Delivered!

When I talk to groups or give a reading, one of the stories I like to tell is of how I gave myself just one year to write Isabella Moon. I say it with a certain amount of pride–especially considering that the two novels I wrote prior to it took me eight and four years, respectively.

So I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I don’t know precisely how long it took me to draft Calling Mr. Lonely Hearts. I think it was about sixteen months, give or take a few. With IM, I was very focused. I was giving novel writing one last shot, and if it didn’t work out I was going to find something else to do. Copywriting? Baking? Professional PTO Mom? I don’t know. When it sold, everything changed. And then I had to write #2!

CMLH came in fits and starts. I was distracted by all the shiny objects involved with having a first novel published. But in the end I was glad that I gave myself some additional time because I think it resulted in some exciting surprises in the book.

Today I finally, FINALLY FedXd the CMLH page proofs to Ballantine. The galleys are already printed–and they don’t contain the changes I submitted today. Today was my last chance to get it right. So it’s in the chute, 5 x 5, as they say. I won’t see CMLH again until December 30th, with everyone else!

I feel relieved, and happy, and, well, like I accomplished something.

I want to share my happiness–so tell me about something you accomplished that you thought would be impossible. So comment here! As an enticement, I’ll send two of you copies of the UK Isabella Moon paperback. (Random selection before my next post–I’m sure Bengal will be involved!)

And next week I hope to have another little surprise from across the pond….