On Fantasy, Writing & the Journey to Publication
Hi, friends!
Janice Hardy asked me to be a guest blogger on her website a while ago, and she just let me know that the blog went live today. I thought I’d share it here, as it chronicles a little bit about my journey through massive edits.
An interesting thing to note:
Despite reducing my novel from 198,000 words down to 142,000 words (at the time of the guest blog) and its subsequent reduction to 140,000, a literary agent just expressed interest in the premise of the story but would not request a read until it was 120,000 words, or, more preferably, 110,000 words. “140,000 words is far too long for a debut novel.”
So I am faced with an interesting dilemma. The NY literary agent mentioned in the blog is still reading my partial request, so I think I will wait until I hear from him before moving forward, but I am a strong believer in eliminating obstacles. I understand that my novel is long – but it isn’t without precedence.
I want to be published, so I supppose – if and when the time comes – I will just have to see whether the story can be reduced and simplified even further.
But enough of that – on to the blog!
Guest Author Paul Welch: A Journey Through Massive Edits in Ten Easy Steps.
“I’m excited about today’s post. A few months ago, Paul Welch wrote me to say thanks for some of my revision posts. He had a huge novel to cut down and my advice helped a lot (which totally made my day). We got to chatting and he told me his amazing story and what he did to turn a massive novel into something he could submit. I was so inspired by his tale, I asked him to guest post and share it with you guys.”
Read the rest of the article at Janice Hardy’s website.
Keep me updated, Paul. I’m so happy to say “I know you”.
Take as much advice on board as you can WITHOUT ruining your story. It’s a balancing act, I think. Too many people think they’re “above it all” to take on harsh criticism, but you also need think if the advice ACTUALLY helps your story.
Once again, congrats! (And sorry for being all prophetic and confusing.)
You are too kind! I appreciate the advice and the encouragement. I am continuing to take a break from it – to get distance and to recharge a drained battery. It will be interesting to revisit it with some more space.
I know the “drained” feeling. I’m trying to climb out of a writing rut at the moment.
Distance may be the best cure for your situation.
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