Boy have I learned a ton in the last month. Between craft books and workshops my brain is on overload. But it's a good thing.
The main conclusion I've come to with all of it is to write the best story I can. Write it for me, what I as a reader look for in a great story. With all the how to books and people with good intentions trying to tell you how it's supposed to be done, I've really not been in a very happy place lately.
What I want to do is write. I don't want to have to worry about all the so called rules out there. Especially when all the books I love to read seem to break all the rules. These authors are doing their own thing. And guess what? They are doing more than just a "fine" job of it. They are on the Best Sellers list!
I know we must continue to be open minded and learn as much as we can about the business and how to craft a great story. But we must not forget that our voice is what makes us stand out, what makes us different from one author to the next. There is no set formula to follow and I find that really quite liberating. A mighty load off these tired and frustrated shoulders.
I can do it my way. And somewhere out there is an editor and agent who's going to love my way as much as me. And the bottom line here is that's who I want in my corner. :)
Now if I can just figure out how to get these kids to give me at least two hours a day to write, I'm going to find my happy place again. LOL
