Your Manuscript's Word Count is Important

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Probably, many of you already understand the importance of your manuscript's word count when considering traditional publishing. However, I'm posting this anyway because I didn't take this into account when I began writing my first "novel" (an inspirational romance), and it is important to consider. 

I am currently in the process of editing my manuscript because it isn't long enough for the book series I am targeting for publication. When I first began writing the story, I researched the minimum standard word count that represented a novel, which most sources will tell you is between 40,000 to 50,000. Because of my inexperience, and lack of research, I targeted my book for 50,000 words and that was that. I believe I ended up with about 47,000 when I completed the final draft and began querying literary agents. 

Many of the rejections I received didn't give me any feedback, so I didn't really know why they weren't interested in my story. I assumed I needed to revise my query letter, which was true. My letter wasn't terrible, but it did lack the potential to stand out in the sea of other queries.

When an agent did finally requested to see my full manuscript, they recommended it for a particular book series that required a maximum word count of 50,0000. Perfect, right? Well, it was until the publisher decided to cancel the book series. Luckily, the agent is allowing me to revise my book for another series, which requires 70,000 to 75,000 words. Terrific, right? Well, yes, but my manuscript was only at 50,000 words. That meant I had to add 20,000!

You're probably thinking, that's not too bad. After all, writing 20,000 words doesn't take that long. Well, when you're adding that many words to an existing manuscript, the addition is going to consist of more than fluff. I finally have the attention of an agent, I don't want to take away from the story, but instead, add value. In doing so, I've had to introduce a few new characters - one with a significant role - as well as a subplot. These changes have lead to multiple revisions and adjustments to the existing story.

Although it has been about two months since the agent's request, and I am finally on the downward slope to finishing the addition, I could have avoided this large revision if I had done a little research. 

I reviewed several sources for recommended word count, and most of them will tell you to target your first novel at an average of about 80,000 words. This is between the recommended range of 70,000 to 90,000. I would recommend considering a couple of things before settling on a particular number.

1. Consider your genre and target audience. Although 80,000 words is recommended for a fiction novel, as little as 40,000 and up to 120,000 words is considered novel range by definition. The reason for this is because different genres have different recommendations for word count. For example, if you're writing an adult mystery novel, the recommended word count is between 70,000 - 90,000, while the recommendation for a YA fiction is between 50,000 - 70,000. 
2. Consider the agency's guidelines. Each agent may have a range that they are more comfortable representing, so it is worth the time to go over your list of target agencies/agents and check their recommendations. I have seen on several agency sites where their guidelines state a minimum or maximum acceptable word count, even though a lower or higher one is generally accepted. 

What is your manuscript's word count? Have you ever had to revise it for an agent or editor?

Winter Inspiration

Ah...Kentucky winters. Normally, they bring cold and dreary days with lots of clouds and moisture that make you want to retreat to your bed and hibernate until spring. Then, other times, they bring a beautiful sheet of winter wonder that you can't help but to stare at in awe. When I looked out my kitchen window Saturday morning, I was like a child seeing their first snow. It doesn't matter how many times I've seen it - each time it happens, it casts a magical spell over me that soothes my soul and makes me smile. Can't you just smell the wood burning in the fireplace, and taste the rich hot chocolate topped with white pillows of fluffy sugar. There's just something about a good snow that lifts my spirit and inspires me during this, usually, gloomy season.

As a writer, it can be so hard to find the energy, let alone the inspiration, to be productive during the cold months. I believe that much of it has to do with attitude. Whether you continue exercising on a consistent basis, or liven up your home with cheerful colors and uplifting scents, there are ways you can boost your mood, and help keep a positive outlook until the song birds return. Inevitably, winter will continue to arrive each year bringing its, sometimes, harsh elements. Instead, of retreating to a state of gloom and doom for the winter season, try finding something positive, beautiful, or even magical to inspire you.

What inspires you this winter?

Still sailing...

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Hello out there world. I'm still here - still kicking, still sailing. To all my very few followers, sorry for the long delay, and thank you for still lingering to see where this quest takes me. Like many newbie bloggers before me, I have managed to turn this blog into a job, instead of having fun, and doing what I love to do more than just about anything - write. I have come to the realization, though, that I can't act as if my love for writing is the only aspect of my life that I care about. I also love being a mother, a wife, reading, organizing (everything I touch), cooking, gardening, living in Kentucky, and serving God (last but not least), among many other things.

I am still working vigorously and passionately on my quest for writing success, and I have some exciting goals this year that I plan to meet, and will soon share with you. In the meantime though, I hope I can begin again fresh starting with a blog face-lift (hope you like it - I'm up for suggestions). You can also expect posts to be a little more relaxed, fun, and concerning a variety of topics, which, of course, still revolve around my quest to become a published author. So, happy New Year everyone! I hope you've set some goals for yourself too, and are well on your way to achieving them!

Is your workload too heavy?

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I wrote previously how physical clutter could actually cause a cluttered mind; meaning that it can be difficult to focus on a particular task when other things are weighing on your mind. Physical clutter is only one of many things that can have an impact on our ability to stay focused and reach goals. Some of those things are within our control, like a cluttered office, and some are not within our control. An example of this might be having a family member who is ill. Unfortunately, we can’t wave a magic wand and make someone feel better. Additionally, illness is not bias – it affects everyone, and usually, at the most inconvenient times.

For the things we can control, people, including myself, often take on more work and responsibility than is necessary, and therefore, causing a lot of unwarranted anxiety. Although we feel like we’re working nonstop, we’re actually doing a lot of zig and zag and not getting much done. I have realized over the years that it’s not realistic to take on everything alone, and that it’s okay to ask for help. Here are a few things that I have implemented in my life that can help reduce the workload.

1.      Staying clean and organized: Some of you might be thinking, I have kids. I can’t be clean and organized!  You might also image I’m referring to a spotless and fresh-smelling home with bright, white furniture and carpet, and whenever you enter you can hear the faint sound of a choir singing an angelic melody. Come on! I’m a mom – I know these homes only exist in magazines. Mine certainly doesn’t look like that. However, you can have a system where everything has a place (even though those things may not always be in their place). Check out my post for eliminating clutter and getting organized here. Additionally, you can have a manageable cleaning routine that reduces your workload for the long-term. Don’t let things pile up when a daily 15-minute effort can keep things clean and organized.

2.      Asking for help: If you’re like me, it’s hard to ask someone to do something when you know you can do it better or quicker. I could easily allow myself to spend each day constantly picking up after the kids, and completing simple, yet, time-consuming tasks that they are more than capable to handle. It’s not that I don’t want to teach my children responsibility. It’s just usually quicker if I do it myself. What I now realize is that they might not be able to do it as quick or as well, but they can certainly do it. Additionally, husbands are usually willing to help! If yours is like mine, he would prefer you to specifically tell him what you’d like done. I know – we shouldn’t have to ask. However, I used to think he was avoiding having to help me, but really, he just thought I didn’t want his help. Remember that your spouse cannot read your mind. If you need help, ask for it.

3.      Just say no: This is the toughest one for me to overcome. I tend to be the go-to girl in my family. Everyone likes to come to me for help or advice, which I find very flattering. However, there are times when I just don’t have the time and/or energy for the request. I’m not saying you shouldn’t help others. I’m just saying that sometimes it’s okay to say, “I would love to help, but I really don’t have time this week,” or “This isn’t a good time for me to talk. Can I call you back later?” Don’t overload yourself with “requests” to the point where you can’t take care of your own priorities. Over time, this can cause you to build resentment toward your friend or family member.

What are some tips you have to reduce clutter, become organized, or minimize the workload in your life?

Writing Inspirational Romance

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What is it about romance novels that attract readers (and when I say romance, I don’t mean erotica)? There’s something about that moment when one attractive set of eyes meet another, the description of that first accidental (or purposely) grazing of two elbows or shoulders, or – ah – the first kiss – delicate, a little passionate, and a little clumsy. It’s all about the newness of a relationship – those moments, days, and weeks leading up to the confession of those three little words, I love you.

I will admit, I’m a fan. I love reading and writing romance; however, I think it’s important to understand the purpose readers (including myself) have for enjoying them. I will begin by saying that I don’t enjoy reading just any romance novel. My love is for inspirational romance. It is one thing for a man and woman to fall in love and have a relationship under their own terms, but completely another when God is guiding the relationship.

With that said, I want to point out how important is it to make that distinction when you set out to write an inspirational romance. Your reader is most certainly looking for the passion between your two characters, but they’re looking for something more – it’s called encouragement. The message surrounding the romance is, in my opinion, just as important (probably more important) to be successful in this sub-genre. There are a few things the writer should ask themselves.

·    What positive message of encouragement am I sending? Are you trying to send a message of faith or hope? Maybe you want your reader to know they aren’t alone. Perhaps you want to outline the importance of being patient.

·    How does this encouraging message relate to Biblical or Christian principles? What scriptures in the Bible support your encouraging message?

·    Are my characters' decisions and behavior aligning with Christian values? If your characters are Christians, they should act like Christians.

My intention was not to put a damper on the romance, which I believe is a very important part of the story. After all, it’s called inspirational romance for a reason. On the other hand, just because you write romance, it doesn’t mean that all fans of romance will enjoy your story. I believe my point is, you shouldn’t try to cater your inspirational romance to everyone. This sub-genre, I believe, has a divine purpose. Straying from that might make an agent question your ability to deliver. Instead, focus on a specific audience with a strong and clear, encouraging message.

Do you enjoy reading or writing romance? Why do you enjoying reading it? Is there a particular type of romance you prefer? Why?

Why do you read?

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People read for different reasons. Some read to become smarter, some read to be informed, some read for entertainment, some read to escape, and some read because – Sally asked me to join a book club and she’s my best friend and also the club president, so I can’t let her down. This is not an all-inclusive list. The list of reasons why people read could go on forever.

I, for example, have read to gain wisdom, to search for an answer, to get an ‘A’ on a book report, to find inspiration, and because I love stories.

Why do you read? Just curious…

When you just don't feel like writing...

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As I sit lightly drumming the keys on my keyboard this morning, wondering what I’m going to write about, I realize that I haven’t been writing much of anything lately (lately meaning the last few weeks). Just a short while ago, I had no trouble plowing through a couple of pages of my work-in-progress, but lately I’m feeling bored – feeling a bunch of nothingness. This feeling makes me wonder what has caused this sudden loss of interest. Because, that’s exactly what it feels like – uninteresting.

 

Don’t get me wrong. I love to write. I’ve described it before as being very freeing. As a writer, you are limitless with opportunity for expression and creative ideas. So, why is it that we sometimes lose interest? I can state with confidence that it’s not that I’m tired of writing. I still have a desire to do it, but can’t seem to get myself back into the groove where things feel right. I also want to point out that this should not be confused with writer’s block, which means the writer can’t produce new or original ideas. Being unable and be uninterested are completely different. So, what is it then?

 

I don’t want to waste time talking about the whys. Whether it’s lack of motivation, stress, sorrow, sickness, or dare I say, laziness, every writer has days, or even weeks, when they just “don’t feel like it”. In situations like these, I can propose a few solutions that have helped me get back in the groove.

1. Do something creative. Most writers have other creative talents, whether it’s cooking, crafting, organizing, or some other artistic ability. When you’re feeling uninspired, doing something creative can help spark other creative talents again.
2. Take a break. It’s easy to become bogged down with responsibility and forget that we need some downtime. When our minds of full of everything else, it’s easy to put writing on the backburner. Even if only for a short period each day, do something that doesn’t require thinking, and just relax, not just your body, but your brain too.
3. Write. You’re probably thinking – What? Isn’t that the problem? However, the worst thing you can do when you don’t feel like writing is to stop writing. One day without writing can easily turn into two, and three, then four. Before you know it, you haven’t written anything in weeks. Even if only for 10 to 15 minutes, keep writing each day.

Do you have times when you just don’t feel like writing? What do you do to get back into the groove?