Well, I feel like I have a ton of stuff to catch up on.
1. I'll get back to the post Nano revision series next week, I promise!
2. I didn't make it past the pitch stage of the ABNA (Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award) contest, and I'm okay with that. 4 out of 5 entries were cut in the first round based entirely on the pitch. My pitch is almost exactly like my query, which I know needs work. Since the judges did not read any of the actual book, I don't feel down about not making it. I've also reworked a few things in the last month that make the story better and now I can start querying again.
Did any of you make it through? I know a few of you entered, and I'd love to cheer you on.
3. I have some awards that I need to give out next week. Yeah, I've been collecting again. :)
5. Answers to my Crusader challenge--
- one secret--I'd love to learn how to play the cello.
- one lie--my child did not fall in the lake thank goodness!
- one interesting quirk--I really do enjoy running! A lot. But then again you can't tell because I enjoy eating a lot too.
- one annoying habit--I talk in my sleep.
- one of your best character traits--I really am a good listener. For instance, on the drive home from Myrtle Beach we stopped to eat. This complete stranger comes up to me in the bathroom and starts telling me all about her daughter. This kind of thing happens to me ALL THE TIME! My hubby makes fun of me for it, but I guess there is just something about me that makes people think they can tell me things. I should have become a shrink.
- one of your favorite things in the whole world--music, that's why I included the YoYo Ma clips. :)
I'm sure there are a few more things I'm forgetting, but this is a good start.
Have a great weekend everyone!
That's a tough break but it sounds like quite the competition. I haven't heard any results from the couple of people I know that sent in but I'm sure I will hear soon.
ReplyDeleteThat blogfest does sound like a good idea. Actually, the part that frightens me away is "short story". I'm just not a short story writer. I've tried but they result in scenes instead of finished stories. So, I just admit I'm a novelist and stay within that frame. But maybe I'll comment on a few entries if I can be of any help.
The cello is a great instrument.
So that was the lie! If anything, I'm glad. It's not nice when kids go and drop themselves in a horrible lake.
ReplyDeleteJai
Might have to do the Now Starring blogfest.
ReplyDeleteNew follower from crusade saying hi.
ReplyDeleteI also didn't make it through ABNA. I didn't think I would. I struggled with my pitch.
Sounds like an interesting Blogfest. I might have to check it out. I didn't participate in the ABNA but commend you for your efforts. :)
ReplyDeleteSo many Blogfests, so little time.
ReplyDeleteDawn, I'm not good at short stories either, that's why Rosie and I thought it would be nice to challenge ourselves. There's nothing to lose. :)
ReplyDeleteJai, it is NOT nice when they do things like that. LOL. My kids have done enough other things to make up for this one.
Diana, I keep telling myself that it was my pitch too. They didn't actually read any of our novel this go around, so if we work on our pitches we might make it next year. If we don't get agents first. *crosses fingers*
Thanks Regina!
Rogue, so true, so true.
Nope, I didn't make it through in ABNA, but my novel wasn't anywhere near ready anyway :P I possibly should have tried with another one. but this one was the closest to ready I'd guess.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a neat blogfest :)... great list.. I'm glad that one was your lie!
ReplyDeleteSorry about ABNA. I didn't make it through either. :(
ReplyDeleteNew follower and fellow crusader - nice to meet you!