Jump-Starting a Book

I knew it would happen. I’ve been writing so many novellas, I’m having trouble committing to a book. I have started and set aside 2 related books because they really needed a lot more research than I’m able to do right now. Plus, they’re related stories and I want a stand-alone book to send to Carina so I can be an active author.

I’ve been working on this book for 3 weeks, and have less than 5000 words. Most of THOSE are notes about what will happen later in the story, which will be good, except that I have to get through the beginning first.

I had a great beginning, or so I thought, but it stalled. So I went to a second beginning. And back to the first, so I was toggling between them waiting to see which one took off.

So last night, I scrapped it all and opened a new document, with a new beginning, and changed the hero’s name. He was so hesitant before, maybe this will help.

I don’t remember EVER having this much trouble starting a book. Usually opening scenes are my favorites to write. I wonder if it’s just the wrong story to tell right now. But I think it’s the right one for Carina.

Have you ever had trouble starting? What did you do to get past it?