Off it goes. Next!

Ashfall has been handed off to betas for some thrashing. I have about a month where I need to force myself to think of something besides that manuscript, so when it comes back my way covered in ink, I can look at it fresh and hack it to pieces!

I spent yesterday feeling a little downtrodden, which had a lot to do with nerves, I think. The first reader jitters will always surface. I imagine even the most successful authors still experience a little apprehension the first time someone reads the story they've worked hard to create.

I've learned that it's good to take a break from time to time, to give yourself time to breath and clear the deck after you've been buried in a certain world and certain characters. But breaks are, by nature, supposed to be short, especially when it comes to something you want to make a career out of.

Last night when I was supposed to be sleeping, I started brainstorming for my next manuscript - code name "The Finding." I think I'll do some outlining and character work today.