For this first Wednesday of the month’s
Insecure Writer's Support Group for 2014, a group initiated by Alex J.Cavanaugh, I’m celebrating and lamenting.
I’m celebrating completing the first
draft of Anticipating Dawn, the
sequel to my first book, within my goal of by the end of 2013. Whoopee!!
I’m lamenting because although I
expected nothing more than to complete it to the best of my ability for a first
draft, I’m fearful that people won’t like it!! But I’ve supplied it to two beta
readers, one who’s reading Anticipation
of Penitent first and, thus far, finds the first one "very gripping", "quite shocking in places" and "unbelievably sad" – her words, which are oh such wonderful things to hear. I
can’t wait to hear what she says about the sequel. Will it be a disappointment
or will she think it’s as great as I think it is, or at least has the potential
to be?
It doesn’t help that a writer’s group
that I’ve been attending for several years is changing in unsatisfactory ways
with a new mediator, who seems to want to be a teacher that sees her opinions as
more accurate, than a mediator. I may give it one more try.
I’m also uncertain about starting up
again on my next project, The Witch of
Endor. It’s hard to get myself into another project when this one
needs reworking, editing, waiting for beta readers to get back to me, more and more and more editing, querying…. Oh, how do I get my brain around it all?
I’m looking forward to hearing from
you all and giving support for your woes.
Happy New Year IWSG!
Nothing ruins a writing group faster than someone who thinks he or she it the expert on everything. If the next session turns out unpleasant, don't feel bad about quitting.
ReplyDeleteThis seems to be the case. After the first time, I thought, well she's new and is working out what we want. But the second seemed to be her acquiescing more to what she wants. The third time, I guess, will be the deciding factor.
DeleteIt is hard to find a writing group that works for you, almost like finding a boyfriend or girlfriend. Also it is always great to get that kind of feedback on your writing. Good luck with the second book.
ReplyDeleteYeah, it can be difficult sometimes. It's sad to have it change after so many years of relative success. Another one is starting with the old mediator. I couldn't make the first meeting, and it's only once a month, but it should develop pretty well.
DeleteOh how I admire your tenacity and response to your calling to write. You always give it such careful consideration and thought. I hope this year brings you so many positives, Nancy.
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie. I think we all do that when it's something we care about and try and work hard at. I wish the same goodness for you this year.
Deletealways the worry that people will like it - the bane of writers. best wishes.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree, especially when there has yet to be one person to completely read it.
DeleteI'm terrified of people hating my work, but I also recognize that's it's an absolute, not an exception. Someone, somewhere is going to hate it. If you're true to yourself, however, someone is bound to LOVE it! Just focus on that :D
ReplyDeleteThat's my belief too. If I love it, there will, undoubtedly be people that love it as well. I've just got to get it to the point where I love it! :) Right now, I see the potential.
DeleteGood luck with the second book Nancy.
ReplyDeleteThanks Rachna. Still working at it.
DeleteGood luck with your next project, and your edits.
ReplyDeleteI'm also terrified to get my second book out there, I'm in the beginning of the revision phase, and my mind keeps jumping ahead and scaring me. I'm glad you've had such great feedback! Sorry about the mediator, I hope the issue gets resolved soon or that you find a group that works better for you ;)
ReplyDeleteNo feed back on my second book yet. Still waiting. Good luck with yours SK. Yes, there are a couple of new ones I'll try. One is next week. Looking forward to it.
DeleteWell done for getting that first draft done, it is a nervous time now waiting for feedback from readers but I'm sure they will be able to help you move forward with the editing rounds. Best of luck.
ReplyDeleteThanks Suzanne. I can't wait to get feedback, because I know it needs much work, especially in the first two chapters. Phew! Keep checking the email.... :)
DeleteHere's to hoping things get better with your writing group! Glad to hear people are enjoying your stories. :) It always creates a warm-fuzzy feeling, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteYes it does Loni. I think I'll just try and go for the new ones. This one is hard to get to timewise, so I may just try out a couple of new ones coming up.
DeleteVery gripping - I'd say they are really enjoying it!!
ReplyDeleteWell, that's the first book. Got to wait and see about the second.
DeleteYou might want to outline your witch project first since you're still editing your other works. Sorry about the writing group drama but glad your CP's have good things to say. Wishing you all the best Nancy.
ReplyDeleteThanks. More detailed outlining usually comes later on in my projects. I usually start with a skeletal outline, then fill it in as I go along.
DeleteHi, Nancy,
ReplyDeleteWow... you are one busy writer. Sounds like a lot of excitement happening for you right now. Just remember to BREATHE. I'm like you, I tend to focus on one project at a time... and that is fine. You know what your priorities are.
ALL the best for this year. I know it will be a productive one for all of us.
Thanks for the encouragement Michael. I'm breathing... I'm sure your year will also be so very productive!
DeleteGood luck with the next book, Nancy!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you're well on track!
At first I went to a horrible writing group with an inept leader. I realized it was ridiculously horrible after attending a wonderful group. I'm glad the group I've been with for years is amazing.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your latest projects.
Yes, sometimes it's just time for a change. Glad you have a good group you're involved with. Luckily there are others I will try.
DeletePeople will be people. If the problem isn't you, don't worry about it. Besides, aren't there other people in the group you enjoy hanging out with? Don't let one person spoil all the fun…just step back and enjoy the ride anyway!
ReplyDeleteYeah, well, it's not so much fun when the leader of the group changes things too much and you can't get enough of what you originally started attending the group for. But, I've learned about other groups, one which is made up of many of the people from this one I'll likely be not attending anymore.
DeleteHey Nancy,
ReplyDeleteIn the balance of things, I reckon that it's boding well for you. I know you wont let that mediator spoil your fun. Although, pawsonally, I don't use writer's groups. Too busy trying to help out my human with his writing.
Thank you for being part of "I Was Seeking Gary." Yes, we must humour my human.
A peaceful, pawsitive 2014, Nancy.
Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar!
Peace to you too Penny! There'll be fun in other parts if not with that writer's group. Not too worried about it any more.
DeleteOh the joys of the process... but you are doing AMAZING, Nancy. I'm so proud of you! Someday we will learn to conquer our doubts. I know I have so many of them!!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Morgan for your enthusiasm and encouragement. Doubts are par for the course, aren't they??
DeleteOh I'm well aware of the feelings of celebration and lamentation. It's an ongoing part of our literary journey. Great job accomplishing your goal for your first draft sequel. Keep up the hard work.
ReplyDeleteThank you Demetria. I'm surely trying!
Delete