I decided roller coasters were not my thing several years ago. I worry too much now about the “What If’s.”I think because I have something to lose. What if it the coaster comes off the tracks while I am on it and I die… who will take care of my family?”
The Mt. Hermon Writing Conference was an amazing experience but it easily compared to those roller coasters I am not so crazy about; It had many up’s, my manuscript was very well received, Standard Publishing is looking at it as we speak , it is in the hands of Zondervan and a few other publishing houses as well. My critiques of Liberty Layne and the One-Girl Rebelution were very encouraging too. Now these “Ups” caused me excitement and butterflies. But, there were those “down’s” causing me to fear and question, “What am I doing?!!”
With all the editors, agents and publishing houses present…only one editor/publishing house was looking for middle grade/tween projects. This was hugely discouraging as I had nobody to really “pitch” my project to all week, (I even had cute business cards! ) The other “downer” was the fact I am not a very pushy person and if you really wanted to get an appointment with an agent, editor or publisher, you had to be very forward and in their faces. I am so big on respecting personal space and boundaries that I could not bring myself to invade. So, although I was told by several who critiqued my manuscript, to dialogue with agents because they thought my work ready- by the time I took my courage-aide and approach a few of them, I had missed the window of opportunity to schedule appointments. Talk about a “downer!”
After a half-day pity party, I decided I would just take advantage of my free afternoons and frequent as many workshops as I could. These workshops were priceless. Taught by the top editors, agents, publishers and authors in the Christian industry, I filled my time better understanding social media (I hope to implement what I learned soon), how to improve the depth of my characters, and build my platform.
Great things are in store for Liberty! I was hopeful she would be received well, but didn’t know she would be so well liked! I am very thankful.
Now, I am hard at work on book 2, Liberty Layne and the Battle of the Couture Clique Club. This book is based on the story, David and Goliath. Liberty Layne will of course be David and Lincoln and Calliope will be knee deep in Liberty’s drama yet again, quite literally! Book 2 takes place at summer camp and there is a fun mud pit tug-o-war these three find themselves “stuck” in. Summer camp…it’s going to be awesome!
I can’t wait for Liberty Layne to be published! She is already such an amazing character! I feel like all her friends and foes, not to mention Liberty Layne herself, are real people. You are an incredible author!! Don’t let those “dips” in the ride get to you. You have to go down before you can get the speed to go even higher.
Thanks Danine, that is so true, perspective!
I only see positives ahead for you and Liberty Layne!