Cintia
asked
Elizabeth Hoyt:
I'm an aspiring writer, but I'm dealing with two things: I get discouraged every single day because 96% of manuscripts are rejected, and I haven't had an idea for years, literally. There's too many people wanting to be writers, and knowing there's so much competition just kills me a little every day. When I get motivated, immediatly something appears about the industry that kills it. Any tips on how to deal with this?
Elizabeth Hoyt
Oh, my goodness, yes: STOP READING ABOUT THE INDUSTRY! Yes, it's a good idea for writers to know about the publishing industry, but NOT if it's killing your muse. The same, by the way, goes for social media, conventions, book-signings....really anything that stops you from writing. Here's three things to think about:
1. Other writers are not your competition. Your writing will be completely different from any other person's. You are competing (if you're competing) against yourself.
2. 96% of manuscripts may or may not be rejected, but that has absolutely no bearing on you and your writing. Also? If you don't finish a manuscript you are 100% guaranteed not to be published.
3. Write what gives you joy.
1. Other writers are not your competition. Your writing will be completely different from any other person's. You are competing (if you're competing) against yourself.
2. 96% of manuscripts may or may not be rejected, but that has absolutely no bearing on you and your writing. Also? If you don't finish a manuscript you are 100% guaranteed not to be published.
3. Write what gives you joy.
More Answered Questions
Nancy L
asked
Elizabeth Hoyt:
I just spent a few enjoyable weeks reading all your Maiden Lane books (and am anxiously awaiting book 12). Unless I missed it, in the earlier books do we know who Bridget's mother is? Does her brother know of her existence? We get some background in "Duke of Sin" but I still want to know how Bridget's mom hid her pregnancy and more about her romance with Bridget's father.
I Am
asked
Elizabeth Hoyt:
Ms Hoyt, I was just wondering what was going to happen ... after Maiden Lane? (forever known as AML) Aside from the fact that I will be an emotional wreck and that a significant chapter in my life will come to a close, is there anything planed for after AML (it genuinely makes me very upset thinking about this)? PS how old is Hugh? Also THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR BEING A GREAT AUTHOR, YOU HAVE BEEN A HUGE PART OF MY LIFE!
Joanna Loves Reading
asked
Elizabeth Hoyt:
Hi, I adore your novels. They are a breath of fresh air, with the unusual historical settings and atypical heroines. I have seen commentary that they are not historically accurate, since the male/female roles don't follow societal rules. Do you think your heros/heroines could have existed in the Georgian time? I love reading women that stretch/break the rules. They inspire while still having a happy ending.
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