It is wonderful to see so many writers publishing their fictional works, either through a traditional publisher or by self-publishing. This makes me wonder as I wrap up my next (non-fiction) book - will I ever attempt another fictional story?
There is such a learning curve with writing. I’m not sure at what point we finally get a handle on things, but for me I don’t think I really knew what I was doing with my fictional work until Book V of my YA series. (I’ve since read a lot of big name authors say they wish they could redo their first few books, so I’m not alone.)
It’s not just the learning curve. Promoting and selling fiction is much more difficult than non-fiction. (I’ve done both.) Speaking engagements and media interviews are so much easier to acquire when you’re promoting a non-fiction book.
The genre of the fictional story I’m contemplating has me worried. Not to mention the fact that it’s an anthology of four novelette length stories. With a working title of “Four in Darkness,” the stories center on a ghost, a werewolf, an alien, and a vampire. Toss in that all four involve a romance and that lands the title right in the middle of an over-saturated genre: paranormal romance. And in two years, that genre will be on the wane or dead.
So what do I do? I’d really wanted to write something different from realistic fiction. I certainly don’t want to ever do YA again. But paranormal fantasy/romance? Do I really want to all but kill myself promoting a fictional title again? Maybe I should just stick to non-fiction now.
26 comments:
Write it anyway! You just never know.
Yeah. I agree with Alex. Write it anyway.
You've already got so much thought out in your head, you've GOT to write it! Have fun with it :)
Change is good and I say go ahead with the non-fiction. You're right about a fiction story going kaput in a couple years.
It sounds quite interesting! I think you should just let the story take you where its going. Good luck!
Are there any babies involved in this paranormal romance? I want to know what a zombie/alien baby would look like.
Alex planted a seed in my mind about writing a book about Daniel...very tempting to try but have never written anything but poetry.
Yvonne.
Most of you say go for it. Maybe I should.
Powdered Toast Man, I can work one in for you.
I say go with your gut. If it tells you to focus on non-fiction, do that. If not, then write something else. If your new story is calling for you, then it might be what you need to write. By the way, I think the novelette anthology sounds awesome.
If the stories grab you and you want to write them - write them. Worry about the marketing later. And the novelette length seems to be right on target with continuing market trends, so that's a definite plus.
I'm with Cherie. Keep following your gut and your heart. You'll find your way.
xoRobyn
I'm with everyone else. Write it. It'll be something a little different. And I want to know about that alien cross baby myself.
It sounds like you already have a plan in mind.
Choices, choices. You'll make the right one.
Go with what feels right. If the story is burning to be written, write it. If it had to get out that badly, some part of you must be willing to do the work to see it sold. Whatever you decide, good luck.
That is a tough question. I'm not sure what I'd do.
I really like your posts. I read through the last several. New follower.
The original concept for my women's fiction trilogy was a set of four noevella's under the series title Our Sister's Story. As I wrote the first, I started finding I could explore all four concepts with one character, over several years of growth. Some of her friends filled in the gaps with subplots.
So, I say start off with your novella's, see where they take you. You're a much more experienced writer than when you started Circle of Friends. I'm sure you'll know how to explore your concepts.
........dhole
I like the saying, "It is not the equipped that are called, but the call that equips." If you know in your heart that you need to write your fiction story, trust that the time, effort in selling will be blessed. If it is the wrong path, may you know and feel peaceful taking another direction.
Follow your heart! If you find yourself continually circling back to that story, then that's where your heart lies and and you should dive in!
Happy 4th! :)
Cherie, thank you.
Nicki, that is good to know.
Thank you, Tonja.
Donna, that's good to know you've done something similar.
DL, I've circled the wagon many times with this one.
I hear you about wanting a change. I think that's why I hopped over to Middle Grade fantasy. It was a nice way to escape all that YA angst. Not sure what to do next.
I'll bet you'd be great at non-fiction. I'm thinking that might be the way to go as well.
Happy Insecure Writers 4th!
It's such a dilemma. I guess we must all write what the heart enjoys most. Good luck.
I've decided to launch an ebook novella and I'm learning that the publicity is as important as all the rest.
I say write the story anyway. Whether or not you publish it is irrelevant. Write it for you, because you want to.
L. Diane, promoting your work seems like the hardest part. My brother's a published writer, but it took him years and a lot of effort. Worth it though!
- Maurice Mitchell
The Geek Twins | Film Sketchr
@thegeektwins | @mauricem1972
Alex is right; you just never know. The problem with the learning curve is that about the time I think I've sort of "got it", it changes. Oh well, keeps me on my toes. :)
Have a great weekend!
If you have a story that needs to get out, then write it...even if it is just for yourself.
Post a Comment