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Lessons learned in my debut year

SKY'S END hasn't even been out for a year, but I feel like I've learned so many lessons this year.

1. Going to bookstores is incredible. It gives you a chance to talk with readers and booksellers. I highly recommend it. 5/5 stars

2. Conferences are intense. They're an overload of the senses, but they're also amazing opportunities. There's often so much excitement that by the time my head hits the hotel room's pillow at night, I'm asleep in two seconds flat.

3. Managing my work/life has been tough! Last school year, I was teaching full time while simultaneously promoting SKY'S END and editing AMONG SERPENTS and writing DOWNFALL. On top of that, having an adult sci-fi title on submission to publishers, raising kids, and finding time to spend with my wife. It was so busy. That's why I went part-time teaching this year. It has freed up writing time in the morning and I'm not as exhausted or stressed anymore.

4. Okay, meeting readers is one of the best things ever! Seriously, very little compares to the first time a reader drove several hours to meet me at a bookstore event, and she was visibly shaking as she greeted me. Wow...

5. Everyone has opinions, and not everyone is going to like what you created. That's totally fine. But I'll never forget the first time I decided to read a one-star review of SKY'S END. Ouch. 0/5 stars. Do not recommend reading one-star reviews. 🤣

Other things I do recommend:

-Hitting the NYT bestseller list

-Announcing your book being in early development as a film to your students

-Sleeping

-Peanut butter and cookie dough milkshakes

Other things I do NOT recommend:

-Getting an infection after having a wisdom tooth removed

-Getting between your dog and her food

-Drinking Tabasco from the bottle to impress your students

-Raw onions

#writer #writerlife #author #authorlife

2024/10/17 Edited to

Entering the literary world can be both exhilarating and challenging. Many authors find that their first year is packed with invaluable experiences. Engaging with book lovers at bookstore events not only helps build a community but provides firsthand feedback on your work. Conferences, while sensory overload, are perfect for networking and learning from established authors. Balancing writing with other responsibilities is crucial; many writers adapt by shifting their schedules to allow more creative time. A key takeaway from this exhilarating journey is the importance of meeting your readers. These interactions can be magical and inspire you to refine your craft. Remember, not every opinion will be positive, but they all contribute to your growth. Embrace constructive criticism and celebrate the positive feedback. If you are embarking on your own writing journey, prioritize time management, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed. Lastly, indulge in simple joys, like a favorite treat or a restful night’s sleep, to recharge your creative spirit.

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