For years, I've wanted to participate in Nanowrimo (for those who don't know, that's Nation Novel Writing Month, where participants commit to writing a 50,000 word novel in the month of November). My day job is in retail, which has always been an excuse (maybe a good one too) to hold off. Last year I was also in the process of getting Forgotten  some small amount of attention as well, which made the whole thing seem downright impossible. 

I have the same reasons (excuses) this year. In fact, I work at a busier  store, where I have more responsibilities than ever. And Misery  has got to be ready to go halfway through the month! Which means trying to get it some small amount of attention as well. But here's the thing... 

I'm going to do it anyway.  

This is most likely a sign of oncoming insanity. I've never been more stressed than I was last month, and my response is to heap more stress on myself? Well... Yeah. It is. Because as stressful as the thought of 50,000 words in 30 days while trying to help run my store and market another novel entirely is crazy  overwhelming, it makes me excited. Excited like I haven't been in a long time. 

I love the Blood and Fire Saga. Love it like crazy. But I need a break. For about two years now, it is the only thing I've written. I keep a notebook by my bed, because I'm often struck with inspiration as I'm falling asleep and like to write it down. If you check, you'll find nothing but notes for B&F. Meaning I haven't even let my half-asleep brain think about other things. And I'm starting to get a little burnt out. I'm so excited for Ruin  and all the books that come after, but the thought of starting them just makes me feel very... meh.

Writing is my outlet. If I can't work up enthusiasm to start a story I desperately want to tell, there's something wrong. And I think it might be a big part of that being stressed out last month. So I think it's time for a break. I need to do something with my writing I've never done before. Something I've always wanted to do. 

So. Nano. 

The story I'm working on has nothing to do with B&F. It's a pure science fiction, actually. Full of space ships and light speed travel. And this story I am  excited to start. I just began it this morning, and I'm already 2,000 words in! Take that writer's block!

So what does this mean to people waiting for Ruin ? Not much. Since Michelle and I weren't going to start it until we were done getting Misery  ready anyway, this is a delay of 15 days or so. And getting rid of that burn-out/writers block can only be a good thing!

--Lyn--