Q4U: Who Are You as a Writer?
Let’s find out who’s reading this blog.
First, take the two polls in the sidebar. Click as many answers as apply, then click “vote” on each of the two questions. Note: If you’re contracted but not published yet, let’s count that as published.
Then in the comments, tell us more. If you write fiction, what genre do you you write? If you write non-fiction, what are you writing about? How long have you been writing? How long have you been publishing? Tell us whatever you want about your writing!
Looking forward to getting to know you a little better. Have a good weekend!
Rachelle Gardner, Literary Agent
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Took me time to read all of the feedback, but I truly loved the article. It proved to be quite beneficial to me and I am sure to all the commenters ideal here! It’s always good if you can not solely be informed, but furthermore engaged! I’m positive you had pleasure penning this post. Anyway, in my language, there aren’t a great deal superior supply like this.
>I'm bummed I missed the poll!
Here goes:
I write Christian fiction.
I've been writing with purpose since February 2009.
There a laundry list of wonderful things that have transpired from my new journey. I thank God everyday for creating me for His great purposes- writing! Yay!
>I am still trying to discover who I am as a writer.
>I feel so left behind. Computer and cell phone out of commission in the same week.
Well, I wrote my story and that is about it. Recently, I have been putting some articles together and working on my craft.
I have a lot to learn and want to practice writing beyond my own story.
Dana
>I write nonfiction to uplift, encourage and strengthen the body of Christ. I write a devotional blog and have a Christian living WIP about our identity in Christ.
Many thanks for sharing such valuable info. You're a blessing.
Susan
>I am not published. I write non-fiction on homemaking/home-related topics (it's really more than that but that is the anchor) for a somewhat conservative Christian audience. My main project is a guide for unmarried Christian women who want to prepare themselves to be excellent wives, mothers, and homemakers. It's hard to query agents when I know the book is something most people would either not be interested in or actively dislike ~ including the agents temselves. Publishers are hard to, because they either don't want to hear from me directly or they don't give advances (I need at least a little money to complete the book). So that's pretty much where I am: frustrated!
>Hi Rachelle,
My genre is memoir/ narrative non-fiction.
I'm currently working on a memoir about living in the UK, and in general living overseas, from a Christian, twentysomething's perspective.
I edited a Christian NGO magazine in my last job and most of the writing I've been paid for centers around inspiring Christians to take action on global social justice issues.
Thanks for your great blog!
>I've been writing a middle grade action adventure for almost three years.
>I'm currently writing a Chick Lit. Have a few more story ideas in my back pocket. I also have a few Screenplays I've started but haven't finished.
I've been serious about write since the age of 18. I took three years off when I met my husband and had two babies. Now I'm juggling the hubs, the babes, school and my writing. I love it!
>This is funny, because I'm blogging at Romance University on Monday–is it a shameless plug if I'm not selling anything?–about establishing a writing career before publication. What I write is suspense with romance, but I've learned not to label my writing. I'm also dabbling in freelance, which is an awesome way to exercise both sides of the brain. 🙂
>I write for one of the hardest genres to get noticed in: YA Urban Fantasy. It feels like everyone is trying to get in on this craze, but I started my book in 2005 without even knowing there WAS such a genre. So, I won't say I'm giving up, but my publishing dreams don't seem to be hinging on this one. I'll just have to write another and see how it does.
The weird thing is, I've had professional help with the query and the story is unlike any other story line out there, so I don't understand the lack of interest. It's not like any of the paranormal plots out there (nor even with vamps and werewolves). I wish I understood the decisions behind interest in stories.
>I have had two short stories published in anthologies.
I have a one novel written but still editing and another I am still writing. Both are urban fantasy.
>I have had two short stories published in anthologies.
I have a one novel written but still editing and another I am still writing. Both are urban fantasy.
>If you write fiction, what genre do you you write?
I consider it women's fiction, but that's kind of a misnomer because the guys who have read my stuff really seem to enjoy it, too. So, maybe it's more accurate to say commercial.
How long have you been writing?
Since the first time my mom put a pen in my hand. I've been a professional writer/reporter for years, but I've only recently started getting serious about my goals as a fiction writer.
>I write children's — kinda funny how many of us are here though you don't represent kids' books! I write short stories, have a PB out on submission, and am currently revising a chapter book. My kids are young so I have a lot of ideas for "young" books right now, but I see myself settling in with MG & YA since that's what I love to read most.
Thanks, Rachelle!
>I write fiction. The book I have published is a Rock and Roll Fiction, classified as a Romance.
I am working on my second novel, a sequel to the first that can also stand alone of it's own merit. A tough process, but determined.
My first book is just now going out of print.
I also write, songs, poetry, and short fiction for fun.
>I'm a little late to this, but I write Urban Fantasy. My latest WIP is a YA urban fantasy.
I am "pre-published" 🙂
>I'm writing a YA novel and part of a fantastic critique group, the Slushbusters.
Let's see… no novels under the bed- but my WIP has a decade's worth of versions that should never (and will never!) see the light of day.
I've only been writing (working-on-a-book-writing) for about 10 years. My sister says that I told her stories at night when we were little. And I remember fixing stories, too. I'd change the ending or add a more intriguing character. I'd even edit.
Oh! One more thing. I adore revision. It's hard, but so much more satisfying than most first drafts.
>Sorry I missed this post on Friday hopefully I'm not too late!!
I write YA fiction. I've been writing stories since I was a kid, but professionally (research) for 5 years. I switched to fiction writing in December when I decided to become a stay at home mom.
I've written three children's picture books, but my true love is YA novels. I'm currently 30,000 words into my work in progress, which is a YA paranormal/historical romance, which will end up being a series (that is if I can get the first one published). I love my characters and the story so much that I can't cram the entire storyline into one novel.
While I'm working on my YA novel I've been querying agents for my picture books.
Thanks for your interest in your readers. I love reading your posts!
>Hola Rachelle,
I have only started writing seriously a year and a half ago, and I'm still trying out new things. I am writing a YA non-fiction of a female soldier, that at the age of 23, she is a Veteran of two Wars.
Who and what motivated her; memories of afar, and why she was so determand to persue her career.
Although, I am still working on my book, I have completed my proposal, and query letter, but have not sent it out to no agents as of yet. But, I look forward into being on your contact list.
Thank you, for your kindness.
Lopez
>Wow! What a list. It's going to take me days to go through this.
Judging by the poll results, I'm a double rarity: a published non-fiction writer.
My first book ("Writers Gone Wild," a collection of stories about writers having way too much fun) will appear this fall from Penguin's Perigee books.
I've been writing for years, but very scattershot: novels, mostly, but book reviews for various newspapers, and material for my web site (if you read James Lileks' site, you'll have some idea what I write).
I'm also in the process of annotating the novels and short stories of mystery writer Dorothy L. Sayers, which has been fun and got me in touch with a lot of great people who correct my factual errors. Hint: everyone likes to correct your mistakes, so make a lot of them.
So it looks like it has taken me 30 years to become an overnight success. It's been a long, frustrating journey, especially since I can see the mistakes I could have avoided, but I'm still punching, so I'm happy.
Next stop for me is to finish the proposal for the Writers Gone Wild sequel (about Hollywood), and then some stories that have been rottling about in me head.
>First book was published through a contest – chick lit all the way. My current work however is Christian Suspense – on my way to ensuring I'm ready to query. I write for online pubs/companies as well.
>Woohooo, you sure got a plethora of responses. Awesome!
I'm a nonfiction writer with my first book coming out in July. It's a Bible study on Ecclesiastes entitled "Understanding What Matters Most" and it just became available for pre-orders.
I currently have three wips. One is a mentor program that is near and dear to my heart. It's designed to impact pregnant teens and twenty somethings. It's to be used in churches and women's minstries, but also in women's shelters, homes for unwed mothers and schools.
I'm also working on a women's Bible study on Philippians and a book called "Obscure Greatness" which highlights the lives of the unknown who have dramatically impacted the well known.
Finally, my husband and I are working on a book called "Rethinking Church." Taking an honest look at the modern church in light of the New Testament church and challenging the status quo. Questioning the traditions we've looked at as law. I have a feeling this one may raise a few eyebrows.
Because I'm primarily a speaker, writing has been secondary for me. However, it seems to be closing in for a tie and I'm finding that "not" writing is not an option.
>Hi Rachelle, I write stories for children. Most are fiction I want to write non-fiction as well. I am new to sort of writing, and have a lot to learn. Thanks for your post.
>I'm a former full-time magazine editor, now doing mostly freelance writing and editing. I write fiction—suspense, mostly. I appreciate the community here and the tips that teach us all about the business side of the job we love!
>I am almost ready to query my first science fantasy novel.
Writing has been a secret part of my life since my teen years. I still write for me, but something clicked two years ago and I wrote my first full length novel and shared it with a friend. We were both surprised with the potential and I have worked on revisions ever since.
Currently I split my time between trying to educate myself about the business side of publication, platform building, and polishing my novel.
>Other than a couple of shorts I am unpublished. I have one completed manuscript that is literary fiction about the cycle of abuse. Heavy read, and even heavier writing.
I have a few other manuscripts that are 'in progress', ranging from rough drafts that are currently in rewrite stages to half finished.
Then there are my outlines, future projects. Those are piling up. I started out thinking I should write horror but then a writer friend suggested I try something new, and I had to choose to go with writing that will make people think and feel and question. I love it. I can't imagine why I thought I couldn't write it.
>Hey Rachelle, love the polls from Friday.
I write contemporary romance/women's fiction. One book published; lots of projects in the works. 🙂
Thanks for all the helpful info on your blog.
>I wrote my first Children's book that was just recently published. I went through a Literary Agency. I started writing a little over 3 years ago. My book was published in Dec 2009. So i am new at this and just looking for ideas on how to sell my book. It's been published by Eloquent Books. I think I will be staying with the Children books, I really like writing books for children.
>Rachel,
I write between. Between classes and grading. Between waking and traveling. Between laundry loads and running errands.
Between student club meetings afterschool and detention hall. Between Sunday to Saturday. Between midnight and dawn. That pretty much wraps it up. Fiction, both short and long, for children and young adults is my genre, and I'm sticking to it.
>I write paranormal YA with romance. I suppose it could also be classified as contemporary fantasy as well.
>Hi Rachelle!
I love and write historical romance. I especially love Regency set novels, some Victorian, and it's got to have a great twist, mystery and/or suspense.
When I do decide to complete a non-fiction book it will most likely be about mental health and how the church helps and hurts the mentally ill.
>I started writing non-fiction but could not bring my story to life. So I switched it to fiction and wrapped my teachings around a story line.
My manuscript is the hands of my editor and I am waiting her changes. This is the fifth revision. Since I have never attempted a fiction book, I had to learn on the fly.
I have nearly 20 years of management and leadership under my belt and have much to reach others. I am especially excited about reaching fellow christians in their quest to be strong leaders in the business world.
My goal is to be compared with Og Mandino in regards to writing style.
>I'm writing my third book in a series for my first contract with Heartsong Presents. I write contemporary romance and I've made it through the entire editing process for book 1, which comes out in May. What a learning curve. I just turned in the second book and I'm halfway into book 3, deadline June. Excited, nervous, and stressed all at the same time. But mostly excited.
>Looks like I am in the minority, too. I am an ex-attorney who left the practice of law to stay at home with her sons. I write narrative nonfiction, mainly humorous essays, on marriage, motherhood, and running a home. I have authored a popular blog for the last three years (same subjects), but have never been published.
>I write Fantasy, Historical Romance, Supernatural and Sci-fi.
It's a lot and I'm sometimes all over the place. I finally buckled down last year to finish a novel and this year I'd like to focus on trying to get an agent.
I started my first book when I was 10 about a magical planet that was pushed out of the solar system past pluto. XD
I still remember it fondly and often tempted to try and re-write it. XD
>It's so interesting to see what others are working on! I write literary and historical fiction. Currently, I'm looking for an agent for my Christian literary historical (now that's a mouthful!). I've also started work on a literary novel set in the Southwest during the early 1960s.
I've been writing for more years than I want to count. I have an MFA in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts and have published a fair number of short pieces but no book-length works. My publications include short stories, personal essays, and nonfiction articles.
>I've had five books published in the Christian romance genre, but, I'd like to break into women's fiction with longer stories – if the Lord allows me to do this!
>I write contemporary fiction and am currently working on a novel about a family with a brain-damaged child. I also work as a freelance copywriter in the advertising industry.
>I write Fantasy/sci-fi. Although that being said i'm rewriting the only novel i've written so far and it seriously needs rewritten from the middle onwards so am about to embark on it.
>Currently querying agents with my middle-grade adventure. (Not sure my voice is compelling enough.)
Rough outline for a mg/ya science fiction. (I planned it as YA, but now am waffling.)
Two romances – editing the contemporary. Sighing hopelessly over the historical. (I guess I know how to fix it – it just seems overwhelming right now.)
Writing features in my local newspaper. ($15 each isn't much, but does make me paid and published! Woohoo!)
Goals:
Finish the romance edits and submit.
Expand the non-fic into magazine articles, and submit.
Write and submit short stories – romance or children's.
Spend less time reading blogs and "studying craft", and more time writing and revising.
Find my courage. And submit.
>I've been writing seriously for 2 years and am enjoying the journey. I have finished an inspirational historical, but because it is medieval – which is not a great time period for CBA – I am going to try my hand at some contemporary ideas I have. I'm leaning alot and am having a blast in the cyber-writer's world!
>I write YA–mostly contemporary, but some paranormal. I'm working on something right now that I'm really in love with, so my fingers are crossed–hopefully others will love it, too.
Thanks, Rachel. Love your blog.
>The genre that I write is historical fiction. My first two books and my current writing are all based on Biblical history. My current novel covers Creation to the Flood.
I started writing in 2000 and self-published my first book in 2003. My second novel was traditionally published in 2007. I will soon be seeking an agent.
Still excited about writing.
>I write adult fantasy/scifi. In the last 10 years, I've written 3 novel length manuscripts, all very beginner-y. In October I started my fourth novel and am very excited about it. This one finally feels publishable. I figure I've got about 20,000 words left to write, revisions to make, and then this one will be queried!
>I have one children's story and two early-reader stories, but have not even begun the process of looking for a publisher.
I have a non-fiction book idea bouncing around in my head that I really want to write, but with children ages 3,5, and 9 at home, I am afraid now is not the season.
I like to read your blog because it is an easy way to become familiar with the industry for when I am ready to jump in. I am learning a ton and really appreciate your insights.
>I've been writing all my life. Most of my childhood, everything came out in rhyme. As a communication major, I had to write poetry, two film scripts, short stories, news articles, etc. As a meteorologist, I write research papers and blogs.
In the past few years, I've started writing fiction. I self-published my first book last fall through lulu. I guess you could call it "paranormal romance." It has a fictional plot line with numerous true ghost stories mixed in. I am not brave enough to just write non-fiction or a memoir.
I'm writing my second book now. This one will be along the line of the X-files. Now that I have some confidence based on great feedback from my first. I may try to find an agent when I finish this one. We'll see how it goes.
>I write Great Lakes Romances (registered trademark). These are wholesome historical romances set in the Great Lakes Region. They are an outgrowth of my inspirational romance writing done for Thomas Nelson and Zondervan in the mid-1980s. After my third romance was published, the market for them disappeared. My husband and I, after much prayer and deliberation, decided to start our own imprint. We used professional editors and artists, sometimes the very same ones who worked with me at Zondervan. I have 15 published historical romances to my credit and am now considering whether to seek out a CBA publisher for reprint of my regionally marketed titles and/or any new work I might develop.
Donna Winters
http://www.greatlakesromances.com
>I, like others, have always been writing so have countless short stories, some of which are pleasant surprises when I come across them, and six or seven completed novels, plus a WIP. My theme is either misunderstandings which, when followed with the best of intentions, undermine a life or relationship, or the story of someone whose actions people might condemn without knowing what was behind them. Empathy is created by walking in the shoes of my protaganists.I had two agents – one of whom died and the next disappeared. I tell myself to try for another but continue writing instead.
>Not many, I notice, will say, or do not, write literary fiction!…I wonder if that's because it's been called the kiss if death if you mention "literary" for fiction writers! 🙂
But, that said, my novels are women's fiction/literary–one already out, one on the way this april, and one that may be listed under YA although I wrote it with adults in mind coming out in November-all by same (royalty paying) publisher.
I write short stories, and bad poetry, too, and those have been published here and there.
Always did have my face in a book, and then when older I wrote stories, but wasn't until my late-40's that I really began to do it seriously…by seriously, meaning, with publishing novels in mind.
Nice to "meet" all y'all!
>I write both fiction and non-fiction, but mostly non-fiction. I am a ghostwriter and have written many books for others. I write Christian-themed material whether it be novels, curriculum, screenplays, dramas, articles or other. I truly enjoy writing and hope to finish my own started projects this coming year.
>Hi Rachelle,
At present time I am writing non-fiction and memoir.
I have been writing for many years and studying the craft seriously for the past two years, your blog is a great tool. Thank You so much.
I have a feeling some heads will be turning when I am finished with my current project. I have found my voice.
And I look forward to the day I can query you.
I had hoped to attend your webinar.
Yet, I live out in the country, and unfortunately have only dial up for internet services. Which makes uploading and downloading anything nearly impossible.
By chance, will there be a CD or DVD of the class one can purchase?
Thanks
>Right now I am within a few chapters of finishing the rough draft of a book on Nehemiah. This book covers rebuilding personal walls, shepherd leadership and spiritual growth looking at the person of Nehemiah as a model.
It is incredible how much God is showing me through Nehemiah – even the meanings of the Hebrew names, if you look them up in a concordance have relevance. While I don't include all the name meanings of every list in Nehemiah, some of them are remarkable. In one Nehemiah verse the meanings of 16 Priests' Hebrew names spells out an entire message if you add just five connective words like "a" and "the".
One of the people in our church who loves Bible studies and knows the Word of God well has read what I have written and told me
that she has been taking notes. She also added that while it is easy to read and flows smoothly there is so much information packed into the book that she thinks the book could also be turned into a workbook to help people grow spiritually.
Before I started the Nehemiah book, I thought I was going to write my memoirs, but after a 21 day fast, I came away with the first two chapters of my Nehemiah book. Last year, whenever my pastor went on vacation or on a tour, I was one of the people invited to teach Bible studies, and I could not get off the topic of Nehemiah. When I started writing, I already had the outline of what I needed to share from my Bible study teaching notes.
Years ago I wrote my autobiography – I had much to learn about writing and it was poorly written. Yet, when I sent it out I got several personal replies from agents responding to the content, but telling me my novel needed work. I think it will turn into a memoir, but with a different twist now that I am healed from the abuse I received as a child. It will be a journey into healing, not a immersion into pain.
Also I have maintained a blog on Xanga, that has had over 71,000 hits. The content is Bible study notes from my pastor's teachings, visiting pastors, and my own studies. It has blessed people around the world and in our church. I think the Blog was God's way of preparing me for the books I need to write.
Thank you for your blog and your encouragement. I am always blessed coming to your site.
>Right now I am within a few chapters of finishing the rough draft of a book on Nehemiah. This book covers rebuilding personal walls, shepherd leadership and spiritual growth looking at the person of Nehemiah as a model.
It is incredible how much God is showing me through Nehemiah – even the meanings of the Hebrew names, if you look them up in a concordance have relevance. While I don't include all the name meanings of every list in Nehemiah, some of them are remarkable. In one Nehemiah verse the meanings of 16 Priests' Hebrew names spells out an entire message if you add just five connective words like "a" and "the".
One of the people in our church who loves Bible studies and knows the Word of God well has read what I have written and told me
that she has been taking notes. She also added that while it is easy to read and flows smoothly there is so much information packed into the book that she thinks the book could also be turned into a workbook to help people grow spiritually.
Before I started the Nehemiah book, I thought I was going to write my memoirs, but after a 21 day fast, I came away with the first two chapters of my Nehemiah book. Last year, whenever my pastor went on vacation or on a tour, I was one of the people invited to teach Bible studies, and I could not get off the topic of Nehemiah. When I started writing, I already had the outline of what I needed to share from my Bible study teaching notes.
Years ago I wrote my autobiography – I had much to learn about writing and it was poorly written. Yet, when I sent it out I got several personal replies from agents responding to the content, but telling me my novel needed work. I think it will turn into a memoir, but with a different twist now that I am healed from the abuse I received as a child. It will be a journey into healing, not a immersion into pain.
Also I have maintained a blog on Xanga, that has had over 71,000 hits. The content is Bible study notes from my pastor's teachings, visiting pastors, and my own studies. It has blessed people around the world and in our church. I think the Blog was God's way of preparing me for the books I need to write.
Thank you for your blog and your encouragement. I am always blessed coming to your site.
>I write nonfiction, about music (Irish, Scottish, and Americana), and about the creative practice of being an artist.
http://musicroad.blogspot.com
best wishes to everyone on the writing journey.
>[b]Garmin автомобильная карта Украины 3D[/b]
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GPS карты Garmin совершенствуются каждый день благодаря анализу треков. Регулярно добавляются транспортные развязки, улицы и корректировки по ПДД (например, одностороннее движение, направление движения, ограничение скорости, запреты поворотов). Обновления GPS карты Garmin осуществляются исключительно по существующей ситуации на дорогах Украины.
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>PS
I had an illustrated Europe flea market guide published ages ago and a kid's book. At the same time many travel articles published.
I forgot..
>Non-fiction only..
I'm working on a Paris macaron book/sketchbook/scrapbook thing…
And another Paris project based on my blog.
Voila!
merci
Carolg
>I've written a column in The Salvationist Magazine (national magazine for The Salvation Army in Canada) for three years and now just write for the website. I write other articles here and there, but now I'd like to concentrate on a book based on my columns. I have written some fiction and I enjoy it, but never have had the confidence to take it any further. I've been reading your blog to help educate myself and I figure the more I learn, the better prepared I'll be. Thanks for writing for us.
>Hi Rachelle, I write a blog. I've written a journal for as long as I can remember. When my daughter was diagnosed with Leukaemia just over a year ago I went public and started a blog. People started to say I should write a book so I signed up for your blog to see what the writer's life is all about. I've always read books about writing. I am passionate about the craft and intrigued by words. I would like to publish but apparantly there isn't much of a market for books on cancer. I teach Kindergarten, I teach children to write, I write to survive, I write to hear God's voice and make sense of this life. I love gleaning from what you write here. The book may come but the story of my daughter's full restoration is still being written. Slowly He writes over our lives. We wait, as He refines us. forms us and shapes us. Thanks for sharing your insight to equip us to write well.
>On my end, I'm unpublished. As far as genres go, I'm sort of everywhere, though everything has been able to fall under the general header of YA. I've done some fantasy, a romance, and something I can't quite put a genre on.
>I'm an Australian fantasy fiction writer with two books independently published in the UK by YWO.com and a third under assessment by Cornerstones Literary Consultancy, London. If I get the green light, I shall begin querying with that novel.
>I'm an Australian fantasy fiction writer with two books independently published in the UK by YWO.com and a third under assessment by Cornerstones Literary Consultancy, London. If I get the green light, I shall begin querying with that novel.
>I'm only sixteen, so I'm not published yet. I've written a fantasy novella, the genre picked mostly because I didn't want to research, I think. That one's not very good.
I wrote a historical fiction novel last year (short–57,000 words) and since then I've been stuck in the same time period; I like the characters too much. I've discovered I'm more of a literary novelist, and I think I mostly write YA (not surprising, I guess.)My story ideas currently are all in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries or some sort of futuristic thing.
I've been writing a long time…taking in mind my age, of course. I started writing longer stories when I was 8, no finished books until 2008. I'm working on another historical fiction novel right now, plus editing the one I wrote last year. I'll probably try to get published eventually, but I've tried to stay more focused on what I've decided matters–touching people. Currently I'm doing that just fine where I am.
Random thoughts: I love dialogue and characters. Especially the ones that won't shut up in my head. I love dealing with hurt and lost characters who are found and healed by the end of the book. I also like writing books that change me: last year's book was like that.
So, right now, I'm mostly concentrating on getting better at writing, and familiarizing myself somewhat with the publishing side of things so I'm not completely clueless when I really decide to try. It's helped some, I think; I'm less starry-eyed then some of my friends, anyway! Also less so then the AP Lit. teacher that sent me to your blog.
Anyway, I tend to ramble, especially when it comes to writing. I'll end there.
Soli Deo Gloria.
>I have an adult fiction novel that I'm learning how many times it needs to be edited on!
I have 5 children's books written and short stories.
It's so satisfying shoving away from the computer having written a segment that is meaningful to me and hopefully to others. Editing? Not so much!
Thanks for the blog. It keeps me connected!
>I write fantasy. I have finished my first ms after six plus years of rewrites and edits. I seemed to have learned everything backwards and upside down, but I'm ready to take it to the next level. I've got my list of agents and I am polishing up my query letter and looking at my options. While that is being sent out, I'm rewriting another book for my critique group.
I've been writing since I was about eight years old. I still have the construction paper books I made complete with the author bio in the back. I'm here for the long haul and hope to make a career out of it.
Thanks for the informative posts!
>Coming back to add that my G.I.D. is worse than suggested by my first post. I also write poetry, and have had more success getting that published than other things.
My non-fiction includes an op-ed column (currently inactive) and articles at suite101.com in civil engineering, American history, poetry, stock trading, and environmentalism.
I believe I will be analyzed sometime in the future as the classic and most severe case of G.I.D. in history.
DAT
>I write fictional stories that hopefully tug at a reader's emotions. The best word to describe my writing is eccentric. My favorite genres: adventure, mystery, romance.
>My first novel (unpublished) was Bible-era fiction. My second novel (in progress) is a baseball thriller. My third novel (in the queue) is a spy thriller based in China. My next novels (also in the queue) will likely be a type of cozy mystery.
My non-fiction, at present, is Bible studies and on-line magazine general non-fiction.
Help! I have G.I.D. – genre identity disorder!
DAT
>I'm writing a ya historical fiction, plus a nonfiction article for a children's magazine. History is my focus.
>Thanks for an interesting blog!
I completed the Christian Writer's Guild Apprentice level course several years ago. One mentor inspired me to elaborate on a lesson. So… I've written May on the Way, a middle grade adventure about an imaginative young Schnauzer who must escape an abusive home and eventually joins the Service to thwart a terror attack and thus becomes a K9 spy.
It's being revised (continually!) as I seek publication. I'm trying to learn from any and everyone.
Your blog is exceptionally helpful. Thanks again!
Congratulations to all the writers. Looking forward to seeing us all on the shelf and at the next conference!
>I write contemporary romance and memoir.
Began novel writing in the mid 1980's – read, learned, wrote and submitted contemporary romances. (also office manager & 4 daughters)
Moved from NJ to OR, then I took 3 years working through Writer's Digest classes to write Narrative Nonfiction. (worked as a tech writer)
In 6/2001 I got layoff package and returned to romances, completed & submitted 2 romances. (Many conferences/critique groups.)
2005-6; Another writing shift to learn & write memoir. Returned to college. 🙂 Memoir is a love story!
2009 – Back to romances!
>I write contemporary romance and memoir.
Began novel writing in the mid 1980's – read, learned, wrote and submitted contemporary romances. (also office manager & 4 daughters)
Moved from NJ to OR, then I took 3 years working through Writer's Digest classes to write Narrative Nonfiction. (worked as a tech writer)
In 6/2001 I got layoff package and returned to romances, completed & submitted 2 romances. (Many conferences/critique groups.)
2005-6; Another writing shift to learn & write memoir. Returned to college. 🙂 Memoir is a love story!
2009 – Back to romances!
>I write Historical Romance and a little poetry. I prefer to write novels instead of short stories. I’ve won contests for my short stories and poetry, and was mentioned in a review in the Woodstock Times, Woodstock, NY. I have two manuscripts finished and probably another four in rough draft form. I’ve been writing for longer than I can remember, but only recently worked up the courage to submit a novel. It’s time to believe in myself.
>I write Historical Romance and a little poetry. I prefer to write novels instead of short stories. I’ve won contests for my short stories and poetry, and was mentioned in a review in the Woodstock Times, Woodstock, NY. I have two manuscripts finished and probably another four in rough draft form. I’ve been writing for longer than I can remember, but only recently worked up the courage to submit a novel. It’s time to believe in myself.
>As for me – I write YA fiction and I'm busy editing away my current WIP (which I should be doing now instead of procrastinating!)
My story: I 'wrote' my first book when I was four (with some very creative spelling!), by 10 I'd won a few short story comps, but after that I wrote only for school assignments until taking a writing course at uni – I haven't stopped writing since because I've worked out that what makes me truly happy!!!! 🙂
>I write inspirational and memoirs. I've had several articles published about being a father, but have experienced no success with book form.
>I write fiction, mainly urban fantasy. I just finished working with a developmental editor on a revision of my novel. I have about two weeks of revision work left – mainly deleting some scenes, re-writing some scenes.
There are two agents waiting to see the revised manuscript – which is incredibly encouraging to me.
I started the novel near the end of May, 2009. Before that, I was part of the world of academia. And boy, writing fiction is so much more fun!!
Great questions –
>In book form, I write YA novels, and am currently working on a dystopian book. It should be ready to query in 2-3 months, which is great because I have another idea eating at me! Full-time, I'm a journalist, so I spend my days writing non-fiction for a paycheck.
>I write Inspirational fiction. I have 2 children's books out though not considered by reputable pubs(one is self-pubbed, the other POD). I do have to say I am thankful for the experience. It has given me a lot of exposure.
I have been writing for almost four years. Reading writing and learning the craft.
I also work in the beauty industry part time.
I find both writing and learning the craft VERY addicting:)
>I have four adult history books published. I'm seeking representation on a YA historical novel, finishing a couple of nonfiction picture books and a middle grade biography. I'm also working on two adult novels, one historical and one contemporary–they're longer-term projects.
>I'm a Christian novelist working on two books right now.
One is a rewrite of my NaNo 2009 novel, and the other is something I've been working on since 2004. It's changed a lot, and now I'm finally happy with the format, so it's going quite well.
>I'm writing a book/blog on God's absolute love. I'm about 3/5 of the way done with my book. When I finish it early this summer, I will write my book proposal and query agents. God has given me a passion to share the power of His love and I am going to do all I can to get my book published. Then, even if my book doesn't go anywhere, it won't be because I didn't give it my best shot.
>I've been writing just over 3 years.
I haven't published any books.
I write general fiction or woman's fiction, I suppose.
For nano I shut my brain off and ended up with a funny, funky thing. Sorta magical realism, with sci-fi elements. I'm sure you would Love It. Juussst kidding.
So I may be a weird magical realism, sci-fi writer. But for now I'm going with general/women's.
>I am very close to querying for my fantasy novel. Very close! Can't wait to send it off.
>I write YA and MG urban fantasy with lots of humor and adventure, but plan to someday put on a second hat and write some romantic suspense on the side. I've been writing about ten years, publishing shorts for four, and writing novels (presentable novels) about three. Thanks for asking!
>Right now I'm working on a second novel — general women's fiction. The first wasn't published and for good reason! But I do believe that I've learned a great deal in the eight years that I've been dabbling in this. And I love it that the craft of writing is never mastered completely. So I am kicking the can, persevering, relishing the process, and hoping and praying that one day…one day!
>So far, I've got royalty-paying (yet, where are the royalties?) publishers for two books. MG/YA fantasy and YA SF.
I've also self-pubbed a book of humorous stories based on my father's boyhood growing up in West Texas. I've made a tidy amount of royalties from this one (niche market).
And, lastly, I've found that nobody in the world cares about self-pubbed YA fantasy, so I won't do that any more. Well, ebook sales have been so-so.
Now, who reads my blog? I'm currently running a series on Myth and Legends–how I use and abuse them in my own books. I have slaughtered almost every trope and trite use of myth/legend. Tall, cool elves? Uh uh. Way too overused. Vampires? Puhleeze! That's so yesterday. Werewolves? Whistle and they'll show up panting.
>I've written a 'tween' adventure/fiction book with a Christian theme. Zondervan is publishing it December 3rd. There is strong possibility of writing 3 more as a series. It's called "Jackson Jones: the Tale of a Boy, an Elf and a Very Stinky Fish". I'm very excited. I've been writing forever but it took a year to write and a year to edit.
>I write offbeat literary fiction, but I'm starting to think I should pitch it as contemporary. Current WiP is about an artist who falls prey to her own vivid imagination.
I am not published in book form. In day-job land, I've been working off-and-on as a film journalist, reviewer, and Web site editor. Last couple of years have been more editing, training, and managing, than actual writing.
I read about five agent blogs daily (or try to!), including this one.
>One poetry book published, one literary fiction novel to be published in the fall. 🙂
Breeze
>I write chick lit.
Think Sophie Kinsella and Meg Cabot. That's basically what I write.
I'm not published yet but I'm working on it.
>I write Christian women's fiction and finished my first "real" novel about three months ago. I've been writing since elementary school and dabbled more in it as I got older. It's only been in the past two years or so that I've been actually writing seriously.
Love the blog!
>Clever. Ask us to talk about ourselves, and we crawl out of the sewers to get a stab at it. 😉
I write fantasy novels, although I can't say that in past tense yet. Eventually I'll finish this manuscript. And edit it and revise it and polish it some more. Sigh.
I've been writing consistently since the end of high school, so 10 years, and was first published in 2005 (mags, ezines, etc.). I've had a couple dozen poems and short stories published, but nothing in book form to date.
I'm all for high concept fiction with strong characters and imagery. Pulling it off is the hard part.
>I'm a horror writer. The current manuscript I'm working on is a straight-up multicultural YA horror novel ("straight up" = no urban, paranormal, or fantasy labels, just commercial horror). By day, I'm a freelance copywriter, something I've been doing for about seven years now. I've also been published as a freelance feature writer in magazines like Glamour and Seventeen — so writing is what I do all day, every day!
>Wow. So many interesting people here! I love when you offer these posts, Rachelle, because I always connect with a few other writers.
I'm writing a travel memoir about backpacking through Africa. Actually, it's now *written* and I'm about to start querying. I'm a journalist, so I've been published for years in newspapers and magazines, but this is my first book. It's been a great learning process.
Best of luck to everyone here!
>I write poetry and fiction. I've been published in kids mags (Highlights for Children, most recently) and with greeting cards. I have a book with an editor right now on her "maybe" pile. I'm hoping for a YES! 🙂
peace,
Donna
>I'm a crime/noir fiction author living in Las Vegas. Following a 30-year career as a professional musician, I had my first novel picked up a few months ago. It's called THE TAKE, and it's slated for release later this year. .
I'm currently working on KEY WEST NOCTURNES, a trilogy of noir novels set in the island city. The first two are complete and the third is underway.
>Hi! I am definitely in the minority here – I am working on various picture book manuscripts some are being given the final polish and others are still very rough. I have submitted some but realized too late that I was premature in submitting 🙁 so i am polishing and looking into getting an editor…so far no publication cause I am not quite ready! soon though fingers crossed!
>I write speculative fiction, and have been writing seriously since September 2009. I've had one short story for young adults published, with an adult sci-fi/fantasy story coming out later this year. I've just finished a YA fantasy novel and am currently seeking representation. I just found your blog last week. Thanks for providing your insights!
Faith
>I am a pastor of a Church with 800 in attendance and will be speaking at my Denomination's State Pastor's Conf. for the next couple of years to over 3000 pastors. I've recently transcribed and edited a number of sermons on Spiritual Warfare into a rough draft of a book. Will begin looking for an agent soon.
>I am a pastor of a Church with 800 in attendance and will be speaking at my Denomination's State Pastor's Conf. for the next couple of years to over 3000 pastors. I've recently transcribed and edited a number of sermons on Spiritual Warfare into a rough draft of a book. Will begin looking for an agent soon.
>My first ms is a romance with a touch of suspense, and is being submitted to agents. I'm working on an inspirational women's lit now, and there's these characters lurking in my mind for another four stories. As I explained to my eight-year-old son, the MC for a western historical romance is sitting on her horse, backlit by a glorious sunset, patiently waiting for her turn to leap onto the page. Isn't that lovely of her?
I started writing short stories and poetry in high school. My most prolific writing was done in preparing bible studies for adult Sunday school classes. I suspect that there will be multiple non-fiction Bible-based books in my future.
I am homeschooling my sons, in the third and sixth grades, and spend most of my afternoons working on some aspect of my writing. Horses show up in nearly all of my fiction because they are my passion, so my long-term goal is to be successful enough at writing to have my own farm. It's good to have goals…
>I'm an unpublished writer and have been writing seriously for almost 2 years. I also work part-time and am raising 4 kids with my husband – busy, busy, busy.
I love to read both YA and MG, but my writing has a MG voice so that's my focus. Both of my wips are unfinished; one is a magical realism novel and the other is a contempory character-driven novel. My goal is to finish the latter this summer, revise through the fall and hopefully query early next year.
Thanks for the opportunity to share with one another, Rachelle. It's been wonderful to read what other writers are working on.
>I have one finished novel for which I am attempting to find an agent. I have been unsuccessful thus far, but I think this is due to query letters that have failed to excite the agents. All have been equeries, however, and most have not been accompanied by any part of the manuscript. Very few of the agents queried have read any of the book itself.
I also have a new WIP going, which is going well (I think). I am going to keep working on writing better queries for the original, tweak the ms as I think of things, and spend more time working on the new project for now. It is refreshing to be able to really create again rather than trying to sell what I have created.
>Hi Rachelle,
I'm a journalist by day, struggling novelist by night. I've completed my first novel (which I describe as "a comic novel disguised as an adventure, masquerading as a self-help book") and am doing line edits and rewrites as I go through the agent-hunting process. I've begun a second novel as well. It seems once you get started in this game, it becomes rather addictive.
>Currently working on a mystery/romance/western. No I don't plan to put that in my query letter. Almost done with the first draft. Also recently started what I THINK would be considered young adult. Which is crazy because I don't read young adult and never imagined writing young adult. But yanno, it is what it is! I'm rolling with it!
I work as a ghostwriter/copywriter. Been doing that for about two years now. Haven't done much fiction writing until the last year or so. I just didn't have any good ideas. But then they started coming in. One after another. So I started writing. AND NOW I CAN'T STOP.
>I write non-fiction, of the memoir/personal essay sort, primarily about family. I've been working at it for ten years, some in school (undergrad and currently in an MFA program), some on my own time. I haven't had anything published, but I haven't submitted to many literary magazines at all — still working on my voice and building up the guts to send out more.
>Great post for sharing!
I'm writing a YA series from plot to finish. There are some fantasy aspects to it, but mostly it's leaning suspense. I've been working on developing this idea for 2-3 years now.
I'm currently trying to fit all the plot pieces that have to go at the beginning of the first book into the first few chapters. I'm not happy with the current fit because I know something is missing – that spark of interest just isn't there.
>Hi Rachelle- love your blog. I currently write picture books- took the leap into the submission ring last year and am going to soon be submitting my second ms. I've sure learned a lot through all the research I had to do before jumping in with both feet, but once in, I'm in to stay!
>I'm in the process of self-publishing a non-fiction book: Writing Fiction: A Hands-On Guide for Teens. I'm also writing a fantasy novel for middle readers and a hi-lo teen novel.
>I write contemporary YA fiction. I'm agented, but haven't yet gone on sub. I've been writing fiction for four years.
Thanks for all the helpful info on your blog, Rachelle! 🙂
>I write genre fiction, fantasy and urban fantasy, and am unpublished.
I'm currently working on my second manuscript. The first is unfinished because I didn't know enough about writing a book to write it.
>I'm writing epic fantasy. I have one finished. Query polished-check. Synopsis polished-check. List of dream agents-working on it.
In the meantime, I'm working on another project.
I was a staff writer for a horse racing magazine for seventeen years.
>I write both fiction and non-fiction.
My fiction is my main focus. I am finishing a four-book adult epic fantasy, with a stand alone in the planning stages. I've been working seriously for 8 years.
My non-fiction, at least in book form, is fairly new. I have two projects I hope to get feedback about when I attend a writers' conference at the end of the month.
Commercial: all you fantasy writers out there, if you also blog, consider joining the CSFF Blog Tour to help promote the published Christian fantasy (I'm not one of those yet). Many sales will encourage publishers to buy more.
Becky
>Although my heart has always been in SF, the muse gave me a romantic coming-of-age for my first novel. It's been picked up by Cedar Fort, Inc.
While revving up the promotional machine and preparing to write a sequel, I'm also starting a SF short story. We'll see where it goes.
>I have been writing fully researched forensic crime fiction novels for nearly three years now (I'm a professional scientist and apparently you can't take the scientist out of the writer!), publishing on-line in an amateur fashion until deciding last summer to take the leap and attempt to move to the forum of professional publishing. My slogan for this project has been 'go big or go home' and, as such, I have traveled to the location of the setting of the novel to see the sites I would write about and to hold interviews with top local law enforcement and the county District Attorney to ensure an air of realism in my novel. I have recently finished my 110,000 word manuscript and am currently in the editing phase of the project (I love my novel, I love my novel… even if it feels like I've read it and tweaked it 300 times!) and I have a team of other authors and professional editors who will be test reading the manuscript within the next two weeks. After considering and incorporating their comments and suggestions, I will be looking for professional representation.
Rachelle, I am enrolled in your webinar next week and am very much looking forward to it. For me, the detailed story planning and writing feels like the easy and familiar part; the business of publishing seems like the scary unknown, so your webinar is coming just at the right time for me. Thank you very much for your impeccable timing!
>In the editing process on book one with Kensington, with two more to follow, kind of dark, noirish, urban-fantasy suspense, if that blend can be called a sub-genre.
>I love this blog, I get so much usable and practical information. I also get other ppls point of view which is so necessary to find a balance. I've only made submissions for my first novel out of the 9 I have on the shelves. I'm breaking away from the 2 publishers I'm writing for to write a Literary Novel. This blog is helping me so much with how to write a Query and submission. Thank you !!!!!!!
>A question for Bob from about five posts back… Great comment about finding your best genre and sticking to it, but supposing you are new to writing for publication and want to try out two or three different types of fiction?
For the sake of argument (this is not me, I'm on my first try) you have an unpublished writer who has produced equally competent MSS in, say, women's fiction, historical fiction and crime, and now feels that the time has come to seek representation. Should she send the different MSS to different agents and keep quiet about the others?
I think many new writers want to try out different types of fiction, and if we take the advice of the agent blogs we will spend much time on writing, revising and perfecting two or three novels before we query. Must we pick one genre and junk the others?
>I write mostly horror. Currently I am working on what might be a more YA Themed Supernatural type story with my younger sister. I have had two short stories published, but no novels. TO be fair, I've never completed a full finished manuscript to even try to publish it. I have worked in the publishing world as well under my non writing name as an editor and agent.
>Interesting to see the poll results…lots of unpublished fiction writers out there! I fall in that category myself. I've been writing seriously for about a year. Started out with women's fiction, but I'm moving more into romance with a touch of humor (at least, I hope other people smile when they read it). 🙂
>I write fiction in the form of picture books (humor) and middle grade fiction (adventure or historical fiction/humor) for children. Editorial board of Magination Press is currently considering one of my picture books. Other publication in fiction and nonfiction for magazine market only.
>I have 2 1/2 manuscripts sitting in The Drawer.
The final read-through I thought I was doing on this one has turned into another edit. Since I've never gotten this far before, who knew?
Had to move the research pile on my next one to a different spot on my desk.
Then begins the querying process. Huh. Maybe I'm stalling. (I'm not, but it's something to consider.)
>I write sf and mystery/suspense novels. I have been published both traditionally and through POD publishers.
The blog for my current wip (a mystery/suspense) is http://acehollowpoint.blogspot.com
—
A. C. Ellis – Science Fiction & Mystery/Suspense
a.ellis@att.net
http://acehollowpoint.blogspot.com
http://www.acellis.net
>I'm apparently one of the few non-fiction writers in the group. And, admittedly, I'm pretty new to the authoring thing.
I started my first book in November, and by January I had signed with Greg Johnson (also of WordServe Literary) to represent me. For the past several weeks we've been shopping my first book…and so far, so good. One publisher has already asked for more material, and we're still waiting to hear from a few others.
I'm passionate about sharing Jesus in real, relevant and relatable ways…and that's the subject (in a nutshell) of my book. You can read more at my blog: http://reallifeconversation.blogspot.com.
Tim Sinclair
http://www.tim-sinclair.com
>I write women's fiction, some in an historical setting. I'm querying a WW2 novel at the moment. My WIP, however, is a complete departure for me, it's contemporary told from a man's POV and I'm having a blast with it.
>Rachelle,
I have been writing since January of this year, but due to chronic insomnia I have one completed MS, 2 MS's that need revisions, and another that I recently begun.
Needless to say, my imagination works faster than my keyboard. The first three are paranormal romance, and the new one is a contemporary with a disabled veteran as the hero.
I am unpublished but plan to send queries soon.
>This is so fun to see who's out here!
I write quirky romantic comedies, and my agent recently landed me a three-book deal with Sourcebooks, Inc.
And I adore this blog because it's always packed full of excellent industry information and posts that generally make me feel happy!
Tawna
>I am unpublished. I write southern and women's fiction. I have been writing for as long as I can remember. I did not take writing seriously however, until about six years ago. Since that time, I've worked hard at learning the craft and the publishing business.
If you go back a little further than that, I attempted writing my first novel while a student at Biola University. But it was horrid. Horrid. I do count that as part of the process though. I just wasn't very serious about it at the time.
>Hi Rachelle!
I do fiction and I'm not sure if I'll ever fit into one genre.
I've got a feisty fiction number that is based on my earlier years as a runaway and I've got a couple relationship stories and now I'm working on a live-in-the-moment, bachelor-meets-world jaunt that is just fun to write! I was curious if you wrote yourself?
~Misty
>An interesting post. Reading the comments is a window into the world of writing.
Having had 40 books published, if I might make a suggestion– something I wish someone had told me 20 years ago.
Ever watch Chef Ramsay? Kitchen Nightmares? He would be called in to assist restaurants that were failing (BTW new restaurants have the same failure rate as new novelists: 90%). His flow of evaluating and helping the restaurant reminds me a lot of my Warrior Writer concept. To start, he would walk in, sit at a table, look at the menu and order a meal.
The menu tells him the focus of the restaurant. Often, there is too much stuff on it. He tells the owner and chef: pick one meal that’s going to be your money-maker. Don’t try to do too much.
Many authors use the large menu technique when approaching an agent: I’ve got a paranormal romance, a thriller, a YA book—which do you want? Cherry Adair said a smart thing at the Emerald City Writers Conference in her workshop: you can write in multiple genres, but if you want a career in publishing, pick one genre and become very good at it. Then you can write the other stuff. I’ve written military thrillers, romance suspense, science fiction, non-fiction, paranormal romance, and a bunch of other stuff. I wish I had heard Cherry’s advice 20 years ago.
>Song-writer since childhood, always have, always will.
One non-fiction self-help re.women in business, complete, but not ready to shop until willing to commit to marketing.
Two fiction MS's in progress. Current favorite: humorous, chick-lit. (Gritty MC's creative response to losing corporate gig.)
Editor, frequent contributor for internal corporate mag (Fortune 500).
Stories in my head won't shut up–and neither will the tunes.
Thanks for asking Rachelle, and Happy Friday everybody!
>Hello there and happy Friday,
Professionally I am a physical therapist that did not pay attention to the fact that for years every annual review that I received always had the most positive comments related to my writing abilities. I finally paid attention to this consistent message and to the people in my life. I began to write a blog nearly 4 years ago called A Work of Heart.
My writing would be characterized as devotional but there is a memoir quality as well. Paying attention has been key in my life and I find that a lot of my writing ia comprised of paying attention to what God is revealing in my life through life and His Word.
I know that the genre of devotional writing is very limited these days unless you are a household name but I still dream…how can I not when I love to encourage others in this walk with God.
I love your blog…thanks for taking the time to share your insights with us.
Helen Washington
>I write science fiction, picture books (and do the illustrations)and am working on a cook book.
I have a short story published, in an anthology, so I guess I'm in the 1-3 books with royalties category.
>I write historical fiction. I'm unpublished. I started writing with a semi-serious intention of being published in 1991. Took a little break to deal with cancer in 1999, and am more committed to writing now than I was BC.
>Wow, comment-palooza!
I write Christian Historical Romance, I've been writing for about five years, and I have two books currently out with more to follow.
>I have been playing at writing for years, writing my first ms in junior high — what a whopper of a mess that was. Then I was discouraged for most of high school by the tumult of average teenage insecurities. After college I delved into the day job and continued playing at the dream, reading blogs and publishing books, scouting publishers and agents. In the past year, I finally settled on a project and am striving to see it to the end. I am not focused on one particular genre. I feel out the story idea and try to see what best fits the characters and the plot, the story I hope to tell. My current project is maybe something of a romance but a little too cynical to reside happily with the rest of the genre. Other projects border on literary, YA fantasy, light sci-fi. Right now, it's just a matter of stealing my writing time back from the day job.
>I am a freelance copywriter and magazine article writer, and a contributing/associate editor for two publications to pay the bills, but on the side (and when I have time) I try to work on writing fiction. I'm currently looking for an agent to represent a picture book I wrote, and I'm also working on a chick lit-type of novel. I do write more nonfiction than fiction though, just as a default of what I do to earn money.
>I write YA fantasy and historical fiction, but haven't been published yet–for which I blame myself for not trying harder!
>To the "Anonymous" a few comments back, keep at it…there is a market for that somewhere.
>I write fantasy and historical romance with a paranormal twist. I've had my mind on publication for about a year now, writing seriously for three. So far, I have two books to shop. Looking forward to it once I drag myself through the joyous stages of editing ms two!
>I began writing with a goal of publication four years ago. I write inspirational historical romance. I'm currently revising one of my stories under the guidance of my awesome agent.
>I write biographies, literary criticism, and recently poetry and I have a fiction/memoir in the works. I write and publish mostly in another language, with a mainstream publisher, but a few things in English too and hopefully more in the future…
>Children’s stories, especially picture books, are such fun to write. My 1st picture book was published last year. I’m in the process of submitting a couple of short chapter books aimed at 7 to 9 year olds and several more picture books and I’m working on a longer children’s novel that will be finished within the year.
>I am a medical editor for money, a fantasy writer and blogger for love. Wrote a novel called CEL & ANNA, whose target audience is young adults (20-somethings).
I blog with enjoyment and amusement about my life in semi-rural southwestern Pennsylvania.
— Lindsay
>I write fiction, and I haven't decided yet what genre I want to stick to. I enjoy writing paranormal, horror, thriller, sci-fi, and fantasy. I'm not worried that I haven't decided on a genre yet, because at this point I'm working on honing my craft. Once my writing ability is up to snuff, then I'll be more concerned with what I write. I also write and edit articles for a website in the area of PC & Console gaming.
>I write what you might call speculative or "dark fantasy" or even "horror" from a distinctly Christian perspective. 99%of the people (readers) who have ever read any of my work (this is not an exaggeration, and there are many) in amazement ask me "Why are you not a writer?" I am not a writer because no editor or agent is capable of perceiving what everyone else does. Sorry if that sounds cold, but it's the truth. Thank you for your insights and encouragement, Rachelle!
>I write non-fiction and over the years have had four books published with a Christian royalty-paying publisher. All of them center around marriage and parenting.
It still amazes me that the last one now is in its fifth edition. So I smile and give thanks.
My current project is a book for moms and I've just begun querying.
>I write creative non-fiction and just sent off my query and sample chapters to the publisher. I even followed the submission guidelines, as you've reminded us so many times before.
I'm also write fiction, which is a lot of fun, but I don't think at this stage of the game I'm in any position to even think about publication with my fiction. I can't seem to settle on a genre that fits me.
I write because I love it; not because I intend to make a living of it. Even if I am never published (though I'd love for my book to sell), I'll still write. It's just part of who I am.
>I'm kind of all over the place as a writer/editor, but I seem to thrive on this.
I'm on staff as an editor at an online literary journal and a media site for queer women. I also do a lot of personal narrative essays and literary/pop culture blogging for those sites.
In the fall I started an MFA Creative Writing program, where I'm focusing on screenwriting (dark comedy, satire, family, TV).
I also just started a dystopian YA novel as a side project to work on in my cross-genre fiction workshops.
>I write fiction. Most of my novels are historical fiction because that's my interest. I also have novels in the planning stages in these genres: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Contemporary, Literary, Historical Fantasy, YA. I find it difficult to stick with one genre because I have so many ideas!
I've been writing since I could write. I've been seriously writing since last year. I've always written novels, stories, etc. but nothing serious in hopes of publication. I just finished my first novel and am now revising. So excited!
>This is awesome getting to know everybody! 🙂
I've been writing ever since I could hold a crayon, but only writing toward publication for the last 3-4 years. I'm currently querying a YA Fantasy, LEGACY OF THE EMPRESS. My next project is a YA post-apocalyptic fantasy.
I also love blogging, and do so on a regular basis :).
>Suspense. Have 1 spec suspense, 2 romantic suspense (in progress).
~Katie Vorreiter
Love the poll idea!
>I have a book published for the industry I've been in for many years now about the HIPAA Privacy Rule, geared toward medical trancription and health care. I am in the process of doing the second edition of that book with the same publisher. I write a lot on my websites as well, some of the healthcare industry and one site on leadership development.
>First, I love your blog and find it to be chock full of common sense and helpful information. You are amazingly generous with your time and expertise.
I have recently sold to Steeple Hill Love Inspired and am agented.
>Middle grade— Mostly fantasy, but my latest is a steam punk.
>I write romance. Currently I am shopping the firast novel in a fantasy historical romance series. Elevator pitch: Lorelei and Hayden are thrust into an investigation of magic and intrigue, where nothing, not even each other, are what they seem.
I was previously self-published. It was 1999 and I was thirteen and I knew nothing yet about the publishing industry. I self-published without even attempting the traditinal route, but the YA romance was popular in my state and I sold all 300+ copies in a matter of a month or two. I did several book signings for B&N and Borders and did TV and newspaper interviews and even spoke at toastmasters.
I took a hiatus to change my genre and study up on the craft and buisness of writing. Adult fiction is my forte.
>I seem to fit into the majority of your readers.
I write what I think would be considered literary or commercial fiction. I've been writing since I finished a science fiction novel in High School. In college I majored in English instead of Creative Writing; then went to graduate school, and left to return to fiction and have been writing consistently for the past few years.
It took a while for me to be able to shift from a writing mindset to one geared toward publishing, but have recently done a better job of it and had a short story accepted for publication.
I'm in the process of revising a novel I finished last year as well as working on a sequence of short fiction.
I've added blogging to my daily writing as a way of thinking about writing and have been enjoying it as well as discovering other blogs like this one.
>I am nearly finished with the first draft of my first fiction novel. It is a story about a self-absorbed man who wins the lottery only to find himself morally bankrupt. It is a tale of greed, lust, revenge and redemption.
I am a regular feature article writer for a national denominational magazine and a full time pastor for a small church in NE Oklahoma.
I've created an online persona for my main character; Facebook page and Twitter account. I find it interesting that you, Rachelle, follow my fictional book character on Twitter, but not me!
Blessings for a great weekend,
Rick
http://www.RickBoyne.com
>I write fantasy and paranormal for YA and new adults. I've written a little bit of romance in the past, but nothing steamy. I recently finished the first draft of my second novel which I had been working on for 8 years. (I'd written another novel during those years which is why I call it my second novel.) 8 years ago is when I really started writing, but it wasn't until recently that I decided to make writing a bigger part of my life.
>I write historcal fiction mainly, but also historical fantasy (mostly based off mythology from around the world).
I believe I started writing before I actually knew how. I remember dictating to my mom a story I had come up with, but I didn't know how to actually write yet 😛
So, perhaps 20 years–the bulk of my life.
I wrote my first "novel" at 11. Most of it was handwritten on typing paper. I still have it somewhere. Oh and it was a historical, even at that young age!
>That was an interesting survey! I fall into the non-fiction/memoir category in the first poll, and the unpublished in book form category in the second.
I wrote a manuscript about the journey my husband and I had to walk as he was deployed three times in the first four years of our marriage with a special operations unit in the Army. It revolutionized both our marriage and our faiths. We'll see if anything happens with the book (which I would obviously love!) but it at least led me to get a contract regularly writing for a website, Cinchouse.com.
I've only been seriously writing for half a year or so, know I have a lot to learn and perfect, and have a lot of time, so I am just enjoying the ride for now!
>That was an interesting survey! I fall into the non-fiction/memoir category in the first poll, and the unpublished in book form category in the second.
I wrote a manuscript about the journey my husband and I had to walk as he was deployed three times in the first four years of our marriage with a special operations unit in the Army. It revolutionized both our marriage and our faiths. We'll see if anything happens with the book (which I would obviously love!) but it at least led me to get a contract regularly writing for a website, Cinchouse.com.
I've only been seriously writing for half a year or so, know I have a lot to learn and perfect, and have a lot of time, so I am just enjoying the ride for now!
>Hi,
I'm a children's author from Canada, and I enjoy reading blogs such as yours in order to keep up with what's going on in the publishing world.
Thanks for your posts!
Cheers,
Deborah Hodge
http://www.deborahhodge.com
>I write YA fantasy. I've been writing seriously for almost 2.5 years and am editing my manuscript.
>I always enjoy keeping up on industry news so I'm a blog junkie. My first book was adult and my second/third are YA. I am currently under contract writing both another YA and a middle grade series.
>Hey, Rachelle!
I write women's fiction. And a short story of mine ("Concert Mania") was just published in the March issue of Susie Magazine (it's founder and editor is Susie Shellenberger)! WOOHOO!!!
>I write fiction (and poetry and lyrics but you didn't ask). I like to write pop fiction, where the action takes place in the midst of popular culture. I have found that I'm partial to romance, as well (but not in the creepy voyeur sort of way). And I'd like to someday attempt a thriller of some sort but that is way, way, way into the future and will probably be rendered unpublishable – for good cause.
>I've written commercial fiction and women's fiction, both with main characters young enough that they could almost be YA. I read a lot of YA, so I can see myself writing an older YA book soon.
>I am one of the many in the YA camp, though I retell fairy tales, so it's a genre within YA fantasy. Having four teenagers at home keeps my mind in their world.
I've been seriously writing for three years, and am finishing my second novel. I'll have my first anthology credit this year, and I'm hoping to find an agent in 2011.
>I write inspirational historical romances with a Western flavor.
I have four novels completed and one fifty percent written (70,000 words).
I also am trying my hand at a contemporary romance which is 30,000 words into it (anticpate it will be 90,000 words). This has been fun because it is a different type of research.
My favorite part of being a writer is the thrill of the first draft, story telling. When I can make a character start coming alive and place them in settings that seem real, whether they are or not. Such fun.
Then comes the revisions and sometimes I have to kill my babies (favorite sentences that just don't fit). Of course, I never throw anything away, I have a delete file where I store all those scenes that may someday see light again.
I love to read a good story and escape from the realities of the day. I look forward to reading the work of others that have commented and hope that we all can move from the pre-published to the published someday. If not, have fun along the journey.
Blessings on all of you,
A J Hawke
ajhawke.blogspot.com
>I blog daily on bible readings through the year at Yours In Christ Always
http://www.yica.blogspot.com
Do the Write Thing logs my thoughts on everything in exactly 100 words
http://reggreenbooks.blogspot.com
Real Enthusiastic Grace traces messy parts of my life that don't fit the other blogs.
http://reg-green.blogspot.com
I'm editing a Romantic Mystery which I wrote on NaNoWriMo. Also writing a memoir and doing research for an historical narrative on the family who settled the land grant where I live.
My short stories,poems and photographs have been published in Calvary Baptist News, Washington Post Magazine, Healthy Balance Magazine, This I Believe and Maryland Pet Profiles.
I have learned tons of very useful information from your website. Keep it coming. Thanks so much.
>What a great survey! Love reading all the comments. I write non-fiction and I am working on a memoir with a twist. Using someone else's fiction and how it helped me with my life. How it correlates. How it has become a spiritual practice of sorts.
Nothing published yet, but I am working on that too!
>I'm new to the world of publishing, but enjoying the journey immensely.
It's rather like a roller coaster, but without the motion sickness…
>Wow, there really are a lot of YA writers.
I guess I'll join the ranks.
I write YA. Mostly fantasy (mostly modern), with some horror, action-adventure, and sci-fi, depending on the story.
I'm currently unpublished and am close to completely my first draft of my fourth book.
You're so sweet to ask about us all!
>I am unpublished in novel-length fiction.
I started writing in 2000 (although I can't say I've been writing all ten years). The agent search began in 2007 and ended a few months ago when I signed with the agent right for me.
I have three mss ready for prime time: a YA historical, a YA magical realism, and a MG magical realism. I don't care to count the number gathering dust in the dark corners of my laptop.
>I write Women's Fiction and completed my first manuscript in December. I'm currently at work on the second draft of that manuscript, along with two other books that are fighting to get out of my head and onto my hard drive.
I started that first book just to see if I couldn't tell that story that had been banging around in my head for almost 20 years. I never dreamed it would turn into an actual completed novel! Getting it published wasn't something I thought about when I started writing, but I'm now drafting a query letter and we'll see what we'll see. Along the way I've met some amazing people in my crit group and beta readers, and have learned so much. For example, I've learned that I can take criticism without falling into a heap of sobbing goo; I've learned that I know nothing about the correct way to use semi-colons; and I've learned how wonderful it feels when people like what I've written.
Oh, and I've been writing since I was three years old. I know this because I still have the first story I narrated to my mom, along with the illustration I made to go with it. She saved it all those years and now it serves as a reminder that this is what I was meant to do.
>I'm a YA fantasy writer…but not high fantasy. So what's that? Low fantasy? 🙂 I know it has a name, but I can't think of it at the moment.
I've been trying to write my current book for a little over a year and I've finally set a very firm goal to finish it by June. I'm going to a writer's conference & as soon as it's over I want to send off my manuscript to some agents/editors.
>I write speculative fiction, usually horror, but quite a bit of fantasy and science fiction, too. I'm in the later stages of a science fiction manuscript for the YA market, and I'm beginning work on another YA book, this one a horror story. My short fiction tends to be for adults, though I've had one YA short published (a sports story).
>I write fantasy novels, and science fiction short stories. I just can't seem to write one in long form and the other in short.
I also have a series of children's stories that have taken shape whenever I feel like I need a break from my usual fare.
I complete my first novel last fall, the first of a trilogy. Then, I successfully completed NaNoWriMo last November, and am still working on what came out of that experience. I hope to have the first few rounds of revisions done on that story by mid-April or sooner. Then it will be back to my first novel so I can get it ready from my beta readers.
Hopefully, I'll be shopping for an agent later this year. 🙂
I'm a full-time worship leader. We homeschool our kids, and my wife works from home as a piano teacher and blog designer.
I'm woefully behind on posting on my blog. Whenever I concentrate on writing my novels, I just seem to run out of words and my blog suffers for it.
>I'm hard at work on my first contracted novel (first in a series of three) which will be published by guideposts in 2011. They're women's fiction, but to keep my own interest, I add in some romance (what can I say? I'm a sucker for a great romance)…
I started writing right after college–newspapers, magazines, drama, two non-fiction books… but started pursuing fiction seriously in fall of '08. I learn something new everyday and I love it!
Your blog has been hugely inspiring along the way. 🙂 Thank you for all the great insight you share here!!
>I find it fascinating that so many of your readers write fantasy or sci fi!
I write high fantasy, as well as contemporary thriller/mystery and anything else that strikes me as a good story. I've been writing since I was 10 (it all started with horse stories)and I majored in Literature with an emphasis on Creative Writing. I published one short story in my college's magazine and since graduation have been learning everything I can about publishing and agents. My first novel is finished and I'm currently trying to decide if I should devote more time to querying or to writing another novel.
>I write young adult/middle grade fantasy as well as adult speculative. Neither work that I have is published by I've been submitting one to agents and the other is a work in process.
I also like to make sure that my book has a theme. My ya/mg fantasy book goes along with two main ideas that I want youth to remember: stand for yourself along with the idea that you always have a choice, you just need to make sure you make the right one.
My other book, speculative fiction, has a strong look at family relationships, which seems to have become my main focus on this book.
>Wow, what fun reading about all my blogging buddies and their journey's to publication.
I write general fiction primarily. That is my first love. All of my stories have a seed of Christianity in them to varying levels, but I try to write very real, world oriented novels.
About 15 years ago I started writing with driven passion and managed to place one of my novels (about war torn Bosnia) in a writing competition. That garnered me six full requests and two literary agents. Yes, I picked a lemon and have lamented this many times.
Right now I've focused in all of my efforts on one novel in particular. It has already undergone one professional edit and now is in the hands of a great author who is assisting with copy-editing. I'm really happy to be where I'm at right now and am looking forward to representation one day again soon.
>Non-fiction, science. Work in progress ("What Things Are Made Of") is about US dependency on imports for copper, neodymium, cobalt, gypsum, and dozens more mineral resources, as well as the geological and historical context that led to their use.
>What a fun post!
I love seeing what others are working on.
For the most part, I write humorous women's fiction. I'm almost done with my second novel and have an idea for my third.
I simply love to write.
Thanks for your blog!
>I am a Christian teenage writer, and I've been writing seriously for about two years now. While at this point I write mostly fantasy (with some sci-fi thrown in), I would love to branch out into historical fiction, contemporary, and perhaps some mystery. Considering how young I am, I could also foresee having a change of mind and going for nonfiction (but I love fiction too much to completely give it up).
I think more than anything, my heart for Christian fiction is to find a balance between the 'sermon' and the story that's there just for entertainment. I want to write something that makes people think — not so much question their reality, but question what they themselves have been doing with it.
I love reading your blog! Not only do you give such wonderful advice (your Craft, Story, and Voice post still speaks to me), but when I read your blog I feel like I'm no longer a little, ignorant teenager who has no idea what where she's headed. You make me feel that I already have one foot in the adult world. 🙂
>Been writing since grade school. Put it on the shelf while I raised kids, then started writing non fiction/devotionals and articles, also bible studies. Started writing fiction a year ago and Im ready to query my first Historical Romance, and working on my second. Going to my first writers conference and entered my first Genesis contest.
>Upon close inspection, it would appear that I prefer to write fantasy and science-fiction sort of things. But it's less of exploring them as a genre (i.e., systems of magic and straight-up alien tech) and more of using them as a setting for stories that explore interpersonal relationships.
I've been writing since I was six. I even illustrated my first book and bound it with cardboard. I don't think I've really ever stopped – I've wanted to be a writer for as long as I can remember. I don't think I could stop, even if I wanted to.
>I'm writing a memoir, so I'm in the minority here – not sure if that's good or bad. Read your post on memoirs on March 2nd – good post, that scared me and made me realize how hard I'm going to have to work.
>I've been seriously writing for about two years and reading this blog for about six months. I write fiction, completed one manuscript, and trunked it. So far short stories have been my only publications, but the plan is to write another novel length manuscript eventually.
>I write primarily YA almost always with a fantasy element.
I do write based on real life, usually stories about animals for a local magazine that seeks such stories, but my love is YA.
I'm seeking an agent querying with a dystopian YA called EVERNOW. Meanwhile I have about 6 WIPs going, all YA of some variety and I'm busy trying to learn as much as I can about agents, publishing, and becoming a successful author.
>I've been serious about writing for three years. I started out writing historically based mysteries for adults. Completed 3 manuscripts along those lines, then a YA dystopian idea bombarded me out of the blue. I've finished and it's the first one I think could make it. Goal is to query by the beginning of April (gulp) depending on how this round of edits turns out. Thanks for the blog, Rachelle.
>Since you asked who is reading this blog, I wanted to reply. I read regularly but have just barely begun to pursue writing for publication. By that, I have now made working on the craft of writing a priority, due in large part by inspiration that I receive from your blog. Even in the midst of telling us all the reality of publication, I am inspired to write for the sake of writing. Then, I will begin the road of publication. (I am a long way from that now. So much so that I did not have a place to mark in the writing career poll. I have started a novel that has bounced around in my head for years prior to reading this blog.) Whether or not I am published, I will have written and I will have tried. And so I begin. Thanks!
>I write high and urban fantasy, although my books tend to blur the lines between fantasy, woman's fiction, and a little science fiction. But mostly I would classify it as urban fantasy.
Thanks for all the great advice on this blog!
>Oh and by the way, I just started writing again last year, after a 20 year, real-life, hiatus. I have never been published.
>I've had more than 90 books published, mainly for children and teenagers. Of recent years I have stuck to two publishers in the UK, one for picture books and retellings and another for teenage fantasy and historical fiction.
I've written two adult novels which both need more work.
>Thanks for trying to get to know more about us. I write fiction. I currently write romance stories, but wish to branch out into YA mysteries, or fantasy mysteries.
>Wow. Fun post. I've enjoyed reading some of the comments. Great group of people here.
I write paranormal romance and have been writing, seriously, for almost two years.
I just signed with an agent in January and signed a book contract for my first book in February.
This has been a fun ride and I'm most thankful for this blog. It's so helpful and brutally honest, which is just what writers need.
Hope you all have a great weekend!!
>I write crime fiction; I guess the style would be hard-boiled, though I hate that term. Some first person PI and some multi POV stories.
>I write contemporary fiction, often with a hint of romance. I've been writing seriously for nearly five years. In that time I've completed three manuscripts and am half way through a fourth.
I'm not published yet, but have had several requests for fulls. While I wait, I keep writing, editing, & learning.
>I'm a commercial writer for hire but stuck myself into the fiction category because I am 1/3 of the way into my first novel, which is literary fiction, I think. (I still have to do my market research: the story has been in my head for a long time so I wanted to get it down before I worry about where it belongs.)
I started reading publishing industry blogs because I just like people who love books, and totally wasn't going to write one, but I think I got inspired by all of you lovely folks. So thanks!
>My only published work to date has been in non-fiction: some travel articles for newspapers and the web, and some health and beauty articles for the web.
I'm currently re-dabbling in short fiction (I used to write short stories as a student, but have found that the full-time working world is sucking some of my creative juices). I'd like to publish some short stories, but have yet to summon the courage to send them out to literary magazines. 🙂
I've been toying with the idea for a novel for several years now – I'd say it falls somewhere between literary fiction and contemporary chick lit. I have the characters in my head, the situation that brings them altogether in my head, but haven't yet figured out where they're all going…
Tammy
>It's so interesting to see the trends!
I, also, write young adult… I'm amazed at how many of us are out there! Mainly I do contemporary Christian, but my current WIP is a dystopian. I've been writing seriously for about five years, and I'm unpublished in book form.
>I've been writing for almost twelve years and signed with an agent last fall.
I write for the children's market (mid-grade and picture books).
>Sci-fi/fantasy, YA. I've been working on writing with the intent to publish for about a year. I've only sent out six queries for my novel so far. I've had one snail mail rejection, two electronic rejections and two I haven't heard back from yet (which I am cynically counting as rejections at this point ;).
I'm starting my second book, and although that's kind of scary, I'm looking forward to a new challenge. When I couldn't find a writers group in my area, I created one with some other pre-published buddies of mine, and I LOVE it. It has really helped my work.
I work as an artist and musician too in order to keep my head from exploding. All very stable career choices, hehehe.
>I have written a y/a supernatural romance and a dystopian comedy.
I love to read both those genres so writing them felt like a good fit.
>I am writing faith based fiction. Romance is involved but I'm really wanting to dwell on how God works in normal lives. Historical content is also in my stories. Right now I have 3 I'm working on as thoughts come to me, but only one that I'm really in the writing process. It is a modern day, military story based on two questions….what happens to families of the fallen after all the media dies down and does God still work miracles today in huge ways.
Deborah
>I write YA Paranormal or Urban Fantasy–whatever it ends-up being. I like to write about dark and difficult problems, but my stories are so relationship-driven that the dark part comes from my characters' choices instead of the environment…kinda fun, I think. I've been writing for most of my life, but only began getting serious in the past year.
I've joined a huge writing community that has taught me more than I thought there was to learn. I've made new friends and had a blast learning how to package my stories into something that might actually be ready to sell soon. I'll start querying my new novel in a week or so…wish me luck! 🙂
>I'm currently dabbling in personal essays, tossing around screen-play ideas, writing some bad poetry, starting a comedy sketch writing group, and helping a senior citizen write her memoirs.
Just playing with different genres and seeing what sticks!
>Reading the comments and seeing the results is certainly interesting. There are a lot of unpublished fiction writers following an informative agent's blog. I'd call that a great thing – the more informed writers there are, the more likely they are to rise above the slush and avoid making newbie mistakes.
As for myself, I'm currently writing a steampunk choose-your-own-adventure-style webserial. That's a lot of fun, especially as the plot and characterization polls rarely go the direction I expect.
I also have a YA fantasy novel in heavy revision. I'm taking Holly Lisle's How to Revise Your Novel course so that I can learn how to revise properly (and maybe not make some of these mistakes in the future!)
Finally, I'm on the worldbuilding stage of my next novel, currently planned as another YA fantasy.
Writing one, revising another, building a third, and learning as much as I can in the process. Exactly where I need to be.
>I've been writing non-fiction (personal experience, family-related/spiritual topics, some poetry) for close to 15 years and have been published in magazines, other publications, compilations, and on Blue Mountain Arts greeting cards. The past few years I've been learning about and preparing for book publishing and have a couple of different projects up my sleeve. Hoping for the best!
>Asea – I don't know how your dryads are going to deal with modern life, but I insist you call their book "Knock On Wood".
>I recently declared myself a spiritual fantasist, because most of my story ideas deal with gods, and afterlife-type things. Even my blog was centered for a long time around personal growth and spiritual development.
I've been seriously writing for about six years. Agented but not yet published, except for a newspaper column and a couple of letters to the editor.
>So far I have 3 YA urban fantasies either done or in the works. Nothing you'd be interested in, but your information is invaluable to any writer.
>I've been writing for about a year and a half. I am currently writing YA fantasy. I'm in the revising process of this WIP and hope to begin the query process in September.
>I've been writing fiction for about a year and a half now. Before that, I wrote a lot of poetry for years. The first manuscript I was working on was women's fiction. I've finished the first draft of that and am taking a break from editing it to try out some other genres/ideas because it just wasn't clicking for me anymore. I just starting working on a new manuscript, a YA fantasy.
>I've been writing for about two and a half years. I have one novel complete–a YA/crossover fantasy. It's not Christian on the outside, but has a Christian backbone. So far, I've had no luck in finding a publisher, but I've had quite a bit of luck with short stories–especially (ironically) stories based on my book!
I've been published in several spec-fic magazines, both Christian and secular, and have several more stories coming out in anthologies over the next few months.
I've also sold quite a few personal experience stories to both magazines and anthologies. Most of those have even sold to multiple markets (yay for one-time rights!).
I'm currently working on two separate novels–one is a sequel to my completed fantasy, and the other is an unrelated paranormal thriller. And I am ALWAYS in the middle of at least one short story.
>I'm currently second-drafting my MG contemporary fantasy novel and writing my YA noir fantasy (55k in thus far).
I'm unpublished in novel form, and began by writing short stories.
This year's goal is to finish and submit my MG, finish and submit my YA, and write another contemporary fantasy I have all planned out already.
>Once upon a time I wrote fantasy. Now, I'm mainstream/contemporary fiction. I write about the issues I want to read about and try to give an honest, un-stereotypical portrayal of the people in my community.
I've written for quite a while and really didn't even think about publication until the last couple of years. Since that point, I've been immersing myself in the blogsphere as much as I can so I can avoid the common mistakes many (maybe most) aspiring writers make.
S
>I write, well, I suppose the current term is Urban Fantasy or horror (depending on your definitions). I'm currently unpublished except for poetry.
I've got several works in progress which seem to be something that would actually sell as opposed to sitting in my files.
My goal for this year is to get my short-stories edited and submitted.
>I write mostly paranormal romance, though I've got a fantasy/fantasy romance beginning to perk as well.
>I write sci-fi, fantasy, and women's fiction. Most of my projects can be sub-classified as romance. I am published in short fiction and working toward novel publication.
>I write Christian fiction for women. About 8 months ago I started getting serious about studying the craft of writing. I'm trying to take what I learn, apply it, see where I am weak, and then dig for more knowledge. After many years of dreaming about doing this, I am enjoying making it a reality. It is frustrating, overwhelming, and lonely at times, but I love it!
This blog has been very helpful in so many areas of writing and publishing. Many times it has affirmed I am 'normal' in this journey, as well as encouraged me to work hard and keep at it.
At this time, your poll seems to reveal pretty clearly who your main audience is. Interesting.
Jenny
>Been writing since I was a knee-high to a hoppergrass.
Wrote & POD'd a 'thriller-lite' just for fun.
I write historical fiction now. One novel in final edit, two more in-progress. In early stages of writing a memoir. Also interested in writing biographies.
Editing for republication two non-fiction histories of Colorado and memoirs of a ranch wife.
>I write horror. =)
>I write rock and roll fiction. I self-pubbed it simply because I had demand from readers, yet agents and editors held firm on the belief that there's no commercial viability (read: profit) in my subject matter.
I'm proving them wrong, I'm pleased to say. And I have the freedom to do lovely things like donate books to deployed troops.
That sort of goodness makes up for the shortcomings of doing it myself. Because there are many shortcomings. And just as many good things, too.
>I write women's fiction – most of it centers on non-traditional family structures or situations where families turn out to be different than most people think of them.
In my new WIP the main character finds out she is not the product of a sperm bank donation, but that her mother was married to her father and she was conceived "the old fashioned" way. The story begins as she knocks on her father's door.
I guess I could call it "It's a Girl" but the working title is Picking Daisy.
>I'm an intern for a literary agency (hopefully I'll be employed come graduation) and reading through the slush pile and client mss has really opened my eyes as to what to do and what *not* to do in my own writing. I haven't actually finished a book yet (I'm not sure if I'm even really a writer, or just a reader), but until I figure that out, I like to dabble in YA urban fantasy 🙂
>I've had 14 YA novels published–all writing for hire, although one did also pay royalities.
I took a hiatus after the 14th for several years and then decided to get back into the game.
The game changed. With the success of Harry Potter and Twilight and the advocacy of electronic submissions and publications, I've had to learn a whole new paradigm. It feels like I'm starting all over as a younger writer.
One thing I am doing this time is seeking an agent. I sold the first 14 without an agent, but I don't want to go through that again. With all the changes in publishing contracts and the controversary beginning to brew about e-books and royalities, I need an expert to sort through the mess and fight those battles.
I'm going to stick with telling good stories.
I've got one completed under consideration by two different agents.
And while I'm waiting to hear if either wants to sign me as a client, I'm working on two YA fantasies and developing a third.
Got to keep busy.
>It is interesting to see the wide variety of genres.
In the everyday world, I am a teacher. But, I have been writing most of my life. I recently took the brave step of letting others read my work.
I write mysteries and romantic suspense. I have two completed manuscripts I am revising to prepare for the terrifying ( in my opinion:) ) process of querying.
>Love reading these.
I’ve been writing women’s fiction for publication for over two years. I earned my BA in English, with a writing concentration. I’ve thrown three novels on the page and I have a mind to throw down at least a dozen more. Memoir fascinates me to no end and when I’m old and gray (you know, within the next ten years) I hope to have studied the craft of memoir voraciously enough to try my hand at it. I also have several non-fiction proposals floating in this here noggin’, but my first love is women’s fiction that stirs questions like Picoult and nails characters like Berg.
~ Wendy
>First time I've seen an agent's blog do this, and it should be instructive to us as readers and I hope to you Rachelle as the one who does all the work.
Probably I am not the norm for this blog since I am an older male. I wrote several non-fiction professional books as part of my career. I wrote fiction as an amusement, hoping to get a publisher, but couldn't; eventually I self published (iUniverse and Lulu) rather than have the manuscripts fill up the shelves and block progress; now they're out of the way. I prefer historical fiction as a field, it allows for reserch which is more interesting than the writing (compare Follett), but also forensic stuff (compare Cornwell & Reichs). I've been a few places and done a few things so am putting some memoirs together — no interest to anyone but me.
I'm quite convinced one should only write if one enjoys it. There isn't enough money in it to justify the time spent as a career, and I subscribe to the axiom: "If you want to send a message, use Western Union."
Long may you keep up your blog Rachelle, and thank you for your work.
>I write fantasy and science fiction. I have one short story published in an anthology. I'm currently revising a science fiction novel and plan to start querying it later this year.
>I write urban/dark fantasy and sci-fi. I've got two novels finished, one of each genre, and am currently in the revision stage for the latter.
I also have several short sci-fi stories published with various ezines.
>How fun reading where everyone is at! What a great idea!
I write light-hearted contemporary romance (FKA Romantic comedy!) I've been seriously writing with the hope of publication since August 2007. I have two finished books, two partials that are sequels to one of the finished books, and another book that I'm currently working on that's a stand-alone.
>Southern fiction. Serious writer. Manuscript in process. Not published yet. Anticipate another year before it's polished for submission.
>I write contemporary Christian romance and women's fiction. I decided to be a writer at 16, took some fiction writing & lit classes, but didn't seriously write until a decade or so ago.
I completed the rough (oh, so very rough) draft of a novel in 2004 during Nanowrimo. My husband bought me a laptop since he realized I was serious about this writing business. Juggling family, a full-time job, church, and life made it hard to find quality writing time, but I'm in a season in my life now where publication is more than just a dream…now it's a goal to receive a book contract by the end of 2010.
My first novel is ready to be submitted for consideration by the agent and publishing house who requested the full ms.
Validation as a writer came when my novel finaled in the ACFW Genesis contest. At that point, I realized, "Huh, maybe my work is getting better…we'lll see."
I've been blessed by incredible writing mentors who are willing to help newer writers hone their craft.
>It's been neat to read what others write!
I write romance. I am all about the happily ever after. 🙂
I've read romance for ages and ages, but got the idea for a story in May of 2009 and now have two complete novels and a third (YA Romance) in the works. When the story flows, it really goes straight to my fingertips. It's so much fun!
>I write middle grade with humor and heart. I'm into my fifth year writing. Unpublished. About to query.
I like to post here, because I won't feel like I'm sucking up to an agent since you don't rep middle grade. 🙂
>Hi there!
I've been writing since I was able to give up full time work. I write YA fiction and I love it! I'm learning so much from fellow writers, editors and agents in the blog world, that I'm constantly having 'ah-ha!' moments and returning to my ms to correct, delete or revise. I know you don't rep what I write – but I love reading your blog and learning from your vast experience.
Thanks!
>Very cool reading everyone's journeys.
I write inspy cont. romance but I also like historicals. Have been writing for publication almost four years now.
It's been great!
>I started out writing fiction and working like the dickens to get the craft part right before submitting my manuscript to an agent. Then a friend introduced me to a non-fiction agent and I had a contract to write a technical book, which is now in the editing and revision process through the publisher.
Weird. Not what I wanted at all, but it's a paying gig. How can I argue with that?
>I write Urban Fantasy apparently (I've always called it Paranormal Mystery). Have been since I was 13 (more than a decade now).
>I write contemp. romance and I've got a few women's fiction in me as well. I've been writing for publication for three and a half years, writing as a hobby all my life.
>I'm writing MG fantasy and I've been busy on this ms for about a year and a half now. First attempt. It's been a bumpy ride for sure, but I think I'm edging ever closer to that querying stage. 🙂
>Nine or so years writing poetry, about four writing fiction (fantasy), which puts my beginning right around my senior year of High School…
Throw in marriage, college, work, and then a little nubbins who's just learning to talk, and you have me and my life.
>I am obviously in the small minority. I don't consider myself a writer nor have I ever had any real desire to become one. I blog and write for myself and the peace that it brings. However, like the prophet Jeremiah, I have a "fire burning in my bones" and I am realizing that a parenting book is most likely in my not-too-distant future. The publishing process doesn't excite me much at all, but the prospect of being able to sleep at night and think of something else during the day excites me a great deal. Even if I never publish, I think that the writing of the book will settle my soul.
>If you write fiction, what genre do you you write? If you write non-fiction, what are you writing about? How long have you been writing? How long have you been publishing? Tell us whatever you want about your writing!
I write fiction: I specialise in gay historical fiction and gay historical romance (hope this doesn't upset anyone here and I'm still welcome!)
I've been writing since 2003. I started through fanfiction, which I found a fabulous "nursery slope" while I learned some of the ropes, then in 2004 I branched out into original fiction, wrote my first novel "Standish" (Regency) which was published in 2006.
While I finished my second novel, I wrote/published a lot of short stories (which I find invaluable for developing platform and notice) and then I was hugely lucky to get that novel ("Transgressions"- English Civil War) published by Running Press last year. I also have four novellas in print–I try and write one full-sized novel and one novella a year. My 3rd novel "Mere Mortals" (victorian Gothic) will be published this year.
This year I achieved my next goal – which was to get representation, something I was beginning to think would never happen, and the agent is now shopping around my 4th novel (1960's England) – fingers crossed!
I'm currently working on a novella set in the Austro-Prussian war, and a sequel to Standish.
My next goal? Hardback. 🙂
Looking forward to learning more about the other readers of this excellent blog.
>Alles richtig so
>Very fun survey, Rachelle. I'm writing memoir. Began considering the writing a legitimate project perhaps three years ago.
>I write literary fiction, am working on a non-fiction account of some of my ancestors (who did nothing interesting), and also a screenplay. All are very bad. I blame my dog.
>I write supernatural chicklit and I'm based in the UK. My first manuscript is undergoing it's 3rd re-write/edit because I'm perfecting it before I send it out to lit agents.
When I first started writing I was told time and again to write my book because a lot of people say they have a book in them, but never get it written. Now that I have written a book I find out that everyone and his dog has written a book and I've practically no chance of ever getting published!
Manuscript blurb:
Bedevilled is a story about an ordinary woman who one day finds out she's the Devil. Bubbles can't understand how she's gotten herself into such a pickle, maybe it's because she's always been a bit of a pushover? Is Bubbles doomed to spend eternity reigning over Hell, or will she learn to stand up for herself? And why does her BFF seem to be gunning for God? Who just so happens to be Bubbles ex-husband.
If you'd like to follow my writerly angst, here's a link to my blog:
http://bangouttheprose.blogspot.com
Cheers, Suz
>Look at all these new names to keep an eye out for! This is quite fun. 🙂
I only started writing seriously a year ago, and I'm still trying out new things and settling into my voice.
Right now I am working on a semi-fictional wander through Saint Petersburg, Russia (where I live), meeting people whose occupations are nearly forgotten in modern clamour.
When that project drives me nuts I allow a tribe of half-breed dryads to take over my head. They're trying to figure out how to make it in the modern world, and they promise to let me in on the secret if they ever manage it.
>PS. I've been seriously writing now for 4 years. But like many on here, I always processed the world through words and images – since I was very young I have drawn and dabbled in poetry and stories…
>I write and illustrate picture books, and also write mid-grade novels (mainly within the fantasy / adventure genres). I signed with my delightful agent last year and have my first picture book coming out in Spring 2011 with Viking (an imprint of Penguin). It all still feels very new and exciting 🙂
Great to see what everyone else is doing. Sounds like there are some really interesting projects going on within the group!
Katherine
>Wow, there are a lot of YAs. I write historical romance, in mainstream and in the inspirational realm. I can break them down further into Westerns and Biblical Old Testament.
>Love reading all the comments to this.
I write (adult) science fiction, with the occasional fantasy short story.
>I just finished the third draft of a thriller. The first manuscript I wrote was a YA fantasy. I think that's going to be a drawer novel for now, but I've got an idea for a different YA fantasy that I'll write once the thriller is done.
>I tend to write fantasy, though what I decided on for my MFA thesis isn't—exactly. In form, it's closest to historical fiction, I suppose, riding the line between adult and YA. In reality, though, it's science fiction, with a fantastical twist, thrown into turn of the century London.
But I suppose when it comes down to it, that's what I love writing the most. Straight literary fiction, straight fantasy, and straight science fiction aren't my fare…I love to combine all three.
>Hi Rachelle, I write crime thriller novels but also have a women's commercial fiction novel that I am working on too. I have been trying to get published for ten years now, had an agent for two years before we parted company and am now working with an extremely talented agent. She has seen the first two books in my crime thriller series, I've recently finished the first draft of book three in the series and I'm now editing my women's fiction novel to get to her.
Book one of my crime thriller series is out with publishers now and I have no nails left…
>My first love is contemporay, character-driven YA, but I'm now experimenting with picture book texts. Like many writers, I've been writing since … well, since I learned to write. It's just something I love doing.
>How fun. Thanks, Rachelle. It's always fun to talk about my writing, and it's especially fun when it's an agent who is asking. 🙂
That said, I have no idea what I'm writing.
I have a concept for a humor book that I'm struggling with. I think I have it, maybe, but I really don't know if it will work.
I have lots of other concepts and ideas that I'm gradually working on – prescriptive non-fiction, and a few fairly ambitious fiction books, but I expect those to take years to develop.
And I write little picture books.
Oh. And I write papers for school. Lots and lots of papers for school. Sometimes, I get good grades on them, but Harvard hasn't called yet. 🙂
Basically, right now, I'm not writing other than for school. Full-time work/full-time school leaves no room for writing – but this summer – time to dig in.
I'm totally rambling. I guess that means I also write blog posts that ramble.
Thanks for the opportunity to ramble, Rachelle. 🙂
>Hi Rachelle, (still difficult to type 2 L's since mine has one.)
I am Non-Fiction by nature but led to write a Christian Fiction book that would fall under Contemporary Chick-Lit.
As far as my length of time writing I developed an interest at 14 and it has grown slowly but the last 2 years have deepened my burden. I feel that I can deal with some hard issues because I know how the shoes feel yet I am simply an ordinary woman with an extraordinary Savior. I believe in 2001 He called me to write a tough Non-Fiction book, then He turned that story into a potential series that I see unfolding before my eyes.
I had no idea such people could be living inside the world in my mind!!! I simply want to see God glorified through it all.
Abiding Still,
Chel (Rachele Posey)
>Sci-fi/fantasy. And maybe YA in the future.
Been writing seriously for about 7 years.
Two novels written. None published.
>I've done a bit of corporate tech writing, and am trying my hand at fiction, near-future science fiction (sci-fi nor) and straight up sci-fi.
I've been writing fiction for two years now, and have floated one book project to agents while working on others.
>I have been writing ever since I can remember, and everyone has always known that I will be a writer. I actually FINISHED my first book 2 years ago, a YA contemporary and, now that I know I can do it, am currently writing my 3rd. I love contemporary, and I consider myself a MG and YA writer.
I got an agent mid last year who I'm very happy with and am out on submission as we speak. But in the meantime? I keep writing.
Yep, that's pretty much me.
>I write YA fiction. I have 2 current manuscripts I'm developing: one is YA fantasy, the other is YA dystopian. My goal is to finish one of them this year and seek an agent out sometime next year.
In the meantime, I'm writing shorter pieces: essays and poetry, and submitting them to journals and writing contests.
I have ideas for children's picture books, as well as adult memoir and adult fiction. I write poetry as well.
Apart from being a writer, my other hat is as a Children's Librarian. I came across so many crappy books when planning story times for the last decade, that I realized there is still a lot of room for growth in the realm of Children's Lit.
I have been writing since
age 8 and have 42 hand written journals to prove it. But I started writing more seriously with an eye to becoming published about 2 years ago.
Great getting-to-know-everyone post!!
>I just finished my first YA / Urban Fantasy. I hope to write non-fiction one day.
Thanks for all the free advice!
>I write fantasy and, increasingly, historical fiction. Mostly I play with myth, from biblical to classical to Norse, and I expect that selection will continue to grow.
I've only been SERIOUSLY writing for the last year or so, but I've dabbled for much much longer. I'm engaged in the Query wars right now, and it's some exciting times!
>I write literary fiction, including literary YA, and I will probably end up writing a lot of historical and multicultural stuff because it seems to draw my interest the most. I've been writing seriously for six and a half years now and only recently (past six months) have written a project I love and want to stick with. The goal is to begin seeking representation later this year!
Great polls, Rachelle! Thanks for doing this.