I've had a novel in my head for more years than I can remember. I've talked to my kids and friends and famiily about "my book" for so long they probably all sit and think "Yeah, whatever," when I talk about plot points or how this or that is in my book. When I say the name "Kate" they all know that I'm talking about my protagonist.
Well, back in September, I decided to put my time where my mind is. I started an on-line workshop with Savvy Authors that is focused on writing your novel in a year. This workshop has been wonderful!!
We started with defining what we were going to write, then we went to character development, setting, and then plot development. In January, we actually started writing. I love the process of putting everything together and planning what's going to happen when, but I have to say the writing part of it -- while I enjoy it -- intimidates me. Will I be able to write the book I want to write? Will it be any good? Will people tell me if it stinks so I don't embarass myself?
What I've found about my questions is -- Everyone wonders these things. The jury is still out on if I have any talent or if the book will be any good, but it's been a wonderful experience to find out that I'm not alone in my insecurities about writing. When you put your writing out there for other's to critique, it's almost like you're walking out into public naked. You've exposed yourself for all to see. It's a pretty vulnerable feeling. But from what I've experienced so far, it's so worth it.
