2. This means I can get back to my experiment with structure. For those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, see here. Part of the experiment was to complete the first draft in a month (like nano) but that plan got derailed for a good reason (see #1). I made it to just past the midpoint reversal, so on Monday I’m clearing my head and my desk and getting back to work. My revised goal is to have the first draft done by end of May—that’s 8 to 10 chapters. If I do the usual chapter per day (with intermittent days I’m unable to write), it’s doable. (And no, it won’t be any good—I’m going to post about writing those bad first drafts one day, soon.)
3. Which means I have the weekend to get my yard work done and my garden planted. A while ago I bought a composter. I had one before that my dad had made, but it was hard to get at, and you know, it looked like this:
My new one is closer and prettier, but lately I’ve noticed it shifting and compost leaking out. I suspect wild critters at work. Racoons or bears are the usual culprits around here. We usually get a couple bear visits per year, so I hope I haven’t asked for trouble with my new composter.
4. You may have noticed I’ve started a new interview series with debut authors on Wednesdays. It will last for however long I have authors to interview, so if you’ve had a book deal recently or have a book launching or just launched, and want me to interview you, email me at ellestraussbooks at gmail dot com.
5. Excellent writerly tips: check out Jody Hedlund’s blog post on the importance of Social Media, and Kristen Lamb's post on how to brand your name.
Also, this is a post script—let me know if you have any questions--about any of my points or anything else you’d like to know, especially if there’s something specific you’d like me to address in my blog. I’d love to hear from you.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
woohoooo! GO ELLE!! this is such GREAT news!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on two manuscripts out!!! No surprise, since we have the best agent in the world.
ReplyDeleteI've been reading Jody for a while. I'll check Kristen Lamb's blog out.
Way to go, Elle! Two is better than one. Best of luck!
ReplyDeleteI hear ya on the compost pile. I've got horses, so my compost pile should be great. Because I've neglected it lately, it's basically a mound of fertilizer for weeds.
Congrats!!! SO exciting!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the cheers!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on being on submission! And kudos to a fellow composter! Yay!
ReplyDeleteAwesome news. Congrats!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy gardening and have a great weekend.
Congrats on TWO books on sub, Elle. AND for tackling a new WIP already. Are you sure you're not Wonder Woman?
ReplyDeleteAnd I can't wait to read your Matches book, it sounds so up my alley.
Have a great weekend!
Wow, two books! I'm impressed. Great blog and features. Thanks for stopping by mine! Glad you found my Twitter post helpful.
ReplyDeleteIt's great you have two manuscripts done and out. Good luck with your new one.
ReplyDeleteI'm impressed when people are goal oriented. I started something new, and although I'm quick with first drafts, I don't have any expectations.
Congrats on getting PLAYING WITH MATCHES out on submission - two manuscripts out - hooray!
ReplyDeleteI'll be interested to hear how your structure experiment goes!
Love hearing this for you. Hope to have my own manuscript finished by end of summer. I'll keep you posted!
ReplyDeleteThat's so great on having 2 MSs out on submission! Congrats!
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