. And I had to laugh, because believe it or not, I spent five years as a child in Saskatchewan, Canada, living in a trailer in the middle of arctic nowhere. I guess the only redeeming place I’ve lived is my year in Paris as an Au Pair girl, but my living accomodations were so horrid, it doesn’t really count.
And finally, I know it’s ridiculous for a writer to not keep a journal. But in my defense, I do take notes now on places I visit and other things I think might make for good writing.
Thanks for visiting. Hope your deadline responsibilities are going well.
I know that’s dorky, but it helps
It certainly is–but I’m a big believer in “whatever works.” I warm my voice up by repeating “I Am The Very Model of a Major Modern General.” See, that’s dorky AND gay.
I know it’s ridiculous for a writer to not keep a journal
Although that was PART of the reason I started all those years ago, I’m suspicious of anything you’re SUPPOSED to do to be a better writer (except read and write; that notion seems to me unassailable). Having said that, it was about the time I started keeping a journal that OTHER people (teachers, friends, etc) began to regard my writing as good.
because believe it or not, I spent five years as a child in Saskatchewan, Canada,
I can’t imagine why you would think I wouldn’t believe that.
my year in Paris as an Au Pair girl
Oh, so thanks to the Alps, you have lived in a place with elevation variations exceeding 1000′. Now you can work on ‘livable!’
Hope your deadline responsibilities are going well.
Thanks for asking. The deadline’s Sept 3rd, and I’ll let you know what the producers have yet to learn–it’s gonna be a little late. It can’t be too late, though–I signed a contract for a new project to begin in by the end of September.
I’m a lot more proud of the quality this time out. Thanks again for asking–I appreciate it!
I’m impressed. Sounds like your endeavors are leading to even more successes. Good for you.
As for breaking my comment up line by line, I only wish you had been available while I worked on my line edits. But as always, you make me laugh. Thanks to you alone, my post-blogging blood pressure is probably a point or two lower than my pre-blogging blood pressure. Just don’t send me a bill.
Keep buggering on, as Churchill said. I think you’re amazing for persevering and having faith in yourself. Must take a leaf out of that book!
Thank you! I will indeed “keep buggering on,” especially since I really like that phrase.
Churchill was good at that stuff. Phrase making, I mean, as well as buggering on
I like the posts about your path to publication! It sounds like you have exactly the right attitude. There are a lot of great writers out there and it’s hard to get noticed, unless you come up with some really unusual subject (Fifty Shades of Crappy Writing comes to mind). To be a true writer, you can’t be in it for the money, that’s what I’ve come to realize.
I agree. And to be honest, I haven’t even thought about any money. I have no delusions in that department. I just hope I don’t end up with a bunch of one-star reviews.
Carrie, this was a great post! It wasn’t boring at all. You are just so relatable and “real”, there is no fake pretense about you. You’re the voice that says – Take the Leap and if you stumble its OKAY, keep going…(that’s very inspiring).
Thank you so much for saying that. One of the wonderful “side effects” of blogging that I hadn’t planned for is the encouragement I get from other bloggers. As we all know, self-doubt loves to rear its ugly head, so your words offer reassurance and are much appreciated.
I like that you’re crossing genres with your book and am looking forward to reading it! I write whenever I get the urge. If there are no urges, I sit myself down at a coffee house. If that doesn’t help, at least I got out of the apartment and had some caffeine
Thank you! And as for caffeine and urges, if I drink enough of the stuff, I’ll have urges all right. Of the bladder kind.
From what I’ve seen from your blog, scenic Germany might trigger writing urges as well. Very lovely.
I read that with great interest. I’ve never really tried to get published – I’m one of those writers who puts all their energy into writing and just has none left over for marketing the product. So I admire your effort – it even inspires me, a bit, to think maybe one day i WILL find the energy.
You are right in suggesting the process of trying to get published and then marketing the product consumes a lot of time. I haven’t opened my WIP for a month now. Between the editing and now the learning about marketing, I haven’t had time. Which is a bit distressing to say the least. But I’m not complaining. It’s all new and exciting, and at my age, who doesn’t want that?
I think you’re right that publishers are less likely to take a chance on cross-genre fiction, but I think there’s still a place for it. I tend to write a rather wide variety, so I guess I’d like to think so. In my job, I have the afternoons off, so that’s when I do most of my writing. Unfortunately, that’s when I’m the sleepiest too…Long live coffee.
I agree. I think that if something is new and fresh, there will be a market for it, even if it is a bit riskier path to take. And yes, afternoons are my sleepy time, too. If only I had time for naps…
Thanks for stopping by!
Your experiences with this book are fascinating Carrie, I love your persistence.
Geoff and I plotted and started a fantasy novel in the 80s, wrote around 34,000 words and it sits on our PCs now …
I really look forward to hearing about what happened after you signed the contract … bet there are lots of other stories you could tell us … you’re such an editor!
Thanks, Polly. I wish I could be sharing the story of my experience with a big New York publisher, but alas, that is not the case. But hopefully, someone will find the info useful. As long as I can slip some potty humor into the post…
Good article
Thank you.
Been working on my book for nearly four years. With the demands of life, it’ll be finished in about 60 years. I’ll probably find it unpublishable because it’s something akin to “Christian Fiction”, but it contains swear words.
“something akin to “Christian Fiction”, but it contains swear words.”–Crossing genres, are you?
I still think if something is new and fresh, there will be a market. But unfortunately, when you’re a newbie, those agents like rules to be followed. And I hear you on the demands of life. Good luck with your book. Hopefully it won’t take 60 years. Maybe just 50…
A story of determination and perseverence. A particular bible passage I like goes: The vision is for an appointed time, though it tarry, wait for it. 2012 is the year appointed for it!
What a great passage. And appropriate in this setting! And as you know, anything worth while takes hard work and persistence. Ah, remember those med school days?
I think writing in the morning is the easiest for me I tend to make a lot of errors when I’m tired. I wrote a few books. I know strange. I wrote several childrens books at least two or three which seems like several and illistrated them. I read one of my childrens books to my Dad and brother it was actually a really sweet moment. I also wrote one book that I can’t find it’s lost in a box some where in storage it’s the one thing I wish I could find. It was a lot of work. I wrote every day a page or two every morning while drinking my coffee. When I was really on roll I would write any where any time in the car in the shower that was tough in the shower.
For now I just focus on working on my blog and occasionally writing jokes.
Writing in the shower. Now there’s a new one.
But I think I know what you mean. We can write scenes in our head when we don’t have a computer or paper to jot them down on.
You should dust off the children’s books and send them off. The Writer’s Market has an edition devoted just to children’s books.
Your right getting an idea being away from the computer or paper it’s not ideal.
I may have to re-thnik the childrens book idea. Unfortunetly they are in a random box too. Frustrating trying to seperate the wheat from the chaf in my life. Not an easy project. Oh well.
“trying to seperate the wheat from the chaf in my life.”—I loved that line.
Just think, one of those children’s books buried in a random box could be the next big thing. You took the time to create them. Now it’s time to share them with others.
Thank You Carrie that thought brought tears to my eyes. Maybe your right maybe it’s time to dust off that project. :+)
Glad you liked my line about sperating the wheat from the chaf in my life. :+) It’s been my top focus for awhile and a huge challenge. I know it’s time and it needs to be done I wish that it was an easier process. I guess I just have to keep at it slow as it is!
As a very smart teacher from Montana named Navar says, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”
Good luck! (And thank your husband for giving me a wonderful quote. I always credit him when I use it.)
Oh That great! :+) Thank You He says Thank You! :+) He just came in for his second breakfast he’s been over at the school getting his class room ready. Glad your enjoying the quote. :+) I love short quote they can be so helpful.
I would not have had the stomach to go through all of that. I don’t have a very thick skin–I suppose it might have gotten toughened over time if I had gone through this process, but still. You really have to want it to keep going until you get the Yes from a publisher. Right on, Carrie!
There were definitely times I threw in the towel and said “Forget about it.” But some of the agents’ words were encouraging, at least enough to keep me going.
Great story of persistence and adaptation! I think every writer has a story on how they got started and it’s unique. There’s no single path you have to follow to get published and today, things have changed so much in the publishing industry, the big publishers could care less about unknown writers. If you think you’ve got something good in your hands, the key is to keep trying. Some writers got over 100 rejections before being picked up, I see it as a number game.
I haven’t had much time this summer to do any writing for work or leisure, and a lot of photo work either. I hope with my kids back in school over the next couple of weeks, I’ll have more free time for all of it. Unless something else happens that keeps me busy. It’s hard to predict life sometimes. Otherwise, we’d all be rich somehow.
How true about it being hard to predict life. Just when we think we’ll finally get the time to do something (kids back in school, projects completed), something new comes up to consume us. So yes, persistence is key. Putting a little time in here and there. But there are always so many distractions. Then again, whenever I’m not able to write or work because of something my child needs, I remind myself they won’t always be here with me. I need to take the time with them when I can, because someday, I’m sure I’ll be longing for it.
Very cool. It takes tremendous persistence, doesn’t it? Congratulations on advancing toward your dreams!
Thanks so much! I appreciate you stopping by and commenting.
I love reading the road others took. Thanks very much. I love that you didn’t give up on it. The end results proves it was worth it.
I write in the mornings and that’s become a habit that works for me. Since I’m off work for another two months I’m taking advantage of it. The munchkin is at school and I have only the dogs and a cat to annoy me.
I’m working on something new, but the book for which I have a first draft is resting for a few months and then I will start editing. I was working on that book off and on for about 5 years. It’s a huge beast of a thing that needs serious culling. This new piece is almost done, in rather short order. I think I’m typing faster rather than getting better
Very impressive that you’ve kept writing up while working. I know how demanding medicine can be. My busiest years at work were when I barely touched my manuscript. As I mentioned to an earlier commenter, I’m not very good at straddling worlds. I like to focus on one or the other.
Good luck with your writing! It may be hard to return to work.
The really busy times meant the MS sat on my lap top untouched. I like to think that’s why it took so long
Now that you’re going to be a famous writer, you can concentrate on the next one.
Ha ha–famous. Me thinks you’ve been tapping a wee bit of ale if you think that’s my destiny.
lol that’s me on the wine again.
You’ve earned a little vino.
I love reading your story of publication. It seems like the moral was to never give up. Can’t wait to read more!
Thanks! Perseverance is a good thing. Up to a point, I guess. One of my favorite quotes is from W.C. Fields: “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. Then quit. There’s no point in being a damn fool about it.”
Thanks for taking the time to give us an idea of your path to publication. It’s wonderful to hear about the years spent and know you also encountered difficulties. Congrats on finding a publisher!
Thanks, Kourtney. Let’s hope the years spent were worth it, and that I don’t end up making a hiney of myself.
I think that is just your nerves talking. You spent years on the book. An editor took it on and is publishing it. That says something.
Let’s hope. Thank you.
Carrie,
I’m often amazed by people who have radical opinions on things:
. a thriller should never be written in first person;
. vaccinate your kids or you’re a negligent turd;
. breastfeed, don’t give baby formula…
Right or wrong, who’s to say… Do what feels right, right?
Coca-Cola is better than Pepsi.
Le Clown
Breast milk is better than Coca-Cola and Pepsi…
Pepsi is better than Coca-Cola, Le Clown.
I’m so glad you are sharing this part! I have been so curious about the book,and how you got here.
Oh, good, I’m glad to hear that. Thanks for stopping by.
Crikey this is a depressing tale. Oh but hang on, it has a happy ending.
Truth be told I don’t think these posts are half as dull as you think they are. IT is always useful to hear another writers experience. Plus I want to know what happens next, so well done you.
I meant “it” not “IT”.
Of course you did. Because “IT” is a Stephen King novel.
Thanks, Elliott. It’s difficult to know when one’s crossed that “talking about myself” too much line. I’m glad the posts have been helpful. And seeing you use the word “Crikey” was the cherry on top for me. I wish I could get away with using that word in Ohio. It’s one of my favorites. But I just sound disturbed when I say it.
You’re welcome. I think as a challenge to you I shall make a small list of English slang words, that you need to fit into some of your posts, but are not allowed to explain where they are from or why you used them (other than perhaps if someone asks in comments)
Oh, my. That would make me appear even more loony than I am. If that’s even possible, that is…
It might be interesting to see who notices and comments.
And if no one did, then we know they’re not really reading my post.
But I’d to embarrassed not to at least put a foot note at the bottom.
Great post, Carrie, and great questions! It is true–mind-bogglingly so–how much the world of publishing has changed in the past several years. I’m embarrassed to say how long I’ve been working on my manuscript (so I won’t!) but the reason it is taking so long is that, as you put it, life keeps getting in the way. I’ve decided that this year I will make authorship my priority, and to that end I’ve started a blog—(then had to go on hiatus…) It seems that building the required platform takes more time than writing the book! I have queried some agents, with good response, but none held the golden ticket as yet.
Still, I’m cranking away, and I do admire you for going back to your writing and getting your manuscript published. So…Yay, You! Just like running a half-marathon, this will give you heaps of bragging rights.
Thanks for your kind words. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one who’s been at it so long. It’s good that you’ve received positive responses from agents. Even though they ultimately rejected me, the agents who were positive about my novel helped motivate me to continue. So rejection isn’t all negative. And a few were kind enough to make useful suggestions.
Good luck with your journey. I hope you reach your destination soon.
Carrie, I’ve been working on my novel for years. I’ve let people read it and then they make suggestions and then I rewrite and then edit and then walk away….sigh, you know. I’ve not made queries with my novel because well, I have to finish it first, but I have with short stories that interrupt me finishing my novel. Or freelanced work. Or any excuse I can make for not finishing it.
I’m getting to that point that you described, it’s now or never! I love these posts of yours — they give those of us who haven’t quite taken that dive to just freaking do it. Thank you.
Glad to hear it. I was worried I was posting too much about my book, so it’s nice to learn that the posts are helpful. Even if I still managed to sneak in the word “turd.”
Sounds like you’re taking the long road like I did. But then again, isn’t that what a lot of authors describe? I guess there’s safety in numbers.
I was unemployed for a year starting 2000. I had an agenda everyday and wrote in the morning. Sometimes I’d stare at the page. Sometimes I’d kick out a sentence or simply tweak here and there. At times it would snowball and I’d produce pages. I was okay with this and didn’t get too frustrated. As long as I looked at what I was writing everyday — this was my novel by the way.
Generally the night’s are probably my most productive obviously because it’s quieter and the sunlight isn’t demanding that I be out and about running the streets doing this that or the other.
I have that big fat book ‘The Writer’s Market’. I have submitted to quite a few agents in the past and was obviously rejected — this was years ago. I also submitted my short stories to literary journals.
As you know I did the self-publish thing but you have me considering the ebook publishing market now. Good luck to us both! I appreciate hearing your process
Thanks, Sandee. I wrote most of this book in the evening, because I had to wait until the little ones were settled down for the night, but I prefer writing in daylight hours. I like to veg out with TV or a book for the last hour or so of the evening to wind down.
The nice thing about an e-publisher is that many of them have POD options, so you can still see your book in print, and they do everything for you. The bad thing is, obviously they take a good chunk of the profits and the author doesn’t have as much control. But you’d be surprised how many small niche publishers there are out there now, making it easier to find one who’ll take our work, which doesn’t always fit into a mainstream genre.
Good for you !
I have written a children’s story that I have thought about trying to get published.
As far as adult fiction goes, I write in bits and pieces, but it is never cohesive -I have concentration problems! My blog and a child’s story is as much as my short attention span can handle.
I believe The Writer’s Market has an edition devoted to children’s books. You should check it out. Give it a shot!
Thanks for the advice -will check it out!
Your recounting this experience is a valuable lesson for us all, especially with the rejection of something we would have put our all into for a good chunk of time. Thank you for pointing out these highs and lows.
I’m glad you found it helpful. Rejection is difficult, and if I hadn’t heard some positive words from agents about the manuscript, even though they ultimately rejected it, I’m not sure I would have stayed at it.
Wow, you are a dedicated lady. Good for you. I only queried twice and was so annoyed with the wait time to hear back from a publisher that I gave up on that and decided to self-pub. I’m not very patient. I write whenever I get free time. Some days that can be a lot, and lately, not near enough. I’m excited for your book, as always–hopefully it’s not pushed back since I hate waiting for things.
I love when I’m commenting on someone’s blog, and they’re over here commenting on mine. I think we just did that!
Thanks for your nice words. As I mentioned to Gina, I’m a bit envious at times of those of you who self-published, because you get to maintain the control. I feel a little out of the loop.
We did comment at the same time. How funny. You’ll probably have better marketing and be listed in better places with a publisher though. I hate that part of the whole show.
Sadly, probably not. Small presses don’t do that much publicity. That’s why they require a marketing plan from the author along with the submission.
Okay, so you might have guessed by my username that I write at night
Seriously, the morning is best for me because I’m not interrupted as much by life, as you put it. The dog isn’t barking, the phone isn’t ringing, the kids aren’t asking me to do something, and as long as I don’t log onto the internet then I’m not distracted by dinging each time I get an email.
My book has taken me about 9 years to write, research, revise, query, revise, query, research, revise…well, you get the point. So, I totally, totally know what it means to spend years on one manuscript. I started writing this particular book when my oldest was a newborn–I was sleepless and restless and needed to do something when she was napping. I’d been writing for years before that, but quit at a fairly difficult point in my life. Getting back to the writing, and starting a specific story worked wonders on my health–spiritual, mental, and physical.
I have queried and even went to a Writer’s Digest pitch session in NYC in 2011 where I got 3 requests for a full. Probably the happiest moment of my writing life. Even though I got rejected by all 3 agents, the fact anyone was interested in my story at all was an unbelievable moment for me. All in all, over the course of about 3 years, I sent out about 40 queries and in among those 40 I had tweaked the ms because I don’t know how to leave things alone.
I’m heading back to the querying road again, but it’s definitely requiring a lot of energy and determination this time around. More than before.
I love the story behind your writing journey. I am particularly intrigued by people who didn’t always want to be writers, but who kind of woke up one morning and thought, hmm, that sounds like a good idea. I’ll try it. Not literally of course, but I think you know what I mean. The writing bug is a curious fellow.
“The writing bug is a curious fellow.”–That it is. I’ve always loved books, and I always said I’d write a one (I started several “novels” when I was young that made it a whole chapter or two).
Thanks for sharing your routine. I love that you get up early to do it. Really smart. My problem is the constant internet distraction, which is my own fault and no one else’s.
Your journey sounds similar to mine. I did have one or two agents request the whole ms, and even though they ultimately rejected it, like you, just knowing they were interested helped fuel me on. If I had only received standard form rejections, I may have become too discouraged.
Oh! My mistake, I’m sorry. For some reason I thought you hadn’t always wanted to be a writer. (I’m still intrigued, though.)
It’s neat to know that you wrote books when you were a child. Me, too. Shutting myself in my room at the age of 6 to write–no different than what I do now. I guess once we get started, there’s very little that can stop us.
Yes, I suppose I always had the dream, but it seemed so unrealistic that I took a different path completely.
I’m constantly scanning my Nook for cheap, good reads when I’m bored. There is so much TRASH out there, it’s ridiculous. We need a good writer like you and I for one, can’t wait to hear more about it. Good for you for taking the leap and going for it….even if it means a little water up the bum
Thank you so much! Of course, writing a blog post is much easier than a novel, so it’s a bit nerveracking to think others may actually read it. But also exciting.
Thanks for stopping by!
This is so NOT boring! We all want to know about how you got here. Writers are taking notes on your experiences. And readers are always curious about the authors they enjoy reading. I will be downloading it as soon as it’s available!
Thank you for saying that. As I mentioned to other commenters, I’ve been worrying about posting too much about my book, so it’s wonderful to see the interest.
I wish I could give free e-books to willing reviewers, but that is out of my control. I will be able to send out free paper copies (that I’ve purchased) to willing reviewers, but I still don’t know when the paper copies will be available. This is where being self-published would have its advantages. More control.
Hope your break is going well!
So there is hope for the rest of us? Please say it is so.
Congrats. I am proud of you!
Thanks, Robin. I appreciate that.
You know, it’s funny…I was just looking at my blog stats and thinking…if you are writing, but no one is reading are you really a writer? (Kind of like that tree falling in the woods nonsense.) I’m so glad you didn’t give up on your dream, even after all that rejection. I’m no good at rejection but it is something I’m working on. Working through it is what separates the losers from the big deals. You, my friend, are a big deal.
You are very kind. But you are right, working through and perservering is what leads to results, even if they aren’t what you initially hoped for. One percent inspiration, 99% perspiration, right?
Thanks for stopping by, Chrystal. As always, it’s appreciated.
Carrie: I LOVE reading about your journey and the process – it’s fascinating to me that for someone with a career such as yours that you have held to your dream of writing. For one thing, I was a pre-med student and majored in chemistry in college. I arrived at a crossroads and instead of pursuing medicine, I chose to be a stay-at-home mom. It’s funny, because in the back of my mind I selfishly believed I would have more opportunity to write (my true love), but it turns out I’m no further ahead in the game and, in fact, much more behind that I ever imagined I would be. Here we are, two women of the same age, who chose different paths and still holding on to our dream of publishing a book. You’re an inspiration
Keep telling us about the process – believe me, we’re not bored!
Thanks so much, Sheila! I needed to hear that because I’m worried I’m talking too much about my book. Nobody wants an in-your-face marketer.
And you described perfectly why it can take so many years to get to this point. Work and family take priority as, in my opinion, they should. In order for me to finally do this though, something had to go. And for now that was work. I haven’t worked in the clinic for five months now, and although I’m still affiliated with my hospital, I’m not sure if or when I’ll go back. But there is no way I could have got this blog up and running and done all of my editing if I was still working. Some people are good at dividing their attention between worlds–I am not.
I didn’t know you were pre-med, but I applaud your decision to raise your kids. I had time off, and I’ve worked part-time. I could have advanced more in my career had I always worked full-time, but for me personally, that wasn’t a good fit. I enjoyed days off with my kids.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Is always appreciated.
Yeah, but I’ve often wondered what I’ve missed. I love the medical language – it makes sense to me and the human body is fascinating in how it works, or doesn’t work as the case may be. I am finally in a place, though, where I can appreciate that I had a choice and now that both my kids are in school I can pursue writing more steadfast. I, too, am one of those people who has trouble dividing my attention between worlds. I can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next. By the way, I hope you’ve started your next WIP – no better time while you’re waiting on this one to come out
I’ve started a new WIP, but sadly, that Scrivener file has not been opened for a month–not since the final edits for The Seneca Scourge and book launching started. And I’m having anxiety palpitations because of it.
I have come to the conclusion that women can have it all but not at the same time. And I’m finally okay with that.
AMEN!!! lol
Great insight into the publishing game. Ugh. Genres, agents and publisher, oh my. It took me a solid year and 1/4 to write and get Casting Stones published. I’ve been working on Dead Blow for 3 years. It’s still haunting me. Recipes For Revenge…5 months from start to publication. Go figure. Some books write themselves. BUT, the main key to the speed on Recipes is that I have more knowledge and more faith in my ability to write. I also know who I need to know…beta readers, editors, cover designers, and how to publish. With Stones I hadn’t a clue. With Dead Blow, I started writing that novel when I didn’t know beans about writing. I’ve been trying to fix it ever since. I’ve walked away from it three times. I’m determined to get it done and published this year.
Five months?! Wow, I’m impressed. But then again, you have a strong determination, and that is a huge part of success, as we all know. Things don’t get done on their own. It takes a constant momentum on our part.
I must admit, I’m a bit envious of those of you who self-published in that you call the shots and are on your own time table. I feel out of the loop at times and have to wait for any information to come to me. But I’m not complaining. Not by a long shot.
Yup. I look at the grass on the other side and wonder. I’ll probably take a stab at querying agents again some day. Right now, I’ll keep plugging along to Indie route.
In a few years, I suspect the various publishing worlds will be jumbled together. Already the lines are blurred.
Yup. Times they are a changin’.
I write any time I have a moment during the day, and sometimes I get up in the middle of the night. I make myself do all my “real” work first, and writing is my reward. But every now and then, I pretend I’m not home, refuse to answer the door or phone, and take a writing day just as a treat.
My first four books took about 2 months each to write the first drafts, but then they needed to sit and stew for a few months before they were ready for editing.
My fifth book took nearly a year (I was away from home most of the winter helping my step-mom get through chemo). It was by far the hardest book to write because I never got uninterrupted time to work on it. But it’s finally finished – should be released next week. *Sigh of relief*
Book 6 is already ping-ponging around in my head, and I’m excited about starting it. All current health crises are over, *knocks on wood* and I should be able to get back to my usual writing process.
Wow, I’m impressed with your speed. Are you employed in another job as well, or do you write full-time? I’m also impressed you can get up in the middle of the night to write. No matter how much I love something, unless it’s a child in need, it can’t drag me out of bed.
Thanks for sharing your routine. You inspire me in your efficiency.
I own my own computer training business, so I work from home and I can shuffle work responsibilities within reason (thank heaven for my fabulous employees). And it’s not a matter of being able to get up in the middle of the night… it’s a matter of not being able to sleep until I write the scene that’s burning in my brain.
Well, that I do understand. Has happened to me on occasion when I’m in the thick of my writing.
And you are an impressively busy woman. No wonder you need a waist pouch.
LOL!
So um…when’s the boring part?
An interesting look at how it happened. Also nice that even though you’re a writer, your writing isn’t dependent on the acceptance of others!
That independence from the acceptance of others may become even more apparent when the book comes out, in the form of lack of readers.
And thanks for not falling asleep. I fear posts like these can reek of “Hey, look at me!”
Well, yeah, but aren’t most blogs, by definition “Look at me!”?
Good point.
This is good info for me, thank you. Keep ‘em coming! I shall repay you later with a transfer of boobage.
It’s a deal! And I’m glad to hear people are interested in these entries. I’ve been having several internal dialogues about overdoing the posts related to my book. I’m new at this game, and I don’t want to turn anyone off.
I’m turned on!
Oh, good. I think…
Excellent recounting of your journey, Carrie. Yes, I’ve queried several publishers re: the sequel to my debut and was turned down. Holding off until the elusive book 3 in the series decides it would actually like to be written, lol. And you’re right about the changes in the publishing world. My debut aired January 2010, and what a different e-scape since then, and even in the past year. Amazing.
And keep sharing. We read b/c we WANT to
Thank you for you thoughtful words. They’re reassuring to hear.
I admire those of you who are writing series. I know trilogies are a smart bet, but I don’t think I’d have it in me. Some work on all three at once. Yikes.
You know, I realize that I need to get your book and put it in my reading queue. I honestly never read romance, but one thing reading other bloggers’ books has done for me is expanded my horizons beyond thrillers. So reading your book would be a good exercise for me.
First off (can there ever be an offed first?): I think I love you….but in a good way…
I’m not writing a book, but instead, sitting at a drug store soda fountain counter waiting to be discovered, trying to decide if I’m pathetic. Thank you, but no, I don’t need any help…I’m fine.
Really.
Fine.
I decided long ago I was pathetic. See? Once you come to terms with it, the day goes much smoother.
As for your affection, I’m touched. Or creeped out. I haven’t decided yet.
But in all seriousness, thanks for stopping by!
Still bringing those welding torched cookies to your book signing….so exciting!!
I’m impressed you haven’t eaten them yet. I would have.
You mean you’re going to make me wait for the rest of the story? But I want to know what happened next *stamps foot in toddler-like tantrum*
Honestly, though – I’m happy for you
Thank you. I am delighted to see I didn’t put you to sleep. Of course, there’s still plenty of time for that with the next post.