Michael War's Blog, page 12

What I’ve learned while writing my second book

I have submitted my second book for publishing, and now as I wait for confirmation, I decided to reflect on the things I have done differently this time around.

First, I decided to increase the length. I did this because the one and only review for Timeless part I stated that I rushed through the story and the love scenes. They suggested that if perhaps it had been longer, things would have flown better. Though I am not a believer in just filling up a story with bloat, I thought that maybe they were right. 3,000 words was rather short, and maybe it really didn’t help set the stage as well as it could have. So I tried to make it at least 5000 words, with a story that flowed a lot better.

Second, I wanted to have stronger, more developed characters. I felt the first one had some good ones, but we really didn’t get to know them all too well. This time, I let them converse a bit more before just throwing them into bed, allowing some actual growth to occur. Then, of course, I threw them in bed.

Last, I just had fun with it. I was so serious the first time around, it might have kept me from being truly creative. I was so worried about how people were going to look at the work, that I kept myself from just letting go. This time, I decided to be playful, and not care what some critics would think. Hopefully they would have as much fun reading it as I did writing it.

Next time, I hope to grow even more. Never mind, I know I will.

Second Book

Well, I have finally completed the first draft of Timeless:Pharaoh's Kiss, the second installment in my short story series. I am very excited about it, especially since I decided to take that negative review on Amazon to heart and use it to improve on the story. I think I did a better job this time on the pacing, and hope that it is not as hurried. Of course, I am going to edit very carefully and will not release it until I am sure it is ready. Wish me luck!

First Review

Well, the first review is in, and although it could have been worse, it wasn't great either. What I am going to take away from this is that in my next story, I am going to not rush some of the scenes and true to be a bit more careful when I try to take some liberties. There was actually some good advice in their, so I'm glad that they went the helpful route and didn't get all mean.

How do you all handle bad reviews?

Free Promo Day

Though some people would certainly say I'm making a mistake, I decided to make Timeless: A Sensual Time Travel Adventure free for today. So get your copy while you can and Happy July 4th!

New Steel Magnolias

Just caught the trailer for the new "Steel Magnolias" starring Queen Latifah. I love the original, but I am intrigued by this update, especially since I adore Ms. Latifah and the wonderful Jill Scott (how I wish there was a second season of "The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency.")I've never seen the play by Robert Harling, even though my high school performed it when I was a sophmore, but I think I'll pick up the script sometime before the premiere, just to take a look.

What do you think? Are you excited for the new "Steel Magnolias"?Steel Magnolias