March 2022 Writing Check-In

Hi, writers! How was your writing in March?

I finished working with my writing coach, and the whole experience was amazing. Short, focused exercises provided a tangible way to focus on specific aspects of craft (in my case, sensory details and emotional interiority). I enjoyed these writing spurts - they felt like a "palate cleanser" of sorts - and I am more motivated to start my next novel project, a YA rom-com.

March wasn't all great, though. A couple weeks ago, I found out a writing friend of mine had died. I had never met her in person, yet I felt like we knew each other well. We were early participants in the Author Accelerator community, and we chatted together with a group nearly every Wednesday morning for more than two years. I suppose it's a sign of the times we live in, but it's strange to mourn the death of someone who has become important to you, even though you've never met them. I wrote about the value of community for writers, and paid tribute to my friend, Karen. You can read that post here.

Karen was a huge advocate for book coaching. She worked with her coach for three years to bring her book to life. Last fall, she achieved her goal of signing with a hybrid publisher. Sadly, she never saw her book in print, but Karen's family intends to finish the publication process, so I hope we will be able to buy and read Karen's debut and only novel this fall.

I had already been thinking about offering a few free coaching spots this spring, but I have been inspired by Karen to think bigger. I will be offering 12 free Story Sketch sessions to writers who want to check the premise of their novel. This is my entry-level service, and it would normally cost $25, but I will waive that fee for the first 12 writers that sign up. Offer is valid through May 31, 2022 (or until the 12 spots have been taken).

Here is a brief description of Story Sketch: After you download my free writing resource “How to Craft a Purposeful Premise,” you and I will have a 25-minute virtual call to discuss your story premise. The Story Sketch service will help you determine if the major pieces of your story will hold together.

My Story Sketch service is perfect for 1) writers who are just starting to hash out the idea for a novel, 2) writers who need help connecting character, theme, and plot, and 3) writers who know something isn't working in their story but can't figure out the problem.

Spots will be determined on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Here's wishing you fabulous April. Keep writing, friends!