While I continue to blog regularly, my creative writing has dried up over the last fortnight. After a burst of activity, which produced 10,000 words in just over a week, the well has run dry again. I know what I want to write, it’s waiting patiently in my head, I just can’t physically plant myself in front of our shiny new laptop and type the words. It’s frustrating and worrying in equal measure, and we all know how much Stephen likes to worry.
I think part of it is letting go of Book 1 and committing solely to writing Book 2. I’m still promoting the former and sales are steady, if unspectacular. I’m not in a position to retire just yet but they have been enough to encourage me to keep writing. I’ve gotten excellent feedback and lots of glowing praise on both WordPress and Amazon. It’s all a bit embarrassing for an introvert like me but I’m grateful nonetheless.
Perhaps the biggest boost of late has been two ladies approaching me independently, one in the village shop and one on the rugby pitch sidelines, to say that their book clubs are going to discuss the book and would like me to come in and talk to their members about it. This thrilled and terrified me. What if they hate it? This could be a bloodbath. Will my skin be thick enough to withstand their critiques?
Imposter syndrome kicked in until I had a firm word with myself and settled the jangling nerves. If I’m going to get anywhere on this writing journey I have to be prepared to front up and talk about my book. Can I answer all their questions? Well, I hope so, and I’m well used to public speaking from the day job. On paper, this should be a piece of cake, a walk in the park. Yet, I still worry as much of it is so deeply personal to me.
I’m trying to convince myself this is what I’ve dreamed about for years, the opportunity to write a book and then talk about it who are genuinely interested in what I have to say. Ignoring the insistent voice in my head which snarls I’m a fraud and a fake. This is the good stuff, the icing on the cake. Plus it’s a fantastic opportunity to promote my future writing plans, what’s in the pipeline for 2020 and beyond.
So, with beating heart and furrowed brow I’ve gratefully accepted both invitations to attend the book clubs. It will be a nerve wracking but, I hope, rewarding experience. In the meantime, I need to get my bum into gear and get cracking on my works in progress, ‘Skelly’s Tower,’ and ‘Bomb Girl.’ The latter is a serialised work that I’ve been posting on WordPress. It’s set in the Kirkwood Scott Universe and I’ve big hopes for it.
‘Skelly’s Tower,’ is the sequel to ‘Skelly’s Square.’ It starts an hour after the first book ends as Kirkwood, Meredith and Harley continue their battle to fend off an ancient evil threatening to overrun Belfast and throw the world into a new Dark Age. If you’re interested Book 1 is available to buy on Amazon in e book or paperback format. Here endeth my gratuitous plug for the day.
I like to keep you all updated on my writing journey, the rough and the smooth. When I post next about it I hope to have a first book club meeting under my belt, so watch this space. In the meantime thank you to those of you who have bought the book and supported my writing. If you have read and enjoyed the book please feel free to post a review on Amazon or WordPress. Reviews are oxygen for new authors like he.
Black Thoughts 
Sounds like a great opportunity! I can certainly relate to the anxiety of potential critics, but I also recognize that constructive feedback serves a useful purpose if taken in proper context.
I see very little downside with this! Wishing you much luck and a productive experience with this new initiative!
PS – I am interested in purchasing your first book in the series. Forgive me for not knowing which book it is. And also – is it available in the US Amazon market?
Thanks in advance for your reply.
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Thank you for the encouragement Scott. Yes, the book is available on US Amazon. It’s called ‘The Kirkwood Scott Chronicles: Skelly’s Square.’ Let me know when you purchase it so I know the link worked. Thank you very much 😊
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Real growth happens outside of our comfort zones. Congratulations on accepting the invitations. The groups have already decided to discuss your book. This is a great opportunity for you to engage with people regarding your story and process. Go boldly, man. I’m pretty sure they will leave their torches and pitchforks at the door.
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Thank you very much Denny. Here’s hoping 😂
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If they hated the book, they would never ask you to come in & talk about it. GO! And enjoy your success. Perhaps you’ll meet someone who’ll trigger a new character.
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Thank you. Oh yes, that’s a very distinct possibility 😊
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I was once told by a very wise man that if I reach the stage of not feeling nervous, it’s time to stop. Nerves help you concentrate, and focus on what you are doing, or saying.
Keep on keeping on.
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Thank you David. Wise words 👍🏻
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Please keep us updated Stephen. I love seeing the growth and vision of our WordPress community. Keep up the great work!
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The book clubs sound like fantastic opportunities! Hoping you can still find time in your busy schedule to post here on WP. 😊
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Thank you. Of course I will lol. I’m always here 🙂
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As the moderator of two past book clubs, I can assure you the participants will be kind. They will ask you specific questions, your underlying thinking about different directions you took with the story and express their appreciation for the story and you meeting with them. Book readers are notoriously kind toward writers. It’s the anonymous community that can be a bit harsh. Go. Have a blast because you’re going to have a great experience.
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Thank you. That’s reassuring to hear. I feel less nervous now.
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I’m getting deeper into Book 1, Skelly’s Square. You’ve got me hooked. I enjoy the way you methodically weave these altogether human and believable characters into the engaging story. Keep writing.
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Thank you very much. That’s great to hear 🙏🏻
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Congratulations on all of your success with your novel! What an exciting time!
Also, I’ve nominated you for the Sunshine Blogger Award! 😀 (Please don’t feel any pressure to participate, just wanted you to know.) 🙂 https://thatwemight.home.blog/2019/09/16/3-blogger-awards-potentially-awkward-expressions-of-gratitude/
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Thank you very much Mandy 🙂
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Ooh. If you were invited, at least one of the members liked your book!! My slow poke self picked it up again. It’s brilliant.
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Great to hear. What chapter are you on?
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I’m on chapter 64. I’m having a hard time focusing on anything these days. This is the kind of book I would normally not be able to put down. My brain is very distractable lately!
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You’re well on your way. Thank you so much 🙂
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I’m very familiar with Imposter Syndrome myself! I have to convince myself daily that I’m not kidding my self with this writing lark. But it sounds like you are having great success! Well done and keep up the good work.
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Thank you for your support.
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Good luck and congrats! How exciting for you!
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Thank you very much 🙂
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We’ll be keeping an eye open for ya!
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Thank you 😊
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Now, to get you on a Stateside tour! *rubs hands a la Mr Burns*
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If they pay, I’m there 😂
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Hi there! 🙂
CONGRATS on the speaking opportunity! Can’t wait to hear updates about it. Also, what genre do you write in? I haven’t read books (fiction or nonfiction) in quite a while, but I’ve been reading as many like-minded blog posts as I can while trying to write my own. Happy writing as well!
~Jannette
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Good luck with the book clubs! I’m so sorry, but the first thing I thought of was all the Midsomer Murder episodes I’ve watched that center around book clubs; I’m afraid I had to giggle. However, I think you’ll do splendidly, especially if you take Fionnaula. You’re probably much better than you realize, and will have a much more enjoyable time than you expect.
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Thank you. I’m sure I’ll muddle by.
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