Why Writing is Almost Like the Derby

If you're from Kentucky or enjoy horse racing, no doubt you've heard of the Kentucky Derby. Today is Thunder Over Louisville, touted as the largest fireworks show in the country. I don't know if it creates the biggest traffic snarl in the country, but wouldn't surprise me.

What does the Derby have to do with writing? We both train for the final outcome. For Thoroughbred owners, it's that coveted Derby win. For writers, it's our book reaching number one on the bestseller charts.

Those same Thoroughbred owners work with trainers, jockeys, the racing commission, veterinarians, etc., to pull off a successful race. Writers don't work in a vacuum, either. We have critique partners, editors, publishers, cover artists, etc., helping us on our journey. Team effort.

And now, because I've been remiss about posting lately, a few updates:

Death Sword, the short novel I mentioned earlier, was accepted by Lyrical Press for publication in early 2011. I'm excited and nervous. My husband and I still haven't celebrated. We're waiting until it's actually available. (Yeah, we're pragmatic like that. LOL)

Needless to say, I'm working on the preliminary round of edits. Luckily, I don't mind revising. I'm the type who can slice and dice my manuscript. No word is golden. And even if it is, I can always use it elsewhere.

Finished my synopsis for Serpent Fire, the second book in the series, tentatively titled The Angels of Death. (Death Sword is the first book.) Next, I'll break the synopsis down into detailed chapters. My goal is to have a first draft written before July 31.

I've two other books I'm plotting, and which I'd like to write first drafts this year, too. Both are urban fantasies/paranormals and involve angels, including the Grigori. The one good thing about working multiple projects is one doesn't have time for writer's block.

Meanwhile, debating about attending Hypericon this year.