When I burst onto the SP scene in early 2011, I already had three novels fully-edited and vetted, ready for publication (Anathema, Oubliette, Sleepers). During 2011, I wrote one novel and began a second (Severed, Afterlife). In 2012, I finished one novel and wrote a second (Afterlife, The Sundering). In 2013, I've written one novel and been working steadily on another (Shucked and the untitled work-in-progress).
Some days I feel as if I'm falling behind, but when I look at what I've really accomplished, I've been quite steady in my writing.
If the past is a predictor of the future, I should have a release before the end of the year. I'd love that to be true, but it may take a little longer. Here's why:
In the past, my novels have been YA and they've clocked in around 55,000 words. The book I'm working on now is epic fantasy, for adults. I've broken 65,000 words and I'm anticipating at least 80,000 words, but I'm hoping it'll be more than that. Maybe even closer to 100,000 words (which is normal for a debut epic).
I'm not a math whiz, but even I know this means it'll take me double the time to write this book as it's taken to write the others. Not to mention I'm managing multiple points of view and a new world far more expansive than any I've ever written (including a custom map I've commissioned from Stefanie Verish). This book is the biggest, most exciting project I've ever tackled. Add on one of the most personally chaotic years of my life, and well, you've got one crazed author.
I'm excited about my upcoming novel. It's chock full of dragons, magic, new frightening beasts, a dangerous world, and plenty of enigmatic characters. So hang in there with me, readers. I'm working hard to bring you the most ambitious novel I've ever written!!!
XoXo,
Megg
