By Lynn McPherson
I'm a cozy mystery reader and writer. I love whodunnit mysteries with familiar characters who make me feel at home. Most recently, I've finished the first book in a new cozy series. I'm in the process of querying (not recommended for the faint-hearted) and while I wait for responses, I'm in a bit of a conundrum. What should I do now?
For now, I've decided to try something new.
I'm going to leave the cozy world behind (very briefly!) to see what it is like on the other side--the darker side. I have a few ideas brewing. Why not venture somewhere different while I wait? To become a better writer, there are two things an author should do. The first is read. The second is write.
Wish me luck on my new literary adventure abroad!
Have you ever stepped outside your comfort zone? What did you do?
Lynn, I wish you the best in your querying on your project. Something tells me based on everything I read in your bio you won't be waiting for months. Such an interesting question. I am known for writing romantic suspense, and now I'm writing police/FBI procedurals. Trust me, it was well out of my comfort zone, but the rewards are worth it. My first suspense was a Colorado Book Award finalist. Anything that interests you is worth trying. Go for it!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Donnell. It's such a rollercoaster. I appreciate you sharing your experience. What a big jump--from romantic suspense to police/FBI procedural--that's really neat. I'm encouraged by your words--thanks again!
DeleteBest of luck with the queries and the new project.
ReplyDeleteI am very reluctant to step outside of my comfort zone. Usually, I'm dragged there kicking and screaming. The one I can think of I tried for myself was running when I started doing mud runs. I wouldn't say I love running, especially these days where it seems to be a struggle, but I usually enjoy it. And I'm missing mud runs like crazy.
Hi Mark! Mud runs look and sound like so much fun! It's definitely on my to-do list. Good for you for getting outside and going out of your comfort zone!
DeleteLynn, I've been out of my comfort zone for months! That said, I do think that facing a new challenge helps us grow, as writers and as human beings. Best of Luck!
ReplyDeleteWell said, Gay!! Thanks for your words of encouragement. You're so right, too. Growing as writers certainly helps us grow as people, doesn't it?
DeleteGo for it, Lynn! Whatever you do, I know it will be a great read!
ReplyDeletep.s. I'm taking a break from police procedurals and mysteries to write a thriller. It's been a stretch in a lot of ways, but good for me. Wishing you the best always.
Saralyn, you are always such a ray of sunshine! Thank you so much. I can't wait to find out more about your thriller--good for you!
DeleteWishing you the best on the book you are querying plus on your new endeavor. I've leaned outside my zone in my short stories and truly enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteHi Debra! Thanks so much for your kind words. I'm glad to hear it was worth going outside your comfort zone. It encourages me to keep going!
DeleteLynn, I have never been INSIDE my comfort zone. Don't even know where or what that is! Every book I've written has been a leap. So go for it and have fun!
ReplyDeleteHahaha--T.K. you nailed it! I love your attitude--it's great to hear. Thanks for your kinds words!
DeleteLynn, I second T.K.'s wise words above. I've had ten novels published and starting each one was a brain-teasing, hair-pulling challenge - little comfort in sight. But, as I'm sure you know deep down, it's a process, and that process is one you trust. All the best!
ReplyDeleteBarbara, thanks for your note. It's comforting to hear that even an author as accomplished as you goes through the same challenges at the beginning of each novel. I love the idea of the process and learning to trust it.
DeleteLUCK, Lynn, LUCK
ReplyDeleteLynn, I jumped from confessional poetry to mystery writer and struggle with learning a new genre, but I love it and carry on best I can. This blog, the Stiletto Gang, has helped me so much with great advise and information on writing mysteries.
ReplyDeleteThat's a big leap--good for you for going outside your comfort zone to follow your heart. I agree that the Stiletto Gang is a great source of advice and information from so many accomplished women.
Delete