I finished my mystery manuscript and I feel like celebrating. I read through from page 1 to 305. I read all 12 chapters and I thought I did a great job. Now mind you, I didn't set out to write a good mystery; my plan was to write a great mystery. Since this is my first attempt, you might ask, well how can you be so confident? I'll tell you how. I didn't do this project alone. I had all my soul sistas helping me. They encouraged me and read drafts and gave me feedback. Some of my writer friends recommended books to read to become a master writer. I read those books and some more. I know those taught me what I didn't know. How to write a great mystery.
So my son says I'm a bragger. I am; however, Sherman Alexie once told me, well not me, a room full of people at a reading, but he said, a writer has to be arrogant. You have to believe that what you have to say is worth writing and reading. So, I'm arrogant. I have a story that only I can tell. I wrote a book I would want to read. If it doesn't fit your comfort level, I'm cool with that. It can't be all that to everyone, but if you like my poetry, you'll dig my mystery. My characters are like me, off beat, colorful, funny, dark, flawed, and secretive.
I hope my manuscript is published someday, but hey, I can say I finished it and that's the hardest part.
The Colorado Sisters and the Atlanta Butcher coming soon to a bookstore near you.
To be followed by the sequel The Colorado Sisters and the Montana Murder.
A girl's gotta think positive, que no?
Congratulations, Juliana! That is a huge accomplishment. I hope you'll be submitting for some of the Sisters in Crime and other contests I've sent you. Adelante, mujer!
ReplyDeleteLinda, thank you for the kind words. You have inspired me and I hope to be submitting soon. Thanks for sending me the links.
DeleteI'm so glad 'you've not only finished your book but you.re confident and proud about your unique story, voice, and message.
ReplyDeleteThank you. I have to be proud and confident. I'm an overachiever. I was told by my mentor, Sandra Cisneros, "Don't write a good book, write a great one." That was my goal. My unique story is all about inclusion and diversity.
DeleteWriting a book changes you, Colorado Sisters is gonna rock the world, can't wait to see them on the big screen... Love you sis, you are a Goddess of words and ideas.
ReplyDeleteThank you, sis for all the support, love, encouragement, and Dillon Beach. We will be successful if we never doubt and never give up.
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