While my historical fiction novel is out on submission and praise be garnering some interest, I’ve been trying not to think of the what-ifs and maybe’s and keeping myself busy. I’ve been getting to grips with my new work-in-progress and a whole new cast of characters. It’s still early days, but what’s different about this one is that the initial idea was sparked by one of my short stories. I’m not a planner, so the initial spark this short story created has literally taken me into novel territory. Apparently, not planning everything out in advance makes me a panster – what a horrible word, whoever thought of it should be shot! I’m told it means that I prefer to fly by the seat of my pants – really – I ask you… Anyhow, that’s how it goes for me, initial idea – plenty of what ifs – then down to business and see where I end up. I definitely prefer the creative freedom that comes from being a panster (I really, really do dislike that word), and the word count I have at the end of this week certainly backs that up – might even have a first draft by Christmas, #evertheoptimist!
I spent a lovely evening a few weeks ago with the amazing Holly Seddon. She was promoting her new book, 59 Minutes, which is an absolute edge-of-your-seat, belter of a book. I was lucky enough to be mentored by Holly, and her advice and guidance have been phenomenal. If you haven’t read one of Holly’s books, I urge you to pick up a copy of 59 Minutes – you won’t be disappointed!
In other news, this week yesterday took a rather unexpected turn. I had just left a day job meeting when my phone rang; it was BBC Radio Devon, asking if I had time to talk about my short story The Clockmaker’s Apprentice. I had uploaded it to BBC Upload a while back and promptly forgot about it. They wanted to feature my story that evening and also interview me. Ten minutes later, I was siting in my car talking to a lovely journalist about my writing. You can listen here. The clip of me reading The Clockmaker’s Apprentice is approx 1 hour in, and comes just before 7 pm. I feature again just before 8 pm, talking about the story and my writing journey. I’d love to know what you think, so please pop a comment below if you have a chance to listen to it. I do find it amazing how things can turn just on a twist, sometimes life throws you opportunities that you have to grab with both hands.
My week continued with positivity when, on Friday, I received another request from an agent to see my full manuscript – yes, of course I was doing a happy dance and brimming with excitement. I have everything crossed.
As if that wasn’t enough, yesterday I attended the South Devon Book Festival, a lovely day despite the awful weather. I had some wonderful chats with fellow authors and readers and signed a few books too. I’ve popped a pic below.
Today, is going to be a day of rest. A bit of reading, a bit of writing, and a lot of being thankful. I shall file it away so that when life throws out those unwanted curve balls, I can remind myself to just keep pushing through and wait for the clouds to clear. I hope the sun is shining where you are. Until next time – Nicole x
Having fun at The South Devon Book Festival