Mostly writing a book seems like a one-person job, and in many ways it certainly is. However, early feedback and criticism (the good and the bad kind) not only influence the turns and twists a story can take, but also help uncover the depth of the characters involved.
Therefore, I have decided to embark on a new project and I am inviting all of you to join me.
I want to try and write a novella. I’m using the word ‘try’ here because I tend to ramble on. Very often my first drafts are quite lengthy, and I always have trouble shortening them. So, this is the ultimate challenge: fit a story within the pre-set word limit of 30,000 (more or less). To make matters worse, I have already set the publication date to April 29 (this year!). A little pressure always manages to do the trick, doesn't it?
As I start writing, I will make my drafts available to the readers, book enthusiasts and bibliophiles on my mailing list. Please, feel free to comment. Help me polish this story to make it shine.
To give you a little idea of the story I will be working on, here a short blurb (FYI it’s a regency novella):
Despite her parents’ deep love for one another, Isabella Carrington has always favoured her mind over her heart. Meeting Charles Dashwood, she quickly decides that he is the one for her. After all, he has all the qualities she appreciates in a man; he is kind, honest and dependable.
At least until her wedding day, when Isabella suddenly desires someone entirely different, or doesn't she?
In the very moment, Isabella whispers her ‘I do’, her eyes catch the glimpse of another man. A man whose eyes look unnervingly familiar, and yet stir a longing within her heart and soul she has never known.
Just as she gives her hand to Charles Dashwood, her heart is stolen by none other than her husband’s notorious twin, Robert.
But when mind and heart do not go hand in hand, can there be a happily ever after?
Starting next weekend, I will begin uploading my drafts chapter by chapter. So sign up for my mailing list and I’ll provide you with a password to access the site.
This ought to be fun (I hope)!
