Steps To Indie Publishing - Outsourcing Pt. 2 of 3 - Editing & Covers

Hey, gang! You might recall a couple of weeks ago I covered the basic steps to Indie publishing (a mostly serious list). As a refresher, I basically listed a bunch of things like editing, covers, formatting, etc. that lead up to you getting your book published. 

At the end of that post, I made a case for considering hiring someone to do those things for you. 

As promised, here is part two (of three... sorry, there's a lot of information to cover!) wherein we'll take a look at the first three steps I listed previously (writing, editing, and covers) checking out the basic why, when, how much, and what of outsourcing those publishing tasks.

I'd also like to remind everyone of our mantra: Quality matters!

I know a lot of you in the audience are actually hiring out as editors and cover artists, so in an attempt to do a little love connecting, I'm providing a link list for you to let people know about what you do and where to find you.

ALSO, if you want to learn more about Indie publishing and outsourcing, I highly recommend you stop by our special 1 hour early (8 PM Eastern) #NALitChat tonight on Twitter. 

We'll be chatting live on air (we do an audio show along with tweets, so if you're not into tweeting you can just listen) with Kate Tilton who works with Bibliocrunch--a one-stop-shop website that connects Indies with editors, artists, distributors and more. 

You can join the conversation (or just follow it) on Twitter using the #NALitChat hashtag. Should be a lot of fun with tons of information shared.

Keeping in mind this is based off of my experiences and research, that the cost estimates are intentionally broad, and that your mileage may vary, let's get to it!

Step 1 - Writing

As I mentioned before, I'm going to assume you actually want/like to write and aren't going to hire a ghostwriter to do it for you. Furthermore, I know nothing about ghostwriting, so we'll move right along...

Step 2 - Editing

Why you should hire it out - Okay, the distinction needs to be made up front: Professional editing is different than having beta readers and critique partners. You need those, too! But a professional editor is the next step. This person will be paid (and handsomely--we'll get to that) to scour your manuscript and make that sucker sparkle. 

They don't get to pull the "my kids are insane demons", "the cat vomited on my computer", "OMG Walking Dead just started again!" excuses a beta gets to use. Why? Because they are on the clock, and their business reputation is at stake--just like yours. It's a magical relationship, really.

Can you have a tight manuscript without paying an independent editor to look at your work? Maybe. But can you guarantee that your critique partner wasn't distracted by life and possibly their own manuscript when they looked over yours? No. Furthermore, can you hold them accountable if they were? No. Free is free, and you don't get to bitch about it if they miss your comma splices and word spamming.

When to find an editor - The first thing to understand about editing is that there are different types and levels of editing. If your betas are ninjas and your critique partners omniscient, you might just need some proof/line editing (think typos, homonym screw-ups, etc.) or copy editing (think style, form, and presentation of the text). 

But let's just say your mom is your only/best beta reader and loves everything you do. THEN you might want to find someone to do some developmental editing (think BIG picture stuff like plotting, pacing, and character development) for you.

So, the type of help you need will dictate when you need to seek an editor out. If you've got a fairly raw draft, you'll want to find a developmental editor earlier on in the project. However, if you've got something pretty polished on your hands, you might wait until you're closer to the publishing point for a little more focused help.

In either case, keep in mind that editing takes time, and reputable editors book up sometimes a year in advance. But before you go all ants-in-pants on me, remember that quality matters. Good things are worth waiting for.

And don't assume they're too busy to help you. Always ask, because they sometimes have unexpected cancelations, etc.

How much is it going to set you back - This will likely be the most expensive thing you outsource. It's also probably the most important. Basically, if you can only spend your money in one place, put it here. 

All the marketing, fabulous covers, and glitz in the world aren't going to cover up sloppy writing. Yes, I know (Insert Horribly Written Book Title Here) sold a billion copies, but yours won't. Trust me. 

Expect to pay $250-$2,500 depending on the length of the work (most charge by the word) and the type of editing you need. Developmental tends to cost more because it takes more of the editor's time and more interaction with the author. If they are a busy and well-established editor, probably on the high side of that estimate for a novel.


Considerations - Always shop around, talk to customers, read testimonials, and carry a cross and rabbits foot with you. Then, make sure they give you a sample of what to expect from their editorial feedback, demonstrated on YOUR work. It shouldn't take more than a few pages to see if they know what they're talking about, and if you'll be able to work with them.


Resources - Check sites like Predators & Editors and popular writing forums like Absolute Write for the skinny on specific editors. And definitely ask your writing friends. Word spreads quickly in writing circles.


Bottom Line - Do your homework before giving anyone your money.

Step 3 - 
Covers

Why you should hire it out - Look, some people just don't have an eye for visual esthetics. That's cool! But when it comes to the cover of your baby, don't pretend. A rocking cover is very important to the overall package of your work, and as an Indie author it's maybe your best weapon in the fight to get noticed amidst the see of traditionally published books out there.

And be honest with yourself: If you don't have a clue what pixel count is, you have no business doing your own book covers in the digital age. 

When to hire a cover artist - This one is really up to you. Some writers like to have the cover in front of them as they draft for inspiration. Others don't want to think about a cover until the book is almost ready for the presses.

Whenever you decide to contact a cover designer, just be sure to have a reasonable grasp on the basic elements you want included in your design. Keeping in mind that most cover designers will not be reading your manuscript cover-to-cover, they're going to rely heavily on your vision and synopsis of the work.

A cover can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months to complete depending upon the type of work being done and how many 'revision cycles' you go through. 

How much is it going to set you back - $75-$1,000 This will vary greatly upon the considerations listed below, and the amount of work you're requiring of the artist you're hiring. Some charge by the hour, others by the project, so be sure to ask upfront.

Also, be aware of how many feedback/revision cycles the cover artist will give you. (Usually listed in their terms.) Typically, the more you pay, the more say you're going to have. If someone is putting together a $50 cover for you from stock images that already exist, don't expect them to change the eyebrow color of the models fifteen times.

Lastly, look for bargains! New design studios are popping up every day, and the new ones sometimes offer a good discount to help build up their clientele. Ask for sample covers, and if you like what you see, give 'em a shot.


Considerations - Do you want something illustrated--an original? Do you want to use people (models) on your cover? Are stock/public images okay? All of these things will likely impact price. So keep the variables in mind. Simpler concepts usually = less money.


Again, don't assume the cover designer is going to read your novel. In fact, many do not. They rely heavily on the author to give them the details they need to convey an entire book in a single image. Not easy to do, so it's important to find a cover designer you can work with, and who can quickly share your vision for the story.



Resources - You can find tons of cover artist with a simple Google search, and you can also check this Goodreads list. Here's a nice blog post on finding and working with cover artists.


Also, many talented authors are talented cover designers as well. So ask your writerly friends! Here, here, and here are a few of mine who do covers. :)

Bottom Line - An effective, nicely designed cover doesn't have to cost a fortune, but it might take someone with a little know-how to get it done.
____

That's it for part two! Be sure to keep an eye out for the final installment where I'll talk about formatting, distributing, and marketing.

Do any of you have experiences outsourcing to publishing professionals? Any tips to share in the comments? Did I leave anything out?

Also, be sure to add your business/service title and a website to the link list below if you're providing some of the services we've talked about. You never know who might stumble across this. :)

~EJW~

Indie Life: Using Your Space

Hey, gang! It's the second Hump Day of the month, and that means it's time for another Indie Life post. What is Indie Life? We'll get to that, but first...

Yo, EJ! Where You Been?!

Well, I moved from Texas to California last month--so I've been several places recently! But now I'm settled and resuming life as a West Coaster.

As far as blogging goes, because of the move I totally botched the Google Reader-ocalypse. I didn't adopt a new system in time to transition my reader list over. So in short, I lost everything and have been flying blind the last couple of weeks. But I'm catching up. (Some of you will have seen me around more lately... which may or may not be a good thing.  :)

I've got a new reader thing going in my web browser, but I'm having to rebuild my blog list from ground zero. Which really isn't a bad thing in theory. My old list was beyond unmanageable. I can't tell you how many blogs I had on there that no longer existed.

Anywho, please be patient with me. I'm finding most of my old favorites by stalking the comments of other blogs and adding y'all back that way. Until then, if you haven't commented here in a few weeks, please do just say hi as I'm adding everyone who comments here (it's the easiest way to find you).

I'm the world's worst about reading blogs on my phone, etc. and not getting to the comments, so that last bit was for my fellow lurkers. :) 

What Is New Adult Literature? Or Maybe, What Is It Not?

Yes, yes... I'm on that old box again. :) You all know I'm keen on New Adult stuff, and most of you know I'm a regular contributor over at the New Adult Alley Blog. Well, this week I did up a fun list of WHAT NEW ADULT LIT ISN'T.

Definitely hop over for a little NA FYI and say hello if you have a chance!

What is Indie Life?

How: Sign up on the Linky at the bottom of this page

When: Post on the second Wednesday of the month (starting 1/9/2013)

What: Write anything indie related: something that will inspire or help a fellow indie; something that celebrates a release or a milestone; something that talks about the ups and downs, joys and heartaches of Being Indie.

Click: The banner above to learn more and join the fun!

Using Your Space

To paraphrase the Pauli exclusion quantum mechanical principal a tad: No two objects may occupy the same space.  

Now, I can promise you that's the last time I'll bring quantum physics into this blog to illustrate a point (well, at least the last time I'll do it in this post). Because frankly, I'm not that damned smart. :)  

However, it DOES say something very important with regards to what this whole independent author thing is all about: Identity and owning your space. 

Look, attempting to be an author is a scary proposition on any level. It's the psychological equivalent of climbing up on a rock in the middle of a turbulent sea and daring the waves not to sweep you away. 

That's true for publishing traditionally, independently, freelancing--you name it.

Your voice will be one of thousands--hundreds of thousands--and the chances of it being heard over the crying gulls and churning water aren't great. But not being heard isn't the really terrifying part.

The thing that'll cause you to dampen your favorite Superman onsie is the thought that someone WILL actually hear you. That you'll get some attention and be found not worthy, then they'll cast you back into the cold depths with all the other fish. 

Well I'm here to tell you, fears aside, you belong on that rock. In fact, the laws of the Universe demand that you occupy your space on that rock, because no one else can. It's all yours, baby!

The simple truth is this: You have a right to tell stories and ask other people to read them. They also have a right not to read them--always, always remember that! 

Indeed, some of them will actively look for reasons to invoke that right. Among those reasons: Not the right genre. Not the right name on the cover. Not the right cover. Not enough experience. Not jumping through the right hoops. Not the right training. Not the right person to ask them to read it. And so on...

Nonetheless, you still have a right to put it out there, to own your space and do with it what you want. (NOTE: This is not a SHOULD YOU discussion. The next time we spend a week together on a beach in the Bahamas we can have that conversation--whilst sipping fruity drinks, of course.)

There's been too dang much focus on the WHO in publishing for too long. It's the WHEN, WHAT, HOW, and WHY we should be figuring out. 

Being an independent author has allowed me to do that for myself. Just like in any great enterprise, there are steps to learn and methods to develop. I've had to unlearn a few things, too. (Like: Readers read the things they love over-and-over. If they love vampire stories, they don't really care if there've been 400 vampire stories published this year, they'll happily read another as long as it's done well. Who knew?)

But just knowing that I had the right to consider myself a professional--and then go about learning how to be one on my own terms--was totally liberating. 

Scary? Yes. Time consuming? Yes. Hard? Some days, very. But liberating.

So I'll leave you with this: No matter what kind of author you want to be, recognize that the space is already yours. You just have to decide how you want to use it. 

~EJW~

Indie Life - The Tradeoff

Hey, gang! It's time for another Indie Life post, which is basically an opportunity (on the second Wednesday of each month) for independent authors to share what they've learned--or haven't--about being an indie. It's also a chance to connect with other independent authors and build our writing community.

If that sounds like something you'd enjoy being a part of, click the button below for all the details.

Indie Life - The Tradeoff

I believe that all true choices come with a compromise. It's the yin yang of the universe. You don't get to have cake and eat it, too. You pay more for what you really want. You go left or right, up or down, but never truly down the middle. 

And that isn't pessimism. It's just grownup reality.

Making a choice about pursuing a writing career as an independent author is no different. It's not the compromise free, soar-with-the-eagles experience many perceive it to be. It is a fantastic opportunity to be sure, but there are concessions, as an author and writer, you must make.

To be clear, this isn't a 'Traditional Vs Indie' post. I've said many times (and will continue to say) that you can--and maybe even should--do both. And others have done a far better job than I ever could of creating the traditional Vs indie pro/con lists.

No, this is a personal list. It's an honest evaluation of what I feel like I've gained and lost by publishing my work independently.

What I've Lost

A Tried & True Plan - Before I published independently, I was zeroed in on the only publication option in my sights. There was one way to get there: write, query, agent, and deal. That's the way it had always been done, and it was the way I'd have to follow, too.

So I made climbing that mountain my only real goal. The result of my focus was that I learned a lot about how that side of the writing business operated. 

I understood that agents represented different things, and were attracted to different things, so I cyber-stalked the blogs, etc. of the ones I thought I might fit with. I practiced writing queries when I wasn't writing fiction, and thought about writing queries WHILE I was writing fiction. 

I knew very well what I needed to do to accomplish my goals--getting there was a different matter, but I had a plan. 

Being an indie is like living in the Wild West. What worked yesterday might get you killed (figuratively speaking... maybe) today. There are certainly best practices to follow when it comes to marketing and such, but it's definitely like the pirate code: they're more guidelines, really. :)

There are many, many different paths to publishing independently, and you get to choose which one to take, and how long to stay on it. As a result, your best "plan" is usually to be flexible and willing to ditch that plan when it doesn't get you to where you're wanting to go.

Pride - It's not easy admitting you're wrong. And it's hard to be proud of doing something most people don't even understand. That's a bit of what I felt when I finally decided to publish something on my own.

I felt like I'd made a mistake by focusing so much on seeing my work published the traditional way. Because when I finally let that go, my writing got better.

It took the process of me deciding to write only for myself and readers to finally understand that I'd been going about the writing--the most important thing in all of this--the wrong way. 

I'd been writing in a way I thought would get me published someday at the expense of writing in a way that reflected what was actually going on in my head. I wasn't even aware of how much I was censoring things, but I was.

I also felt weird about telling non-writing people that I was a legit author. Mostly because I'd have to explain that, "No, my book is not physically in a Barnes & Noble store, and no, I do not do book signings in New York City every other weekend. If you have a Kindle I can thumbprint smudge my initials on the screen or something."

My experience is that people who know the writing business extremely well are still trying to figure out what independent publishing is all about, and the average reader doesn't have a clue. They want to know your name, the title of your book, and where they can get it. That's probably true for any kind of author, but it's tricky when you have to explain Smashwords distribution channels to them.

Relationships - This one is short and sweet. There are still many people out there who feel self-publishing isn't legit. You can throw NYT Bestsellers and indie millionaires at them all day long, and they still see it as a shortcut. Some of those people were my blogging and writing colleagues, people I considered friends in some ways. They don't come around anymore, which is... unfortunate.

What I Gained

Purpose - I said there wasn't a real, easily identifiable plan to publishing independently, and that's true. But what there is, is a direct link between you (the author) and the readers. There are no middle people filtering the types of stories you produce. There's no word count limit other than what is best for the story. It's just you producing the best writing you can produce, and readers deciding whether to invest their time and money into what you do.

You'll never find a purer relationship between supplier and consumer in a business. There are tradeoffs to this--like when reviews get a little negative it can feel REALLY personal (it's not... even if it is, it's not... trust me ;)--but mostly it just gives you a supreme sense of purpose. 

What you write is going to go directly in front of readers. They are going to judge YOU by it. Not your agent, not your publisher, not your cover designer, not the store that carries your book--just you. And when they judge you positively, you suddenly understand your mission: To write the next story and get it out there so more readers can find you.

Confidence - What I've lost in pride, I've gained in confidence tenfold. All it really takes is one stranger to have paid their hard-earned money for something you've written, and genuinely enjoy it, for all the work, time, and heartache involved in this business to be worth it. 

You'll feel validated in your writing like never before. Getting an agent or critique group to say your writing is awesome feels good. Having a reader say it blows your mind. 

You'll feel empowered, because if you're publishing independently, you've jumped through most of the hoops yourself. 

And you'll feel invested in your work like you never thought you could, because it's all you--well, you and a million beta readers, an editor or two, maybe a cover designer, etc., but you get the idea.

Relationships - Again, whatever I might've lost along the way to where I'm at, I've gained back over and over again. There's a tremendous espirit de corps amongst writers in general, but something about the indie experience magnifies the desire to band together with your peers.

You not only want to commiserate and celebrate with them, but you want to help them. If you learn a trick, you want them to know the trick. If you've found success with a platform, you want to share it with them. 

I think it has something to do with the demystification of this writing stuff that happens when you really decide to go it on your own. The formulas aren't so very complex anymore. (see - purpose) Suddenly, you understand that it's really about work ethic, and applying the writing skills you've learned along the way.

It's about using the right tools for the project, and you see that anyone can learn to do the job so long as they know how to use those tools and have the desire.

Those were my tradeoffs. Did you have any with your chosen publication path? Or are you still mulling which way you'd like to go?

~EJW~

Modern Author Problems: Solving For ne-X-t

Hey gang! First, I'll applaud all of you writer-types who overcame your math phobias to click on this link. Confession: I kind of threw up in my mouth a little just typing it. I'm better now...

If you're one of those sick people who gets a kick out of math jokes--we're watching you. Closely.

Anyway, this post isn't about math at all. So feel free to relax and put the calculators away.

Solving For ne-X-t

"STORY PROBLEMS RULE!" Mathletes in the wild.
Photo curtesy of Lisa L. Wiedmeier, WANA Commons

Be you an Indie, traditional, big press, small press, or no press author, there's a modern dilemma you should be wrestling with: 

What am I going to try to publish next?

Not that the authors of yesteryear weren't concerned with their next projects. I think most of us struggle to keep the idea bunnies out of our mental gardens long enough to harvest the current crop/story before the little varmints can devour it. But I'm not talking about the artistic desire to start something new. This a practical matter created by changes in the publishing industry, but we'll get to that in a second.

First, some semantics before we begin. You'll notice I said 'should'. That's because I believe forward thinking is an essential part of the author formula nowadays. (Okay, I said this wasn't about math, but you have to allow me a few math terms--it's what makes the title of the post clever!) 

You might also notice I said 'publish', not write. I make that distinction, because if you're in the business of writing as a business (see what I did there), I believe publication is the ultimate goal.

If you're writing just to write, and maybe get published--maybe not--this post might not be strictly relevant to you. However, I think most published authors will tell you that once that ball starts-a-rollin, she doesn't slow down easily. 

Plus, when even a few readers (who aren't your mother or aunt) suggest they want to read more of your work, trust me when I say it's like freaking writer-nip. You'll go to high places--maybe even spaz out and claw up the furniture--and do pretty much anything to get that feeling back. It's that cool and special.

Times are changing...



So let's assume you're going to be published, and that once you are, you're going to be a junky who'd  shank your Gran-Gran for another fix. (Sorry, I've been watching a lot of Breaking Bad lately ... apologies to Gran-Gran.)

Now, this isn't one of those, "YOU NEED TO WRITE A BOOK A WEEK AND BECOME THE PUBLISHING EQUIVALENT OF A PUPPY MILL!" kinds of posts. No, you won't find me suggesting anything but putting your best, most thoughtful work out as consistently as you can.

But here's the somewhat scary reality of what I'm seeing out there in the trenches (i.e., Goodreads and book blogs): Readers are becoming very impatient. They don't necessarily care about the things authors have to care about--like the staggering amount of time it takes to write a good story, the expense of editing and promotion, the publishing house's release schedule, yada-yada-yada. 

They want content, and they aren't really compelled to wait for it. 

Digital distribution has fundamentally changed the game for all of the consumable arts--music, movies, visual art, and books. Bands are going back to the EP and singles model, because it allows them to provide a steady stream of content without big breaks in between albums. Visual artist aren't waiting to collect a number of pieces to display in an exhibition, but are instead showing their offerings as quickly as they are created on sites like Deviant Art, Pinterest, and the like.

There's also the financial accessibility provided by digital distribution to the creators of the content. You don't need expensive, downtown storefronts to display your art. You don't need the support of a large publisher to find readers. You don't need a million dollars worth of equipment to produce a record or shoot a webisode. 

The proverbial doors have been opened, and thousands of talented people are running through them every day.

Couple the steady stream of content being provided with the sheer volume of what's being created now, and you get a perfect storm of production and consumption. And make no mistake, if you're a creator, it's a storm that will churn you under and leave you drowning in its wake if you aren't a strong swimmer.

In this instance, treading water--staying visible--is going to keep your career alive. 

That's true for every kind of author. Traditionally published folks aren't immune to it--unless you're the Stephen King, James Patterson, and J.K.R. type of traditionally published folk. In fact, it might be more important to traditional authors, because the time between finished story and publication is typically longer for them. The gaps are larger, and not typically within their control.

I don't think this is a revelation to most authors. We all feel the pressure of needing to move onto the next thing. In fact, most of us are already well into the next thing when the current thing is just crowning its head into the world. 

Unfortunately, just like when you're solving for X in Algebra, figuring out what to publish next depends on a number of variables. 

What have you done so far/what's your brand? Is it going to tick off your publisher/agent if you want to self-publish short stories? Is it going to tick off your fans if you delay the next book in your series to write something new? Do you have the momentum of an expensive (in time, money, or both) blog tour that needs to be sustained? Can you financially afford to self-publish (it can get expensive, fast)? If not, can you, or are you willing to, write for a market enough to make traditional publication an option?

All things that can factor into the decision. 

I'm actually at one of those 'NEXT' crossroads myself. I write an ongoing series, that I plan on continuing, but I've come to a natural transition period. I made a goal last year to see the first three Moonsongs books published. I'm on the cusp of doing that. Now I need to make new goals. 

More Moonsongs books are definitely part of those goals. But I've got other projects I want to see get off the ground, too. I'd like to finish this dark-YA-lovestory-thing I've been working on forever. I've got an idea for another New Adult novella series (techno thriller FTW!) I'm so excited about it keeps me up at night. And more...

Anyway, I decided to throw this dilemma of solving for ne-X-t out there, because I think many of you will relate. Maybe you can help me figure it out, or talk me through your process. And as I said above, I do think it's worth some deliberation. 

~EJW~

How To Publish & Promote Your Book

Hey gang! Happy Friday, and to all of my Northeastern US friends: Bundle up and stay safe.

Today I'd like to announce the launch of a book that I think many of us might benefit from reading. It's authored by our good blogging buddy, L. Diane Wolfe, and it's all about getting your writing out there and into the hands of the folks who want to read it. (And maybe a few who DIDN'T know they wanted to read it. ;)

If you don't know Diane, she's an accomplished public speaker and motivator, as well as an ace blogger. Definitely check her out!

HOW TO PUBLISH AND 

PROMOTE YOUR BOOK NOW!

By L. Diane Wolfe

Publishing and promoting made simple!

Have you always dreamed of publishing a book but didn’t know where to begin? This book walks you through the steps of identifying markets, budgeting, building an online presence, and generating publicity. Get the whole story on:

· Traditional publishing

· Self-publishing

· Print and e-book setup, formatting, and distribution

· Finding your target audience

· Generating reviews and media interest

· Networking and developing an online presence

· Promotional materials and appearances

Uncover your ideal publishing path and numerous marketing options before you begin. Writing is your dream. Give it the best chance for success!

Available February 5, 2012

Publishing/Marketing, 214 pages, Dancing Lemur Press LLC

$14.95 Trade paperback ISBN 978-0-9827139-5-2

$4.99 Ebook ISBN 978-0-9827139-9-0

Barnes and Noble
Amazon
Amazon Kindle

“She gives an unbiased take on the advantages and disadvantages of traditional publishing and self-publishing and publishing paths that combine the two… It's the perfect book for those who want an overview to begin the decision-making process.”

- Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning series of how-to books for writers http://howtodoitfrugally.com/

“A must-read for writers planning on self-publishing or any writer who wants the ultimate how-to on promoting. Tons of links, advice, and how-to, whether you're going for print or e-publication.”

- Helen Ginger, author of Angel Sometimes http://helenginger.com/

Bio: L. Diane Wolfe

Known as “Spunk On A Stick,” Wolfe is a member of the National Speakers Association and a motivational speaker. She’s conducted seminars on book publishing and promoting for five years and assisted writers through several author services. Her other titles include “Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK!” which ties her goal-setting and leadership seminar’s information together, and a YA series, “The Circle of Friends.” Wolfe travels extensively for media interviews and speaking engagements, maintains a dozen websites & blogs, and contributes to several other sites and newsletters.

Connect with L. Diane

Blog - Spunk On A Stick’s Tips
Website - Spunk On A Stick
Twitter - @SpunkOnAStick
Facebook - L. Diane Wolfe

A Writer Has A Lot To Be Thankful For

I wanted to wish all of you a happy Thanksgiving. Simple. But then the coffee hit my brain and I thought what do I--as a writer--have to be thankful for? Yeah, this could take a minute...

Photo courtesy of Pep Talk Polly, WANA Commons

I published my first work this year. (Just a couple of months ago, in fact.) The nature of the story makes it something I'm not certain would've seen the light of day a few years ago. It's short, but long (a novelette, which is longer than a short story, but shorter than a novella); it's written for/in a category that doesn't exist in some publishing circles (NA); and it's speculative (it crosses over a few genres--paranormal, horror, etc.). Basically, there isn't a shoebox to shove it in.

THANKFULLY, in this day and age I can build my own shoeboxes, and I'm certainly trying. I don't need permission to write and share things, just the desire to do it. 

Writing can be a lonely business. It's difficult to share things after you've created them, and all but impossible to do so as you're creating them. We're those solitary kids in the sandbox, building fragile structures that are always grander in our minds. Try to ask us what we're up to, and we might just shush you and say, "Not so loud! It could fall over any second, and I want see how much I can build before it all goes away."

THANKFULLY, I'm never truly alone. I've met so many other writers online. People who do what I do, and struggle with the things I struggle with. Most of them are quick with an encouraging word when I need picking up, and heap inspiration into my world with the click of  a mouse button. They're my homies--my peeps--and most days, they're all the company I need.

When I tell people I write fiction, a typical response is, "Man, I wish I could do that." My typical response is, "That's funny, because that's exactly how I got started. I wanted to do it." It goes deeper than that, sure, but the idea is a simple one: You must start before you can finish.

I'm THANKFUL every day that I started. Frustration bleeds out my ears at times, sure. Yes, feelings of inadequacy nip at my heels with every success, and damn near swallow me whole with the setbacks. But I'd never know the euphoria of seeing the view from the summit--a finished project--had I not endured the climb.

I've been to Jupiter, and it wasn't all that. I've killed a werewolf--and it was awesome! I saved the world three times last year. Impossible? For most, but not for me...

Writing means you have no boundaries. If it can be considered, it can be done. Good guys can be bad, bad guys can be good, and kids can save the adults. That's the true beauty of creating with words, and I'm THANKFUL for the freedom.

Those are just a few of a long list of things that crossed my mind this morning. What's on your 'thankful writer' list?

Hope you all have the happiest of Thanksgivings, and looking forward to finishing out the year on the other side amongst my many dear blog friends! 

~EJW~

Trusting the Process

Hey gang! What a wild/fun week I had last week. We went to the Mouse House in Orlando, got up close and personal with Harry Potter, and drank our share of the butterbeer (think sugary cream soda with a SUPER sugary cream topping ... yeah, it's that bad for you, and that awesome).

Enjoying a cold drink in the Hog's Head Tavern- No, that's not butterbeer. ;-)

Anyway, I'm back (physically at least) and ready to make the final push towards the publication of the second Moonsongs book. With a little luck, it'll be out in December. And I'm totally not bragging here, but I'm very excited for people to read it. I think the story is bigger, and in some ways better, than the first. 

Jenny (the mc) is really beginning to stretch her legs as a character. She gets pulled deeper into the supernatural world her tribal ancestors have fought against for so many generations, and learns that not all of the scary things out there want to eat you--some just want you dead. Plus, there are witches, both cool and evil. 

Basically, there's just a lot going on, and I think it'll be a fun ride for folks who enjoy True Blood-esque adventures. I've had a blast crafting it, that's for sure.

TRUSTING THE PROCESS

Photo credit to Lynn Kelley, WANA Commons 

But now it's time for the final polish. That means applying editorial feedback. Some of which is quite straightforward, and pretty painless. Change this word, rearrange that sentence, etc. But some of the changes aren't so easy to execute...

I always try to make sure my stories go into the 'editor' phase as polished as I can make them. That's for two reasons: 1) I don't want to purposefully make my editor take up drinking if they don't already. 2) It translates to less work for me on the other side.

What does sending it in as polished as possible mean for me? Typically 3 drafts pre-beta/critter work overs, and 1 to 2 more post beta/critter. And sometimes, if the beta/critter feedback results in major changes, it might go into another round of beta/critter--and more drafts follow. THEN it goes to the editor. 

Sounds like a lot right? IT IS! But I'm someone who likes to feel confident about something before moving onto the next stage. For me to feel confident in a piece of writing, I need to hear from several different perspectives that I've essentially captured what I set out to do with a particular story. 

These Moonsongs stories are a bit of a different beast, because they're novelettes--which translates to 'longer than a short story, shorter than a novella'. So a big part of my objective is that the plots stay tight, and the pacing zips. I want them to be a movie-like experience. Something you can enjoy in 2-4 hours, and feel that you've been entertained when you finish. 

That's where the editor really pays off. 

Story # 2 has been through multiple critters. While none of them said it was perfect, the feedback was 99% great, and I addressed nearly every quibble the critters had in rewrites prior to sending it off to the editor. 

That's the point where you begin to think--no matter how many times you've been through this process and know better--"I've done it! This is a great story as is." You can't help it. You love your critters. You've read their work, and trust them implicitly. Furthermore, you're really beginning to love the story again. (Trust me, you hate the dang thing at several points during this cycle.) 

Trusting the process is oh so important at this juncture. When those edits come back, and you see the number of things you've missed--or just screwed up--in your 'great story' it feels like starting over in some ways. (But you're totally not!)

You might even be tempted to cross your arms and say, "Bah, readers already like it. Why should I chop out two pages of the opening scene for the sake of pacing?"

The answer is simple: Because you want the story to be everything you dreamt it COULD be. The only chance you have of doing that is making it as tight as possible. That means heeding your editor's advice, listening to your critter complaints, and doing 2 more drafts beyond the last draft you vowed you'd ever do. 

It can be disheartening. It can be fantastic. But it's all part of the process, and that you have to trust.

~EJW~

Don't Get Mad, Get Writing

Credit to Cellar_Door_Films WANA Commons

Hey gang! Hope your weekends were fabutastic. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to wish the winners of my cover contest well! If you missed it, you can check it HERE.

This week, I want to talk about an 18 year old who just signed a six-figure publishing deal (yes, it's a vampire story), but first ...

New Adult Twitter Chat (#NALitChat) Update

Many of you know that I host a weekly Twitter chat, but there are some new folks following this blog so I thought I'd share a quick update...

For the uninitiated, New Adult is a category of literature aimed at the 18-26 year old demographic. The themes and characters tend to fall into that focus as well. Basically, if you're a fan of YA lit, and wondered 'what comes next?', you simply have to come hang with us. We do talk about a range of writing and reading related 'things', not just  New Adult, so I think there's a little bit of something for everyone. (And all are certainly welcome.) 

If you're feeling a bit naughty, this is the month to join in as we're starting our 'Risky Business' series in which we'll be chatting about sex in New Adult lit, taboos in New Adult lit, and much more steamy goodness. All from a writing and reading perspective. To take part in the chat, just jump on the Twitters every Thursday night @ 9 PM EST and use the #NALitChat hashtag in your Tweets.

For more info on the chat, check out the NA Lit Chat blog, complete with fancy calendar, HERE.

This Week's Good News!

Speaking of steamy, check the cover for this fabulous upcoming New Adult release!

I think my author-pal Carrie Butler is going to set the reading world (as well as a few eyeballs...) on fire when Strength debuts next March! Don't believe me? Check this epic blurb:

"When college student Rena Collins finds herself nose-to-chest with the campus outcast, her rumor-laced notions are shattered. Handsome, considerate, and seemingly sane, Wallace Blake doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, screaming and banging on the walls of his dorm room. Hell, he doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, period.

Too curious for her own good, Rena vows to uncover the truth behind Wallace’s madman reputation—and how two seconds of contact had left her with bruises. Of course, there are a few minor setbacks along the way: guilt, admiration, feelings of the warm and fuzzy variety…

Not to mention the unwanted attention of Wallace's powerful, supernaturally-gifted family.

They’re a bloodline divided by opposing ideals, two soon-to-be warring factions that live in secret among us. When Rena ends up caught in their crossfire, Wallace has no choice but to save her by using his powers. Now they’re really in trouble. With war on the horizon and Rena’s life in the balance, he needs to put some distance between them. But Rena won’t let go. If fighting is what it takes to prove her own strength and keep Wallace in her life, then that’s what she’ll do—even if it means risking a whole lot more than her heart."

Epic, right? You'll want to stalk Carrie to stay up on the Strength release shenanigans I'm sure she has planned, and you can find all of the details HERE.

My own good news! 

So, I somewhat stealthily added my book, Blood Fugue, to Goodreads recently. I did so to allow the folks who have received arcs to be able to review it in advance of release (later this month), and planned to officially announce that it was up when I posted about the epic launch blogfest I'm planning (in the coming days).

Well, I got my first review and decided to break out the announcement early. Why? Because the review was awesome! lol Super-duper-awesome author-blogger Eve (aka - The Desert Rocks), and recipient of a Blood Fugue arc, gave it five stars! You can read her full review HERE, and be sure to give her blog a follow. She's an absolute blast, and now on my holiday shopping list. :-)

Also, if you'd like to add Blood Fugue to your Goodreads list (and jockey for position on my holiday shopping list), you can check out the official listing HERE.

Don't Get Mad, Get Writing

An author I follow on Facebook posted this article about an 18 year old girl who recently signed a big book deal with a BIG publisher. She didn't share it as good news ...

The author who shared the story is, like 99.9% of published authors, solidly mid-list. Which is to say she has had to scrap for every ounce of respect, every smidgen of publicity, and every last cent given to her by the book publishing world. She works her tail off, and hopes each book she puts out moves enough copies to get her next story published, much less six-figures. As I said, that's life for most authors. 

I LOVE her books, by the way. They are unique, and beautiful--truly nothing else quite like them. That I've read, at least.

And I'll say this: Indignation over a fledgling adult, much less author, having an agent FIND HER, and getting a big contract for writing ANOTHER Twilight-inspired spinoff is certainly understandable, and probably justified. It's hard to process how one person can bust their ass for years--trying to get an agent, trying to write something good, trying to write something marketable, etc.--and not achieve the success of a first-time teenage author.

However, there is something the young woman in the article got right that I think many established (and otherwise) authors aren't figuring out: she wrote stories, and she shared them. From the age of 15, she was uploading chapters to various social writing sites. She eventually got enough exposure that an agent took notice. 

Now, I don't think I need to write another 'publishing has changed' post today. I think what I need to tell you is this: If people aren't reading your words, it's your fault. 

Go ahead, get pissed at me. Throw stuff. Quit following me... on second thought, let's not be hasty. You can stomp your foot, maybe even curse me under your breath, but you should keep following. I'll say something you'll like soon enough.

So if it's your fault, how can you fix it? Simple!

- You need an idea for a story. 

- You need to learn how to write. 

- You need to get better at writing. 

- And you need to be willing to put it out there.

These steps apply to EVERYONE. You want to go the traditional route with an agent, etc.? Great! Start getting your work out there. You want to be independent and do your own thing? Great! Start getting your work out there.

The lesson is this: There isn't an established author-process anymore, other than writing something awesome and fighting like hell to get it in front of readers.

A couple of suggestions, if I may. 1) If your goal is to get a novel represented by a literary agent, and one day see your book in a real book store, write other stuff on the side and put it out there. 2) If you aren't sure what publishing direction you want to go in, write a bunch of stuff, and put some of it out there.

Note: This isn't me advocating throwing poop on the wall to see what sticks. Your dry runs are best kept in house, even now. You put out something before it's ready--before you're ready--and the cold Web-world will strike you down with a fiery vengeance. Besides, you owe it to your readers to be the best you can be, at whatever stage.

I'm simply advocating action. As silly as it sounds, the modern writer must write! We are in a content driven age. People want to read about everything, and they want to read about it now. That's truth.  

So the next time you read about some 'instant' publishing success story--or other affront to how you believe things are supposed to work--don't get mad, get writing.

~EJW~