I got my letter a couple of weeks ago. I didn’t know what to expect, but I did know that I would have to have a game plan for when I did get it.
My initial reaction the letter went a little like this:
Shock:
They’re kidding right? Like, they don’t expect me to actually do ALL of that. Right??? Right???
Fear:
There’s no way I can do this. I can’t. I can’t. I’m going to fail spectacularly.
Acceptance. Sort of:
I’m fine. Totally fine. I can do it. Yeah. Sure. Okay.
And finally:
I feel like that gif really doesn’t really need an explanation. And it didn’t happen until after I talked to my editors on the phone. Which, I highly recommend doing after getting your edit letter. It makes everything so much better when you’re all on the same page.
As far as a game plan? I like to keep it simple. I know some authors who like to do big picture stuff, then go back, or vice versa. Me? I like to go in order. So chapter after chapter. This has been working well for me. So far. If I make a change in later chapters that effect the previous ones, I go back and fix them before moving on. If I know it’ll effect later chapters, I make a note to get to it once I’m there. I’m about a third of the way through and feeling good. I’m excited about the changes I’ve made, I feel like I’m getting to know my characters even better. I’m enjoying the process, even though it can be a bit overwhelming at times.
I do have days where I’m not sure what to do or where I’m going, and on those days I let myself rest. I read, I watch some TV, and listen to some music. If I push myself too much it only hinders my progress. Remember, not everyone works the same way, not everyone can have the same schedule. Find what works for you and keep going. Meanwhile this whole publishing thing is finally starting to feel real. And I can’t wait until you get to read the final version of Chase the Night.
Prerna Pickett 