It’s that time of year again! We’re already a week into NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and I wanted to share my thoughts as I tackle 50,000 words for the second year running.
Would I recommend NaNoWriMo?
Yes! I mean, after last year I swore I’d never do it again, but you know what? I learnt so much. That’s why I’d recommend it and why I think every writer should try it at least once.
What’s good about it?
So many things. The community, obviously. Just knowing that others are struggling alongside you is hugely comforting. Having a set goal and a chart to mark it really helps you focus. It teaches you that you can write, even if you’ve had two minutes too little sleep, or your toe hurts or your work space isn’t tidy. You know, all the reasons you usually have for avoiding writing. And of course if you win you get a big discount on Scrivener, and you feel really, really good about yourself. It’s also wonderful if you have a book to write (like I do) and you haven’t been able to write in a while.
I think the most important thing though is that it really and truly teaches you that you can write, no matter what. That you can make yourself write, that the conditions don’t have to be perfect. I’m guilty of believing just that but WriMo taught me otherwise and I’ve become a more proficient, and better writer for it.
What am I writing?
Well… readers have been a little upset with me because I wrote a novella to see how people felt about me writing fantasy. Turns out they like my fantasy but they didn’t want a novella, they wanted a novel. The people have spoken and so I’m working on a novel called The Dark Queen, which follows on from my novella Queen. I’m really enjoying writing it and getting the chance to develop the world and characters. If you want a glimpse into Amarea’s world you can download a copy of the novella here or buy a signed copy here.
In other news… The Rebellion series is getting re-designed! That’s right, brand new covers in time for Christmas. More on them soon.
Have you entered into NaNoWriMo this year? If you have, let me know how you’re getting on. I’d love to hear from you and we can be buddies!
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