As my release date approached, I was bombarded by
questions about I how I felt. I had always answered with the usual…I’m nervous, I’m excited, blah, blah, blah.
But if truth be told, the emotion that overshadows them all is gratitude. Maybe
it’s because this is my first novel, or perhaps I wasn’t expecting Shadows of Kings to get noticed as
quickly as it did, despite my faith in its quality. But for whatever reason, I
am consumed with gratitude – not only for being published, but for the many
souls who have supported me during this journey. So this blog…instead of being
about ME, is designed to help YOU- the aspiring writer. This article is an
amalgamation of snippets from prior articles that focus on some of the
philosophies and tricks of the trade I’ve embraced. So let’s get to work.
There is one notion I express to all aspiring
authors I talk to: There is a story within all of us. Granted, having
it come to life can be a little tricky, but the emphasis should be the DOING! What is DOING? Sitting down and committing yourself to putting thoughts on
paper. The victory is building a routine that keeps you consistently in front
of your notebook, laptop, typewriter, or 3-ring binder on a daily basis. If
you're just beginning, start small, and don't punish yourself if you fall short
of a goal. Just pick it up the following day and move forward.
Another key toward my writing is what I expressed
earlier…gratitude. I've been humbled by the attention and interest so many have
expressed. The process from scribbling my imagination on paper to having it
committed to print is a long one. As exciting as the journey is, having Shadows of Kings go through the
Publishing process while continuing to write can be an arduous affair. All of
the wonderful sentiments from my supporters and fans have calmed the storm and
revitalized my resolve. Remember to express your gratitude, for the universe
will always pay it forward.
As you write, cast aside agents, critics, and
publishers. But once finished, let your work be seen. And don’t be derailed by rejection. In the
end...we are our worst critics. It's somewhat akin to hearing a recorded sound
of your own voice. We always cringe when we hear ourselves played back, but
this is the sound that everyone around us hears. Think of your writing in that
light. You will find the perception of others to be quite different from the
"cringe" you are feeling.
With that said…I’m open to any questions you may
have about the writing process or my novel in particular.
Oceans of Love,
Jack
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BLURB:
Steel and sorcery clash as the Harhn incursion sweeps through the Hugue. Mankind faces its greatest peril without the Order Knights of legend to defend them. Crusading deep in the frontier, the Order is unaware of the savage beasts threatening their homeland as the Hugue realms muster their armies for war.
Between a cunning Harhn sorcerer, and an alliance forged with the decadent Darkfey, the horde threatens to extinguish the domains of men. Only Lord Baudouin and Lady Lucia, a Dragon Maiden from the Order, stand in the enemy’s path. One must find the strength to unify the realms. The other must discover the strength within her, while coming to terms with the agendas of her Order. But only together will there be any hope to repel the onslaught, and preserve the future for a mysterious girl they do not know.
Chapter excerpt: http://twilighttimesbooks.com/ShadowsofKings_ch1.html
Author Bio:
Jack Whitsel is a native Californian, but has made Oregon his home since 1982. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Finance from Portland State University, but studies medieval history in his spare time. His favorite genres are fantasy and historical fiction with a medieval emphasis. Shadows of Kings, the first novel of the Dragon Rising Series is the love child born of these two passions.
“I love the elements of fantasy when mixed with the gritty aspects of a medieval society,” states the author.
Website: http://www.jackwhitsel.com
Facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shadows-of-Kings-Book-one-of-the-Dragon-Rising-Series/119975978113722
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JackWhitsel
3 comments:
Thanks for the advice, I know what's like to be my own worst critic and I try to push past that all the time
Hi Wenona!
My pleasure. As I always say..."Just write"
Keep plugging away,
Oceans of Love,
Jack
A big THANKS to creatively Green, and Bewitching Tours for sharing the news about SHADOWS OF KINGS. Just to let you know, there is a publisher promo going on for Kindle/Nook lovers. For a limited time, you can snag SHADOWS OF KINGS FOR $3.25.
That said...if there is anyone who has questions about the DRAGON RISING series or writing in general, don't be afraid to ask.
Oceans of Love,
Jack
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