Oh well, not only did I not make the top ten in the Mills and Boon New Voices competition, but I wasn’t on the list of writers they want to hear more from either. I’ve allowed myself a few moments to feel despondent and now I’m taking stock.
The fact is I learned a great deal from the New Voices experience. I was actually brave enough to put my chapter up there. The people who read my chapter seemed to enjoy it as most of my comments were positive. I picked up a lot of tips about writing by looking at the other stories, videos and tips on the site. I’m made a whole host of friends on Facebook and they are very supportive. My blog has gained a few more followers and read statistics have boomed (particularly in China?!!?).
Looking at my chapter I wonder now if M&B is the right arena for it. The story has taken on a life of its own, with Tanner and Rosie knocking on my brain throughout the day, so I have no doubt that it will be written to a conclusion. Not only that, but my writing life seems to have reached a turning point – or a non-turning point – in that I am now convinced that a writer is who I am and that I will get published.
I feel braver about putting my work out there and determined to write what I want in my own voice. Thank you M&B for helping me to clarify so many issues. To top it all I wrote a piece at writing group today which I feel can grow into another novel. Onwards and upwards. In the immortal Arnie words “I’ll be back.”
Glad to hear New Voices has been a helpful experience - it has for me too, and I'm not on that list either. Strangely, although it is obviously a disappointment not to be, it's also a relief. I think it's because it means to door is still wide open in where to go from here. Like you, I shall definitely be carrying on writing!
ReplyDeleteGood for you! And yes, I know exactly what you mean about moving forward - there's many publishers out there who, i'm sure, would jump at the chance at printing some of the work submitted to the New Voices competition. It'll be interesting to see if we recognise any names in the coming years as they hit the bookshelves ;)
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. I feel if I had that chapter to write over that it would be so different, so very much better, that it's hard for me to feel too discouraged.
ReplyDeleteI'd only read a couple of the 45. I'll be tied up this weekend, but am looking forward to some interesting reading.
Hi Morton, I've popped over to NV and left a message on your chapter!
ReplyDeleteHi Girls,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comments and I must say it is great being part of this supportive team. I don't feel a lonely writer with my pc any more!
Come on then, let's lay down the gauntlet and get these stories published! Mx
That's the awesome thing about the contest--second to meeting so many wonderful writers--the learning experience. My stomach has been in my throat over the past three weeks, and it still is! But I'm excited about seeing what I can do when pressure's up, and I am even more excited about the future careers of my fellow "Newbies."
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