Wednesday, August 26, 2009

The Half-Way Point: 40k Words

When you sit down and start something, it's a given that if you ever reach the "half-way" mark, you have gone beyond the "point of no return". If this happens to be a novel, that's even better.

Chapter 8 of the collaboration was completed much faster than anticipated, which leads me to announce that chapter 9 is almost done as well, bringing the rough draft beyond the 40k Word mark. The motivational block has finally moved aside. It sure feels good to be on fire. It's like going over a hill, or a hump, or a candlestick, whichever you prefer, though I don't know why you'd go for the candlestick. Haven't we learned enough from Mr. Jack B. Nimble? Fire from within is something that I recommendation to everyone, but not external fire. It's not good for your skin. Just ask Mr. Nimble, and send him flowers while you're at it.

After a month's absence I was able to attend the Orem critique group again, still small with a meeting of three, but it was a pleasant experience. I love meeting new authors and reading their work. They, in turn, seemed to enjoy the first chapter of my collaboration, with a few minor suggestions to enrich the story even further. Pressing engagements will prevent me from attending the Writer's Group meeting in Provo this evening. In advance, I'm sorry that I'll be gone. I'd like to be there, but I can't. Have fun without me, but not too much. Okay?

Updates: Middle of chapter 9 and hopefully I'll start work on chapter 10 over the weekend. That's about it. Not much news to go on. I do plan to reread my short story Forerunner and have another group proofread the tale. I've been meaning to send this little suspense/horror/psychological thriller story to the Writer's of the Future Contest for almost a year now, but the novels have taken over. If that tiny MS comes back clean, I'll send it off. I must remain vigilant if I am to do anything with my words. Something must always be out there for consideration.

School is back in session, so keep your noses clean, kids. Those dust bunnies are murderous.

See you again next week, whoever you may be, anonymous readers.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

And A Few Ice Cream Bars Later...

I have news to share about The Dragon's Heart.

I received an email from Heidi Taylor of Deseret Book (Shadow Mountain), stating that they are not in a position to pursue the project. It was a very wonderful email, nonetheless. They acknowledged that I have spent a lot of time and energy on it, and that the manuscript was discussed with many in the department and their review board. It was like reading my Scholastic rejection letter all over again, but with more subtle praise behind the words. I hope. The only question is, what am I missing? What is not in the story that should be there? Will I ever find it?

It would seem that the state of the economy has truly affected everyone. That, as the email stated, was the main reason why they could not accept it; fewer slots to fill and more submissions than ever. Considering that this is only my 2nd rejection, I handled it quite well, even though Shadow Mountain was my first choice. I experienced that initial denial phase, followed by sadness, questioning if I'm wasting my time, and then a bit of ice cream to soften the blow. I felt more confident after a good night's sleep. With numerous projects yet to complete, and an ever growing fan base that continuously haggles me for new material to read, I know that it is only a matter of time before this Aspiring Writer transforms into an Established Author. Having said that: "Writers, roll out!"

Thank you, everyone, who has read The Dragon's Heart, who continue to make it a story worth sharing.

Updates: Chapter 8 of the Collaboration is almost done. We are behind schedule, but hurriedly trying to catch up. Our deadline is Christmas. Also, we discussed some of the technicalities of the authorship, since the other partner involved doesn't actually write any of it. He provides the outline, ideas, editing, and overall direction. It is his story, after all, but I'm writing it. All of it. We've successfully resolved this tiny dilemma in a way that will clearly tell others that it's his story, but my words. M. R. Jensen's "Title" by David Power's King. Any thoughts? I know I'm being a snood for not telling you what the title of the story is, but Mr. Jensen has requested that we not divulge the title until the first draft is completed. My Alpha readers, however, know all about it. Lucky!

Now for the Writersmarket.com approach. My wife is planning to reread The Dragon's Heart soon with a fine toothed comb, so, if we happen find anything that might improve the manuscript, we will improve it. Then the query letter process will begin, unless I can Network my way into another House. Three times the charm, right?

Have a fantastic week, ya'll. I'm sorry for not keeping this blog updated weekly on the dot.

"Consider this a rectified habit." - Untitled Project

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary to my wonderful, loving, adorasious wife (I know, I made up that last word). On this day, four years ago, I was stuck with a fork...I mean, married. Yes, married, and it has been the best four years of my life. So many accomplishments, lessons, and new aspirations have surfaced in that time, as we continuously help one another become the best that we can possibly be.

No words can say this as succinctly as...
I love you, JoAnna.

This weekend is bound to be a nifty one, which will include a kick and a jump to the only real water park in Utah...for only 5 bucks! It pays to work for the State, sometimes.

Last weekend was fun as well. A surprise invitation via Facebook informed me last week that a book signing would take place not too far from where I live, and I happened to have a couple first editions sitting on my shelf. So we went. We took the whole family. The signing was for Lisa Mangum's debut novel, The Hourglass Door, which is a really, REALLY good book. If you like a good Teen read, this one's up your alleywagon. Lisa also happens to be the editor who is currently in possession of The Dragon's Heart. She has it, but she has not had the opportunity to start yet. It is a relief to know that my Manuscript is still in her possession and that she's looking forward to taking a look soon. I hope that you enjoy it Lisa.

While at the signing, I also saw James Dashner (The Maze Runner), and Clint Johnson (Green Dragon Codex). They are local authors who really know their stuff. Good to see you guys again!

Updates: Finally! Chapter 7 is DONE! Mike was worried that the chapter would not turn out well, but he really liked what he read. REALLY liked what he read. He has taken it to the committee, so it will be a matter of time until the next step in the process approves of the new chapter or not. That leaves me with chapter 8 to start working on. I know just how to start it!

Take care friends. Think highly of others, for others think highly of you.