As you all know it's a time of change at D C Thomson regarding the pocket novels and I think it might be a good opportunity to perhaps give a thought to other forms of writing. I'm sure we've all got an old novel somewhere that we put away that perhaps might need taking out, dusted down and having another look at? There is the short story market to consider too. I know it's a shrinking one but there are always opportunities and it does get your name out there. Then of course there are competitions. I've entered competitions, sometimes been placed, sometimes not, but sales have come as a result of the stories. Anything to keep our writing muscle exercised can only be good.
What does everyone else think?
I do feel concerned that DCT are diminishing their market by not having them available in many outlets. I am busily writing for other markets and there is always the possibility of self publishing on kindle, though that may not be the best way to go for all of us. Indeed, I have lots of unpublished work in various folders ... maybe it is time to dig it out and attempt to publish it!
ReplyDeletethat was me writing .. Chrissie
DeleteIt is probably a good idea to try different markets to prevent work going stale or the risk of repeating plots if only ever writing pocket novels. Ideally, the issue with sending PN on to large print publishers will be sorted and then at least we've a choice - I for one, would like to continue writing PN but I also know that, personally for me as a writer it is time to try other lengths and styles and genres.
ReplyDeleteHaving only ever written magazine short stories and then PN, it is quite daunting but then again, if you don't try, you don't succeed!
Yes, I've felt that this whole thing has been a kick up the bum for me to try something else. Writing pocket novels has become too comfortable, and I need to stretch myself a bit more.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely have to agree here Carol and Sally re spreading our interest and experience into writing in other areas/genres.
ReplyDeleteSweet romance is my main love but I'm also heavily drawn to Aussie historicals and medievals with a lifetime love of history and genealogy. I've already written an historical romance and a saga along with all the associated research, and I have many ideas for long contemps. With all the DCT kerfuffle, now seems the ideal time to explore them and expand into novels.
Harlequin Heartwarming appears to be a longer if more mainstream version of what we're already writing for DCT and is among what they class as wholesome books. Check out their guidelines at www.harlequin.com and their Heartwarming guidelines here http://bit.ly/NrToHz