I'm back. . .at square one!

Okay, I didn't really mean to drop off the face of the earth. I've just been busy with other things, namely writing. One good thing about my series being dropped is that it has forced me to work on other writing projects and branch out in other directions. I guess I don't have much of a choice if I want to move forward. And as much as it hurts me to admit it--and even though I'm still hoping one day to find a new publisher for the two completed Kendra novels burning a hole on my hard drive--my series is pretty much dead in the water. I told my mother the other day that I feel like I've abandoned Kendra. She told me, "Don't worry. If I know Kendra, she'll be back." I just love my mother ; ).

So, fifteen years and three published novels later, I'm starting all over again. I recently finished a brand new novel. I'm really happy with the way it turned out. I won't say anything more about it since it's currently on submission to publishers. With the current state of publishing--namely all the layoffs--things are moving even slower than usual when it comes to submissions. Many editors, who were already overwhelmed, are now doing the work of two or more editors. I'm settling in for a nice long wait. But for me waiting is nothing new. It took me four years to write my first book and another ten to get a book contract. This time around though I have a wonderful agent and I think my writing has greatly improved since my first book. Keep your fingers crossed for me and I'll keep you posted.

Currently reading: The Agency by Ally O'Brien
Currently listening to: Sade Live

Later,
Angela

Mantras

Do you have a mantra? A phrase that encourages you, inspires you, keeps you focused on your goal?

Last year, I read an interview with Mary J. Blige that appeared in a health magazine. This interview was about the healthier habits she was adopting, specifically her exercise routine. Her physical trainer gives all of his clients a bracelet with beads that spell "Discipline." I like that. I like it a lot.

We all know that word applies to more than physical fitness. We need Discipline for all aspects of our writing, too.

Recently I read a interview with Venus Williams. She shared a quote her sister, Serena, sent her, "Take your opportunities as they come and more will follow." Or something like that. It's a great quote, would you agree? It also applies to our writing careers.

In my upcoming June 2009 release, Sweet Deception, the heroine is a published author. Her screensaver reads, "Writers write."

Do you have a mantra or favorite quote?

Patricia