2011? Pretty Good

As the sun sets on 2011, here at Wordwranglers,we're taking a look back. Most blogs are doing resolutions for the upcoming year. But it's kind of hard to do that without knowing where you've been and taking a minute to pause and reflect. Loved Liz's post yesterday.

Things I've learned. Hmmmm... I learned where I fit. I write contemporary western suspense. Every time, including on my most recent manuscript, that I go outside those lines I'm not happy. I like mystery. I like cowboys and horses. The fit is good for me.

I learned that I want to break some rules. Not grammar rules, but rules of genre writing. I found out I don't want to write Intrigue-length any more. Although I found out that's where my word count wants to stop after all these years of writing that length.

Things I'd change or do differently. Not much. I have the best circle of critique partners in the world. It took years of searching, but the fit I have with the gurls at Crit-me, several from Critters and the blend of both is just amazing. Their help has really made a change in my writing. Strengthened it immensely.

I would try to write faster again. I used to be able to write a book in a month. These days it seems to take me half a year.

I wish I had learned to laugh off contest judges who "don't get me" sooner. Sure low scores still sting. I've gotten some of the lowest scores ever on Branded, but I just don't care. I love the book. I think my agent will, too.

I'm sure there's more, but my brain is blank right now. I'd love to hear how you look back on 2011. And don't forget to drop by tomorrow to see what Kristi has to say.