This year I WILL get my books published http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017 allwritemel As the title says this is the year that I WILL succeed. Why now and why state it so loudly? Because I'm sick to death of believing the people who tell me I should stop writing. Doing that is like stopping breathing to me so it's not an option. I'm also a firm believer in the power of positive thinking. I'm also going back to my celebrity interviews which we are putting on the radio starting next week. I've already had some minor successes - a book out under my own name (one of a series) which is still selling on Amazon; a series of ghost written books and some articles. We are in pre-production of three films of my books - so why should I give up my writing? I live for it and I'm constantly being bombarded with ideas so next year I intend to send out to as many publishers and agents as I can get my hands on. One of them will accept my books. Sorry if this sounds arrogant (I'm not quite as confident as I sound) but I thought If I put it out there then there is a better chance - I'm sort of accountable now! I'm constantly being told I'm not good enough to make a career out of it but I can't work at the moment so there is no harm in at least sending some work out, is there? I have let some people I don't know read the books (friends of friends) and the response has often been overwhelming - I do think that shows I have some talent somewhere. On top of all this I'm on a course which is very demanding but hopefully should lead to a job - if I pass! This year I have accepted (reluctantly) a challenge to write 2 million words for charity - that will probably equal about 8 books by my reckoning ... if I don't hit that magic figure very few will pay up. Mel REMEMBER: It's the things you DON'T do in life that you regret, not what you do, do! Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:34:15 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_975886 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_975886 Lady_Indis_Dress Go for it, Mel! You can do it! Sat, 17 Dec 2011 12:11:12 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_979875 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_979875 DaraHavok You can do it! My motto this coming year is 2012 the year of the novel. Sat, 17 Dec 2011 21:54:28 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_981272 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_981272 allwritemel Thank you! I will post how I get on here ... I've got a crowd of about 5 people willing to do this with me and we are all going to support each other. I couldn't do it without the help and support of the lovely people on these forums. My celebrity interviews have both taken a dive and a leap! On the negative side I've lost my voice completely (which is really annoying the rest of the family - I'm going to a party in about half an hour - that will be interesting!!!! :-)) but on the plus side I've just got a whole load of wonderful actors (two of them in particular will be getting a letter of thanks because they really looked after me when I had a fall - one even sat on a snowy wall with me and got me a drink, then offered to help me to a cab. He was a true gentleman - both were so much nicer than I expected from having seen them on the TV. I'll post who I'm interviewing each week so you can decide whether or not to tune in. First up will be Danny Apple (has his debut single out and it's doing well in the charts) and then it's author Ben Hatch whose book "Are We There Yet?" is available in Waterstones, Amazon etc. Two lovely guys. I'm HOPING we can arrange one of the actors a week from those I met on Friday ... even if we get 6 of them I'll be happy but I'm particular about who I want because of how nice they were. If you need any help with anything, email me and I'll do what I can. Take care Mel REMEMBER: It's the things you DON'T do in life that you regret, not what you do, do! Sun, 18 Dec 2011 07:49:38 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_981666 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_981666 thomlina I hear ya sister! This year I am determined to at least find a decent literacy agent and get my novel out there! I have had some success in the past [Articles, scripts for school productions, contests won] but this year I want to publish and I am sure that this will happen. I think my writing is very well..written? Anyways I have been told that my stories and scripts are amazing. I already have a small fan base so it's not like my book would just sit on a shelf without buyers... So I am with you on this! You can do this! And so can I! Also two million words in a year? I've never really kept track of my writing all together on different projects but who knows maybe I've already broken this record and not known it...Anyways good luck on all of your projects. I'm through accepting limits 'Cuz someone says they're so Some things I cannot change But till I try, I'll never know! Too long I've been afraid of Losing love I guess I've lost Well, if that's love It comes at much too high a cost! I'd sooner buy Defying gravity Kiss me goodbye I'm defying gravity And you can't pull me down [Quote from the amazing song Defying Gravity from Wicked the musical] Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:10:44 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_982010 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_982010 AnnieDayNow Good luck Mel! You can do it. *Thinking good thoughts* Sun, 18 Dec 2011 22:26:04 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_983760 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_983760 allwritemel Thank you! Due to unforeseen circumstances I need to get the first book finished and to a rough edit by ... Christmas Eve! Oh joy! And I've got the flu! :-( Mel REMEMBER: It's the things you DON'T do in life that you regret, not what you do, do! Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:34:50 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_984968 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_984968 Lady_Indis_Dress Hope the flu goes away quickly, Mel. Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:55:37 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_988152 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_988152 wenzizi . Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:43:03 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_989486 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_989486 Tobaeus You can do it! Especially if you've got credits under your belt already. Don't let the naysayers bring you down. Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:42:00 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_993763 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_993763 allwritemel Thank you! I like your picture, by the way - you're very pretty! I've followed your posts for ages and always wondered what you looked like! :-) So many are saying I can't do it ... well I will prove them wrong! Thank you for your support. If I can do naything for any of you, you only have eto shout. I'll be posting my progress here. Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:17:54 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_994486 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_994486 allwritemel [quote=DaraHavok] You can do it! My motto this coming year is 2012 the year of the novel. [/quote] I love that! Sat, 07 Jan 2012 08:55:18 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1038981 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1038981 allwritemel Let me know how you get on - and who your literary agent is. If ... WHEN I get a publisher/agent I will ask him/her to look at yours (and anyoen else who has supported me). I don't just ask for support, I like to give it too. Sat, 07 Jan 2012 08:57:19 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1038984 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1038984 allwritemel Thanks for the support, guys. Today, for better or for worse, I sent 10 publishers my book (the best one). I went on gut instinct so hopefully one will take it - I hate that most won't read the whole thing. It's cost me an absolute fortune but, God WIlling it will be worth it. My main new year's resolution is the most important one of the lot (second only to finishing my counselling course) - by the end of this year more than just this book will be sold. I don't mean to come across as arrogant. Of cousre I doubt my abilities but last year I went through a phase of thinking very positively and it worked incredibly well - hopefully the same will happen this year ... Well I spoke to my lovely producer and explained I was really ill with the flu (as I had literally no voice she kind of realised that) and she told me she can give me ONE month's grace. I can't let her down ... Also I get the first 3 interviews out of the way this month so that will be fun - I've just got to work out how to record via phone onto the computer and save as MP3 ... any clues anyone? Mel Sat, 07 Jan 2012 09:00:15 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1038987 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1038987 Red Queen Via phone? You mean, like, recording on the phone and transferring to PC via USB? ô.O Why not just buy a cheap headset or mic and use that? The standard program records as .wav, but there's a lot of freeware out there to convert it into an mp3 file. That's what I usually do. At least until I stepped on my headset. It couldn't have been something I can easily replace with something from my junk box, nooo, always the good stuff^^ Sat, 07 Jan 2012 10:24:23 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1039063 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1039063 allwritemel Thanks for your email - and your brilliant advice. I'll do that! :-) Mel Sat, 07 Jan 2012 11:52:54 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1039162 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1039162 alicerabbits You can do it Mel! My goals are to finish editing my nanovel (first time trying!) and publish 2-3 short stories. Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:13:26 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1064262 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1064262 zxc123 If we are [URL=http://www.sjasianescort.com]SJ Asian Escort[/URL] brave enough to [URL=http://www.sjasianescort.com]SJ Asian Escorts[/URL] love, strong enough to forgive, generous enough to rejoice in [URL=http://www.sjasianescort.com]SJ Escort[/URL] another's happiness, and wise enough to know there is enough love to go [URL=http://www.sjasianescort.com]SJ Escorts[/URL] around for us all, then we can achieve a fulfillment that Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:20:57 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1078516 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1078516 allwritemel Well I've not heard anything back from any of the publishers and agents I've sent off to yet (but I've been told I might have to wait 12 weeks in many cases), so I've just sent off another batch of 5 this time (I wanted ot send 10 but couldn't afford it). So why am I sending so many off? Because I want at least a few out there when the rejections hit the mat so that I don't give up all hope! :-) Would anyone like me to post a list of people I've sent to (the contact details etc) on this post so you guys can submit a few (these are people I believe have open doors at the moment). Just let me know if you want me to do that - they are from America and England! I'm casting my net wide. I'm going to send a few out (finances permitting) in February - That will make at least 20 submissions the first 2 months of the year - not bad! :-) How are you guys doing with your goals? Oh, and not sure if you all know this or not, but People's Friend (who insist their stories are set in Scotland) and My Weekly are accepting novels of 50,000 words! If you're interested I'll post the latest information up here Mel Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:30:44 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1095090 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1095090 alicerabbits I think it would be great to post, if they are open and accepting it would be great to know. Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:29:04 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1112561 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1112561 allwritemel OK, I'll post the details later - they DO want fiction stories of 50,000 words each but they are quite speciific and they do pay reasonably well. It will be a long and detailed post I think - oh and Fiction Feast are also looking for fiction (short though, not novels). I have all those details so I'll post them as well. Not been a good week in my quest to write 2 million words - it's been sad news all the way so I've not really been in the mood to write ... now I've decided to try to write MORE when things are bleak to take my mind of it. I got the most amazing news today though which I'll post as soon as I'm told I'm allowed (just waiting on a call about that!) REMEMBER: It's the things you DON'T do in life that you regret, not the things you do, do! Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:22:09 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1122845 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1122845 jswwrites I was talking about this with my teenage son last night. I am going to give it all I've got this year. I'm finishing a very in-depth edit of my NaNo novel, hoping to be done this week. My goal is to start "crashing the gates" of agents starting (no later than) the 15th. I'm also putting a pitch in Pitchapalooza. Maybe attending ThrillFest in NYC in July. I have an uncle who used to be involved in the film industry (executive producing end) and he's been wanting to read the novel, so I'll be sending it to him. So... I'm with you! Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:08:18 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1124167 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1124167 wengaga Moonlight Mile by Dennis Lehane Title Moonlight Mile by Dennis Lehane About the Author Dennis Lehane is the author of nine novels—including the New York Times bestsellers Gone, Baby, [url=http://www.sanjoseasianescort.com]San Jose Asian Escort[/url] Gone; Mystic River; Shutter Island; and The Given Day—as well as Coronado, [url=http://www.sanjoseasianescort.com]San Jose Asian Escorts[/url]a collection of short stories and a play. He and his wife, Angie, divide their time between Boston and the Gulf Coast of Florida. Book Description Acclaimed New York Times bestselling author Dennis Lehane delivers an explosive tale of integrity and [url=http://www.sanjoseasianescort.com]San Jose Escort[/url]vengeance—heralding the long-awaited return of private investigators Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro? Amanda McCready was four years old when she vanished from a Boston neighborhood twelve years ago.[url=http://www.sanjoseasianescort.com]San Jose Escorts[/url] Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:07:11 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1125598 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1125598 Zookeeper I actually have five novels that I might be able to get into shape this year. Three are previous Nanos, part of a series. They're all finished in first draft. One is a pre-Nano novel that I want to rewrite and try to send out again. Another is last year's Nano. It's not finished yet, but when it is, I think it might be publish-worthy. Among my goals this year is to finish all of these, or at least some, and try to get an agent. Sat, 11 Feb 2012 03:34:25 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1131164 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1131164 allwritemel I'm absolutely GUTTED! I've just been told I have to hold fire - I can't put the best of all of my books up for publication. Apparently i need to wait for permission from the film producer and there is also the possibility that she will want it to go out in ebook format first and then paperback (or worse, hardback). I'm going to give her a call and talk to her because there are a few publishers who are really interested. However, if she wants this book to be held back I will go hell for leather with the others ... I NEED to do it this year because I'm sick of being told to give up writing, that I'm not as good as JK Rowling or Enid Blyton. Fingers crossed she tells me I can go ahead after all. I don't know what you guys think (and I'll be blogging about this on my website), but I don't think I'd be doing myself any favours if it came out as an ebook first. Or is this the way to go, do you think? Have we seen the death of the paperback book? I hope not! Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:52:24 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1144196 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1144196 Dragon Gal Death of the paperback book? Dear lord, I hope not, too! Nothing against e-books, but.... I much, MUCH prefer hard copies. And if.. when... I ever get published, I want to see the actual book on a shelf somewhere! Anyway, GOOD LUCK MEL!!! You can do it, I know! *crosses her fingers for you, especially on the film-producer angle* Buona fortuna! Sat, 18 Feb 2012 02:35:05 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1149383 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1149383 Tobaeus I don't think paper books will die off. Too many people still love them. It'll probably just turn out that ebooks and paper books are sold pretty equally once this whole thing calms down. Sat, 18 Feb 2012 10:22:22 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1149747 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1149747 nycelle Mel, the writer Talli Roland's first novel (published by Prospera Publishing in the UK) came out as an ebook first and later as a paperback and it doesn't seem to have done her any harm :) There's probably lots of info out there on blogs etc about people's experiences that you may find helpful (Talli blogs at talliroland.blogspot.com). Best of luck with everything Mel :D I hope this is your year! Sun, 19 Feb 2012 13:33:07 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1153021 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1153021 allwritemel Thanks for the support guys ... well a few things have changed since my last post. I've had a long talk with the people concerned and I am now allowed to speak to the publsihers who had shown a great deal of interest in my book! :-) Also, I'm now allowed to approach agents and publishers which is HUGE for me as that had also been off the table for a while. I will keep you posted but there are 3 publishers who are extremely interested in the book and I'm also entering it in The Next BiG Author Competition. If you don't know, that competition is open to anyone who has written the first chapter of a book ... it's a kind of knockout procedure and so many get knocked out at each stage as I understand it. The information is out there - if you decide to enter let me know and I will make sure that if I get your chapter I will vote highly for it - us NaNoer need to stick together, right? I'll keep you informed - I hope this is all our years. Zookeeper, I hope you get the 5 novels into shape and can find an agent. I'll post any agents I know are actively seeking right now as the year progresses. Mel www.writing4oneandall.weebly.com Sat, 25 Feb 2012 15:06:57 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1169711 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1169711 Dragon Gal Hmm, that competition sounds interesting. I might just enter that. Thanks Mel! And hooray for being able to speak to those publishers and agents! Go for it! Mon, 27 Feb 2012 01:10:02 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1173714 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1173714 Wonder Writer I went to self-publish for the Kindle, etc. :) Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:43:18 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1183257 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1183257 allwritemel Well there's been a lot of movement with the books this last few weeks, especially The Wishing Tree which seems to be proving at least interesting to the publishers as I'm getting requests for partials and full manuscripts, fantastic feedback and a few fascinating opportunities ... fingers crossed everything has turned a corner. From other points of view I've been asked if I want to write a book about a local ... personality, if I can put it that way. He's approached me and he's quite an intimidating guy so there's no way I'll go and meet him on my own. Then I was lucky enough to meet an entertainment lawyer who has offered to help me both with approaches and looking over any contracts. He was horrified I'm having a film made of my book at the moment because apparently I am giving away some rights I need to hold on to. I had no idea but I'll pass it to him and do what he says. I've also got to enter for the Next Big Author competition in the next few days - life has been chaotic but the next few weeks I have a choice - do i see it as stressful (most of the time YES!) or do i try to believe in myself, build my confidence and see this next few weeks as a fun challenge (which is what I'd like!) I'm going to TRY to choose option two but it will be a challenge. You see I'm very close to completing my course but htat means flying solo in the real world, and also being watchedi n my role play. My tutor tells me I'm better than i think I am and that I judge myself too harshly (I would agree I have a tendency to do that ) but I don't know HOW to believe in myself. Any suggestions to build confidence, quickly would be very welcome! I've also approached another 5 agents and 3 publishers so I'm sticking to my determination to have plenty out there when the rejctions come through the post. Can I also just point out that I've come across a brilliant author (and a fascinating guy), Michael Rowland who has written 2 books called 9/11 conspiracy and Leap Year. 9/11 was published with Author House but Leap Year was published by Stategic - google him and take a look at his books. He is doing book signings across the country and if you see him, tell him I sent you! Talented guy! :-) How's everyone else doing? Thu, 22 Mar 2012 18:45:04 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1231607 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1231607 allwritemel First two major rejections through this year today ... not a great start and very upsetting but it's not over till the fat lady sings as they say (and I'm not singing! :-)) Seriously, this did hurt but I always imagine, as I think I've said before, a crowded market place with two people (me and the publisher/agent) looking for each other but not knowing what the other looks like. Each one I approach who says no is another one who leaves the market place and hopefuly makes it easier for me to find the right person. That's why I like to have so many books out there so that it takes the sting out of it when I get the rejections (or so I thought!) At least there's still hope! :-) I will keep this thread updated. I KNOW people can get rjected thousands of times (JK Rowling was 45 times I believe) but when certain people tell you to give up because of the rejection that is NOT helpful. How do others cope with this? I do it through listening to 3 particular songs which I find very helpful: Dear Dream by Gilbert O'Sullivan; I still believe in me by Erica Gimpel and Debbie Allen; and Take that First Step by Valerie Landsburg. They are such inspiring songs but I don't listen to the music it's the words that are important to me. Let me know what you guys do to cope. Fri, 23 Mar 2012 06:59:57 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1232412 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1232412 Tobaeus I have a total of six rejections on my wall from two different stories. They haven't been accepted yet, but that's because after a few rejections, I realized the story needs a little work. When I receive one of these letters or emails, I pin it up on my wall. They sit there not as faceless judges against my work, but silent supporters that remind me that I'm pursuing my dream. Dreams don't come easy, so it may be that I start wallpapering my room with rejections before I get a yes. But when I do get that yes, it's getting framed, lol. (Also, from these rejections and my editing passes, I realized that a first draft is *never* a good idea to send out, no matter how good you think it is. :D) Hopefully, after these next few revision passes, I'll have an ecstatic yes to share with you all. Fingers crossed, not that I get the yes, but that I can buckle down to the work and get one of these stories back out there. Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:12:28 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1232836 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1232836 allwritemel Are you writing short stories? or 50,000 word long ones? If so you could do worse than try two English companies, Take a Break Fiction Feast (the best!) and People's friend. They both pay reasonably well. Thanks for telling me about your rejections. I know I'm being silly - I guess it sometimes hits harder than others depending on how I feel. I have a strong feeling you'll have a success shortly ... that's a good idea to look at the rejection letters as supporters of your work, reminding you that you are pursuing your dream. That's something I've never thought of. Ha ha! Sorry, don't mean to laugh (it's not a mean laugh, honest), just that your comment about sending the first draft out never being a good idea is spot on. I read The Wishing Tree as soon as I'd written it, sent it out and was gutted when I was rejected at every turn. To cut a long and boring story short I got given a bit of a confidence boost by accident and dragged it out of its hiding place (nobody in my family thinks I should write) and dusted it off .... and cringed when I read some of the mistakes - there were some awful ones and I'd sent them out!!!!!!!! That was swiftly rectified I can tell you. I do an average of 8 passes which makes sure i cover everything - now I NEVER let that first draft go out! :-) Don't ask me why but I think June/July is going to be important to you and your writing! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. I look forward to hearing you've framed a success letter! :-) Fri, 23 Mar 2012 17:35:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1233425 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1233425 Tobaeus No worries on the laughter. I'd laugh at me too. I think it was a very important lesson to learn, and I'm glad it came pretty quickly. June/July, huh? I can dig that. :) Fingers crossed! And good luck with your works. I know good things are coming for you. Fri, 23 Mar 2012 18:03:49 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1233472 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1233472 alicerabbits I have two rejection letters for the year for the same story. I'm gonna send it out one more time, and if it gets rejected, I'll put it away for a while and come back to it. I'm working on another one right now, that I'll be sending out shortly as well. Tue, 27 Mar 2012 19:28:55 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1243429 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1243429 allwritemel Well this is big news: Without my signing any contract to agree to it, my boyfriend's company has PUBLISHED The Wishing Tree on Kindle - take a look at this link http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Wishing-Tree-ebook/dp/B007NYFAMY/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1333007003&sr=1-2 They are selling it for £2.07 (if anyone wants to buy it they can)... the problem is, this takes away my first electronic rights! Also, a major publisher is looking at this book (they will over a 70/30 split - me taking the 30 of course ... I've had a lawyer look over their contract and he said apart from it being A LITTLE stingy I should accept it because there is nothing at all wrong with it. I just have to check a couple of things if they offer the contract to me (it's visible on their website). I don't know if I can even do anything so I'm waiting for the lawyer to get back to me. I wouldn't mind but it's ONLY on Kindle, not Nook/Ipad or even Kobo! :-( Spread hte word though - I want to know that people are buying this book and what they think of it. If there's a good side to this it will be that I may be albe to get a fan base together. Sorry if this message is comig across aggressive - I'm furious my rights have been taken away without my consent. I understand it's good to have it out there but I feel I should have been consulted. Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:46:19 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1248176 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1248176 Tobaeus If it's really upsetting you, you can always have it taken down. It can be a big deal if it was put through without your consent, even by people who mean well. And especially so if it's going to take rights off the bargaining table. Fri, 30 Mar 2012 09:19:10 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1248361 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1248361 Webgoji "The Seraphim Protocol" is done! D-U-N done! I have my first victim . . . er . . . author's representative picked out and will be getting them a synopsis and inquiry sent soon. Let the really nerve wracking part . . . BEGIN! Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:31:27 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1256289 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1256289 allwritemel Another rejection - but this one really hurt. A friend put me on to Mira Publishing and they emailed me, "Could you pass on the information regarding the situation with a film so we can make a further decision regarding the contract ..." I gave them all the information I had and they emailed me about 10 minutes ago saying that having read the first chapter ONLY they do not want to publish this book ... I guess I should say "their loss" ... but with everything else going on it's a kick in the teeth. Oh well, there are thousands of other companies out there. How many times did Harry Potter and Watership Down get rejected? Got to keep that in mind. I find how I feel about the rejection is kind of mirrored by how I'm feeling in myself ... they've taken on a brilliant book (Christmas Presence) by a brilliant writer (Michael Rowlands/Daniel M Warlock) so good luck to them. Guess I'd better start sending out more packages from tomorrow ... Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:15:23 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1264624 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1264624 Webgoji Them not wanting to publish your work isn't necessarily a reflection of the quality of your book. So don't let a rejection letter make you feel bad. Want an example as to why? SNOOKI PUBLISHED A BOOK!! She can't even read a STOP sign, but her book sold 9,000 copies in the first month. So yeah, take it with a drop of water. There are works of utter genius out there that will never see the light day because the author couldn't find a publisher or agent. Keep trying, you didn't get rejected, you just haven't found the right publisher. Soon enough I'll be in line to buy a signed copy of your book from you. ;) Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:35:31 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1264971 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1264971 allwritemel Thank you! :-) You have no idea how much that cheered me up! :-) Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:17:03 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1265661 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1265661 allwritemel A third rejection this month - not good for self esteem which is alrady low but GREAT for building up sticktoitiveness (I wanted another word them but I'm down with the flu and I can't think what it is) :-( But as Dear Dream implies (I met the singer on Thursday and he swore he's sing it next time he does a show I'm in the audience) you can't give up. At the end of the day, as Webgoji pointed out, they are not rejecting me, I've not found the right one is all. I feel worse today but I think that's more down to how I'm feeling in myself ... if I could go to a book fair and tell the publishers about it I'd make it then. Just a third person out of the market place! I'll take it with a large pinch of salt and wait for the next batch - the advantage of constantly having some books inteh pipeline is there is always hope out there ... At the end of the day, my favourite song says it all: I STILL BELIEVE IN ME! The words to that are so perfect for a wannabe writer. So how is everyone else doing? Let me know if there's any good news to be had out there? I want to celebrate with you all. you're all such a talented lot and I'll be first in the line to buy a book from any of you. Tue, 10 Apr 2012 02:55:10 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1277796 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=2#forum_thread_comment_1277796 Koe Hello ^^ I'm new here! This is my first post ever! And I will be participating in the NaNoWriMo this year if it kills me! I'm creating the outline for my story currently :D But I read this thread and I felt I wanted to say something. You all sound like very kind people, and I read about Mel's quest to find a publisher. I say it was very inspiring! To Mel: My brother says the same things you've been told: "You can't write, you should stop writing, you'll never get anywhere, blah blah blah." It does hurt a lot, considering I love writing and I can tell you do too. But quite frankly, think about it this way: Do you absolutely have to give up because they don't like your writing? Really, it takes a while to become an amazing writer. When something you write isn't the absolute best it can be, do you give up? No way! You make it better! Those harsh words should merely push you into improving. Don't let yourself drown, just tweak your writing up a bit till /you/ believe it's perfect :D That's what I believe in, and since you are in a similar situation to me I thought I'd like to share it with you ^^ You can do it! Yay! It may take a thousand tries, but I'm sure you'll find a publisher, so keep trying! And nice to meet you! ^^ Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:01:42 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1281186 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1281186 allwritemel All of your support means a lot guys, especially as I'm ill at the moment. I need to keep in mind the visual of the busy market place where two people are looking for each other - 3 have now left ... fingers crossed we meet soon. I still have manuscripts out there - this would be unbearable if there was no hope! :-) Thanks Koe - I've just sent you an email. Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:54:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1281316 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1281316 allwritemel Just received some thought provoking advice from 3 of my beta readers (usually I ask for a majority - and I have 10 so that would mean anything more than 5) but they have all suggested the same thing - change the second and 3rd chapter round. Well I'm getting nowhere as it is and maybe it's too gentle a start - maybe if I do change them round then the publishers will be interested enough to read the whole thing ... it's such a small change and I'm not precious about changing things for the good of the book. At the end of the day it's only words on a page and nobody dies if I change anything (unless I choose to kill them off that is! ;-)) BUT the other side of the coin is I DO still have the original so i could still read that one (I sometimes like to re-read the books I've written ...) My original idea was to build up the relationship between Lindsey and Katie so the reader can feel Lindsey's heartache at the parting but, what these guys are suggesting will still allow me to do that - but just bring the hook forward ... the book has lots of twists and turns of emotions - funny, sad, strange, joyful ... lots of emotion in there. I may give it a try - after all, what have I got to lose? Fingers crossed! X Hope you all had a fantastic Easter (I was in bed, ill), got loads of eggs (have some for me, please - I can't eat chocolate), and you all hit success. Would anyone be willing to look at a before and after of the first two chapters and see which is hte best version? I'll help anyone I can from my end as well. Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:31:00 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1286183 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1286183 Tobaeus While it may not be a book, I have put a short story up on Smashwords. It was an exciting process of learning how to do the formatting. It's a story that did really well when it was featured on dA, so I figure people might be willing to buy it. Only time will tell. Sun, 20 May 2012 19:59:46 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1385477 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/the-year-of-doing-big-fun-scary-things-together/threads/48017?page=3#forum_thread_comment_1385477