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Hungry for chocolate

I  requested my novel submission, HUNGRY FOR CHOCOLATE, back from Woodland Press in WV. After emails back and forth the editor finally said he didn't have time to read it.

I feel as though I don't have time to waste. And wanted to move forward with the novel.

I've given this some thought and am thinking of  rewriting the story as an inspirational.

That means I have research to do.

I believe the book would fit in the genre well.
I'll need to tweak the novel and do some  additional writing.
I have to study the market and  read several recent inspirationals. It's been awhile since I've read one.

 I'm excited about this new venture and a little scared.

I just need to get back to writing fiction.

I've missed it. I wonder if it's missed me?

Any comments on writing inspirationals or on new titles to read?
Thanks!
Blessings!
B
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Comments

  1. Janet,June 21, 2011 at 11:12 PM

    Hi Barb,I was going to email you when you wanted info about Woodland Press on the Roundtable, but couldn't find your email. Anyways, I had the same problem with a manuscript I emailed them a few years ago. After they had it for quite a few months, I emailed them. He said they were busy, but he would read it over the weekend and get back to me the following week. I never heard from them again. I kind of get the idea that they have their 'favorite' authors and don't want to take the time or chance with other authors. That's only my opinion and I may be very wrong. Good Luck with rewriting your story.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anne GallagherJune 22, 2011 at 8:27 AM

    Good for you for recognizing the valuable essence of time. And what you need to do to your book so it will not waste any more time being in the hands of someone who does not know what to do with it.

    I don't know anything about inspirationals but I do wish you the best of luck in getting your book ready.

    ReplyDelete
  3. B. WHITTINGTONJune 22, 2011 at 8:48 AM

    Thanks, Janet and Anne. I remembered Janet about your experience and that prompted me to not wait too long.
    It's a small press and I think the editor publishes his own book and those of a few others. They also do more non fiction I believe. Just not a good fit.
    I know the novel is good with some bits that need fixing. So here's to getting back to work.
    Blessings.

    ReplyDelete
  4. PatJune 22, 2011 at 12:31 PM

    Did you send your book out to more than one publishing company? If so, then maybe you should wait for a response from them. Do you feel strongly about rewriting it? Does it have a better chance in the Christian market? Good luck to you!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Susan Flett SwiderskiJune 22, 2011 at 2:56 PM

    Good luck with the rewrite. For a quick inspirational fix, you could always read one or more of the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" books.

    ReplyDelete
  6. B. WHITTINGTONJune 22, 2011 at 5:06 PM

    This book has been completely through all the publishers and back again, through a reputable agent.
    So I'm going to do my research and decide.
    The books needs some updating with popular songs mentioned etc.
    I'm not opposed to hard work. It's just getting back into the routine. The chick. soup books are good but more sweet than I can write. Not a good fit there.
    I'm off to d research.
    B

    ReplyDelete
  7. Granny KateJune 22, 2011 at 8:53 PM

    Instantly, I thought of TRAVELING MERCIES by Anne Lamott. It's not a novel though, it's a personal narrative of Anne Lamott's spiritual path. JOSHUA: A Parable for Today by Joseph Girzone is a wonderful inspirational novel.

    Another inspirational writer that comes to mind is Catherine Marshal. If you feel this tug to rewrite along those lines, I'd say go for it.

    I don't know how to market a book. My advice on that would be to find an agent. I've never done this myself, but if I were to pursue a writing career, I'd go that route.

    ReplyDelete
  8. B. WHITTINGTONJune 22, 2011 at 11:05 PM

    I had an agent, Elaine English, very good in her field. She tried to sell this as a mainstream (her specialty is romance) for several years.Now, I have it back -
    I'd like to change a few things in the novel - I'm trying to figure out the difference between christian fiction and inspirational writing. Go figure. Two hrs research on the internet got me zero. Oh well. Tomorrow is another day.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Deb ShuckaJune 26, 2011 at 12:08 PM

    It seems that if you're feeling this inspired and energized by the possibilities of shifting the focus of your book, it's definitely a path to follow. I'm inspired by your courage.

    ReplyDelete

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