Best Laid Plans… and other Truths of Writing
First, a big thank you to fans who are eager, yet patient about the release of the next Valentine book. My plan was to have it ready for you Valentine’s day, but editing is going very slowly. However, I’m still working on something special for Valentine’s day, so you might be seeing an excerpt and perhaps some other goodies…(chocolate?)
The truth is, even when self-publishing, writing, editing, publishing takes a long time. Once I’m done fixing the book, I have to get it to my editor, who’ll need a couple of weeks. Then there is formatting and cover design, etc. However, I will say that traditional publishers take forever. In February, it will be two years since I sent the full manuscript of Southern Comfort (per the editor’s request), and I still haven’t heard anything except, “We’re sorry it’s taking so long. We’ll be in touch soon.” In November, I secured the services of an agent, who got the same response from the publisher. Fortunately, the agent can submit it to other places in the mean time. It’s been a real exercise in patience.
In November, I submitted the Delecoeur prequel, now called Worth the Risk, to Hachette’s Forever Yours ebook line. The auto response email said I’d hear in four weeks. Admittedly, it wasn’t a good time to submit as it was a week before Thanksgiving. However, it’s now been eight weeks and even with a little nudge last week, I’ve heard nothing.
So what’s a writer to do? Keep writing of course. I have several projects (including Valentine book 5) in the works and new ideas percolating. I think 2015 is going to be a good year.
