Yes, it’s time for another scatter-brained post because I couldn’t pull together a single topic.
- I think Netflix should count as a business expense. I know many people would consider binge-watching TV while your open manuscript and a blinking cursor sit ignored on a side table counter-productive. But I recently spent four days revising a single chapter of THE MORRIGAN’S CURSE and when I finally licked it, I couldn’t face the next chapter. Yes, I had a deadline, and yes, as a full time writer I need to work at writing. Instead I watched five episodes of The Fall in a row and felt guilty about it. The next day, however, I jumped back into the manuscript and revised not just the following chapter, but three more. So, from now on, when I feel the call to binge-watch (or binge-read) instead of writing, I’m not going to fight it or feel guilty. If my tank of creativity is empty, I need to fill it back up.
- I got an early peek at the cover design for THE MORRIGAN’S CURSE last week, and I am floored! I can’t share it yet, but the artwork really inspired me. You can expect the same eye-popping title and Jax running, of course. But this cover is different from the others. You’re going to love it.
- The Eighth Day has started appearing at Scholastic Book Fairs across the country. I’ve been thrilled to receive messages and photos from people who were excited to see it, including my sister and my niece who spotted it at their school in Shawnee, Kansas. (My sister is a teacher there; my niece is a fifth grade student.)
- I’ve got a gold ribbon on Amazon for The Inquisitor’s Mark. Which is awesome, at least while it lasts.
- I’ve been buried in revisions since Christmas. First, THE MORRIGAN’S CURSE. Then I addressed agent and beta-reader notes on BRANEWORLD. Currently, I’m revising a YA historical paranormal, also based on my agent’s notes. By the time I’ve finished that, I expect THE MORRIGAN’S CURSE will be back for another round. I know I’ve always said how much I love revisions and hate first drafts … but part of me is hankering to work on something new.
- Apropos of the point above, my plan – if I can clear my desktop of other projects by then – is to take a blogging hiatus in April and attempt my own NaNoWriMo. How much can I get written in one month? I am notoriously slow at first drafts, so this will be a real challenge for me.
What’s up with you these days?
Awesome on the gold ribbon! And looking forward to the cover of your next one.
I didn’t know what a gold ribbon was on Amazon, so I’m glad yoy posted a pic. Ooooo, congrats.
I so agree about the Nexflix thing! 🙂
Dianne, this might sound so weird coming from a fellow writer of about the same age but … I am so stinking proud of you. I know the struggles you’ve had in the past and how you muscled through it all. You are totally my inspiration. Thinking of your strength and determination makes me know that I’ll get there too. Major WOOT for the gold ribbon!!!
I really need to set up Netflix streaming this week. My husband ordered the DVDs through the mail and I haven’t ordered one since he passed away. And I’m way more into TV these days than reading. I seem to lose myself more in the stories. Thanks for making me feel less guilty.
And congrats on your good book news.
I was so upset that your book wasn’t at my daughter’s school for the Scholastic book fair. It wasn’t even in our flyers. 🙁 I think it’s because it’s an elementary school.
Congrats on the #1 ribbon!
All of these bullet points are awesome 🙂 Yay for the golden ribbon, and yay for an exciting cover! Can’t wait to see it!
I never knew Amazon had a gold ribbon. Congrats! on receiving that. And good luck with The Inquisitor’s Mark.
Amazing! Congratulations on all that you’ve accomplished and a huge congrats for being recognized as having accomplished it.
Netflix totally should count. If I don’t have something on in the background, I can’t write!
Now I want to see that cover more than anything…And too bad you’ll be gone in April. You’ll miss all the A-to-Z Challenge posts 😛
I’m thinking that in the not too distant future gold ribbons will become commonplace for you! 🙂
Very cool to have those book spottings for Eighth Day. I used to love those book fairs. I hope a lot of kids are putting in orders for your book!
Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
Tossing It Out
You may find this surprising, but I so often find inspiration here. Well, that didn’t come out as I meant it. What I meant is I read your blog and it clicks why my MS isn’t working. Thanks!