Thank you for being a loyal follower of Rocking Horse Writing. This blog is no longer active, as I have split Rocking Horse Writing into two separate blogs–one for writing/publishing and one for horses/riding.

To continue following my adventures in writing, reading, and publishing, please follow: https://writingwithlaura.wordpress.com

To continue following my equestrian pursuits, mishaps, and blunders, please follow: https://equinebabbles.wordpress.com

I will only occasionally publish the same post on both blogs (e.g. A post about a writing book dealing with horses.)

I hope you will continue to follow one or both of the new blogs. I apologize for any inconvenience!

Laura

It has come to my attention that this blog attempts to cover too many subjects. For that reason, I’ve decided to separate Rocking Horse Writing into two blogs.

If you’d like to join me in my adventures in writing, reading, and publishing, please follow:

https://writingwithlaura.wordpress.com/

If you follow Rocking Horse Writing solely to laugh and cry at my equestrian adventures and mishaps, please follow:

https://equinebabbles.wordpress.com

Of course, if you’d still like to follow BOTH of my blogs that would be the best option of all! This will be my last post on Rocking Horse Writing, as my two new blogs will require all my extra time and energy. Thanks for your input, loyalty, and sticking around through the blog changes!

In the week since my YA mystery, Trail of Secrets, was published, I’ve engaged in a whirlwind of tweets, Facebook posts, blog appearances, and in-person visits to bookstores, libraries, tack shops, horse barns, etc. I’m starting to realize I probably should have majored in marketing instead of English! I’ve been overwhelmed with support from many friends, relatives, fellow writers–particularly a few close friends scattered across the country who have been hand-delivering my bookmarks to local riding stables and sharing my Facebook posts with their social networks. I’m so grateful!

Still, people continue to ask me, “What can I do to help?” Well, the obvious answer is “Buy the book!” But going beyond that, I’d like to re-share a portion of a post I read and posted a couple of years ago on WriterUnboxed.com by Chuck Sambuchino (editor of Writer’s Digest) on how to support an author’s book release. I’ve been using many of these strategies (especially number 6!) to help support the book releases of my fellow writers. The suggestions are so simple, yet effective, that I must share them. Hopefully, the good karma I’ve been putting out there will come back to visit me in these next days and weeks!

To view the complete post from writerunboxed.com, click HERE.   I am sharing my favorite portion of his post below:

“Anyone can support an author’s book release by doing different things to help the book sell and get noticed. So, in no particular order, here are 11 things — some big, some small — that you can do to support a writer friend when their book comes out:

1. Buy their book. An obvious point, sure, but important nonetheless. Naturally, we must buy new copies of books, not used copies, for the sale to “count” and the author to get a royalty. So buy new. Heck, consider pre-ordering the book. Publishers pay attention to pre-orders to help get a sense of what titles are getting buzz and attention. Impressive pre-orders help the author.

2. Buy their book for others as a gift. Think of which friends and relatives would enjoy the book/novel. Buy it for them as either a birthday gift or holiday gift. You get to support your author friend and give cool gifts at the same time! Get copies signed if possible to make gifts special. Even people who don’t read many novels will still take note if a gifted book is personalized and autographed.

3. Face the book out at bookstores. Simply rearrange a bookstore shelf so that your friend’s book faces out to make it much more noticeable. (The theme begins: It’s all about getting noticed.)

4. When you actually read the book, read it where people can see it. Read it in public. Read it on the subway. Read it in the aisle seat of a plane. Read it on the deck of a cruise ship. After all, don’t you find yourself looking at what others are reading when you pass by? I do! And if I see 3 different people in 3 different places reading the same book, will I start to investigate it out of curiosity? Yes. It’s all about building public knowledge of something to the point where people are curious and discuss it.

5. Ask a bookstore employee where the book is located. When entering a bookstore, do not look for the book, even if you know exactly where it is. Go to the bookstore customer service clerk and ask them about the book. They will find it in their system and lead you to the book. My hope is that if several people do this at the same bookstore, then the employee(s) will begin to take notice of the title, wondering what all the buzz is about. If you’re lucky enough that an employee finally picks it up and reads it, then they might put it in the “Employee Picks” section or refer it to people who come in and ask “What’s something good I probably don’t know about?” or “What book makes a good gift?” Let bookstore employees help sell copies!

6. Leave a review on Amazon or BN.com or Goodreads or all. Reviews are still very important. Think about it. If you come by a new book and see it has 2.0 stars on Amazon, would you buy it? On some level, that silly rating does affect me and my decision — and my guess is that it affects you, too. So it’s crucial that, when you read a book and enjoy it, you leave a review on Amazon or BN.com or Goodreads or all. Those first 10-20 reviews really matter and can set a book on the right path. (Note: You can leave the same review on all sites to save time.)

7. “Like” the book on Amazon, or “Like” the author’s Facebook Fan page, or both. I heard from a literary agent once that the more “Likes” a book had on its Amazon page, the more frequent it turned up in Amazon’s comparable titles elsewhere. Getting your personal friends to “Like” another friend’s page is an easy favor to ask, as it requires no money. (Heck, go do some good right now: Open this separate page and “Like” Brian’s Facebook page if you have a second.)

8. Reserve a copy at the library. An employee here at Writer’s Digest Books once told me that if all copies of a book are reserved from our county library before the title came out, the system has a way of noticing this popularity and marking the book as one for “more orders.” (Also: Use the bookstore method above and ask librarians about the book — simply to draw attention to it and get the title on the mind of staff.)

9. Attend the book release party (if there is one) and bring a warm body or two. This task isn’t so much to help the author as it is to help the author’s self-esteem. It’s lonely to have a book release party or local signing with low attendance. If you already bought a copy, bring that book to be signed.

10. Spread news of the book through your social media channels. When the author mentions it on Facebook, share the news with your social circles and include a small note about what the book is and why they should buy it. In other words, spreading the word by saying “My friend got published!” is nice — but it’s better to say, “This new book by my hilarious friend is a great gift for dads who are raising daughters. Laugh-out-loud-funny stuff for all fathers to enjoy!” See how the second one targets people in a simple-yet-specific way? Do this kind of targeting when you spread the word via Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, or blogs.

11. If you have media contacts or know people of influence, arrange a connection. This is one of the best things you can do and probably the biggest way you can truly influence the life of the book and the success of the author. If you’re married to the cousin of a local news personality, it’s exactly that kind of connection that serves as a great introduction between author and TV host. If you know a book reviewer at a newspaper in Boston, say so. If your old college buddy now runs the biggest reading club in all of Central California, try and help your author friend’s book be a future choice in that club. Utilize your network!” – Chuck Sambuchino

So select a few items off this list and help your writer-friends to succeed!  When your book gets published,  you’ll be glad you did.

The big day has finally arrived–the publication of my debut YA novel, Trail of Secrets! Do you love horses, or mysteries, or ghost stories, or books about people who view the world in a slightly different way? If you answered yes to any of the above, then I hope you’ll check out my book.

The digital version of Trail of Secrets is available on AMAZON or SMASHWORDS for $4.99. The print version can be purchased on LULU for $11.95.

Don’t forget to enter my giveaway for one of three signed copies of Trail of Secrets on GOODREADS! (Giveaway ends September 15, 2015.)

Happy trails to you!

The release date of my YA mystery, Trail of Secrets, is scheduled for August 27, 2015. That’s less than two weeks away! To celebrate, I’m giving away three signed copies of my book on Goodreads.

CLICK HERE to enter!

Do you know anyone who loves horses, or enjoys YA mysteries? Feel free to share the giveaway with this link:  https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/151431-trail-of-secrets

The winner will be announced September 15, 2015. Good luck!

Today I’m taking a break from young adult novels to introduce a very special picture book–Edmund Pickle Chin:  A Donkey Rescue Story, co-authored by Clara Bowman-Jahn and Susan April Elwood. I’m deviating slightly from my Thursday horse theme, too, as this picture book is about a donkey, not a horse. But I’ve never met a horse-lover who doesn’t also love donkeys! Not to mention, I’m a sucker for animal rescue stories. Clara Bowman-Jahn is a talented author and former online critique group member of mine. I’m so happy to help spread the word about her sweet and heartwarming book, which has been tested and approved by my very own children.

Summary:  Edmund Pickle Chin, A Donkey Rescue Story is based on a true story. Edmund is an abused donkey who is the first of many animals to call Evermay Farm, a small rescue in central Georgia, home. Susan, Edmund’s care giver in the story, not only gives the shy donkey the time and patience he needs but gives him a new name every day of the week. The title takes on one of those nicknames she so lovingly calls him. As Susan starts to take in new critters, Edmund finds himself changing. As his name grows, so does his trust and acceptance. Edmund soon learns that he is not only needed but wanted. This confused, frightened donkey’s life changes as he becomes a hero, a babysitter, and a companion to the other residents at Evermay Farm.

Age Level:  5-12

Publisher:  eTreasures Publishing, LLC (December 12, 2014)

About the Author:  CLARA BOWMAN-JAHN worked as a registered nurse for thirty-two years, finally trading that job for her true love, writing. Clara’s short stories have been published in the anthology of the “Campaigner’s Challenges Book.” When Clara is not writing, she does volunteer work for a local elementary school and her church. She also likes taking long walks with her husband, blogging, and reading books. She is a member of the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and Round Hill Writer’s Group. She lives in rural Loudoun County, Virginia with her humorous husband, a senior dog and two cats. And she is the proud mother of two wonderful grown sons and one delightful grandson.

Connect with Clara on her Facebook Page:  http://www.Facebook.com/ClaraBowmanJahn

and her website:  http://www.ClaraBowman-Jahn.com

Happy reading!

At last, the cover for Trail of Secrets has arrived! I instantly fell in love with the cover when I first saw it a few weeks ago. I wanted to share it with the world immediately, but I’ve been sworn to secrecy until today. I’m so thankful to Caroline Andrus for designing such a mysterious equestrian-themed cover. It truly captures the essence of my novel. Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think!

Trail of Secrets, by Laura Wolfe

Spending three weeks of her summer at the elite Foxwoode Riding Academy in northern Michigan should have been one of the happiest times of sixteen year-old Brynlei’s life. But from the moment Brynlei arrives at Foxwoode, she can’t shake the feeling she’s being watched. Then she hears the story of a girl who vanished on a trail ride four years earlier. While the other girls laugh over the story of the dead girl who haunts Foxwoode, Brynlei senses that the girl—or her ghost—may be lurking in the shadows.

Brynlei’s quest to reveal the truth interferes with her plan to keep her head down and win Foxwoode’s coveted “Top Rider” award. To make things worse, someone discovers Brynlei’s search for answers and will go to any length to stop her. As Brynlei begins to unravel the facts surrounding the missing girl’s disappearance, she is faced with an impossible choice. Will she protect a valuable secret? Or save a life?

Publisher:  Fire and Ice Young Adult Books (coming August/September 2015)
Age level: 13-18

Still not sure if you want to read it? Watch the trailer:

I hope to see you next week, when I’ll recount every detail of my recent visit to the Kentucky Horse Park!

Welcome back to Horsin’ Around Thursdays! Before I get to today’s book, I have exciting news related to the upcoming release of my young adult equestrian thriller, Trail of Secrets. I’ve been working my way through the final edits and, a few days ago, I even got a sneak peek at the cover. I absolutely love it! Unfortunately, it may be several more weeks before I can reveal the cover to the outside world. Because patience is not one of my virtues, I’m keeping myself happily entertained by reading other people’s horse-themed books.

This week it’s all about horse showing at the highest level–The A Circuit. In case you’ve never heard of The A Circuit four book Series, co-written by Catherine Hapka and professional equestrian, Georgina Bloomberg, prepare to indulge in a guilty pleasure.

Summary (from Amazon.com):  The A Circuit is the top of the top when it comes to horse showing. It’s a world with its own rules and super-privileged lifestyles. Teens employ private tutors so they can travel the circuit all year showing horses that cost as much as some people’s homes.Tommi, Kate, and Zara are all elite competitors on the circuit, but they come from totally different backgrounds. Tommi is a billionaire heiress trying to prove she has real talent (not just deep bank accounts). Kate puts the working in working student-every win has been paid for with hours of cleaning stalls. She’s used to the grueling schedule, but Fitz, the barn’s resident hot guy, is about to become a major distraction. And then there’s Zara. She’s the wild child of a famous rock star, but she’s ready to take riding seriously. Can a party girl really change her ways?Readers who enjoy peeking into the elite world of series of Gossip Girl or The A-List will feel right at home in this new series with its friendships, drama, and privilege set against a backdrop of competitive horseback riding.

Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens (May 24, 2011)

Recommended Reading Age: 12-17

If you crave a book filled with drama, horses, and a glimpse into how the “other half” lives, then pack your beach bag with The A Circuit for a fun, summer read!

My next post will be in two weeks because I’ll be off on a road trip with my family for a while. One of our destinations will be the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Can’t wait to report back on the experience!

I hope everyone had a fun and safe 4th of July holiday! Not only is it Thursday again, but it also happens to be my daughter’s 6th Birthday!! I’m taking a break from balloons, cake, streamers, and presents to let you know about a few great horse-themed books by author Shannon Kennedy, starting with No Horse Wanted (Shamrock Stable Book 1), Fire and Ice Young Adult Books (September 12, 2013).

No Horse Wanted won the Must Read YA Romance Award from Sneak Peek, was an Eppie finalist, and was featured in Young Rider Magazine – Book Bag (May/June 2014).

Summary:  The only thing that Robin Gibson wants for her sixteenth birthday is a 1968 Presidential Blue Mustang. Following their family tradition, what her parents promise her is a horse of her own, one with four legs, not four wheels. Mom competes in endurance riding, Dad does calf roping, her older brother games and her older sister loves three-day eventing, but Robin proudly says that she doesn’t do horses. She’ll teach her controlling family a lesson by bringing home the worst horse she can find, a starved, abused two-year-old named Twaziem.

Robin figures she’ll nurse him back to health, sell him, and have the money for her car. Rescuing and rehabilitating the Morab gelding might be a bigger challenge than what she planned. He comes between her and her family. He upsets her friends when she looks after his needs first. Is he just an investment or is he part of her future? And if she lets him into her heart will she win or will she lose?

After you read No Horse Wanted, be sure to check out these other must-read books in the Shamrock Stable series:

See you next week, when we’ll delve into the elite world of showing on the A circuit. Until then, happy reading!

Welcome back to Horsin’ Around Thursday, where every week until the release of my YA novel, Trail of Secrets, I feature a spectacular piece of horse-themed fiction. Today, I’m excited to introduce you to author Caroline Akervik and her YA novel, A Horse Named Viking, Fire and Ice (April 29, 2012).

Summary:  A rogue. An outlaw. An unlikely hero. Viking is the sole offspring of a savage and vicious mare. The colt is the pride of the stable until his dam kills a groom in her stall. Viking is a painful reminder of the tragedy, and so he is sold off.

The black colt has a coarse face and a mean curl to his nostrils, but he is beautifully proportioned with magnificent gaits. With his teeth and thick weapon of a tail, Viking brutalizes everyone who handles him and humiliates the best trainers in the world until Anne O’Neil from the United States tries him.

The first time she rides him, she declares that she will not buy him if he was the last apple in the barrel. The second time, she rides him with a different philosophy, as if he is as sensitive as one of her Thoroughbreds, and she is amazed by the results. Kindness and sugar turn out to be the keys to Viking’s heart. Viking and Anne become rising stars until a cruel and brutal trainer seeks to crush his spirit.

A Horse Named Viking follows the life journey of an incredible, unforgettable horse.

About the Author:  Caroline Akervik has been an avid reader since the fourth grade when a nun named Sister Dorothy introduced her to the magical world of Narnia. Caroline read anything and everything and was a particular fan of Marguerite Henry’s horse stories and, especially, of King of the Wind.

Most of her early adulthood was spent as a professional horsewoman. She competed through the Grand Prix level of Dressage and worked with and trained many horses. Then, Caroline was blessed with a wonderful husband and three incredible children. Spending time with her own children motivated her to return to school to become a library/media specialist.

Now, Caroline shares her love of story and of the magic and power of words with the children she teaches. In her own work, Caroline seeks to write from the heart and to transport her readers and give wings to their imaginations. Caroline writes for young people, but agrees with C.S. Lewis that “A children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children’s story in the slightest.”

Connect with Caroline on her BLOG and FACEBOOK PAGE!

Enjoy! I’ll see you back here in two weeks, as I’m taking next week off to enjoy the Fourth of July holiday. Happy trails!

SPEAK OF THE TIGER, Fire and Ice YA (March 10, 2015)

 EMMA AND THE CUTTING HORSE, Fire and Ice YA (June 24 2014)

Summary:  When Emma Dean’s parents buy a plain sorrel mare with slightly crooked knees at a prestigious horse sale, Emma isn’t sure whether to be elated or disappointed.  Cranky and irascible, the mare refuses to warm up to people or other horses.  After she dumps Emma in the dirt on her first ride, Emma’s dad loads the mare in a trailer and takes her to a trainer to protect his daughter from the bumps, bruises and broken bones that can result from riding a cantankerous 2 year-old.

At first the mare seems like an outlaw, but beneath her plain red coat and independent attitude, the trainer slowly uncovers a surprising streak of hidden talent and an unexpected natural balance and athletic ability. When a well-known cutting horse trainer approaches Emma’s parents about training the mare for the NCHA Futurity, the family must make a difficult decision. Should they stretch their already strained budget to pay for training and futurity nomination fees? Could such a hardheaded little mare become a champion cutting horse?

Recommended Age Level: 11-18

Have you read any phenomenal horse-themed fiction lately? I’d love to hear about it!

Until next time, happy reading, riding, and writing!

Welcome back to Horsin’ Around Thursdays, where every Thursday until the release of my equestrian thriller, Trail of Secrets, I’ll let you know about a new and exciting piece of equine literature!

This week, I’m featuring the latest book in the Saddle Creek series: Dark Days at Saddle Creek, Dancing Cat Books (September 25, 2012). This nail-biting mystery from equestrian author, Shelley Peterson, is sure to appeal the young adult crowd and English riders of all ages.

DARK DAYS AT SADDLE CREEK

Trouble looms over the inhabitants of Saddle Creek Farm.

When inhumane activities emerge in the horse show world, an intriguing RCMP officer turns to Bird for help. Soon, she’s juggling more than she can handle. Between using her unusual skills to bring animal abusers to justice, riding jumping sensation Sundancer to victory (fingers crossed!), and grappling with complicated family issues, Bird has hardly any free time at all. And that’s too bad, because a little free time is just what Bird needs. This summer, she’s determined to find out the truth about her father, whatever that might be.

Things get even more complex when Bird’s old friend and mentor, Pete Pierson, is rushed to the hospital with a life-threatening illness. With support from her animal friends, Cody and Sundancer, Bird struggles to make it through a stormy summer.

About the Author:  Shelley Peterson is the best-selling author of numerous young adult novels, including DANCER, ABBY MALONE, SUNDANCER, and MYSTERY AT SADDLE CREEK. She was born in London, Ontario, and was trained in theatre arts at the Banff School of Performing Arts, Dalhousie University, and the University of Western Ontario.

She works as a professional actress, and has more than 100 stage, film, and television credits to her name. Peterson has had a lifelong love of animals big and small, with particular interest in horses. She divides her time between Toronto and Fox Ridge, a horse farm in the Caledon hills, which she shares with her husband, three children, and the family dog.

http://www.shelleypeterson.com

Be sure to check back next Thursday for two more equestrian books that will transport you to the dusty Texas countryside. Until then, happy reading, riding, and writing!

Welcome to the first installment of Horsin’ Around Thursdays on Rocking Horse Writing! Every Thursday, leading up to the release of my YA equestrian thriller, Trail of Secrets, I’ll be highlighting a different horse-themed book or series for your reading pleasure. Rest assured, fellow horse lovers, by the end of the summer you’ll have a healthy variety of equestrian books to add to your reading list! I’m kicking off Horsin’ Around Thursdays with a young adult novel that delves into the high-stakes world of horse racing– Born to Run (North Oak Book 1), by Ann Hunter.

Summary: Alexandra Anderson is on the run from the law. When the thirteen-year-old orphan can run no further, she collapses at the gates of the prestigious racing and breeding farm, North Oak. Horse racing strikes a deep chord in her. She hears a higher calling in the jingle jangle of bit and stirrup and in the thunder of hooves on the turn for home. It tells her she has a place in the world. But when the racing headlines find her on the front of every sports page, she realizes North Oak is no longer a safe haven. Money can’t buy love, but it just might secure Alex’s future. Will everyone at North Oak still want to offer her a home when they learn of her unspeakable crime? On the heels of Joanna Campbell’s beloved Thoroughbred Series, and Walter Farley’s Black Stallion, comes a brand new young adult horse racing series that will sweep you away like a runaway Thoroughbred.

Recommended Age Level: 12-18

Publisher: Rebel House Ink; 1 edition (March, 1, 2015)

About the Author:  Multi-award winning author, Ann Hunter, is the creator of the young adult fantasy series Crowns of the Twelve (including the novels The Subtle Beauty, Moonlight, Fallen, with A Piece of Sky, Ashes, and The Rose In The Briar to follow). She likes cherry soda with chocolate ice cream, is a mom first and a writer second, has a secret identity, and thinks the Twilight movies are cheesier than cheez whiz (which is why they are her guilty pleasure!)

She lives in a cozy Utah home with her two awesome kids and epic husband.

Links: https://www.facebook.com/NorthOakSeries

Buy It on Amazon

Until next week, happy reading!

My plan to take a break from riding “just for the summer” has gone terribly astray. I’m not sure how this happened, but I guess it’s fair to say that “life” got in the way. I became extra-busy with my kids and consumed with my writing, and two months turned into four months. Then it was winter (in Michigan) and it was too cold. Then it was spring and we got a new puppy and had a trip planned. And now it’s almost summer again and my kids are counting down until their last day of school. It’s been ten months since I stopped half-leasing my adorable buddy, Louie. I miss that guy! Although it makes it a little easier to know that he lives a very comfortable life and has a great family who loves him.

I have to admit, there have been some undeniable benefits to taking a break from riding–a less hectic schedule, more time with my kids, more time to spend on writing, more money in our checking account–to name a few. (Did I mention more money in our checking account?) But there’s always a downside to ignoring passion in the name of “practicality”. Mainly, that sinking feeling that develops in my soul when I’m horseless for too long. It’s kind of like losing a limb and then trying to convince myself and others that it’s no big deal. Hey, I never really needed that arm anyway… The excuses have become like a broken record playing in my head–When would I have the time? Where would the money come from? Whose horse would I ride? It’s already been established that I can’t afford my own! But that “horsey” piece of my soul has been forcing its way past all the excuses and bubbling back to the surface.

I recently learned that there are only a couple of lesson horses at my previous barn – neither appropriate for me. My options: (1) buy a horse, (2) lease a horse, or (3) find someplace else to ride. So, unless I win the lottery or my next novel hits the Best Sellers list, I guess I’m going to have to go with number three.

I have a barn in mind, about twenty minutes from my house where I’d love to take a riding lesson once or twice a week. I haven’t made the call yet. I’m not sure what’s holding me back. It’s nerve-wracking thinking about starting over at a different barn with a new horse, new instructor, and where I don’t know anyone, but I’ve done it before. I’ve been browsing through riding catalogs, digging my brushes out of storage, and envisioning courses in my head (I always find the perfect distance, of course). It will only be a matter of time before I’m back in the saddle. Whether it is days or weeks from now remains to be seen. But it’s one of those things, like the earth’s gravitational pull. It can’t be avoided.

I’m excited. I’m scared. I’m nervous. I’m giddy. And I’ll keep you posted…

In the meantime, fellow horse lovers and book lovers, stay tuned for my new blog series starting in June– Horsin’ Around Thursdays. Each Thursday, leading up to the release of my young adult novel, Trail of Secrets, I’ll feature a horse-themed book that you’ll want to consider adding to your reading list. Whether you’re a fan of picture books, middle grade, young adult, or adult novels, they’ll be something for everyone.

Until next time, happy trails!

As Tom Petty always said, the waiting is the hardest part. Being the incredibly impatient person that I am, I couldn’t agree more. I am thrilled to have a picture book and a novel under contract with two different publishers. But in our culture of instant gratification, It’s the snail-like pace toward actual publication that I’m finding harder to digest. My picture book, Henrietta’s Hoof Polish, has been sitting with the publisher for close to two years now and I’m still not sure of an exact release date. A recent inquiry to the editor informed me that I’m eighteen books down on the list. I’m guessing it’s still going to be a while! My YA equestrian novel, Trail of Secrets, was accepted for publication by Fire and Ice YA in early January and is scheduled for release in August/September this year. That seems like a relatively quick turnaround, but it’s still five or six months away. I’m sure before long I’ll have a cover to reveal and plenty of edits to make, but what am I to do in the meantime? I came up with a few (productive) ways to pass the time while awaiting my books’ elusive release dates:

1.  First, in an effort to continue to build my author platform, I’ve ventured from blog-land into website-land and launched my very own author website.  www.AuthorLauraWolfe.com  I’d love it if you’d take a minute to check it out and let me know what you think! I used wix.com to build my site and found it user-friendly and much less expensive than some other options that I’d previously researched.

2.  Over the last several months, I’ve been writing my next novel–a thriller set in the sometimes-shady world of Chicago real estate. I’m currently on my third revision with no end in sight. It’s true what they say, nothing gets a writer’s mind off her last book like delving into the next one.

3.  I’ve been learning about ways to promote my books, both as they approach their release dates and once they are released, by utilizing social media, cover reveals, giveaways, reviews, and blog tours, to name a few. To this end, I’ve been working to build connections with fellow writers, bloggers, and readers via Twitter, Facebook, and (of course) this blog! It’s never too early to start spreading the word, and to help promote fellow authors at the same time.

4.  I cleaned and organized my home office. That might not sound like a big deal, but it is amazing what a difference having an uncluttered workspace makes in productivity. I was going to expand this idea to cleaning my entire house, but that one hasn’t happened yet.

5. Last but not least, ten days ago my family and I adopted a puppy from a no-kill shelter near our house. Okay, this step might not be “productive” in the traditional sense. In fact, for the first several days after bringing the puppy home I got very little sleep and absolutely nothing accomplished. But look at how cute he is . . . .  And my kids are so happy. We all felt an emptiness in our home after losing our beloved dog, Chewy, in early January. Our new puppy, Milo, is full of life. He has brought the laughter back to our house, and that’s worth every bit of sleeplessness and lost writing time!

So, that’s how I’ve been keeping busy and staying (relatively) productive while awaiting the publication of my books. How about you?

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There are few things more exciting than finding out that one of your former critique group members is getting her book published! So, obviously, I was thrilled when Catherine Bailey contacted me about the upcoming release of her picture book, MIND YOUR MONSTERS! (Sterling, August 2015). Today is the big cover reveal, and I wanted to be a part of it. As if the cover reveal wasn’t intriguing enough, Catherine is also hosting a GIVEAWAY on her Facebook page! Without further ado, feast your eyes on the cover below. Then read Catherine’s message about how to enter her GIVEAWAY!

Message from Catherine Bailey: 

Here it is – my official, final, fabulous cover for MIND YOUR MONSTERS! I am so, so excited to finally share this wonderful artwork. Thank You Dani and Oriol! I am celebrating with a giveaway. To participate, visit my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/catherinebaileybooks. Then share this cover on Facebook, Twitter, or any social media, let me know in the comments on Facebook, and I’ll make sure you’re entered to win. The winner will also receive a monstrously cute goody bag to help pass the time until MIND YOUR MONSTERS stomps forth in August. The deadline to enter is 3/13/15 and the winner will be announced the next day.

Good luck everyone!

Chewy with “his” kids on Valentine’s Day 2014

This wasn’t the Valentine-themed post that I planned to write this month. In fact, this was a post that I was hoping to never write, at least not for a few more years. We lost our beloved dog, Chewy, a few days ago. I’m sure many of you can relate to the heartbreak that I’m feeling. It is excruciating. We did not realize until it was too late that Chewy had advanced cancer of the spleen and was bleeding internally. He showed no symptoms until the last couple of days. We were thankful to have one last day with him before it was time to end his suffering. But it’s not those last horrible couple of days that I want to write about. I want to remember the rest of his wonderful life.

Chewy was my “once in a lifetime” dog. There has never been and will never be another like him. I adopted him from the Anti-Cruelty Society in downtown Chicago nine years ago, just after getting married, but before having any (human) kids. We had two cats at the time, which my husband thought was enough responsibility. But he was out of town. I saw my opportunity and I took it. The shelter had just taken in a litter of Rottweiler mix puppies and I had never seen anything so cute.

“Which one of you wants me to be your momma?” I asked the adorable bundles of fur.

One furry bundle leaped toward me and I picked him up. It took approximately thirty seconds for me to fall in love with the docile little guy. I promised Chewy right then and there that I would give him the best life possible. When I brought him home the next day, my husband’s annoyance with me subsided as he fell in love with Chewy too. About a day later, we noticed a change in Chewy’s personality. The subdued, quiet dog I’d gotten to know at the shelter was suddenly a smart, spunky, stubborn, loud and wild ball of energy.

“He must have had a cold,” I said to my husband, shrugging.

Chewy was always next to me.

From day one, Chewy and I were inseparable. It seemed wherever I went, Chewy was right there with me. When I had to leave him behind, I felt like a part of me was missing. We enrolled Chewy in puppy preschool. The first class was such a disaster that I was surprised the instructor didn’t ask us to leave. Chewy was completely out of control, jumping up on everyone, biting people’s hands, pulling me around, etc. But, as it turned out, Chewy was extremely intelligent, food-motivated and very easy to train. He ended up winning the award for “Most Improved” dog–probably because he was so out of control to begin with.

Chewy was a natural guard dog and patrolled our property (when he wasn’t sleeping). At times, he was overly protective of me, especially when I had him on the leash. But I always felt safe with Chewy around. I was never scared to be home alone, even living in a not-so-great neighborhood in Chicago. Although Chewy had a fierce, protective side, he also had a gentle, loving, playful side. He and our cat, Chase, became fast friends. Chewy played with, harassed, and pounced on Chase, but never tried to hurt him.

Chewy and Chase chilling in the grass.

When we found out I was pregnant with our first baby, our family worried that Chewy was not a good dog to have around kids. They couldn’t have been more wrong. In fact, I am convinced that Chewy thought my son (and later, my daughter) were “his” kids. He got up with them for every feeding during the night. He watched over them as they played. He cuddled up next to them during story time. We always

Chewy watching over our son.

reassured Chewy that he was doing such a good job “raising” the kids.

Over the years, Chewy and my son, especially, became great friends. My son learned to read by reading books to Chewy each night and morning. He learned responsibility by feeding Chewy and helping me take Chewy for walks. He learned that animals have personalities and love their families, just as people do. He saw that love first-hand with Chewy.

Chewy made us laugh every day- no exceptions. At times, he tried to be a lap dog, despite his large size. When the kids played hide-and-seek, he didn’t understand what they were doing. He would stand directly across from their hiding spots and bark at them, making it way too easy for the “seeker”. Chewy frolicked in the snow and would plunge his head into the snow drifts, surfacing with his face covered in white.

Chewy the lap dog

Chewy loved playing basketball with my husband, but was only good at defense (biting hands and pant legs as he tried to shoot). Chewy did not understand sledding or sit-ups or push-ups or many other strange things that we humans do for recreation.

Whenever Chewy heard the suitcases come out, sheer panic would set in. He would wine and whimper and sit by the car waiting to jump in. He didn’t care where we were going. He just didn’t want us to leave him behind. And whenever Chewy and I were separated, he greeted me upon my return as if he hadn’t seen me for years, even if I’d only run out to the grocery store for a few minutes. Chewy’s unconditional love and affection was overpowering and contagious. He reminded us to appreciate each other and to not hold grudges.

Chewy always greeted me as if I were a soldier returning from war.

As our family grew, Chewy took his job as protector more and more seriously. We moved back to Michigan into a house with a huge backyard. We bought the house for us and for the kids, but also because of Chewy. The yard was private and protected from the neighbors — It was perfect for him.

Chewy loved chasing the squirrels up trees, running after the occasional deer, and just laying in the sun on our deck. He loved going for walks, especially if there was any chance that he could take a swim. We often took him to a trail near our house where he walked while our kids learned to ride their bikes. Chewy knew the routine — about halfway

Chewy following the kids on the trail.

through the 3-mile trail, we stopped off at the “secret” beach, ignoring the “no dogs

Chewy swimming at the “secret” beach.

allowed” sign. Chewy wasn’t really a dog, we rationalized. He’s more like a person. Chewy bounded across the beach and into the water before circling back and shaking the water all over us.

I have so many great memories with Chewy, but one of our happiest days was when I took him to visit the 80-acre farm that used to be owned by my grandparents. The farm was up for sale and the owner gave us permission to walk the property. Chewy had the time of his life running free across the fields, swimming in the ponds, and digging in the mud. I’ve always dreamed of living on a piece of property like that. At least Chewy and I got to experience it for a day!

Me and Chewy walking on my grandparents’ former farm.

The last few days without Chewy have felt sad and empty and hollow. He would lay at my feet while I wrote at my computer, hour after hour, day after day. It was enough for him just to be next to me. I felt that way about him too. My feet are cold as I sit and write this post. No Chewy dog to warm them up. I keep looking for him whenever I walk in the door, or see a squirrel outside, or find a tennis ball behind the couch, or wake up in the night. Or, as my son told me yesterday, “I have no one to pet.”

This is the very last movie of Chewy that we took, shortly before we had to take him to the vet. Our son is reading a picture book to Chewy one last time.

Reading to Chewy.

And not to be outdone on the tear-jerker scale, our five year-old daughter made this Valentine for Chewy a couple of weeks before he died.

Our Daughter’s Valentine to Chewy

How can it be possible to love a dog so much? I saw this explanation written in the heartfelt article “On Losing a Dog”, and it rang true for me:  “We hold our dogs so close that parts of ourselves overflow and fall directly onto their furry heads. So when we look at our dogs we see our worst sorrows, our greatest joys and the deepest part of ourselves for which there is no name. The story of our dogs is the story of us.” https://markingourterritory.wordpress.com/2014/12/03/on-losing-a-dog/

I think I did see myself in Chewy. The best part of myself. So when he died, a part of me died too. I knew this was the deal when I adopted him

Sweet Chewy

so many years ago, but it doesn’t make it any easier. Chewy, thank you for choosing us as your family. You were the best and we will never forget you.

It’s been a week and I’m (almost) fully recovered from Write on the Red Cedar, an intensive twelve-hour day of lectures, round tables, networking, and writing workshops. As promised, I’m reporting back my top five takeaways, and I’ll also let you know whether or not I accomplished the goals I set for myself prior to attending the conference.

First, here are my Top Five Takeaways …

1. Genres are Blending

Keynote speaker, Donald Maass, talked at length about the changing characteristics of the books appearing on the New York Times Bestsellers list. No longer are books categorized simply as “literary fiction” or “commercial fiction”. The genres, more often than not, are blending together. The most successful writers of commercial fiction all have one thing in common–they utilize the techniques of literary fiction to write genre fiction. The result: great story-telling meets beautiful writing. He recommended that writers pick a genre as a framework for a story, rather than as list of genre-specific rules to follow. This blending of genres allows writers a new level of freedom that has not been seen in the past.

2. Don’t Focus on the Eyes

While listening to Kristina Riggle’s lecture, entitled “How to Make your Characters Walk off the Page”, I was struck by her thoughts on physical descriptions. Mainly, that the eye color of your characters doesn’t matter. What? Eye color doesn’t matter? Oh, man. At that moment, I realized I’ve been spending way too much time describing the colors of my characters’ eyes and not enough on their other mannerisms. She said to give your characters one or two memorable distinctive features, that aren’t necessarily physical. Kristina Riggle used Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby as an example of a character whose physical appearance is barely described throughout the novel. Yet, the reader picks up on the formality and correctness of Jay Gatsby from the description of his posture and the statement that Gatsby had the look of someone who had his “hair trimmed every day”. Nowhere in the book is there any mention of Gatsby’s eye color, hair color, etc.
3. Things Can Always Get Worse

In the writing workshop segment of the conference, Donald Maass asked us to write down  our protagonist’s main conflict or goal. Then he asked us to think of one way to make the goal matter more. For example, who else would benefit if this goal were achieved? In what new way can character discover that the unfulfilled goal hurts?

Then, he asked us to think of a way to make it more difficult for our protagonist to achieve his or her goal. What is the worst consequence the protagonist can face by not achieving his or her goal?

Then, he asked us to write down a way things can get even worse for our protagonist. How does he or she screw up? What trivial problem can pop up at the most inopportune time? For example, maybe on the day the protagonist is supposed to attend an important meeting with someone who can help him achieve his goal, his car won’t start and he misses the meeting.

Then, believe it or not, we were asked to make things even worse for our protagonist! What if the protagonist failed completely? How does the house go down in flames? The readers should be taken on an emotional journey where they fear that all is lost before the protagonist, at last, figures a way out of the mess.

In other words, always raise the stakes.

4. The Importance of Networking

Like many writers, I’m an introvert who would rather stab toothpicks in my eyeballs than try to make small talk with a bunch of people who I don’t know. That said, there is something encouraging and revitalizing about meeting and connecting with other writers face to face. There are few people who can relate to the emotional roller coaster of writing like other writers. They’ve experienced rejections and occasional successes, they’ve thrown first drafts of novels in the garbage, they’re struggling to build author platforms and promote their books, and they take the craft of writing seriously – otherwise they would not have spent the money and time to attend a conference.

So much of a conference depends on who is sitting next to you. I totally lucked out in that department, as I had two awesome women writers sitting next to me. One of them was in the process of writing a memoir and is the editor of Grand Traverse Woman magazine. The other just had her writing published in the children’s magazine, Spider. Even though we don’t write the same genres, they are two more connections I’ve made in the writing world. I traded cards with several other people as well. So, now I have more people to email with writing questions, more people who might help promote my book, and more people to cheer on as they continue on their unique writing journeys!

5. Never Give Up!

One of the speakers told a story of an agent who received 7,000 queries last year. Out of those 7,000 queries, she requested 138 partial manuscripts. Out of those 138 partial manuscripts, she requested 30 full manuscripts. Out of those 30 full manuscripts, she took on seven new clients. That’s one-percent. Let’s face it, the numbers are dire. The speaker said, that if a writer believes in his or her work and is interested in signing with an agent, that person should query no less than 100 agents before seeking another alternative. And, more importantly, if writers put in the requisite work, they should believe that they can be a part of that one-percent.

What did I learn from this? I gave up WAY too early on finding an agent for my last novel. I think I only queried twelve agents. Don’t get me wrong, I believe my novel ended up with the perfect publisher for that particular book. But, in the future, I’ll query at least 100 agents before throwing in the towel.

As for my other goals, here’s how I did:
Goal #1: Pitch my book to agent Katharine Sands without sounding like a mumbling idiot.
Result: I did it! I practiced my pitch tirelessly for the few days leading up to the conference. Thankfully, my agent appointment was in the morning, so I did not have to stress out about it all day. I sat across from her. She stared at me and said nothing, so I recited my pitch. I didn’t stumble or forget how to speak. I didn’t sweat profusely or turn bright red. The eight minutes went by in the snap of a finger. In the end, it didn’t seem as though the agent really connected with my book, but that’s okay. My goal wasn’t to get a book deal. It was to make my pitch without sounding like a mumbling idiot. Mission accomplished!

Goal #2: Learn three ways to improve my current manuscript

Result: This is a big YES! (See Top Five Takeaways above).

Goal #3: Exchange business cards with at least six people

Result: Did it! I’ve already received a couple emails from people I met at the conference. Business cards are crucial to networking. Get them!

Goal #4:  Find a potential online critique partner or critique group

Result: I didn’t fully accomplish this one, but I did join a writers’ Facebook group, appropriately named “Finish the Damn Book”. I’m guessing I can find a critique partner through this group when I need one.

I’m going to keep setting goals for myself, whether they are writing (or riding) related. My new goal is to finish the first revision of my thriller novel based on all the information I learned at the conference. Be sure to check back in a couple weeks for my February blog post which will deal with a few of the things that I LOVE the most!

This Saturday I’m heading to East Lansing, Michigan to attend the Write on the Red Cedar writing conference. The event promises to be an action-packed, information-filled day highlighting a number of talented speakers and ending in a four-hour intensive writing workshop led by renowned literary agent Donald Maass. In addition to listening to the speakers and participating in the writing workshop, I will also have the opportunity to meet privately with literary agent Katharine Sands of the Sarah Jane Freymann Literary Agency. My meeting with Katharine Sands will be short and to the point–eight minutes long to be exact! In those eight minutes, I will try to remember how to speak and “pitch” my new novel to her. I’ve never pitched a novel to an agent in person before, so this will be uncharted territory for me.

To help prepare myself for the conference, I’ve decided to put together a list of (realistic) goals that I hope to accomplish on Saturday.  Here they are, in no particular order:

1.  Pitch my book to Katharine Sands without sounding like a mumbling idiot

The thought of pitching my book to a real, live agent is making me nervous. I’ve been practicing my pitch on my husband. I’ll get halfway through it, say “um” a few times and then lose my train of thought. I wrote the pitch down on paper and tried to memorize it, while still sounding “natural”. Let’s just say, there’s still lots of room for improvement! Luckily, I have five more days to practice.

2.  Learn three ways to improve my current manuscript

I’ll be actively writing and revising my work during the workshop with Donald Maass. I’ve only heard great things about his workshops, which are based on his book, Writing the Breakout Novel. Can’t wait to see how my manuscript transforms!

3.  Exchange business cards with at least six people

I’m confident I can achieve this goal. I just had new business cards printed and shipped to me. They are shiny and new and all of my contact information is up to date. I’m excited to pass them around!

4.  Find a potential online critique partner or critique group

I haven’t had great luck with critique groups that meet in person due to scheduling conflicts, weather cancellations, etc. I’d love to meet another writer (or writers) with whom I could exchange work online and help each other meet our writing goals from the comfort of our own homes.

5.  Come home with at least five solid takeaways

I promise to achieve this goal, mostly because I’ve already entitled my next blog post “The Top Five Things I Learned at Write on the Red Cedar”.

Be sure to check back in a couple of weeks to see how I fared with all of my writing conference goals. Until then, happy writing!

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Preparing for a Writer’s Conference

Five Things I Learned at VCFA Day

Happy 2015 Everyone! I was planning on doing my usual January post where I review my writing and riding goals from last year and set up new goals for the coming year, but that all seems really boring now. Why? Because my new year just started out with a BANG! On New Year’s Day, I accepted an offer from Fire and Ice YA to publish my Young Adult thriller, “Trail of Secrets”. Somebody pinch me! The release date is scheduled for sometime in August or September 2015 and my book will be available in both digital and print formats. And to make things even better, Fire and Ice YA publishes tons of horse-related books. They are the ideal publisher for my book, as “Trail of Secrets” takes place at a riding academy in Northern Michigan. I can’t wait to read some other books published by Fire and Ice YA and let everyone know when I find some gems.

I’ve been overwhelmed by all the congratulatory messages I’ve received on my Author Facebook page the last couple of days. Some people have asked how they can help me in these months before the book is released. The answer is pretty simple: spread the word! I’d love for my blog readers to “like” my FB page and share the link with friends. “Trail of Secrets” will most likely to appeal to young adults and adults who love horses, enjoy ghost stories, or simply crave a good mystery. In the meantime, I’ll be sure to keep everyone up to date on the cover reveal, pre-sale opportunities, and the release date.

I’ll save the “big reveal” of my list of 2015 goals for a future post when there’s a little less excitement in the air. But here’s a hint: I need to get back to riding!

Hope everyone’s year is off to a great start too!

For the last month, I’ve been living and breathing NaNoWriMo. I didn’t answer my phone, I cancelled dentist appointments, I almost forgot to pick my kids up from school one day . . . But now that November is gone and NaNoWriMo is officially over, it’s time to emerge from my home office, stretch my fingers, let my eyes adjust to the light, and total up the number of words I’ve written.

The goal of NaNoWriMo was to write 50,000 words in thirty days. The bad news is that I fell short. (Why does Thanksgiving have to be in November?) The good news is that I wrote 43,000 words. For me, that’s a success story. After all, I wrote 20,000 more words than I did last November, and now I have the bulk of the first draft of my new novel written. In case anyone is wondering, it’s a thriller about a couple of evil Realtors in downtown Chicago. There’s still a lot more writing to do, but I’m hoping to complete my first draft by January so I can begin the revision process.

The 23,000 words that I wrote in NaNoWriMo 2013 became my first equestrian young adult novel, Trail of Secrets. I’m still trying to locate the perfect publisher/agent for that book. I’ll be sure to post updates of any developments.

In the meantime, I hope everyone is starting to get in the holiday spirit!

Do you have a NaNoWriMo success story? Please share!

I’ve been thinking about how to best spend my time while waiting to hear back from agents and publishers regarding my recent submissions of my YA novel. Time ticks by so s-l-o-w-l-y while waiting for responses from these mysterious and slow-moving entities. So instead of staring at the clock and checking my emails fifty times a day, I’ve decided to throw myself into a new project. After all, NaNoWriMo starts in less than three weeks and I have a killer story (literally, a story about a killer) in my head. Sadly, my next book contains no horses, but I will have some horse-related news to report very soon. (Fingers crossed!)

I’ve signed up for NaNoWriMo, starting November 1st. For those of you who don’t know, NaNoWriMo is a challenge to write a novel in thirty days during the month of November. I participated last year and, although I fell short of my goal to write 50,000 words in thirty days, I ended up with the bulk of what eventually turned out to be my YA novel.

This year, I’m going into the challenge more prepared. First, I’ve been using the templates from Mary Buckham and Dianna Love’s BREAK INTO FICTION: 11 STEPS TO BUILDING A STORY THAT SELLS, to familiarize myself with my characters, their motivations, and key twist points in the plot. The worksheets include such subjects as “Powerful Characters Template”, “Powerful Openings Template”, and “Conflict Template”. Each template contains 8-10 questions that force aspiring authors to think about (and write down) major characteristics, motivations, settings, conflict, and internal/external changes that will make up the overall story. For anyone just beginning to think about writing their next commercial fiction novel, this book is a great place to start.

Second, I’m utilizing some exercises I learned at VCFA Day in Ann Arbor to really get to know my characters before I start writing. During the conference, speaker Coe Booth reiterated several times that character is the beginning, middle, and end of a successful story.  Here are some questions she suggested answering when creating believable characters:

1. What is the character’s earliest memory?

2. Does the character have any irrational fears?

3. What is the character’s biggest fear? How does that drive him/her?

4. What sadness does the character carry with him/her?

5. Where are YOU, the author, in this story? The author needs to look within herself to incorporate emotion and feeling into her writing. For example, this is what anger does to my body: _________.

6. What were the three biggest defining moments in this character’s life?

Remember, all of this information does not need to appear in the book. These are exercises meant to help the author get to know his/her characters better and to know how they would react in different situations.

Finally, I’m developing my “To Read” list  to include books similar to the one I’m writing, as well as books on craft. The next book on my list is Donald Maas’ THE BREAKOUT NOVELIST: CRAFT AND STRATEGIES FOR CAREER FICTION WRITERS. I recently signed up to attend to the Write On the Red Cedar winter writing retreat in Lansing, MI on January 16-17, where veteran agent Donald Mass will conduct one of his highly sought-after writing seminars. I can’t believe I’m going! Woo-hoo! I’m sure I’ll have plenty of material for my blog on January 18th.

Check back on November 1st when I’ll be kicking off my NaNoWriMo and updating my progress on  my blog as I go.

Are you participating in the NaNoWriMo challenge? What are you doing to prepare?

Your book sounds very intriguing, Laura! Good luck with it!

After a very eventful summer, my highly-energetic five and seven year old kids are back in school–Kindergarten and second grade (Sigh!)–so now I have plenty of time to focus on my writing. No excuses! It’s not that I didn’t spend time on writing over the summer, but I didn’t have the large chunks of undisturbed time that I craved. (See the part about my highly-energetic kids.)

In June, I sent my YA manuscript off for a professional critique by Kelly Hashaway. It was money well-spent! She gave me so many great ideas, insights, and areas to cut/expand. Let’s just say, after receiving her critique I had my work cut out for me. Using her comments as a road map, I spent every minute of my (very limited) free time revising my manuscript. The revision process took two solid months. After giving my manuscript to several friends and relatives to read and making a few more changes based on their comments and suggestions, I believe I have the closest thing to a “polished” manuscript that I can write.

Here’s a sneak peek.

Title: Trail of Secrets

The Query “Meat”:

Brynlei is a determined equestrian whose highly sensitive nature pushes her to the background of her own life. Despite her social anxiety, Brynlei jumps at the opportunity to spend three weeks of her summer at the elite Foxwoode Riding Academy in remote Northern Michigan. When she hears an eerie ghost story about a girl who vanished on a trail ride four years earlier, Brynlei begins to notice signs that the girl—or her ghost—still resides at Foxwoode. As Brynlei’s obsession to uncover the truth grows, someone at Foxwoode discovers her search for answers and will go to any length to stop her. If Brynlei doesn’t unravel the mystery before she returns home, no one may ever know what happened to the missing girl, and Brynlei may be the next one to disappear.

So, there it is. Now what do I do? I’ve started researching agents and publishers that would be good matches for my book. I’ve written a hook, identified several comparable titles, and written both a short and long synopsis of my book. I’ve drafted query letters and begun the process of sending them out. To be completely honest, I’ve already received a few rejections. But that’s part of the deal, right? Now it’s time to grow some thick skin, buckle down, and focus on finding the perfect home for my book. I know it will be a big project involving waiting, never hearing back, and rejections. I only need one “YES”, and that’s what I’m working for.

Are you refocusing on your writing this fall? Are you in the process of submitting your manuscript? Tell me about it. Let’s cheer each other on!

Thank you for that! You are absolutely right- we are blessed to have many different aspects to our lives. I’m so glad you finally got your horse. Congrats!