I wasn't going to write a post because I've been so sick the last three weeks and already know I need a post for tomorrow, but I can't not say something new year related...
I always look forward to a new year because it's opportunity, endless choices, moods, everything and anything. A new year gives hope to us all that we can improve and have a better year than the last, or continue to have a wonderful year that matches the greatness of the previous one. Or even the chance to make the new year even better than the fantastic last year. Endless possibilities.
My year was not so great in 2012. I had so many more downs than ups, too many. I cried more tears last year than I have any other year and I've lost loved ones in other years. My Lupus acted up way too much, when it wasn't acting up I was sick in general. I had moments that I wasn't too bad, but not enough. I was tired, so tired, all the time. Behind on work and lost in life. Lost in general.
In 2012 I made new friends, bonded closer with old friends, and drifted away from really great friends that I shouldn't have drifted away from. I finished a book-completely finished it-completed NaNo, and now have 3 WIPs in the works. I critiqued for over 10 people, read books over and over that I couldn't count toward my Goodreads goal because they're not published.
So much happiness and success was found in 2012. So many writers got agents and book deals-both even. It was the year of AQCers too. It was ridiculous (in a good way) how many success stories kept being posted. And not just AQCers though, so many writers were successful. Self-pubbers, Indie pubbed, Traditional, all had so much good news happening. I was YAY YAY YAYing left and right because not just getting signed, people were getting requests. Even if those requests were ultimately rejections, still awesome in general.
And I failed-over and over. But don't get all no don't say that! I'm okay with it. I know I struggled, fell so far behind I couldn't begin to see where to catch up. I know that I let people down who were expecting me to be there for them, to critique for them or just help on little things. I know because I know I hit a funk so bad that it ruined my mojo. Took that mojo, balled it up, burnt it, crumbled it, swept it into a jar, and tossed it out into the ocean where a shark chomped it down...Yeah, the funk was that bad, almost worse really. I still haven't come out of it completely. I'm still behind on critiques and reading, and writing, but I'll get there.
That's my resolution for the year-get back on point. I plan to get my head in the game and stay focused. My blog is neglected, my WIPs are neglected, my critique partners and group is neglected, I've got a doc that should have a query letter typed on it, and there is a book list a mile long waiting for me.
So, do you have a resolution(s) for 2013? Are you the kind of person who usually makes resolutions? Are you glad to see 2012 go and 2013 roll on in? (I am!)
Have an AWESOME Happy New Year! See you tomorrow. :)
Showing posts with label Agent Query Connect. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Agent Query Connect. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Thursday TAG! - R.C. Lewis
Eeep! This tag is-of course :p - EXCITING!!! R.C. Lewis is a math teacher, an awesome woman, always helpful, moderator over at AQC, AGENTED!, oh yeah and she's got a TWO book (six figure) deal! Yeah, did I mention she's AWESOME!?! :D
You can find R.C. on her blog, Twitter, and AQC. And make sure to keep an eye out for STITCHING SNOW(coming Summer 2014). The query is awesome and I can't wait to read the novel itself.
(EDIT: I forgot to add that RC also posts over at From The Write Angle Blog. It's an awesome blog for writers, go check it out. :) )
1. When did you start writing?
I began writing my first novel in August 2009.
2. What made you want to write?
I was discussing some YA novels with my sister. We talked about how some had so much potential but fell short because of this or that. I thought, "It's easy to complain, but could I do any better?" Then once I got started, I discovered how much I love it.
3. When did you decide you wanted to write to be published? (As opposed to writing just to write)
That first novel started out as an experiment to see what happened if I tried. I felt like what I ended up with was pretty good, so I started looking into what it takes to get published.
4. What genre(s) do you write?
Always YA, mostly sci-fi, and I have some veering toward fantasy, plus one contemporary.
5. Why that(those) genre(s)?
Sci-fi and fantasy have long been my favorites to read (and watch when it comes to movies). So mostly because I'm a geek. I veered to YA because I've been surrounded by teenagers for a while with my day job, and I like the psychology that comes with that period of our lives.
6. Do you have any particular ritual when you write? (A specific way things are done during the process)
Nope.
7. Do you use an outline, or do you just start writing?
It varies. I'll often jot a note or two before I start, then add to those notes as I go and things start fleshing out. Other times, I'll have a more solid idea of the whole plot from the beginning, so those "jotted notes" are more of an outline.
8. Is there something you MUST have when you're writing? (Aside from the typical writer tools-computer, pen, paper, etc)
Nope.
9. Do you write out your story on paper and then transfer to a computer, or straight to the computer?
Straight to computer.
10. How many books/short stories have you written? (Published or not, even those you wrote and then thought-what the hell?)
I've written seven novel-length manuscripts so far, one novelette, and four short stories.
11. Is there, or has there been, anyone in your life (real or online) who thought you being a writer is/was just another hobby? Or that you are/were wasting your time as a writer?
No, never.
12. Do you do Social Media sites? If so, which ones? If not, why don't you?
I'm on Twitter (@RC_Lewis) and I blog (crossingthehelix.blogspot.com), plus I'm a moderator at AgentQuery Connect.
13. Any advice for writers that makes you cringe every time you hear it? (I know there is some cringe-worthy advice still worth following, so only advice you don't follow.)
Really, any advice that's presented as absolute makes me cringe. The various forms of "to be" aren't inherently evil. Neither are adjectives and adverbs. If you go a day without writing, that doesn't make you not a real writer. Everything should be considered individually, with moderation and balance.
14. What made you choose Snow White to revamp for STITCHING SNOW?
It wasn't exactly a decision to revamp something. There's a line in a Florence + the Machine song about "Snow White stitching up your circuit-board." That conjured an image, and the story started to form from there.
15. Why did you decide to set it in the future and in space?
I lean toward sci-fi anyway, and that line of lyrics already got me in the mindset of Snow White juxtaposed with technology, so it made sense.
16. How does it feel to get a (not prearranged) call from an agent? Followed by four others wanting you too.
The cold call was startling, but fine—largely because the agent was very personable and disarming from the beginning. As for five agents offering, it's extremely flattering on the one hand ... but it was also gut-wrenching. They were all stand-out, awesome agents, and I had to figure out which of five amazing choices was the right choice for me.
17. How did you react when you got that call? (Were you cool about it-"Oh hey, Ms Agent, what's up?" or OMG!)
I guess I was pretty cool about it, at least outwardly. My outward reactions tend to be kind of muted—not exactly the jumping-up-and-down type. Inwardly, though, I had mile-a-minute thoughts, especially because I was sitting in my classroom during prep time and had to violently shift my brain from math-teacher mode to writer mode.
18. Is there any specific reason you prefer to write YA?
There are a lot of reasons. I like the transitional aspects of teenage-hood. It's a fascinating (and in turns fun, dismal, exciting, and maddening) time of life. Probably a lot of the same reasons I like teaching teenagers so much. And I like writing books that I wish I could've read as a teen. Hopefully my books will reach some teens so they don't have to wish.
19. What do you do when you aren't writing?
I teach math! Up until recently, I taught high school kids at a school for the deaf. Now I'm back to hearing kids and will be teaching eighth and ninth graders this fall.
20. Any words of wisdom for anyone who is thinking of becoming a writer, or just something you think all writers should know?
I covered the main thing in #13. :) But also, there are a lot of options to consider these days. Don't rush. Take your time to figure things out and do it right.
You can find R.C. on her blog, Twitter, and AQC. And make sure to keep an eye out for STITCHING SNOW(coming Summer 2014). The query is awesome and I can't wait to read the novel itself.
(EDIT: I forgot to add that RC also posts over at From The Write Angle Blog. It's an awesome blog for writers, go check it out. :) )
1. When did you start writing?
I began writing my first novel in August 2009.
2. What made you want to write?
I was discussing some YA novels with my sister. We talked about how some had so much potential but fell short because of this or that. I thought, "It's easy to complain, but could I do any better?" Then once I got started, I discovered how much I love it.
3. When did you decide you wanted to write to be published? (As opposed to writing just to write)
That first novel started out as an experiment to see what happened if I tried. I felt like what I ended up with was pretty good, so I started looking into what it takes to get published.
4. What genre(s) do you write?
Always YA, mostly sci-fi, and I have some veering toward fantasy, plus one contemporary.
5. Why that(those) genre(s)?
Sci-fi and fantasy have long been my favorites to read (and watch when it comes to movies). So mostly because I'm a geek. I veered to YA because I've been surrounded by teenagers for a while with my day job, and I like the psychology that comes with that period of our lives.
6. Do you have any particular ritual when you write? (A specific way things are done during the process)
Nope.
7. Do you use an outline, or do you just start writing?
It varies. I'll often jot a note or two before I start, then add to those notes as I go and things start fleshing out. Other times, I'll have a more solid idea of the whole plot from the beginning, so those "jotted notes" are more of an outline.
8. Is there something you MUST have when you're writing? (Aside from the typical writer tools-computer, pen, paper, etc)
Nope.
9. Do you write out your story on paper and then transfer to a computer, or straight to the computer?
Straight to computer.
10. How many books/short stories have you written? (Published or not, even those you wrote and then thought-what the hell?)
I've written seven novel-length manuscripts so far, one novelette, and four short stories.
11. Is there, or has there been, anyone in your life (real or online) who thought you being a writer is/was just another hobby? Or that you are/were wasting your time as a writer?
No, never.
12. Do you do Social Media sites? If so, which ones? If not, why don't you?
I'm on Twitter (@RC_Lewis) and I blog (crossingthehelix.blogspot.com), plus I'm a moderator at AgentQuery Connect.
13. Any advice for writers that makes you cringe every time you hear it? (I know there is some cringe-worthy advice still worth following, so only advice you don't follow.)
Really, any advice that's presented as absolute makes me cringe. The various forms of "to be" aren't inherently evil. Neither are adjectives and adverbs. If you go a day without writing, that doesn't make you not a real writer. Everything should be considered individually, with moderation and balance.
14. What made you choose Snow White to revamp for STITCHING SNOW?
It wasn't exactly a decision to revamp something. There's a line in a Florence + the Machine song about "Snow White stitching up your circuit-board." That conjured an image, and the story started to form from there.
15. Why did you decide to set it in the future and in space?
I lean toward sci-fi anyway, and that line of lyrics already got me in the mindset of Snow White juxtaposed with technology, so it made sense.
16. How does it feel to get a (not prearranged) call from an agent? Followed by four others wanting you too.
The cold call was startling, but fine—largely because the agent was very personable and disarming from the beginning. As for five agents offering, it's extremely flattering on the one hand ... but it was also gut-wrenching. They were all stand-out, awesome agents, and I had to figure out which of five amazing choices was the right choice for me.
17. How did you react when you got that call? (Were you cool about it-"Oh hey, Ms Agent, what's up?" or OMG!)
I guess I was pretty cool about it, at least outwardly. My outward reactions tend to be kind of muted—not exactly the jumping-up-and-down type. Inwardly, though, I had mile-a-minute thoughts, especially because I was sitting in my classroom during prep time and had to violently shift my brain from math-teacher mode to writer mode.
18. Is there any specific reason you prefer to write YA?
There are a lot of reasons. I like the transitional aspects of teenage-hood. It's a fascinating (and in turns fun, dismal, exciting, and maddening) time of life. Probably a lot of the same reasons I like teaching teenagers so much. And I like writing books that I wish I could've read as a teen. Hopefully my books will reach some teens so they don't have to wish.
19. What do you do when you aren't writing?
I teach math! Up until recently, I taught high school kids at a school for the deaf. Now I'm back to hearing kids and will be teaching eighth and ninth graders this fall.
20. Any words of wisdom for anyone who is thinking of becoming a writer, or just something you think all writers should know?
I covered the main thing in #13. :) But also, there are a lot of options to consider these days. Don't rush. Take your time to figure things out and do it right.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Thursday TAG! - Kendra Conine
This TAG! today features a very good friend of mine which I met through my favorite site. (Agent Query Connect if you're new here and don't know. :D ). Kendra is fairly new to blogging and could use a few more followers, so check her out (she's such a sweetie). She's in the revision stage on an MS about elemental magic and the concept is awesome. You can find her on her blog, Twitter, and Facebook.
1. When did you start writing?
I started writing when I was 9 years old, in third grade.
2. What made you want to write?
I'd just finished the book Kittens in the Kitchen as part of the Animal Ark series. You would not believe how much of a sucker I was for cats. I wondered, "Why can't I make a story of my own?" Thus my journey began.
3. When did you decide you wanted to write to be published? (As opposed to writing just to write)
I wrote short stories after my little 'revelation' in third grade and garnered quite a bit of attention. I'd say it was around the time I started reading Eragon by Christopher Paolini in late sixth grade that I wondered, "Why don't I do the same [as him]?" I was pretty sure by then that writing was my calling, so I definitely needed to make something of it.
4. What genre(s) do you write?
I mainly focus on the realm of urban fantasy and regular fantasy, but I've been exploring dystopian and post-apocalyptic settings.
5. Why that(those) genre(s)?
They're my favorites! It's also being the issue of being a comfort zone I'm reluctant to leave. Anything I read I usually think, "I might write something like that one day." The only genres I've continuously gone back to are fantasy and urban fantasy.
6. Do you have any particular ritual when you write? (A specific way things are done during the process)
I've been trying to create a new ritual for myself. Currently it works like this: Open Microsoft Word and iTunes, find a song to listen to and open the document, and sit there. Sometimes before I begin I'll recite a prayer I found somewhere. One of the greatest pieces of advice I've gotten (only recently, unfortunately) is to warm up. Writing isn't just to write. It's like art, sports, anything. You have to stretch before you really begin. So I've really been trying to get in the habit of warming up with something else before I begin.
7. Do you use an outline, or do you just start writing?
I do have outlines. I just think it's so much easier to keep my ideas and thoughts organized with an outline rather than try to keep everything straight in my head—I butchered one of my stories when I tried to go without one.
8. Is there something you MUST have when you're writing? (Aside from the typical writer tools-computer, pen, paper, etc)
Music. Music is my saving grace, my best friend, my writing partner. Every piece of my book has a musical piece to accompany it in my mind, and therefore I have to have it!
9. Do you write out your story on paper and then transfer to a computer, or straight to the computer?
I used to write it out before I typed it up, but then a 44,000 word story went to 144,000. So, not really. I do write my outlines out on paper (color-coding for the win!) but I type the entire story up.
10. How many books/short stories have you written? (Published or not, even those you wrote and then thought-what the hell?)
Unfortunately the amount of books/short stories I've begun and lost/quit is very high, much higher than my completed list. I've completed nine books/short stories, and two and a half of them had "what the hell?" results, haha!
11. Is there, or has there been, anyone in your life (real or online) who thought you being a writer is/was just another hobby? Or that you are/were wasting your time as a writer?
Some people still do, I believe. Several of my teachers don't understand why I write when they think I have such a great future in politics (But I don't even watch the news!) or science. But the amount of people who have faith in what I do is much greater than those who don't.
12. Do you do Social Media sites? If so, which ones? If not, why don't you?
I use YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. I used to have MySpace, but it was just a complicated place. I've not really checked out Google+ or Tumblr, anything along those lines. I don't like having too many social media sites, because I tend to forget about them.
13. Any advice for writers that makes you cringe every time you hear it? (I know there is some cringe-worthy advice still worth following, so only advice you don't follow.)
"Write what you know." I used to follow this advice to a T, but then I realized if I did that, every single story I wrote was going to be stuck in little towns of only 800 people. You can't just write what you know, or you're never going to learn anything! In some instances, you can stick to this advice. For example, if you want to put a story in South Africa or Afghanistan, but you know nothing about the cultures there or the events that have taken place there, that's not the best idea. It isn't that it's bad advice, but it's advice that can mislead you.
14. What's a Flame Dancer?
A Flame Dancer is something part of a unique 'Mastery Stage' in my book. A 'Dancer' is the first, most inexperienced stage that only signifies vague control over the element. Over time, it would progress to 'Flame Warrior' and, if lucky, the final and most experienced: 'Flame Master'. Since there are other elements with the same stages, it gets diverse—Darkness Warrior, Wind Dancer, Water Master... etc.
15. Would you want to be a Flame Dancer if you could?
Yeah! I've always been a bit of a pyro-lover (not in a BAD way)—I love to watch fire, to watch it grow and shift and shape itself, how it reduces to the soft glow of coals. To be able to touch them and communicate with them? Sign me up!
16. What is your favorite song for each type of scene you're writing? (IE-action, love, arguing, fighting, etc.)
This is going to be my favorite question out of the whole interview.
Action/Fighting - For a normal battle it would be Blinded by Light from the Final Fantasy XIII Soundtrack. For a 'boss', it would be Dismiss from Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep.
Love - Fabula Nova Crystallis from Final Fantasy XIII.
Arguing - Those For the Purge from Final Fantasy XIII.
"Doom" moment - Key of Darkness from Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep.
Travelling - Currently, Run~Full Speed Ahead from Final Fantasy XIII-2.
17. What inspires your writing?
My music more than anything else. Usually I already have the ideas in my head, but music helps me give them shape and set the mood in the writing itself.
18. What's your favorite part about writing? What's your least favorite part?
My favorite part is the experience of writing something for the first time. You're writing, and you've just gotten to a piece you've had planned forever. It's finally here! Your heart pounds, your mind is going 90 miles a minute, and your hands are sometimes shaking from the intensity of the anticipation. I don't know if it's only me that gets that feeling, but I do. Now, my LEAST favorite part is running into a wall. Your writing is going great, then BAM. Something's wrong, and you don't know what. You sit and try and figure it out for AGES, but nothing comes. Then you have to force yourself away from your work and figure it out from there, and sometimes you end up having to butcher the work and put it back together. I don't feel like my characters appreciate this very much.
19. What do you do when you aren't writing?
I read books, walk around town, or play Final Fantasy. I'm a bit of a recluse most of the time, so it's rare that I go to hang out with friends—but it does happen. Sometimes. (;
20. Any words of wisdom for anyone who is thinking of becoming a writer, or just something you think all writers should know?
Follow your dreams and write what you want, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. If you want to write the goriest books, do it. If you want to write the trashiest, do it. Writing is all you and it's no one's place to say otherwise. As for advice, don't be afraid to experiment. Dapple into everything to find what fits for you. Also, don't use adverbs and passive tense! They're a death trap!
1. When did you start writing?
I started writing when I was 9 years old, in third grade.
2. What made you want to write?
I'd just finished the book Kittens in the Kitchen as part of the Animal Ark series. You would not believe how much of a sucker I was for cats. I wondered, "Why can't I make a story of my own?" Thus my journey began.
3. When did you decide you wanted to write to be published? (As opposed to writing just to write)
I wrote short stories after my little 'revelation' in third grade and garnered quite a bit of attention. I'd say it was around the time I started reading Eragon by Christopher Paolini in late sixth grade that I wondered, "Why don't I do the same [as him]?" I was pretty sure by then that writing was my calling, so I definitely needed to make something of it.
4. What genre(s) do you write?
I mainly focus on the realm of urban fantasy and regular fantasy, but I've been exploring dystopian and post-apocalyptic settings.
5. Why that(those) genre(s)?
They're my favorites! It's also being the issue of being a comfort zone I'm reluctant to leave. Anything I read I usually think, "I might write something like that one day." The only genres I've continuously gone back to are fantasy and urban fantasy.
6. Do you have any particular ritual when you write? (A specific way things are done during the process)
I've been trying to create a new ritual for myself. Currently it works like this: Open Microsoft Word and iTunes, find a song to listen to and open the document, and sit there. Sometimes before I begin I'll recite a prayer I found somewhere. One of the greatest pieces of advice I've gotten (only recently, unfortunately) is to warm up. Writing isn't just to write. It's like art, sports, anything. You have to stretch before you really begin. So I've really been trying to get in the habit of warming up with something else before I begin.
7. Do you use an outline, or do you just start writing?
I do have outlines. I just think it's so much easier to keep my ideas and thoughts organized with an outline rather than try to keep everything straight in my head—I butchered one of my stories when I tried to go without one.
8. Is there something you MUST have when you're writing? (Aside from the typical writer tools-computer, pen, paper, etc)
Music. Music is my saving grace, my best friend, my writing partner. Every piece of my book has a musical piece to accompany it in my mind, and therefore I have to have it!
9. Do you write out your story on paper and then transfer to a computer, or straight to the computer?
I used to write it out before I typed it up, but then a 44,000 word story went to 144,000. So, not really. I do write my outlines out on paper (color-coding for the win!) but I type the entire story up.
10. How many books/short stories have you written? (Published or not, even those you wrote and then thought-what the hell?)
Unfortunately the amount of books/short stories I've begun and lost/quit is very high, much higher than my completed list. I've completed nine books/short stories, and two and a half of them had "what the hell?" results, haha!
11. Is there, or has there been, anyone in your life (real or online) who thought you being a writer is/was just another hobby? Or that you are/were wasting your time as a writer?
Some people still do, I believe. Several of my teachers don't understand why I write when they think I have such a great future in politics (But I don't even watch the news!) or science. But the amount of people who have faith in what I do is much greater than those who don't.
12. Do you do Social Media sites? If so, which ones? If not, why don't you?
I use YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. I used to have MySpace, but it was just a complicated place. I've not really checked out Google+ or Tumblr, anything along those lines. I don't like having too many social media sites, because I tend to forget about them.
13. Any advice for writers that makes you cringe every time you hear it? (I know there is some cringe-worthy advice still worth following, so only advice you don't follow.)
"Write what you know." I used to follow this advice to a T, but then I realized if I did that, every single story I wrote was going to be stuck in little towns of only 800 people. You can't just write what you know, or you're never going to learn anything! In some instances, you can stick to this advice. For example, if you want to put a story in South Africa or Afghanistan, but you know nothing about the cultures there or the events that have taken place there, that's not the best idea. It isn't that it's bad advice, but it's advice that can mislead you.
14. What's a Flame Dancer?
A Flame Dancer is something part of a unique 'Mastery Stage' in my book. A 'Dancer' is the first, most inexperienced stage that only signifies vague control over the element. Over time, it would progress to 'Flame Warrior' and, if lucky, the final and most experienced: 'Flame Master'. Since there are other elements with the same stages, it gets diverse—Darkness Warrior, Wind Dancer, Water Master... etc.
15. Would you want to be a Flame Dancer if you could?
Yeah! I've always been a bit of a pyro-lover (not in a BAD way)—I love to watch fire, to watch it grow and shift and shape itself, how it reduces to the soft glow of coals. To be able to touch them and communicate with them? Sign me up!
16. What is your favorite song for each type of scene you're writing? (IE-action, love, arguing, fighting, etc.)
This is going to be my favorite question out of the whole interview.
Action/Fighting - For a normal battle it would be Blinded by Light from the Final Fantasy XIII Soundtrack. For a 'boss', it would be Dismiss from Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep.
Love - Fabula Nova Crystallis from Final Fantasy XIII.
Arguing - Those For the Purge from Final Fantasy XIII.
"Doom" moment - Key of Darkness from Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep.
Travelling - Currently, Run~Full Speed Ahead from Final Fantasy XIII-2.
17. What inspires your writing?
My music more than anything else. Usually I already have the ideas in my head, but music helps me give them shape and set the mood in the writing itself.
18. What's your favorite part about writing? What's your least favorite part?
My favorite part is the experience of writing something for the first time. You're writing, and you've just gotten to a piece you've had planned forever. It's finally here! Your heart pounds, your mind is going 90 miles a minute, and your hands are sometimes shaking from the intensity of the anticipation. I don't know if it's only me that gets that feeling, but I do. Now, my LEAST favorite part is running into a wall. Your writing is going great, then BAM. Something's wrong, and you don't know what. You sit and try and figure it out for AGES, but nothing comes. Then you have to force yourself away from your work and figure it out from there, and sometimes you end up having to butcher the work and put it back together. I don't feel like my characters appreciate this very much.
19. What do you do when you aren't writing?
I read books, walk around town, or play Final Fantasy. I'm a bit of a recluse most of the time, so it's rare that I go to hang out with friends—but it does happen. Sometimes. (;
20. Any words of wisdom for anyone who is thinking of becoming a writer, or just something you think all writers should know?
Follow your dreams and write what you want, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. If you want to write the goriest books, do it. If you want to write the trashiest, do it. Writing is all you and it's no one's place to say otherwise. As for advice, don't be afraid to experiment. Dapple into everything to find what fits for you. Also, don't use adverbs and passive tense! They're a death trap!
Saturday, June 23, 2012
The Awesomeness
Well, I skipped a Saturday wrap up last week, sorry about that. However, this week's is full of awesome!
First off, I'd like to talk about my Mention Monday post. I listed some awesome writers on that one, please if you missed it, go check it out now. Plus, my friend, Caterina Torres, is giving away several eBooks of her book, Zombie Whisperer. (Giveaway link is on my Mention Monday post).
Next I'd like to mention (lol) the amazing and famous Ninja Captain, Alex J Cavanaugh. He's so far beyond awesome and I want to say another thank you for the interview.
Also a big thank you to all of Alex's followers who came by my blog, I really appreciate it.
That pretty much sums it up I think. I've been stalled on writing for a couple of days while I work on critiques. I've also been reading a little. I'm starting to work on my query letter again. (Oh boy). And I'm revising here and there. Plus I've been chatting on AQC a lot lately, and love it. Of course, I love the site so, it makes sense. :D
That's my week all wrapped up. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have an awesome weekend.
Happy Saturday. :)
First off, I'd like to talk about my Mention Monday post. I listed some awesome writers on that one, please if you missed it, go check it out now. Plus, my friend, Caterina Torres, is giving away several eBooks of her book, Zombie Whisperer. (Giveaway link is on my Mention Monday post).
Next I'd like to mention (lol) the amazing and famous Ninja Captain, Alex J Cavanaugh. He's so far beyond awesome and I want to say another thank you for the interview.
Also a big thank you to all of Alex's followers who came by my blog, I really appreciate it.
That pretty much sums it up I think. I've been stalled on writing for a couple of days while I work on critiques. I've also been reading a little. I'm starting to work on my query letter again. (Oh boy). And I'm revising here and there. Plus I've been chatting on AQC a lot lately, and love it. Of course, I love the site so, it makes sense. :D
That's my week all wrapped up. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have an awesome weekend.
Happy Saturday. :)
Monday, June 4, 2012
Mention Monday - A Few Newly Agented
Oh-yeah, that's a title we all (writers) at some point aspire to have, right? Well, most of us at least. (And note, I said at some point. I'm not talking down about Indie or Self-Pubbing). I just happen to know of quite a few people who have been having a wee bit of success over at my favorite site-AQC. What's that? You still haven't been to this awesomely wonderful site yet? Do you see what good comes from this site?!? Oh wait....I haven't really told you yet, my bad. :D
Over at that site there have been numerous people over the last few months who have either landed an agent or publishing deal. It's AWESOME!!!! And these people are such wonderful and deserving people that I thought they should have a Mention Monday spot.
I'm just going to hit on this year:
Beginning in January the amazing and awesome Lori Sjoberg (her TAG! is here if you missed it) got a two book publishing deal for her awesomely awesome reaper series. Then the wonderful S.K. Keogh signed a publication deal for her historical novel (technically she was offered the deal before Christmas, but it was January when she signed ;) And then the freaking fantastically awesomeness that is Robert K Lewis (thrownbones over at AQC) signed a two book deal. Then came a book deal for Terri Bruce (see TAG! here) and Michelle Reed (Michelle_in_WI on AQC) (who was mentioned in Publisher's Weekly ;) And someone who's story (especially the characters) I happen to love...someone who went through tons of rejections with numerous things being said that made the hopes of ever seeing the book in print seem like slim to none...Jayne Denker (her TAG! is here) landed an agent.
(Are you're eyes gettin' all wonky from the numerous links yet? Hope not 'cause we're not done :D )
Don F (bigdonf on AQC) signed with a publisher. Stephanie Diaz landed an agent (her query had 26 partial/full requests (most of them fulls) and FOUR offers of representation. Then Precy Larkins (AKA Cherie) landed an agent from a query that had NINE full requests and an offer). ALBrock just landed an agent. And then the news that made me say, "I HAVE to mention all the AWESOMENESS of my fellow AQCers!!!".....The sweetheart and so smart and so wonderfully AWESOME RC Lewis landed an agent from a query that got ELEVEN fulls and FIVE offers!!!!! WOOOOOOT to all my fellow AQCers, you are all full of all kinds of AWESOME!!!
Take a moment to stop by and congratulate some of these awesome people. Some of them went through times where they were done and ready to completely throw in the towel. Some of them kept at it for 8+ years, struggling and feeling like nothing would ever happen. Some of them are young (Stephanie) and some of them are pregnant (and/or were pregnant at some point(s) and I can say that's not an easy time). Many (if not all of them) spend their days working hard at regular jobs (or attending school) and yet they still managed. They're all such wonderful people and I'm so HAPPY for them.
(Nobody else take offense please, I do know that all of my wonderful online friends work so hard for what they've accomplished and what they're working to accomplish.)
Happy Mentioning Everyone! :D
Over at that site there have been numerous people over the last few months who have either landed an agent or publishing deal. It's AWESOME!!!! And these people are such wonderful and deserving people that I thought they should have a Mention Monday spot.
I'm just going to hit on this year:
Beginning in January the amazing and awesome Lori Sjoberg (her TAG! is here if you missed it) got a two book publishing deal for her awesomely awesome reaper series. Then the wonderful S.K. Keogh signed a publication deal for her historical novel (technically she was offered the deal before Christmas, but it was January when she signed ;) And then the freaking fantastically awesomeness that is Robert K Lewis (thrownbones over at AQC) signed a two book deal. Then came a book deal for Terri Bruce (see TAG! here) and Michelle Reed (Michelle_in_WI on AQC) (who was mentioned in Publisher's Weekly ;) And someone who's story (especially the characters) I happen to love...someone who went through tons of rejections with numerous things being said that made the hopes of ever seeing the book in print seem like slim to none...Jayne Denker (her TAG! is here) landed an agent.
(Are you're eyes gettin' all wonky from the numerous links yet? Hope not 'cause we're not done :D )
Don F (bigdonf on AQC) signed with a publisher. Stephanie Diaz landed an agent (her query had 26 partial/full requests (most of them fulls) and FOUR offers of representation. Then Precy Larkins (AKA Cherie) landed an agent from a query that had NINE full requests and an offer). ALBrock just landed an agent. And then the news that made me say, "I HAVE to mention all the AWESOMENESS of my fellow AQCers!!!".....The sweetheart and so smart and so wonderfully AWESOME RC Lewis landed an agent from a query that got ELEVEN fulls and FIVE offers!!!!! WOOOOOOT to all my fellow AQCers, you are all full of all kinds of AWESOME!!!
(Nobody else take offense please, I do know that all of my wonderful online friends work so hard for what they've accomplished and what they're working to accomplish.)
Happy Mentioning Everyone! :D
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Thursday TAG! - Lori Sjoberg
I'm so very excited for this TAG! and it's for a few reasons. Today's TAG! features Lori Sjoberg. She's one helluva writer and critiquer. How do I know that? She's a member of my critique group at my favorite time sucking place site. Even if we weren't in a critique group, I'd know she is awesome. When she posted her query for critique in the forum on AQC, it didn't even need work. It was what every query hopes to be some day. It also got her a book deal and not just for one book, but two. (though I'm sure that has something to do with the fact that her writing in general is awesome and so is the concept of her book.) Her book is due Dec 2012/Jan 2012 and everyone should keep an eye out for it. You can find Lori demonstrating her awesomeness at AQC and on Facebook. Now...On to the TAG!
1. When did you start writing?
My job requires a fair amount of technical writing, but I started writing for pleasure around 2004.
2. What made you want to write?
Stephanie Plum. Sounds silly, but a dear friend badgered me into reading One For the Money. I got hooked on the series, and the wait between books led me to the wonders of fan fiction. Before long, I started writing short stories to satisfy my Cupcake craving and things went from there.
3. When did you decide you wanted to write to be published? (As opposed to writing just to write)
Afer writing fan fiction for a year or two, I started to wonder if I could write something with my own characters and storyline. About halfway through that first manuscript a friend told me about a local writing group. I joined a month later, and the dream of publication came to life.
4. What genre(s) do you write?
I started out writing Contemporary Romance, but at the moment I'm fully entrenched in the realm of Paranormal Romance.
5. Why that(those) genre(s)?
Probably because I grew up on a steady diet of science fiction and fantasy. As the youngest of three, I never had control of the remote, (Not that I'm bitter about it. Really! Okay, maybe a little.) which meant I spent a lot of time watching Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, Twilight Zone, Tales From the Dark Side, etc. Mix that with my love for a happy ending, and you have all of the ingredients for a paranormal romance.
6. Do you have any particular ritual when you write? (A specific way things are done during the process)
Not really.
7. Do you use an outline, or do you just start writing?
Usually, I begin with a few key scenes that are the most vivid in my mind. I branch out from there, writing in no specific chronological order. Once I reach a certain point, I start stitching the scenes together until they form a coherent story, and then start fillling in the gaps.
8. Is there something you MUST have when you're writing? (Aside from the typical writer tools-computer, pen, paper, etc)
Diet Coke/Pepsi (whichever's on sale). I prefer a quiet room, because I get distracted easily.
9. Do you write out your story on paper and then transfer to a computer, or straight to the computer?
Straight to the computer. I keep notes on paper, so I can tinker with ideas when I'm not on the computer.
10. How many books/short stories have you written? (Published or not, even those you wrote and then thought-what the hell?)
So far I've written three novels and about a half dozen short stories.
11. Is there, or has there been, anyone in your life (real or online) who thought you being a writer is/was just another hobby? Or that you are/were wasting your time as a writer?
I've kept my writing fairly close to the vest until recently. My husband's always known about my writing, and is incredibly supportive. He teaches comparitive anatomy at the local university, so he serves as my consultant for most things medical/biological. In the past year, I've told a few friends and family, and they've all been very encouraging.
12. Do you do Social Media sites? If so, which ones? If not, why don't you?
I'm on Facebook. www.facebook.com/lasjobergg
13. Any advice for writers that makes you cringe every time you hear it? (I know there is some cringe-worthy advice still worth following, so only advice you don't follow.)
The idea that ANY use of "to be" verbs is weak/passive writing. "Was" does not always equal passive. It's an integral part of our language. Don't get me wrong - there are many instances where the writing can be much stronger with a more active verb choice, but that doesn't mean you have to eliminate any and all forms of "to be" in your prose.
14. Why do you write about reapers?
I wanted to write about something outside the normal paranormal box. Vamps and shapeshifters are the superstars of the supernatural world, and I wanted to write about something that existed on the fringes, where the canvas was relatively blank and I could establish my own brand of worldbuilding.
15. What would you do (how would you react) if you came in contact with a reaper? (One that was not coming to collect your soul)
Well, after the initial freak out, I'd want to ask a ton of questions. I'd probably sound like a little kid when they hit that stage where they question everything.
16. What would you do if you fell in love with a reaper?
Not sure what I'd do, but I know hubby wouldn't be a happy camper. LOL.
17. If you were a reaper, how would you cope with all the death, pain, and sadness that comes along with it?
Probably the same way I deal with the stresses of my everyday life. I'd turn to my loved ones for comfort and support. And if that doesn't work, there's always chocolate, mead, and heavy metal.
18. Do you believe in things like fate and reapers, or are you a sciency (everything has a 'logical' explanation) kinda girl?
To be honest, I'm more Scully than Mulder. But I love exploring the possibilities that spring to mind when I wander down the road of What If. Make it plausible enough for me to suspend disbelief, and I'll happily go down the rabbit hole.
19. What do you do when you aren't writing?
Aside from work, I usually spend time with my husband, friends, and children of the four-legged variety. Hit the gym, do a little biking, take the pups out for a good, long walk - all recharge my creative batteries. And like most writers, I enjoy curling up on the couch with a good book.
20. Any words of wisdom for anyone who is thinking of becoming a writer, or just something you think all writers should know?
Write what you love, and don't go chasing trends. Submitting your work to agents and editors can be a long, tedious process that involves a fair amount of rejection. Please try to remember it isn't personal.
1. When did you start writing?
My job requires a fair amount of technical writing, but I started writing for pleasure around 2004.
2. What made you want to write?
Stephanie Plum. Sounds silly, but a dear friend badgered me into reading One For the Money. I got hooked on the series, and the wait between books led me to the wonders of fan fiction. Before long, I started writing short stories to satisfy my Cupcake craving and things went from there.
3. When did you decide you wanted to write to be published? (As opposed to writing just to write)
Afer writing fan fiction for a year or two, I started to wonder if I could write something with my own characters and storyline. About halfway through that first manuscript a friend told me about a local writing group. I joined a month later, and the dream of publication came to life.
4. What genre(s) do you write?
I started out writing Contemporary Romance, but at the moment I'm fully entrenched in the realm of Paranormal Romance.
5. Why that(those) genre(s)?
Probably because I grew up on a steady diet of science fiction and fantasy. As the youngest of three, I never had control of the remote, (Not that I'm bitter about it. Really! Okay, maybe a little.) which meant I spent a lot of time watching Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, Twilight Zone, Tales From the Dark Side, etc. Mix that with my love for a happy ending, and you have all of the ingredients for a paranormal romance.
6. Do you have any particular ritual when you write? (A specific way things are done during the process)
Not really.
7. Do you use an outline, or do you just start writing?
Usually, I begin with a few key scenes that are the most vivid in my mind. I branch out from there, writing in no specific chronological order. Once I reach a certain point, I start stitching the scenes together until they form a coherent story, and then start fillling in the gaps.
8. Is there something you MUST have when you're writing? (Aside from the typical writer tools-computer, pen, paper, etc)
Diet Coke/Pepsi (whichever's on sale). I prefer a quiet room, because I get distracted easily.
9. Do you write out your story on paper and then transfer to a computer, or straight to the computer?
Straight to the computer. I keep notes on paper, so I can tinker with ideas when I'm not on the computer.
10. How many books/short stories have you written? (Published or not, even those you wrote and then thought-what the hell?)
So far I've written three novels and about a half dozen short stories.
11. Is there, or has there been, anyone in your life (real or online) who thought you being a writer is/was just another hobby? Or that you are/were wasting your time as a writer?
I've kept my writing fairly close to the vest until recently. My husband's always known about my writing, and is incredibly supportive. He teaches comparitive anatomy at the local university, so he serves as my consultant for most things medical/biological. In the past year, I've told a few friends and family, and they've all been very encouraging.
12. Do you do Social Media sites? If so, which ones? If not, why don't you?
I'm on Facebook. www.facebook.com/lasjobergg
13. Any advice for writers that makes you cringe every time you hear it? (I know there is some cringe-worthy advice still worth following, so only advice you don't follow.)
The idea that ANY use of "to be" verbs is weak/passive writing. "Was" does not always equal passive. It's an integral part of our language. Don't get me wrong - there are many instances where the writing can be much stronger with a more active verb choice, but that doesn't mean you have to eliminate any and all forms of "to be" in your prose.
14. Why do you write about reapers?
I wanted to write about something outside the normal paranormal box. Vamps and shapeshifters are the superstars of the supernatural world, and I wanted to write about something that existed on the fringes, where the canvas was relatively blank and I could establish my own brand of worldbuilding.
15. What would you do (how would you react) if you came in contact with a reaper? (One that was not coming to collect your soul)
Well, after the initial freak out, I'd want to ask a ton of questions. I'd probably sound like a little kid when they hit that stage where they question everything.
16. What would you do if you fell in love with a reaper?
Not sure what I'd do, but I know hubby wouldn't be a happy camper. LOL.
17. If you were a reaper, how would you cope with all the death, pain, and sadness that comes along with it?
Probably the same way I deal with the stresses of my everyday life. I'd turn to my loved ones for comfort and support. And if that doesn't work, there's always chocolate, mead, and heavy metal.
18. Do you believe in things like fate and reapers, or are you a sciency (everything has a 'logical' explanation) kinda girl?
To be honest, I'm more Scully than Mulder. But I love exploring the possibilities that spring to mind when I wander down the road of What If. Make it plausible enough for me to suspend disbelief, and I'll happily go down the rabbit hole.
19. What do you do when you aren't writing?
Aside from work, I usually spend time with my husband, friends, and children of the four-legged variety. Hit the gym, do a little biking, take the pups out for a good, long walk - all recharge my creative batteries. And like most writers, I enjoy curling up on the couch with a good book.
20. Any words of wisdom for anyone who is thinking of becoming a writer, or just something you think all writers should know?
Write what you love, and don't go chasing trends. Submitting your work to agents and editors can be a long, tedious process that involves a fair amount of rejection. Please try to remember it isn't personal.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Something Sunday
This Sunday is for the writers. I decided since I'm always talking about Agent Query Connect, I should give the site its own post.
For anyone who doesn't know, AQC is a forum full of writers. There are topics for queries, synopses, publishing, writing/editing advice, agent info, marketing, etc. Really, the list goes on and on. The amount of knowledge you can gain (and provide) on AQC is so vast.
You can ask questions, post your query and synopsis for critique, or a want-ad for a critique partner. That's not all...There's a topic to post your Twitter name so you can gain followers, plus a topic for your blog address, one for your Facebook and even one for your Goodreads. Had a bad writing day? There's a topic for that. Did your book finally get picked up by an agent? Boast about it at AQC-there's a topic for that. Feeling a little bored and need a break from writing? Check out the Game Room. Need some motivation to meet your 2k words a day goal? There's a topic for that.
Are you just a writer looking for other writers to share your journey with? Go to AQC! It's a fantastic place, full of wonderful writers (some are even published and have some pretty darn good books out). The best part, other than the great things you can learn, is that this forum is full of REAL people who are there to share in the experience with you. People who are willing to help you. People who have the same questions you have. And people who you can help.
I found some great reads from being a member of AQC. I gained a critique partner and a critique group because of this site. More important? I gained friends who are writers that are there with me, and that I can be there for as well. I would be lost had I never joined Agent Query Connect. In fact, I would probably have sunk into a depression brought on by the overwhelming challenges of being a writer. This site gave me a community of writers that have made me a better writer.
Agent Query Connect is a wonderful forum and I highly recommend it to anyone who is a writer, or anyone who thinks they want to be one. Go check it out. You can explore the topics without even being a member. So you get a chance to see if it's the right fit for you.
(If you sign up (or just want to find me) I'm K McClelland on there.)
Are you a member? Leave your name in the comments if you want :) Not a member? Why? Is there a particular reason, or did you just not know about the site? If you didn't know, are you going to join now that you do?
For anyone who doesn't know, AQC is a forum full of writers. There are topics for queries, synopses, publishing, writing/editing advice, agent info, marketing, etc. Really, the list goes on and on. The amount of knowledge you can gain (and provide) on AQC is so vast.
You can ask questions, post your query and synopsis for critique, or a want-ad for a critique partner. That's not all...There's a topic to post your Twitter name so you can gain followers, plus a topic for your blog address, one for your Facebook and even one for your Goodreads. Had a bad writing day? There's a topic for that. Did your book finally get picked up by an agent? Boast about it at AQC-there's a topic for that. Feeling a little bored and need a break from writing? Check out the Game Room. Need some motivation to meet your 2k words a day goal? There's a topic for that.
Are you just a writer looking for other writers to share your journey with? Go to AQC! It's a fantastic place, full of wonderful writers (some are even published and have some pretty darn good books out). The best part, other than the great things you can learn, is that this forum is full of REAL people who are there to share in the experience with you. People who are willing to help you. People who have the same questions you have. And people who you can help.
I found some great reads from being a member of AQC. I gained a critique partner and a critique group because of this site. More important? I gained friends who are writers that are there with me, and that I can be there for as well. I would be lost had I never joined Agent Query Connect. In fact, I would probably have sunk into a depression brought on by the overwhelming challenges of being a writer. This site gave me a community of writers that have made me a better writer.
Agent Query Connect is a wonderful forum and I highly recommend it to anyone who is a writer, or anyone who thinks they want to be one. Go check it out. You can explore the topics without even being a member. So you get a chance to see if it's the right fit for you.
(If you sign up (or just want to find me) I'm K McClelland on there.)
Are you a member? Leave your name in the comments if you want :) Not a member? Why? Is there a particular reason, or did you just not know about the site? If you didn't know, are you going to join now that you do?
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Agent Research
Well, I was all geared up last night to post but then I did not. The reason is because last night would have been the same post as Thursday-I love my fellow authors. Any aspiring author-or even one who is established but still in the query/agent research game-should definitely get out into the social network for authors. There are so many of us out there, and so many of us are just really great people. So many great people who are willing to take time from the long process of writing a novel, editing and polishing that novel, writing a query, editing and polishing that query, researching agents, querying agents, and everything else that goes along with being a writer. So, I just wanted to say another thank you to any one who reads this who is one of these great people, someone who is willing to extend a hand.
Next thought for tonight- I have posted on Query Tracker and on AQ Connect (my query) I was getting a little feedback on AQC but then nothing, nada, and even what feedback I was getting was only coming from a few people. On QT I got feedback from only 3 people, but it was sooooo helpful. I was really hoping that i would get some more advice from my peers on AQC but I think I am going on to sending out queries. I could sit around and wait, hoping I get more feedback, but I really think I should just go with what I have. I like this query(not that it says much because I liked all the others) this one is improved compared to some of the others, so I am just going to go on and begin the querying process. I figure if i get rejection after rejection after rejection-and so on- then i will repost the query and hope that even though it will be in an older topic, that people will help me out. Tomorrow begins the journey down query lane and we shall see where it leads...
Next thought for tonight- I have posted on Query Tracker and on AQ Connect (my query) I was getting a little feedback on AQC but then nothing, nada, and even what feedback I was getting was only coming from a few people. On QT I got feedback from only 3 people, but it was sooooo helpful. I was really hoping that i would get some more advice from my peers on AQC but I think I am going on to sending out queries. I could sit around and wait, hoping I get more feedback, but I really think I should just go with what I have. I like this query(not that it says much because I liked all the others) this one is improved compared to some of the others, so I am just going to go on and begin the querying process. I figure if i get rejection after rejection after rejection-and so on- then i will repost the query and hope that even though it will be in an older topic, that people will help me out. Tomorrow begins the journey down query lane and we shall see where it leads...
Thursday, September 29, 2011
I Love My Fellow Authors...
And I love Query Tracker and Agent Query Connect.
I recently posted a question on Query Tracker in a topic that I had posted my query(and some revisions). I was so confused because I have a problem understanding what is really supposed to be in a query. Even after researching and reading SO many things on how to write a query and all other reading about writing queries, I was at a loss on exactly how much of my book to put. I kept getting feedback on my queries saying they need conflict where's the conflict, what's the conflict, etc. So once the question was posed I didn't get the exact answer I was looking for, but I did get some answers.
The posts by my fellow authors had me almost doubting my book, at first, but then they made me sit back and really focus. Once I focused in on the book better I realized where I was messing up. I am so excited now to realize something that has been missing! I have NO IDEA where or how I am going to fit it in, but I know what I need to fit in.
So, I just wanted to post that I love the sites out there where aspiring authors (and even agented and established authors) can get and give advice and I love the people on there that do just that. I know that not everyone can appreciate the raw, blunt, honest opinions of people who are truly out to help you. I APPRECIATE ALL HELP.
I have absolutely no followers right now, but hopefully if you read this (and you are one of those people who help other authors) you will know you are appreciated-and if you are one of those people who post something and don't like the bluntness you get, get over it, suck it up and enjoy the fact that there is someone out there who is willing to give you an honest opinion, someone who just wants to help you in the best way.
I recently posted a question on Query Tracker in a topic that I had posted my query(and some revisions). I was so confused because I have a problem understanding what is really supposed to be in a query. Even after researching and reading SO many things on how to write a query and all other reading about writing queries, I was at a loss on exactly how much of my book to put. I kept getting feedback on my queries saying they need conflict where's the conflict, what's the conflict, etc. So once the question was posed I didn't get the exact answer I was looking for, but I did get some answers.
The posts by my fellow authors had me almost doubting my book, at first, but then they made me sit back and really focus. Once I focused in on the book better I realized where I was messing up. I am so excited now to realize something that has been missing! I have NO IDEA where or how I am going to fit it in, but I know what I need to fit in.
So, I just wanted to post that I love the sites out there where aspiring authors (and even agented and established authors) can get and give advice and I love the people on there that do just that. I know that not everyone can appreciate the raw, blunt, honest opinions of people who are truly out to help you. I APPRECIATE ALL HELP.
I have absolutely no followers right now, but hopefully if you read this (and you are one of those people who help other authors) you will know you are appreciated-and if you are one of those people who post something and don't like the bluntness you get, get over it, suck it up and enjoy the fact that there is someone out there who is willing to give you an honest opinion, someone who just wants to help you in the best way.
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