Quote Posts

I thought this week I would dive into my own writing process. I like to call it the old school process, since I still use paper and pen on my first draft. I prefer a specific pen and a leather bound notebook, and I carry it with me everywhere. My typing has never been fast, but my brain and hand seem to be at the same speed. I can take out my notebook anytime and get some words down on paper. Now, according to my 9 year old, my handwriting is in some sort of code, but I do write in cursive. So a shout out to my elementary school teachers who drilled writing in cursive in all my classes, I actually do use it! I feel I have the freedom to write anywhere, no need for power or WiFi, just a pen and a place to sit. For example, I spent my last flight working on a short story. I had four hours of sitting in a small space, and had inspiration so I got to work and got about half way through the story.
When I am done in the notebook, I get an early edit in as I type it up. I catch somethings, like a change in a name or a continuity problem, I can catch it on this first run through. I then go back to the old school methods and I print out my first draft and mark it up. I have a binder with that copy, and I like to go back when the novel is complete and see how far it has come. In the print up, I can add notes all over, and get a bit of a break from a screen. I also find reading it in print brings it to life without the distractions of the screen.
This week I take the step on my newest novel, from the first draft and add the changes I have found, and I get to see the book morph closer to a final product.
So raise a pen or pencil to the old ways, and bring back cursive!

When I finished writing my first novel, I had the same dilemma that many writers have: Who should publish this?
I searched high and low for a publisher that fit with my vision. I had experience with a traditional publisher when writing a textbook, and felt I did not have the control over my work that I wanted. I also knew I did not have the skills to self publish my book, in came hybrid publishing. I found a local publisher, Spring Cedars, where I met Audrey who showed me that with this type of publishing I would get to keep control over my work, and that she and her team were there to help me make my novel a reality. With hybrid there is a bit of upfront costs, but after speaking with other authors it came out to about what they were spending for traditional publishing. I asked Audrey why she started Spring Cedars:
"The publishing industry is quite harsh for authors. Spring Cedars was launched to provide writers a better publishing alternative, one that is integrated, affordable, and personable."

I have been so happy with how the work has come about, I have control over my work, I am in charge of my own marketing, and my work keeps my personal touch. I am looking forward to working with them with my upcoming books! So if you are looking for something in between traditional or self, look into hybrid its a great way to make your dreams come true.
Want to learn more about Spring Cedars? check them out here:Spring Cedars

Enough said.