For the first time in my life, typing “The End” felt like a huge relief rather than an epic accomplishment.
I just fulfilled my third contracted novel in the FIRE IN THE WOODS series in record time (at least for me) but still late, after asking for a one-month extension.
Looking back, I have to appreciate what an incredible personal accomplishment this was. A year ago today, I was checking my email daily, waiting for responses on my submissions while working on a dystopian novel (that is still only in fourth draft form)
It wasn’t until June 9, 2014 that I received the offer from Month9Books, with a three book deal attached. SWEET! But I looked at the tight deadlines with a shudder.
They wanted me to come up with two more novels, write, edit, and submit within eight months; while working at a break-neck speed to release and market book one in a “window of opportunity”.
If you’ve been here a long time, you know I rarely balk at a challenge.
Looking back, though, I think if I am ever faced with such an offer again, I might try to push out the dates to five or six months for each book.
Can I write a clean book in four months?
Yes. This little adventure has proven that. But I’d rather have more time than I need, and submit early, than hit a bump in the road (like I did in the middle of book three) and have to ask for an extension.
Yeah, I may be dreaming, because I am a little fish in a big ocean, and some publishers won’t budge. But at least now I will know what I am getting myself into.
Would I do it again?
Yes. In a heartbeat. Like I said, a year ago my debut novel was sitting in query cues, and still getting rejections. Now that same book that I was considering “shelving” is a three book series, with decent sales and great reviews on book one.
Yep. I have to admit: It feels good.
But I still need a vacation.
Jennifer M Eaton 
That’s a great accomplishment that deserves to be celebrated on that vacation that is well-deserved! And when you come back, maybe that dystopian story will grab you and force you back to your computer to get it done. 😉
Ha! Not yet. I have a little Sci fi number speaking to me. 😉
And just in time for spreak break!
I know! It feels kinda weird relaxing.
You d.e.s.e.r.v.e. a vacation. 😀
Congratulations.
Thanks so much Tess!
You are more than welcome. ❤
I can only hope to be as successful. 🙂 Congratulations.
Thanks Jenny! I’m sure the response to Dragon King will be just as shiny.
Congratulations – I stand in awe at such hard work and achievement! Hope you have time to relax and take it easy for a while.
Yeah, I read the beginning of my new book that I started on my writer’s retreat, but I didn’t write any more. Maybe new week. Right now I’m in goof off mode. It feels kind of weird, not having a deadline hanging over my head.
You are amazing. I’m thrilled to say I know the author of “Fire in the Woods” and “she even read some of my stuff and thought it wasn’t too bad.”
Take a break. I can’t wait to see what Jess and David get into through the next two books. In short – I’m glad you didn’t say no to that deal 9 months ago.
Thanks. I’m really glad I didn’t balk at the chance either. It’s been quite a ride.