This an excellent post for the self-publishing writer as well as those with agents. I have written a first draft. I really like the protagonist and the story, but the first draft writing is very lackluster and it's a huge job to fix everything. But your encouragement is excellent this moment advice to fix it up and make it better or as good as it can be. Then send it for developmental editing with suggestions only to improve what is already there. Not totally reject the story that already exists and start all over again from zero. If it's true to one's heart, that's mostly a better overall feeling then having more successfully written one's book to market. Some have enough genius to do both. But if a novel feels fulfilling enough, it will be worth it. Thanks again.
Once again, a perfectly timed post for yours truly! Thank you for the encouragement, as well as the practical steps of sorting what works and what detracts.
In addition to really helpful and encouraging information you shared, reading this today also reminds me of the importance of an author newsletter- for the reader! I saw your novel, Dog Person, and thought- that's right, I wanted to read that, took a screen shot some time ago when I saw it elsewhere and then forgot... so as a reader I appreciate the reminder since I'm always looking for a good book! As a writer that also reminds me that maybe there are other readers out there like me:) and also commenting to encourage other writers and their dreaded newsletter;) yes, yes, I know it's about connecting- but some of us don't have any more room for connection, or maybe only feel that way occasionally;)
This an excellent post for the self-publishing writer as well as those with agents. I have written a first draft. I really like the protagonist and the story, but the first draft writing is very lackluster and it's a huge job to fix everything. But your encouragement is excellent this moment advice to fix it up and make it better or as good as it can be. Then send it for developmental editing with suggestions only to improve what is already there. Not totally reject the story that already exists and start all over again from zero. If it's true to one's heart, that's mostly a better overall feeling then having more successfully written one's book to market. Some have enough genius to do both. But if a novel feels fulfilling enough, it will be worth it. Thanks again.
I love that perspective, Larry. And so glad this resonated!
Once again, a perfectly timed post for yours truly! Thank you for the encouragement, as well as the practical steps of sorting what works and what detracts.
Love to hear that, Diane! Thank you.
In addition to really helpful and encouraging information you shared, reading this today also reminds me of the importance of an author newsletter- for the reader! I saw your novel, Dog Person, and thought- that's right, I wanted to read that, took a screen shot some time ago when I saw it elsewhere and then forgot... so as a reader I appreciate the reminder since I'm always looking for a good book! As a writer that also reminds me that maybe there are other readers out there like me:) and also commenting to encourage other writers and their dreaded newsletter;) yes, yes, I know it's about connecting- but some of us don't have any more room for connection, or maybe only feel that way occasionally;)
I'm so glad, Tania! Thank you for sharing (and reading).