The Insecure Writers Support Group meets online every first Wednesday of the month. Founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh, IWSG was created to support and encourage all writers in every phase of their work, from writing to marketing. Click here to join, and for information, writing tips and more.Co-hosts for the the October 7 posting of IWSG are TB Markinson, Tamara Narayan, Shannon Lawrence, Stephanie Faris, and Eva E. Solar!
Well, it's that time of the month again. I was determined to report by this date that I had finished my novel and was finally submitting the blessed thing. I didn't think I could handle another post where I groveled and attempted to explain yet another delay.
Happy to report, I DID IT! My main insecurity this month was hitting the 'send' button on my first query (to an agent) two days. My heart started to pound and I think I even broke out in a sweat. Now for the waiting stage, the toughening up period, as the results trickle in. I hope all are kind; I hope some are good, with requests for my manuscript and helpful advice if rejected.
I've been using Query Tracker for the process and love it. You can organize your queries, set up reminders, research an agent's track record--their response time, number of manuscripts in genres queried, clients, current needs, and more. It's all about simplifying the "business" of writing. From there you can go to the actual website and conduct more research. It's time consuming, yes, something I expected, but necessary. "In for a penny, in for a pound," my husband likes to remind me.
Other....
--Removed the dust on a manuscript I started awhile back.
--Attending a two day writers conference, Rivers of Ink, this weekend in Richland, WA. I'm excited to meet some area writers!
--Visited the LA County Fair last week with my son's family. (My cute grandsons at the end :) The displays in the children's building were extraordinary. Here are some of the life size books and titles displayed in the reading section. Take a look. Aren't they great?
Wishing you all well in your writing journey
and a fabulous month!
It is so exciting that we reached this point (finishing our manuscripts, querying agents) at the same time. Best of luck, Sharon! It's about time our writing took a new direction.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck to you too. We've come a long way my friend!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on finishing your novel, and good luck with your agent search! I'm looking forward to being where you are with my novel length fiction.
ReplyDeleteThank you. Trying not to stress too much.
DeleteCongratulations!! It's huge that you finished the novel and that you're starting the query process. I've used Query-Tracker too. It's great! Wishing you much luck on your queries! :)
ReplyDeleteI believe it's ready, but I guess the results will show. Thanks!
DeleteOh, I remember using Query Tracker, back in the day. That had definitely been a big help. Anyway, best of luck with all your querying! That never fails to be such a stressful process. Sounds like you have some fun things to distract you, though, like that writing conference!
ReplyDeleteThanks Heather. I'm looking forward to the conference!
DeleteI really thought those were bookshelves! I envy you the conference - and I am DELIGHTED with your querying! May you only hear good news! (Darling, charming kids who, I imagine, keep everyone on their toes!)
ReplyDeleteThe displays were wonderful. A nice surprise and so different from the fairs you see in rural communities. Thanks!
DeleteI wish you all the best of luck.
ReplyDeleteYvonne.
Thanks, Yvonne! I'm hopeful.
DeleteCongratulations on finishing and hitting send!
ReplyDeleteThose displays are really cool.
Thanks! Hitting the send button was tough. Wish the process were easier, but it will mean that much more if I succeed :)
DeleteGreat to hear you subbed the manuscript! Waiting out here with you and fingers are crossed.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Learning from the rest of you, I realize this next step is challenging. Right now, I'm experiencing relief. I can finally work on other projects.
ReplyDeleteGo, you!!! I love the concept of Query Tracker. Where was it when I was submitting? I used an Excel spreadsheet! It's SO hard to hit the send button on emails like that. That's a huge accomplishment.
ReplyDeleteUgh....glad I don't have to use Excel. QT is so much better. Thanks for the encouragement, Stephanie.
DeleteSounds like I need to check out Query Tracker. I must be behind everyone, but I have not heard of it. So happy to see someone who finished their novel and send it on out there, good for you! Wish you all the best of luck!
ReplyDeleteNice to meet you Claudia. Thanks so much for stopping by.
DeleteCongrats on finishing your book!! Best of luck with it! Love those photos. Have fun with your new writing project!
ReplyDeleteLori, thank you! I had fun researching topics for my new book this week..
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