The last days of June marked my one-year anniversary as a debut novelist. After a bit of reflection, I published How I Survived My Year As a Debut Novelist at my Live Write Breathe site. I’ve come a long way and learned a lot, but this past year has not been without its share of angst. In a perfect world, my author journey would go something like this:

• The first time I submit a manuscript, my talent is so sought after bidding wars by eager publishers would ensue.
• My debut novel would make the NY Times bestseller list.
• Readers clamoring for my next  novel would besiege me with emails and follow me on social sites in record numbers.

Oh, to dream! There are writers who have had these experiences. I am not one of them. This is my reality:

• Rejections more often than acceptances follow my submissions.
• I haven’t hit the NY Times bestseller list.
• Every once in a while a reader will pop up on a social site to thank me for my book. Otherwise, silence.

It’s good to take inventory of your progress, except of course when it becomes depressing. Just as I was plunging into Pilgrim’s Slough of Despond, another reader flagged me on a social site with praise for DawnSinger. It gave me pause.

Am I still looking to others to gauge my success or failure? I have a publisher, whereas some writers never find one. I have an agent, against all the odds. Stepping out in faith, I’ve promoted my book to the best of my ability. I may not have reached dreamed-of heights, but I’m grateful for the hill I’m standing on.
©2014 by Janalyn Voigt

Subscribe to the Creative Worlds of Janalyn Voigt

Need an escape?

DawnSinger, Tales of Faeraven #1 by Janalyn Voigt

A headstrong young princess and the guardian sworn to protect her fly on winged horses to the Gate of Life above the Well of Light in a desperate bid to release the DawnKing, and the salvation he offers, into a divided land. Will they each learn in time that sometimes victory comes only through surrender?

Purchase DawnSinger today!