Since I received my first book contract back in 2005, life has been different. Not only have I had two novels published, but I’ve developed friendships with some amazing authors, had the opportunity to meet the friendliest readers at book signings and book clubs, and have enjoyed speaking at conferences, libraries, on radio shows and to women’s groups. This immersion in the writing life has certainly been exciting and God has truly blessed me in my publishing journey, there is no doubt about it.
On the flip side, and there is always a flip side, as much as I love getting out there and helping to promote my book, being published shouldn’t be all about receptions and book signings. It’s supposed to be about writing books. Really, about writing stories that touch you, the reader, and take you away from the everyday realities of life for a little while.
Lately I’ve been thinking about the business and the busyness of the “published” writing life. It’s so easy to get caught up in all the worrying about how many books have been sold, getting the word out, what stores are carrying the books, and what the bottom line is.
The bottom line, for the writer, is really supposed to be about the words. I remember those. Words that write themselves on the walls of our hearts.
This past weekend, I fell in love with the new story I am writing. I got up early and started working on it at around 5:00 in the morning. During that time, I forgot about how many copies will sell and how many stores and libraries will be carrying the book and I got caught up with the plight of a character who is looking for… what?
You’ll have to wait to find out, but I love this aspect of being a writer. It’s the part that matters most. In some ways it is the only part. Other things are important in the publishing world, but a published novel can’t exist without an author who sits down and falls in love with a story, so that ultimately you can fall in love too.
tinaannforkner.wordpress.com 
Thanks, Patti! It’s just a matter of focusing on what is really important.
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Ooh, I’m sooo excited for you. Way to go, sister!
Patti
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This is wonderful, Kat. Congratulations to your family! Glorious news!
Chautona, just enjoy being where you are. That way when traditional publishers come knocking, you will be ready. Congrats on your books already written and published. 🙂
Territiffany. Well said.
I wil back Vivienne and to all of your blogs. 🙂
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Great post. It is interesting to view life from the side of the writer. Thanks for stopping by my little blog. I love to have authors drop by.
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Oh I love this post. It describes exactly how I feel every time I open Word. I’ll hover over the half-dozen books waiting for their turn and click one. I scroll to the bottom, and lose myself in the world of my characters. Not having been traditionally published, my “book signings” are lunches with dear friends and that’s about it. I spend a few minutes with a new shipment of books, but for the most part, I spend my time in my stories. I never thought about the promotional side of publishing. Maybe I should stick to Lulu!
Can’t wait to see what you have to share with us next.
~Chautona
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Tina,
Thank you for stopping by my blog today and leaving that wonderful comment. My youngest daughter is also 10 and we just learned three weeks ago during her Bible study class, she willingly gave her life to Jesus. It seemed like no big deal to her but we were talking today and she told me she gave her life to Christ.
Needless to say, we are more than pleased to know that God spoke to her heart on His own terms and she is now going to be spending that eternity with all of us as well.
I hope that you come back to my blog and become part of my family as I am now following your blog as well.
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
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Thanks for writing this post. We write because we want to touch hearts and sometimes all the required marketing etc. does get in the way. So glad you love your next one:)
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