Looking Back and Looking Ahead

Looking Back at 2017

Sitting here at my desk, contemplating this post, I’m finding it hard to believe another year has gone by. One year ago, I was knee-deep in editing Ashes Swept with the help of my CPs, Shannon and Ely. It had been a whole year since I’d set up my author page and social media sites, but the reality of calling myself an author felt a million miles away. Now, with 2017 behind me, it feels like my first launch day was ages ago.

What did I learn? Well, I definitely have a better understanding of the publishing process, as well as what it takes to market a book successfully. But, more specifically, I learned the importance of:

Social media communities and how valuable it is to spend time building connections there.

Leaning on your support network when you need help with anything from a beta read to reassurance.

Keeping your eyes open for valuable resources, because they can show up in the most unexpected places.

Always being open to new ideas, new inspiration, and new ways of thinking.

Being patient with myself and my process, and letting things happen organically.

Looking at the Year Ahead

My top priority for 2018 is to finish and edit my WIP, which I wrote during this past NaNoWriMo. If I can work out some of the kinks and get it polished up in a timely manner, I’d really love to publish it between summer and fall of this year. Ashes Swept took four years of work, so while I don’t think book two will take quite as much time, I’m not sure if six to ten months is realistic. Only time will tell!

Complicating things further, I have an idea for a resource book. It’s not something I’d planned to do, but once the idea popped into my head, my brain just ran with it. This is still in the early planning stages, so I’m not really sure if it’ll go anywhere, but I’ll definitely be putting some time into figuring that out.

I’m excited to see what the year will bring!