First drafts are ridiculously fun! You get to sit down and create a novel from the blank page… Alright, more honestly, create a novel from a carefully crafted outline, but still–it’s the most fun.
Rewrites are harder on the ego.
I just got a call from my editor telling me that she’ll need to me do some rewrites on THE RANCHER’S REDEMPTION. But while the request for rewrites blows my fantasy of never needing to be edited, it’s not bad news. In this industry, any answer that isn’t a flat out No, go away, is good news! She likes the story and she likes my writing–I just need to do some rewriting to get this story into Love Inspired shape.
Rewrites are a lot of work, but they’re worth it, and I’ll tell you why:
Harlequin Love Inspired knows what sells.
It’s as simple as that. They are the top romance seller for a reason, and if they want a rewrite, I’m giving them a rewrite! So while it’s a lot of work, I’m actually very excited about this stage. I’m one step closer to a second Love Inspired book being accepted, and that’s where I want to be.
It’s time to roll up my sleeves and get to work.
Not my muscle, but I like to think that if my writerly determination was turned into a wrestler, that’s what its arm would look like. 😉
Go you!!
Thanks, Judy. 🙂
Congratulations!
Thanks, Jennifer!
Rewrites can be very hard. My 2nd MSS weighed in at 107K words. An agent told me to get it down to 90K words, then my eventual publisher wanted it at 65K. The rewrite was far more more work than the 1st draft and the research combined. But at least the story isn’t sitting in a 3-ring binder on my shelf.
Cutting down can definitely be more time consuming than bulking up! Congrats on your publication, Harry!
Glad you clarified that’s not your muscle, Patricia! lol. Hope you get the contract!
LOL, Dora! I sure hope I get the contract on this one, too.
My debut novel with Harbourlight required a major revision. The book was much better as a result. Work? Yes. Contract? Yes.
Definitely a lot of work, Bonnie, but I agree that it’s totally worth it in the end.
Patty, wonderful thoughts. I’m in the same situation. You certainly encouraged me.
I know I’m good company, June! 🙂 Good luck on your rewrites, too!
Rewrites are what make a story shine. I lost count of the number of rewrites before either of my stories were accepted for publication. And I have one that I’m aiming for Love Inspired, too. Congratulations on yours!!!
Agreed, Donna. That’s neat that you’re aiming at Love Inspired, too! 🙂