I was about to dive right in and start posting, but that seemed rude. So, hello. I've lurked a bit but decided to join in hopes of contributing and getting critiqued.
After many years of believing I could write news stories just fine but that novels were for other people, I got started. My wife said something like, "You should write about ..." and I did. Of course, the original idea changed a lot as soon as my main character came into existence and started doing things. At times I felt as if I was just taking notes on a world that only I could visit.
Now I have a first draft of 80,000 words. I'm excited, of course. I sent the first two chapters to an author who's been an editor and agent, and she gave me criticism that helped me revise much of what I'd done and guided me as I finished it. To my surprise, she was also very complimentary. I've been accepted into a workshop that should help me finish the novel.
I've got an idea that should turn into book three. It requires a lot of research, so I've been tossing around ideas that would take less legwork for a second book. I want to keep moving forward with something while I edit the first novel.
I worked as a reporter for years, so I'm used to people yelling at me. I've been yelled at by people with guns, so I don't think I'll get bent out of shape by criticism of my writing.
Oh, and I like my popcorn with real butter and lots of salt.
After many years of believing I could write news stories just fine but that novels were for other people, I got started. My wife said something like, "You should write about ..." and I did. Of course, the original idea changed a lot as soon as my main character came into existence and started doing things. At times I felt as if I was just taking notes on a world that only I could visit.
Now I have a first draft of 80,000 words. I'm excited, of course. I sent the first two chapters to an author who's been an editor and agent, and she gave me criticism that helped me revise much of what I'd done and guided me as I finished it. To my surprise, she was also very complimentary. I've been accepted into a workshop that should help me finish the novel.
I've got an idea that should turn into book three. It requires a lot of research, so I've been tossing around ideas that would take less legwork for a second book. I want to keep moving forward with something while I edit the first novel.
I worked as a reporter for years, so I'm used to people yelling at me. I've been yelled at by people with guns, so I don't think I'll get bent out of shape by criticism of my writing.
Oh, and I like my popcorn with real butter and lots of salt.
Congrats on the novel!
