R.S. Pateman's Blog: RSvP

Second Book syndrome

So, here we are, on the run up to the publication of my second novel, The Prophecy of Bees. It's out in November and the publication will be the end of a long haul to get the book into a fit state for readers.

I've often heard writers talk of the problematic second book and, alas, I was not immune from this particular phenomenon. First novels are written 'blind.' There is a hope of it being published but no real expectation that it will be. So you can write unfettered.

But, once you've got a deal, there are pressures at work. Deadlines to be met. Fans of the first book to keep on board. Critics of the first book to convince with the second. All this with an eye on the sales of the first book.

I went around the houses a couple of times with The Prophecy of Bees but, eventually, I got there. And I'm really pleased with it and I'm so glad my agent and editor pushed me with each draft. The finished book is very different from the first version - and so much better for the hours of graft, angst and frustration.

I can't wait to see what people make of it. But I'm glad Second Book Syndrome can only happen once!

I've not heard any author folklore about the ups and downs of writing your third book. Perhaps that's why - so far - it's been a much easier process. Which makes me wonder if Second Book Syndrome is a kind of self-fulfilling prophecy. But, given the premise of the book, maybe that's only to be expected : )

Pastures new

Well, look at me, a Goodreads blogger! As someone with no technical ability whatsoever, getting this far is something of a rarity for me. Not to mention a minor miracle.

Anyhow, I seem to be up and running so...

I can't promise to post constantly or vouch for what I might post about. And I can't guarantee that what I *do* post will be up to much either.

But, I'll think of something.

In the meantime, if anybody is out there, welcome.