But, I find all the little things that come after the writing even harder. In fact, most writers will tell you that the creation of the story, the evolution of the characters, the movement of the plot, all spell great fun and are full of surprises. Of course, it’s hard to sit down every day at your computer and make yourself get started. But, once you do, inevitably things just roll. That’s what keeps us going.
It’s edited and edited some more. It’s been read by Beta readers, corrected, massaged and clipped and nipped. Out it goes to the publisher.
Now, we sit back and wait. While waiting, I’m usually working on a new manuscript. Often it takes several months for the contract to come through. Never one to waste time, I’m creating new stories, new characters and new plots. Then one day the contract lands in my inbox. Yikes! I’d forgotten all about that story. I’ve been so engrossed in my current Work in Progress or (WIP) as writers call it.
With my mind whirling, I put aside the WIP and begin plowing through the new tasks. Tasks I consider harder than writing the novel:
- Your publisher wants to know what you’d like the book cover to look like. What do you, as the author who knows the story, suggest. Yes, I’m the author, but I’m no artist! I struggle to answer the questions and to find sample book covers that I like. All the while I recognize how very important the book cover is.
- Next, your publisher wants a blurb, a 200 word description of your book that captures the reader’s attention. It’s what will go on the “back jacket.” It’s gotta grab. It tells the story without giving too much away. Work on my book blurbs takes as much time as writing the novel itself. I run it by potential readers for feedback. I write, re-write, sweat, and ponder.
- If that’s not enough, you publisher then asks you for a logline. This is a 20-word single sentence that captures the essence of your 82,000 word book! OMG. Can you imagine doing that? Moreover, this logline must also attract readers. So, it has to be catchy and fit your genre. I won’t tell you how long it takes me to write the logline. In fact, I’m still struggling with that part.
So, if you think writing your novel is hard, just wait. It gets even harder once the novel is finished!
I got my contract from MuseitUp Publishing last week for A Painting to Die For: Jenna Scali Mystery Series Book 3.
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