Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Why Unbreakable Hostage is the Golden Child

Alright, I'll admit it. I'm a nerd. Actually, I'm an Uber nerd! I can't sleep. I am too ridiculously excited about seeing Unbreakable Hostage in print.


I think it's time I explain why I'm so high on myself about this book.



As you all know by now, fiction wasn't really my thing. I've been a non-fiction writer since the age of 14. That's a LONG time to stick to simply one genre, but that's the way it was for me.





I've been quite open about my astonishment that VHP would publish Loving Her, mainly because I still view it as a work in progress. I've gotten tremendously wonderful feedback from people who have read the book & I'm proud of that.




Unbreakable Hostage, though, is my rare pearl.

I vividly remember talking on the phone with my publisher. I had just sent her the original version of Imperfect and I asked her what she thought I should undertake as my next endeavor. She told me she thought I should write a suspense novel. I gibed her. Me? Hell no! As I've stated in previous blogs, VHP has a phenomenal collection of suspense writers - all of whom are superior to me in every which way.





I think it's important to note something here. Imperfect is a tragedy, there's no debating that. It was tough because it was my first full-length novel, but it was easy for me to relay that story. It's direct. It's not gripping or intense like a good suspense novel or movie. It's intense, don't get me wrong. It's intensity is different than something that would have you at the edge of your seat, though. I'm also a really direct person. I'm a NYer & Philadelphian. I'm a city girl. I cut to the chase. I do not beat around any bushes. I don't have time for that. All of my writing reflects my thought process and speech patterns: it's direct. Good, bad or indifferent, I don't know. I'm just stating facts. So, you can imagine that as a direct person, the idea of creating diversions and twists and turns was extremely difficult for me. I don't think that way, so how am I supposed to write that way?





I didn't think I'd have anything decent. I honestly did not. I took on the challenge and I wrote. As you know, music was key in helping me to create this story. I spent hours upon hours upon hours writing and polishing this story. When I was finished, I was quite proud that I actually accomplished it! If nothing else, I could say that I had challenged myself and I was successful. I didn't give up - I saw this project through to completion.



The real shock was at how well it was received by my publisher! Again, I didn't think it was of that calibur, but she loved it! Who am I to argue when it works in my favor? LOL. I titled it, word counted it and submitted it. Soon thereafter we had cover art, and I was good to go! :)




Yes, I'll admit that Unbreakable Hostage is my golden child. Don't get me wrong. Like any parent, I love all of my creations - and each one is loved differently since every piece is different. This one has to stand out, though. This was a tremendous challenge, and I more than accomplished my goal. I'm proud. It may not be the greatest piece of literature ever written, but it's a milestone for me and I'm happy! :) Isn't that what it's all about any way: my happiness? LOL. Just kidding! Seriously, though, this book has made me feel like a true writer - an accomplished writer.

2 comments:

Sandy Nicks said...

Great post! I actually feel the same about Circle of Eternity. I wrote it 10 years ago and was thrilled VHP published it. Although I love all the books I write, Circle of Eternity has a special place in my heart :)

I wish you much success with all your books! I can't wait to read Unbreakable Hostage!

Thanks!
Sandy Nicks

Malcolm R. Campbell said...

When it comes to things we've written, it's hard not to have a favorite. We like other books and other poems, but there's often one than stands out. Best of luck with your golden child.

Malcolm