Writing

Ok, I’m not really writing when it is more typing the story into the computer after having it written out long-hand.  I want to write on my other story but this one has to be put in first so have been doing that for the past couple hours.  I am getting close to being done…I think.  I can’t remember if this was the last spiral of the story or if I started another one too.  I think this one is the last one though and then I can write on it directly in the laptop.  The story is far from being done.

How long is a good, publishable story? I read somewhere 50,000 to 70,000 words but I wonder how accurate that is.  Maybe each publisher has their own preference?

I am getting Siren’s Song ready to be sent out to publishers.  I prefer the publishers who let me send them the entire story rather than just a few sample chapters so will look for them first.  I really know nothing about publishing so really enjoy reading blogs that have to do with that.  Seriously, I don’t even know where to start even though I’ve been reading up on the subject.  Where do I send my manuscript to be edited? I’ve had publishers ask if it was professionally edited and seem disappointed if I say no.  I always thought the publisher and editor were the same company but apparently that isn’t so. 

I know my failure to understand the publishing process is part of what holds me back from working harder at being published.  I have read a lot on the subject but I still don’t understand most of it.  I look at books I own to see who published them and then go to the Writer’s Digest to see what those publishers require but most of the time I can’t find the publisher listed anywhere.  It is so confusing. 

Part of it is probably a mental block because I am afraid of rejection but I can’t let that hold me back anymore.  Nine years ago I was terrified at the idea of talking in front of crowds.  I took the class “Fundamentals of Communication” which required me to give four speeches in front of the entire class.  The idea made me want to vomit but I forced myself to do it and now feel a bit more comfortable when called upon to talk in front of groups.  Of course it is easiest when I feel passionate about an issue – such as 911 or my writing.  I need to figure out some way to do the same thing to get over being intimidated by publishing.  Anyone have any ideas?

I do believe just about anyone can be published.  There are all kinds of venues and publishers out there so being published isn’t the issue as much as finding that one publisher who likes your work.  I have read some pretty awful books and wondered how the person ever got it published but realize that there are probably thousands of others who thought the books were wonderful.  It is all subjective. 

BUT WHERE DO I START????? Writing the story is only half the battle – how do I prepare for the other half? {sigh}