April 7th marks exactly TWO MONTHS until my debut is published so I’m celebrating with a Q&A!
Two months is honestly not a long time, so I’m only mildly freaking out. And I know you might be sitting there moaning, “Cait, it IS a long time…” then, oh oh you sweet summer child. I’ve been working towards being published for 7 years so I’ve gotten so good at waiting. *
* A phrase here which means “is really good at screaming for hours into the void which sometimes screams back and then we harmonise and that’s how I pass the time waiting to be published”.
Now this is a special Q&A for two reasons being: (1) I’m going to talk about publishing and writing, and (2) these are questions YOU actually asked!!
Wild, right?! Usually I ask my own questions and interview myself because I’m a blogger and that’s what we do. BUT NOT TODAY! I did a call-out on instagram and also last week on my recap post and thanks for the MASSIVE response. I love you too. Even though I unfortunately can’t answer all the questions or this post would be longer than my debut. (I’m really honoured though.) So I’ll just answer the publishing ones this time, OK!?
You can preorder via: Book Depository, Amazon, Booktopia, Hachette Australia, Hachette UK, Waterstones, Wordery! And add ATPN on Goodreads!
also if you want to know what’s up with the tropical theme these days… ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I LITERALLY HAVE NO IDEA. I’M JUST GOING WITH IT.
if you could pick one song to be the soundtrack to your book, what would it be?
A combination of Chopin Etudes and Beethoven symphonies! READ THE BOOK AND YOU WILL KNOW WHY.
Is publishing a book everything you dreamed it to be?
YES I’M A HUGE FAN OF THE FACT I GET TO HOLD MY BOOK AND SOMEDAY IT WILL SIT IN A BOOKSTORE AND I WILL RULE THE WORLD.
Will you ever do signings and go to book events and such?
As of now, probably not, but…ya know…”never say never.” Things are complicated by me living in a tiny tiny town in Australia but being published in the UK, as well as I have pretty severe social anxiety. But I’m online. Literally all the time. Isn’t that nice.
what do you think is the no #1 thing all writers should keep in mind when writing a book?
Write something that means a lot to you, like a lot of a lot. Write what’s gnawing away at your heart. Because you’re going to be rereading this darling 801 times if you’re publishing, so you want to love it loooool. (And also because writing on your heart makes an authentically amazing story…minor details there.)
do you still plan on continuing book reviews after A Thousand Perfect Notes and your other secret project? If so, are you going to change the way you review somewhat?
Yes I am still reviewing! The only change is that I’m no longer going to do 2 or 1 star reviews. I’M PUTTING AWAY THE SALT. This is my choice because I would feel weird seeing a favourite author of mine insulting a book. However I won’t lie! I just won’t review books I don’t like, #easy.
when you wrote ATPN, how much chocolate was murdered? And what kind?
You are NOT going to believe this but…literally zero chocolate was harmed in the making of this book. My family had just started doing this Paleo-version-diet for health reasons and we were on this stage where you basically eat pumpkin and boiled chicken and this is 50000% the reason there is so much frikkin’ food in ATPN. I was dying. I’m still damaged.
how did you decide to pursue traditional publishing rather than self-publishing?
Traditional was always my dream! I want to be in a bookstore. I want to have a contracts and career. I want to work with professionals who make my books 100 x better and kindly say “NO CAIT” when I make my characters kiss and then throw them off a cliff. (This has happened 2 x now. I sense a theme.) I’m not saying indie authors can’t do those things and I respect them! But it wasn’t the route for me at all.
what’s something you love about traditional publishing? what’s something that frustrated you?
I love the advice, the edits, the support, an entire professional house organising your book. I love having my editor say I made her cry. (SHOULD I ADMIT THIS.) Frustrations are definitely: waiting and waiting and…you know. wAITING! Because things move slowly. And if I have a cool piece of news to share I will be waiting 6 to 12 months to tell you.
tell us a secret about your book.
IT DOESN’T HAVE A DEDICATION BECAUSE I COULDN’T FIGURE OUT WHO TO DEDICATE IT TO.
what kind of cake will you celebrate your book release with?
ALL OF IT.
how much say did you get in picking the title/cover.
I am really bad at titling (insert tragic laughter) so my title is actually thanks to my agent! And I didn’t pick the cover, but Orchard said: “What do you think?” And after I finished petting my laptop screen, I said: “I LOVE IT.”
did you get a final say in what stays and what goes in the book itself? (I’ve hear authors don’t, so I’m wondering)
I hear people say this aaaall the time and at this point I’m like, “IS THIS A MYTH RIGHT AFTER THE KRAKEN???” My experience has been full collaboration with my agent/editor! Of course they want changes, they want to make the book better! And I want that too?! I don’t understand writers who refuse to change with advice…how else do we grow? (And I suspect if you end up with an editor that 100% wants to change the entire theme/message of your book, thennnn they’re not really suited to your vision, hmm?)
did you have to literally sign a contract?
YES. THIS MAKES ME LAUGH. It was not in written on gold paper tho and I did not sign with a majestic quill. #Disappointing
how long did you work on ATPN before you began query lettering?
I didn’t query ATPN! It’s actually my second book. My agent signed me for a fantasy and it went on submissions and got rejected. So I wrote ATPN and my agent and I went on submissions again. This time: 2-BOOK DEAL. I wrote the first draft of APTN in June 2015 and it sold in June 2016. The actual story is set in July. The perfectness of all this pleases me. (And it only went through 2 drafts before selling!)
what was it like when you first held a copy of it in your own hands?!
A LITTLE BIT OF HYPERVENTILATING BECAUSE THERE WERE SO MANY YEARS I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD GET THIS.
which Hogwarts House do your main characters belong to?
Beck is a Hufflepuff. August (love interest) is Ravenclaw. Beck’s 5-year-old little sister is a Gryffindor! I think. (If you’ve read an ARC, give me your opinions!)
what has been the most difficult thing about the editing process?
The technical stuff has been so hard?! Like catching typos and inconsistencies! After you’ve changed so many little things over all the edits, you get to a point where you DON’T KNOW WHAT VERSION STAYED OR WENT. help.
could you talk us through the querying process please?
I queried back in 2013 which was like…so…long ago. I don’t know how things have changed, because they change constantly! But for me it was: write a query —> find agents who fit my criteria —> submit it to them (also following their submission guidelines) —> stare at inbox for 10 months —> get absolutely no rejections or acceptances —> UNTIL THAT ONE.
how do you write when you have Depression and Anxiety AT THE SAME TIME?
It’s actually what helps me the most! Escapism, too probably?! When I’m focused on a project and basically living 80% in my head…life is pretty good. Also the more anxious I get, the faster I work. I’m like a frenzied office worker after too much caffeine but without the caffeine and more typos.
As an Australian, how did you go about looking for agents for your book? Options in Australia seem limited compared with elsewhere in the world, but I assume there are challenges with having an agent from overseas.
So like I said, I was querying back in 2013 and I think I found 2 agencies in Australia to send to?!? Curtis Brown only took envelopes for goodness sakes I time-travelled back to 1984. Anyway. I queried in the USA and UK more extensively and ended up working with Greenhouse UK! (WHOM I LOVE.) I guess the only drawbacks are (A) I’ve never met my agent in person, (B) timezones often suck for emailing because office hours is when I sleep, and (C) it takes 89 working-years for mail to get here (THANKS AUSTRALIA POST).
HOW ARE YOU SO EPIC???
THIS IS HOW I WAS BORN.
the hardest part about writing a book that deals with the topics that your book deals with?
My book features a lot of abuse and low-self-worth which are pretty hard-hitting topics, right?! I think one of the hardest things was writing that a way that wouldn’t make the reader close the book and say, “Everything is depressing.” Because it is, but that’s not the point of the story. The point is believing you are worth something and I hope readers get to the end and bawl their hearts out and get that.
what is your favourite part of book publishing?
Holding my ARC! Reading editorial notes where my editors !! love !! my work !! (This is ridiculously surreal and awesome I can’t even explain.) SEEING MY BOOK IN THE WILD. Having a reader told me I made them cry! Realising I am an author now….and I just???? I’ve wanted this for so long.
does it have a swoon worthy romance???
More an awkward gangly romance that starts off as friendship!
how do you get over writing block?
Actually I’ve had very bad writers’ block this year…more like an epic slump. (I blame it on reading negative reviews oops + the general nervousness of my book coming out + general panicking about the future etc. etc.) I work through it with devouring as much art as I can, so music, TV shows, reading and reading and reading. Refill the creative take! PS. I also force myself to work anyway.
how do you get through your insecurities about your writing? I’m afraid my writing isn’t good enough, that everyone will hate it or tear it apart!
I think I’ll always be somewhat insecure?! That’s a bit of the writer’s life and it sucks, but it can also help keep you grounded. But seriously, also tell yourself YOU’RE GOOD. Write and write and write. Write a million words. Write several books. Edit. Work hard and it pays off, so when the niggling voice comes telling you that you suck: slam your paperwork on the desk. YOU HAVE DONE THE WORK. YOU DO NOT SUCK.
how did you start writing?
I was 12 and my little sister started and got way too much attention for her little stapled-together stories so, obviously, I started. I got serious about it at 15. I was agented at 19. I sold my book at 22.
do you have a favourite genre to write? I feel like its not contemporary cause you love epic battles and magic etc.
I actually love writing contemporary. I used to be solely into fantasy, but I do enjoy characters who can use toasters and WiFi. It’s very helpful. But magical realism and epic fantasy are also VERY high on my love list. I will write them too someday!! Watch me!!
how do you stay motivated to write?
It’s amazing how motivating a publishing deal is. SO motivating. Also this is my job, this is what I want to live of (someday!!). And I’m also really competitive with myself. So ohhh I wrote a book in 4 days? *SLAMS FIST ON THE TABLE* HOW ABOUT IN THREE.
are you planning to translate the book?
It’s not up to me! That happens if foreign publishers buy rights, so cross your fingers!
As a writer, is it just me or after a while you start hating the novels your currently writing? Does that feeling change when you get published and have editors to help you out, or get positive feedback?
I think we all end up hating our books a little at some point (laughs until cries and dies). But underneath it all, I always passionately adore my book. If I didn’t, I don’t think it would be a good story?! You go through so much rejection and setbacks and it’s such a slow process, that you do need to be your #1 fan.
And will we see more books from you in the near future?
YES. 2019.
how to go from drafts to querying? At what point do you stop drafting and send queries? Maybe just what exactly querying looks like?
It’s definitely hard to know when your book is DONE. But I do think you’ll know instinctively? You have to have rewritten and edited that little beast within an inch of its life and have it polished as shiny as you can make it. (Get help with this! Critique partners and betas are invaluable to tell you where the problems are because often we writers are too close to a project to see them all.) Querying just looks like: writing a hooky letter, use your characters voice, show the highest stakes and what there is to lose, and make it 2-3 paragraphs. Know your genre. Know your audience. KNOW THE AGENT YOUR QUERYING. Don’t self-depreciate, but don’t be arrogant either.
something that has surprised you so far about the publishing process?
All the waiting you have to do! IT IS A LOT. Waiting turns me into an egg.
how did you come up with your characters’ names?
They are ALL special names with multiple meanings! Most of them are spoilers though so I have to smother myself (I’M SORRY). Except I will say August’s name came from the movie, August Rush, and Beck’s full name is his embarrassing secret.
what is your advice for an aspiring author? I’ve always loved to write, but within a few chapters I feel like my writing is terrible and I never finish.
Keep going KEEP GOING KEEP KEEP KEEP GOING. You have to finish and learn to edit and rewrite and write another book and then another. I seriously can’t stress this enough. It took me about 16 books to find my voice and feel confident about my writing…hopefully it won’t be that long for you (!!!) but practise. It is the secret.
how do you sit and write SO much in a day?
I can hyper-focus! I think this is a huge perk of being on the autism spectrum, but writing is my obsession so just leave me alone in my invented world in my head and I will write for 8+ hours a day. Occasionally I take a break and look for a spoon in the fridge but YA KNOW. WHAT IS REALITY.
what books were your inspiration for your own book?
Actually my inspiration more came from historical classical composers’ lives + genderbent Cinderella! Although if you want to know some comparative titles to read while you wait, try these:
You mentioned you had a different title for your book. So…what was it? I’ve been curious ever since you said that.
It used to be called Tremolo! Which I still actually…um…call it that because old habits die hard.
Awww! I can’t wait for my heart to be shattered.
SAME. I’m excited for your pain too.
You can preorder via: Book Depository, Amazon, Booktopia, Hachette Australia, Hachette UK, Waterstones, Wordery! And it’s not coming out in the USA as of yet, folks. But Book Depository and Wordery have free world wide shipping!
I’M SO EXCITED FOR YOU AND YOUR BOOK CAIT! I just hope it will be available here in the Philippines because I have a lot of issues with online shopping.
I love that one of your main characters is named after August Rush. I just love that movie and I love Freddie Highmore. Aaah more reasons to love this book.
I’m amazed that you got published at such a young age. I mean you had an agent at 19? YOU ROCK DRAGON QUEEN.
I want to read a fantasy book from you though because fantasy has always been my favorite. But for now, I’m happy with this contemporary novel. I’m not really a fan of contemporary but it’s your book so I’m definitely reading it.
Okay, I’m reading The Raven Cycle now and I just have one question: Is Ronan gay? This is not actually a big issue. I’m just curious because I read a review of yours calling him gay and I don’t see him like that (I don’t know but sometimes I get all confused with characters’ identities 😑). Anyway, I think Ronan is a very good mom to Chainsaw and I love him so much. I’m really enjoying TRC and that’s all thanks to you. You introduced me to the series and I’ll be forever grateful.
I’M ROOTING FOR YOU ALWAYS. GOOD LUCK. I’LL BE WAITING FOR THIS AMAZING BOOK OF YOURS.
I REALLY HOPE SO TOOOOO! Does Book Depository or Wordery ship to the Philippines? I know they both do free shipping.
And omg you know the movie August Rush! I’M SO HAPPY AHHH. It’s totally underrated! Although it was weird seeing Robin Williams be serious for once.😂
(And hey maybe there will be fantasy someday?! I’m definitely writing aaaaall the things.)
Lol yes Ronan is very much so.😂 I’m so so glad you love the series!!
Yes Book Depository ships to the Philippines but I’m a 17-year-old with no credit card so my options are low 😣
And oh my I didn’t even know August Rush was underrated. It is one of my most favorite movies though and I’ve watched it many times already.
I LOVE RONAN. I LOVE BLUE AND GANSEY. ADAM IS A BIT OF A GIT. NOAH IS SO MUCH OF A HUFFLEPUFF. I’M LOVING TRC
I understand!! I couldn’t afford books when I was 17 either. 😭😭
Your family went on a diet and you didn’t sneak any chocolate into yours? CAN I HAVE YOUR SELF-CONTROL
Wahh, I wish I had the creativity to make a whole plot for a book… I’m good at ideas, I’ve started about 5 novels already where I was like “alright, so here’s how it starts, here’s how it ends… What’s in the middle, you ask? I’ve no idea either.” and then just abandon them, oops
I WAS TRYING TO DO A GOOD JOB OK. IT DIDN’T WORK ANYWAY AND NOW I EAT CHOCOLATE AND LIFE IS MUCH BETTER.😂 Ahem. Ohh middles are hard! But sometimes it’s just about connecting that beginning and end? (Honestly if you have the end, you’re in such good shape.😂)
AWWWW This was so fun to read (although I didn’t ask any questions because I couldn’t think of any when I saw this). I’m so excited for ATPN!! It’s so fun to see all the hype about it! Is it going to be sold in Australia as well as the UK? I think you said the setting is Australia, but is it a city or a town? Also, that’s pretty long time to have to wait to announce your deal! Is it because it wasn’t being published for ages or what?
AWW, SHAR THANK YOU!! LOVELY BEAN! It is coming out in Australia too because Hachette UK is a sister company with Australia!
And so the setting of ATPN is kind of an unnamed-Australian-town and I personally imagine it as the town I used to live in. So not quite a city but not a small village either or anything. 😂
The announcing takes a lot time with the finalising of contracts etc.
i don’t get the impression that August is Ravenclaw?? i feel like she’s slytherpuff. yeah like a magical Hufflepuff who is a secretly a scheming Slytherin?? BUT BECK IS A HUFFLEPUFF I AGREE. And Joey is such a Gryffindor, I love her so much! (But all your characters have this underlying Slytherin vibe to them) Also, I’m so sad that you didn’t get a deal for that fantasy book. 🙁 I WOULD HAVE LOVED TO READ IT IS ALL I AM SAYING.
But I SOOO want to be published! I love the question where the person asked how to know if you book was “done” or not. Because I’m rewriting/editing/improving my novel right now but dude?? Beta readers scare me so much, HOW DO YOU GET OVER THAT FEAR?? WHAT IF EVERYONE HATES MY WORK??
I’m so excited for release!!! EVERYONE BETTER BUY YOUR BOOK OKAY?!
You’re making me DOUBT MYSELF THANKS FOR THAT. 😂😂 But omg first of all: yes my characters all have Slytherin undertones and it’s terrible and obviously I am in charge here.😂 And I kind of flip back and forth for August because??? Like she’s really into good grades/studying and she’s SO quirky like a Ravenclaw. Like August and Luna? Best friends. They’d totally be. But then she has a bit of Gryffindor with she’ll like kick someone for being mean to a frog. SO. She’s probably a squib.😂 And I’m terrible at sorting.
(I’M STILL WRITING FANTASY SO FINGERS CROSSED FOR SOMETHING SOMEDAY.)
If you want to be published, you DO have to smack yourself out of the self-doubt a bit.😂 I know it’s hard!! I still get so freaking anxious when someone’s reading my work…like what if I only write ONE good book and the rest are utter trash?!? *collapses* But you have to do it! and you improve so so much when you start working with help too. Plus friends-as-betas usually deliver the bad news nicely at least. 😉
So writers don’t do 1-2 star reviews!? THAT’S why none of the authors on GR i follow ever make negative reviews! It all makes sense now. My publishing dream is for a publisher that gives me good covers and titles so people will be motivated to buy my book and I think it would just kill me if someone said I was their favorite author and inspired them. Also now that you’re a published author will you still do as much blogging?
Well that’s just my choice haha, I don’t know what other writers are doing! But I’m not stopping blogging. 😀
And also omg yes, being called a favourite author is THE DREAM.
Soooooooo, when does it come out in the US? Simultaneous publishing or do I need to wait for 67 million years to have my heart broken? Also, when do we get to know about your secret project? How often do you write sequals? My dream goal is to have an editor who actually understands what I’m trying to do with the hot mess that is my writing. Also, to have a perfect cover for my book. Also I LOVEEEEE the cover for ATPN sosososososoososososososooooooooo much! It’s so pwetty! I was kinda surprised about the chocolate, and also that a book by you got REJECTED? How dare they.
Ooh sorry I hadn’t been clear! It’s coming out in Australia/UK (not the US at all).
And oooh I am ZIPPED TIGHT about the secret project but I will spill as soon as I’m able. 😉 And I actually really like writing sequels because all the characters/world are established and you just get to focus on breaking HEARTS. And I’m so sure you’ll find that amazing editor someday! I know we all feel like our writing is a hot mess to start with but you can get it polished. I believe in you. 😉
“I’m excited for your pain too.” CAIT I’M DYING.
i’ve also been working on my camp nano book this morning, and i feel so satisfied and evil because i just figured out what would compleatly break this difficult character of mine, and i’m wondering how i can do it without too much risk of being murdered by my readers, hee hee. *evil grin*
Most crazily, ~Olive
OH GOOD SEE YOU’RE ALREADY DYING AND WE HAVEN’T EVEN STARTED YET MWHAHAH.😂😂 Aww but no really, thank you, Olive!!
(Also being satisfiedly authorly evil is an excellent feeling. Keep that up.😂)
AUGUST RUSH IS LIFE. Now I’m impossibly more excited for ATPN.
(My brain always reads the acronym as “attention” for some reason and I have to process it twelve times.)
YES IT IS SUCH A GOOD MOVIE I LOVE IT A LOT.😂 (And that’s okay haha I keep getting my own acronyms confused with the ones for All The Bright Places. I mean that’s ATBP and mine is ATPN so my little dyslexic brain dies.😂)
I was wondering why is the tropical theme now lol, but I love it!! Um, I used to listen a lot of classics, but now I listen to anything that has a piano as the main instrument, actually, but now I’m gonna start listening Chopin again !! and Beethoven !! while I crie waiting for my mom to buy me ur book !! I always feel happy when I see someone reaching their goals, especially when their goals are writing/publishing related, so I’m so glad for you!!!!!!! I would like to try self-publishing, ’cause I’m a curious little fox, but I want to query before that. Aaaand if I don’t get an agent, I’d write another book and see what happens next. The writer journey is sooo much like a roller coaster, wow, you laugh you cry you learn so many things from real people and fictional people. It’s just awesome.
PD: My uncle LOOOVEEES August Rush, and I love it cuz Robin Williams is there and I love Robin Williams
I think because it’s been raining so FREAKING MUCH where I live that I want some summer flowers and toucans ok.😂 (Who knows how long this will last though ahah.)
Ahhh CLASSICAL MUSIC THOUGH. It’s amazing and I’m so fond of it. <3 And aww that's so lovely of you! I LOVE cheering my blogging friends on with their goals too, and eep that will be amazing if you start to pursue publishing soon! It's a pretty huge roller coaster too, but very worth it.
(OMG I'M SO GLAD YOU'VE SEEN THE AUGUST RUSH MOVIE. ROBIN WILLIAMS IS THE BEST...although it was weird to see him doing a not-comedy role.😂)
AHH CAIT I’m so excited for you! *flails* Will your book be available to ship to US? I haven’t commented in awhile, but I wanted you to know how proud and happy I am for you, girlie!!
If you don’t mind, I’ve actually got a question about agents. So like, after you signed your fantasy book and it was rejected, did you and your agent have to wait around until you wrote ATPN? I’m familiar with agents, but not with the in-between behind the scenes process of that stuff.
Thanks s’much, dear!! EEP I can’t wait to have that beautiful butterfly cover on my shelf. 😀
smiles,
Charis Rae
Yes for sure! Book Depository/Wordery will ship free world wide! (AND THANK YOU I’M SO HAPPY I MAY SCREAM.)
It’s hard because the background is always different for what different agents want and stuff. I was writing ATPN while my fantasy was still on submission, so when we decided to shelve it, I had something else for us to then start working on. (My agent is also a real editorial agent, which I love a lot, so we do a lot of edits before we even go on submission.) But yeah it varies depending on your agent with what they’ll expect! But I believe it’s pretty common for writers to always have multiple projects in the works so you don’t just collapse into a screaming puddle if a book doesn’t work out!😂
OOH YAY!!! That makes me sooo happy EEP! 😀
Thanks so so much! Haha yeah, that makes a lot of sense. That’s really encouraging and helpful. EEP thank you so much Cait! I feel so honored bc you replied to my comment. <3 😀
*scurries off to pre-order ATPN*
So when pre-ordering, which option should I do to get it shipped to US?
Wordery.com and Bookdepository.com both do free shipping to the USA! So I’d say maybe compare prices from those?
Awesome! Thanks girl.
I just preordered your book! I’ve never preordered a book before, so I guess this is special. Congratulations!
OH, I love this so much!!! Honestly, author Q&A’s are some of the best things in the world. Querying is this gigantic scary thing that I keep backing away from. I have so many agent websites bookmarked but I’m so nervous to actually start writing and sending off emails. But you really inspire me, so hopefully this summer I can get started!
Also, I CAN’T WAIT FOR YOUR BOOK. *squeel and excited handclapping* Hopefully, someday, you’ll be published in the US and I’ll walk into the store and see Cait’s book. And Just scream. Maybe the story will understand. I hope so.
It’s so funny how music for books changes with the type of book you’re writing. I listened to so much of How to Tame Your Dragon and Irish folk writing my Irish Mermaid retelling story. But my other heavy book, it was LOTR and Harry Potter scores the whole time. 😂 But I LOVE the moment I hear a song on the radio and mini-scream, THAT”S IT! That’s my character’s song!!!
Ditto on the traditional vs self-publishing. I have nothing against self-publishing, but I’ve always wanted to go traditional. With agents, and copy-editions, and illustrators and BOOK STORES. Please. Let me dream.
I’M ROOTING FOR YOU WHEN YOU START QUERYING AHHH!! (And if you want some help with the letter, I’m more than happy to read it for you! I don’t claim to be the best query writer lol lol but somehow mine did work.😂) And it’s really scary to take this step, so I fully hear you with that. But worth it. For sure.
YES! I love how music can influence writing styles like that! I actually don’t listen + write but I listen to music to plot, and I’ll have specific moods/feels with the music I pick that depends on the book. (Also aren’t LOTR and HP soundtracks the best!?)
Exactly! I’ll forever respect indie authors a ton (THEY WORK HARD) but it just wasn’t for me.😂
How did you decide on your author name? It’s something I’ve been thinking about, whether to go initials, full name, nickname etc and I’d be interested to know how you decided what you wanted to be known as as an author. My authorial dreams are kind of cliche, seeing my book on shelves, getting to do signings and meet fans, that sort of thing. My parents are always saying stuff like “when you write a bestseller” and it’s lovely that they’re suppportive, but I have tried to explain to them that publishing isn’t as simple as that! I reckon I will be terrible at the secret keeping part of publishing, i’m awful at keeping secrets, I don’t know how you manage to sit on good news for so long!
Honestly I really hate my full name.😂 So for me it was like “pen name or my initials” and I decided my initials because I wanted to walk into a bookstore and be like “tHAT’S ME” and have no one argue it.😂 I’m kind of the smol quiet one in my family, probably the least expected to actually get published, so I just wanted my name there. 😉 (The only downside to my initials is if you add an I then I’m CGI which is a little awkward.😂)
Haha my parents do that too! “You’ll be famous!” they say which is nice but…yeah loool probably not. But I just want to see my book on a shelf, I’ll honestly be the happiest creature alive!
I didn’t really realize until I was in that writer’s rut that lasted like a year and a half how important it was to regularly refill your creative well by watching creative things. I think that’s why I watch so much tv now, and it’s so easy to have it going in the background while you’re working on something else, so you’re still kind of paying attention but you’re also multitasking.
I didn’t think I had a writing related question for you but I actually kind of do, now that I think about it. Why were you not allowed to announce that your book sold for 12 months? I understand it being a few months, to really make sure no one’s dropping out at the last minute, but an entire year seems a long time.
Yes yes it’s SO important!! Like I see writers say they haven’t time to read/watch movies etc and then also say they don’t feel like writing anymore, and I’m like: DO YOU NOT SEE THE CONNECTION HERE. We have to refill!! And be inspired!! (Although I seriously admire you for multitasking things haha. I can’t do that. I can’t even focus on writing while listening to music. 😂 So I have to do everything separately.)
I don’t think *every* writer has to wait so long, but that’s just how it worked out for my publishers and I! And I think it’s a lot less in the US than the UK? I’m guessing. I have no idea.😂 (I’m helpful right.)
Reading this post makes me want to get my book published BUUUUUT…..first I have to write my book which I clearly can’t do but this post gave me some inspiration. I can’t wait to read your book. I LOVE THE COVER!! *include heart eye emojis ’cause my computer incapable of doing it*. And I am trash for awkward romances which start from friendships *include heart eye emojis again*
Yes yes go write your book! *sends you off with cake and inspiration* 😂 And I definitely hope you enjoy this little squish of a novel of mine. I’m awfully fond of it. 😍
I’m so excited for your book! I feel like I say this literally every time you mention it in a blog post, but… I’m excited okay? 😁
I’M EXCITED TOO OK. *flails* 😂 I’m just glad you all aren’t sick of my excessive amount of squeeing back here.😂
This was so fun to read! 😄
And I now blame you for making me reconsider being a self-published author. (I only just made up my mind, like, yesterday.)
Haha! Oh you should do what’s best for YOU though.😂I love that there are options for publishing out there, but we have to follow our guts for what’s the best road, right?!
My publishing dream goal is to be published within the next three years (or at least get myself into the publishing stage), which I know is really ambitious aND I’M NOT USUALLY AMBITIOUS (i am a tiny hufflepuffle, not a slytherin my friend) BUT WRITING IS SO IMPORTANT TO ME THAT I’LL BE AMBITIOUS FOR IT. (i feel like I’m about to start rambling so wATCH OUT)
My big WiP, Stars, *really* feels like The Book for me, because it fits into the really popular dystopian YA genre, but at the same time, it’s not? Like yes, it’s set in 2364 imperial America, but… it doesn’t focus on that, I guess. (i don’t know if i’m making any sense or just thinking my book’s special when it’s really not bUT I’MMA HOPE). One of the things I want people to focus on is the sense of family and home that doesn’t necessarily come from the people you’re related to or where you grew up, because I feel like that’s something that a lot of people need to hear (especially my precious characters who just need love even though some of them are highkey murderers).
And then I have my other works that also have a lot of meaning to me, but like I said, this is turning into a ramble, but I really want to get published so that other people can see those meanings (or find their own).
Honestly it’s good to have a bit of ambition for the writing world! Even if you are a smol Hufflepuff soul. 😉 (I’m like opposite…I’m hugely Slytherin but my kind of tiny Hufflepuff side is all like “let me just eat scones and curl up in the corner for quietness for a while”😂)
Also I LOVE that theme of “family can be who you choose” because it’s so special and really fun to read about too!! I like to explore that one myself in some books. (ALSO HIGHKEY MURDERS. THIS SOUNDS EXCITING.)
I hope you do get published someday!! Are you pursuing traditional?
See I’m the exact opposite. My Hufflepuff soul says “Just sit and do nothing for the rest of your life. Here, chocolate and Netflix” and then that shred of Slytherin ambition says “yOU WILL BE THE GREATEST WRITER OF THIS CENTURY” like haha no chill have some chocolate snekka snek friend
It’s honestly what I live for. Family don’t end with blood, but it doesn’t start there either. Plus, OTP for my book, they are precious souls and their way of saying “I love you” is so precious. They say “You’re my normal” because neither of them have any concept of normal and I jUST PRECIOUS BABIES
Ideally, yeah. I honestly don’t think self-publishing would go well for me, like, at all, because I am eternally broke and procrastinating so it would never get done lol.
THIS POST GIVES ME ALL THE HAPPY FEELINGS. I think I teared up a little. I, your fellow Vulcan, teared up. YOU INSPIRE ME, CAIT. <3
My writer's dream is to become a traditionally published YA historical-fiction or historical-fantasy author, and have kids all over the world read my books & love them & cry & be inspired to keep on loving life. That sounds as grandiose as heck. But . . . it's my dream. So I'm going after it. Because like I said, you've inspired me.
I HAVE EMOTIONS TOO RIGHT NOW OMG WHAT IS THIS. *Vulcan soul malfunctions and cries*
That is the best most beautiful dream and I’M ROOTING FOR YOU!! I KNOW YOU’LL GET THERE!! Sometimes we don’t get there just how we imagined it’d happen, but if I can do it, basically anyone can.😂
Thanks fam. With you rooting for me, I KNOW I’ll get there someday. <3
I’m so happy for you and this wonderful accomplishment!! This is so amazing and I can’t wait to pick up your novel!:D
AWW, SARAH!! Thank you!! 💖💖 I can’t wait for everyone to be able to know what I’ve been secretly gnawing at and working on all this time.😂
YAY ONLY TWO MORE MONTHS UNTIL ATPN!!!!! (I kind of accidentally glanced at a spoiler but I don’t think it was too major?). And also HOLY HECK YOU GOT AN AGENT WHEN YOU WERE ONLY 19. That’s proof you’re probably a dragon. AND WE’RE GETTING ANOTHER BOOK IN 2019?!?!!!! IS IT THE SECRET PROJECT????? I’M SO EXCITED.
When you said “A phrase which here means”, a mental image of Lemony Snicket popped up in my mind 😂
Ps- You said you were working in your signature for signed copies a couple posts ago right? So how do get signed copies of ATPN??
Also do you know when it’s coming out in the US? Can I like pre order online and it’ll arrive at the same time it’s out orrrrr do I have to wait?
I AM DEFINITELY A DRAGON. RAWR. 😂 My ultimate dream was always to be published as a teen haha, but I’m actually glad I wasn’t, because I was in NOWHERE NEAR ready enough. Being agented at 19 was surreal though. 😉
And I absolutely 100% was doing a Lemony Snicket quoting-thing there so I’m so glad you noticed!!😂
Actually it’s not coming out in the US as of yet.😂I obviously didn’t write that clearly enough lol lol so I’ll go back and fix that in the post. Just UK/AUS but you can get it on Book Depository/Wordery with free shipping! (And no signed books as of yet haha I’m not that famous.😂)
Ohhh ok that makes sense. Thanks for clearing it up. I’ll just wait until you become famous (it’s inevitable and probably already part of your world domination plan) to hopefully get a signed copy 😂.
CAIT! THIS IS CRAZY! I still can’t believe that in a couple months I can sit down in my corner of the room and read the words YOU WROTE! SO EXCITED! Can’t wait! (Sorry for the randomness. I’m just so excited)
I’M SO EXCITED TOO I’M PRACTICALLY BUSTING OUT OF MY SOCKS.😂(Thank you though!! This means a lot to me!!)
Ahhh! I’m so excited for you, and for your book coming out!!! The cover looks AWESOME!!! That must be the most amazing feeling ever to actually get to hold your book in your hand! 🙂
It was definitely interesting to get a little more insight into the querying process in this post, as I just reread my first novel manuscript and thought that with some rewriting (and hopefully some feedback from beta readers, as I genuinely have no idea if it’s any good or not!) I may try sending it out.
IT’S INCREDIBLE. I CAN STILL SCARCELY BELIEVE IT, AHHHH. And oh that’s awesome you’re up to querying!! It’s nerve-wracking waiting, but also a huge step in following your dreams!!
I AM SO EXCITED FOR YOU! *shoots confetti cannon* I can’t imagine how hard it was to keep your book deal a secret for 12+ months!!! Were you allowed to tell close friends and swear them to secrecy?
I’m hoping to have a book ready to query within the year, but I’ve learned not to put timelines on the things out of my control. So I’m making plans to do the work of another round of revisions, but whether responses from queries happen in six months or three years, I have no idea! It’s inspiring to see you achieving your dreams, though! 😀
*FLAILS SO MUCH THAT FALLS OVER* And haha yes I definitely told my family immediately.😂 I’m not sure most people wait so long to announce?! But that’s how it worked out for me, and honestly it was good practise learning how to be patient lol lol.
And I hope your querying goes SO well. (I’m here if you need help too 😉 ) And it is always a good idea not to put too many “I must get this done by this time” when it comes to publishing because it’s wildly out of our control.😂 I always wanted to be a teen author and was SO disappointed when that didn’t happen. Now I’m really glad it didn’t because I so wasn’t ready.😂
Definitely good practice, haha! 😂 I was just wondering if it was because you weren’t allowed to announce it in public because of very hush-hush publishing things, or if it was just a personal decision.
Thank yooouuu!! *flails* Oh my gosh, SAME. I was determined to be a child prodigy or something. XD But like you said, thank goodness that didn’t work out! Those stories were NOT ready to be released into the wild. I’m so happy to see your hard work paying off now!
Oh it was the hush-hush of the publishing part! I would’ve been shouting it 2 seconds after I heard if I could.😂😂 But it’s also good announcing it so much later because everyone didn’t have to wait so long to read it!
Yesss, exactly! Like sometimes we think we’re ready way before we are.😂And aww thank you! I’m so emotional actually seeing my book become a BOOK. There were so many times I never thought this would happen.
I love your answers! Especially the one about writing what is close to your heart. This is so important to me. If we all write about what matters to us in our truest voices instead of trying to write what we think other people will want to read we will end up writing what people are yearning for anyway.
Also I am exceedingly excited for you and I love how thrilled you are to see your book in the wild! It is inspiring to see a real live author who has made it to this point. And your advice to other writers is excellent: KEEP GOING. KEEP WRITING. YES.
Omg this makes me so happy. *sniffles* It’s just so surreal?! Like I’ve been a reader/bookworm/fangirl for so long and now finally I get to put MY art into the world?! 😱💖💖
I’m so excited for you! It’s awesome to see a young writer make their dream happen. I’m twenty-two and I’m on my seventh book. I still hope to publish someday! I can’t wait to read your story. My pianist heart is very happy! 🙂
Aww THANK YOU!! And I so hope I’m cheering over your book someday!! (Also piano love ftw!)
Aww I’ll have to wait until 2019? Oh well. Are you allowed to post snippets for these two books?
I honestly wish I could hyper-focus like you. Or just write really fast. I can read fast…so trade? (I understand this is impossible and we can not really trade)
Also is the “young author” thing a myth too? I looked up how to get a publishing contract under 18, and it said hide your age for as long as possible? Because you are more likely to get published? What..?
My dream goal is getting published. That’s it.
Congratulations on the publication of your child (ATPN)!
Only 2019 for my second book.😂 It’s 60 days now till ATPN! And I’ll probably post snippets for ATPN closer to release date but the second book is a very tight secret so far. 😉
I can read fast too though soooo you’re going to have to sweeten this trade with some cake or something.😂
I hope you get to be published too!
So happy and proud of you Cait! I’m sure your book is incredible and I can’t wait to read it!
Loved reading all your answers!
Awww SKYE THANK YOU! *happy flails* I’m hoping everyone likes it haha.😂
Ahh this was so fun to read + I’M SO EXCITED FOR ATPN!! I haven’t preordered it yet because I won’t be at home for an extended amount of time right when it is being released, so I don’t want it sitting on my front stoop and rot/be stolen. So I’ll order it once I get home!
N’AWW HANNE, I WILL GIVE YOU AT LEAST 9 CAKES RIGHT NOW YOU FANTASTIC CREATURE YOU.
I was actually surprised by your admission that this is a genderbent Cinderella, and now I’m 100000% more excited to get my copy in and stroke it and read it.
Um, Let’s see, my goals as a writer. I haz two:
1, Be making enough off of my writing that I don’t have to work at McDonald’s anymore.
2. Have you review one of my books.
Oh, and for a more short-term goal – Have the release for The Worth of a King be a roaring success. I think it will be (I really think it’s going to follow WPFP’s example, but with less decline afterward because it’s a much stronger story.) But at the same time, it might not. I’m hoping it will be, though.
Aww yayy! I’m glad you like the sound of my Cinderella influences hehe. Although everyone who’s read it who I tell that to they’re like “oohh I didn’t see it TILL NOW”.😂 So it’s a very subtle one.
I hope you have a ton of success with your books and publishing (and writing more!!) too!! And for sure one day I’ll read one. 😛
YEEEEY I love publishing Q&As!! They are my smol passion to read and watch because I wanna work in publishing??? Some day?? So many dreams! (And omg “letter only”?? In 2018?? Luckily they didn’t make you send it by pigeon as amazing as that would’ve been. I knew publishing was slow but…but not 1800 medieval times slow. PUBLISHING HOUSES GET ON WITH THE YOUTH DUDES!!)
Your cover is gorgeous ahhhhhh!!! I love it. Gotta buy 2 to make a pleasing bookstagramable butterfly. That’s a smart way to subtly control the masses. And it’s going to look gorgeous in bookstores (I’ll go look for it when I go to London in the wilderness of Waterstones!!).
AHHHH GANGLY AWKWARD ROMANCE!!! YESSSS!! I actually can’t imagine you writing a swoon worthy steamy romance because I imagine you have other priorities in your books, such as: food and friendship and quirkiness. Why romance when you can food. (also?? do you have any tips for writing a romantic plot when 1. you don’t really like romance 2. wat is a romance?? humans explain?? – do I make it awkward?? is that the key???? tbh I’m just copying what I see in fanfics and movies/tv shows at the moment and I DON’T KNOW IS THIS HOW IT’S DONE???)
And Tremolo is an A++ tittle. Not tremendously marketable but it screams YOU so. (also I like 1 word titles we need more of them!!! they are so satisfying!!)
IOANA YOU SAY THE NICEST THINGS. *sends you all the cake* And also working in publishing would be super cool!! I mean, I would be a mess at it😂, but I can imagine how fun it would be to organise all this behind-the-scenes stuff to make a pile of pages become a true book. Ahhh.
And haha no that Australian agency I submitted by letter only WAS back in 2013. Although I still think that’s wild.😂
Obviously the darkly evil plan here is to force everyone to buy two for sure.😂
YES I AM SUCH A GANGLY WRITER. Plus my characters are 15 and I just…I can’t wait “swoony” romances when you’re 15!! c’mon! Everything is awkward then.😂 And I’m absolutely firstly into writing things like friendship and cake and siblings and just figuring out who you are, with a bit of romance on the side. <3 (Also writing romance is frikkin' hard and I definitely watch movies/read books for all the tips.😂)
This was fascinating! It must be really tricky trying to coordinate all things publishing when you’re in different time zones. It seems like it would make the waiting even more unbearable because not everything can be done in real time. And it’s good to hear that writers still get a lot of say in their work. I’ve definitely heard many times that they don’t, and if it’s largely untrue, it’s an unfortunate myth.
It does make the waiting hard sometimes!😂 Because I’ll have like a BURNING QUESTION but then I have to wait basically 24 hours to get the answer.😂 (Hey but it’s got Impatient Me much better at waiting…sort of. Maybe. I hope???)
And it’s just weird how much I hear writers say they get “zero say”. So either I have an absolutely golden publisher, or people are spreading weirdness?! (Or else there are writers equating the publishers “wants to change things to make it better” with “omg they’re changing and ruining my whole book”…*deep tired sigh* EVERY craft and crafter has room to improve!)
Cait, that post was so interesting to read and I loved getting to know a bit more about your book, your writing and publishing journey, it’s so inspiring, really. I am having the hardest time starting to edit for the first time and I am basically terrified or everything at the moment, but this really inspired me. Thank you for that! I can’t wait to read your book 🙂
Ahh I’m so glad you liked it!! And aww, I’m really happy that I can be a bit encouraging here too because absolutely trust me…I know how it feels to feel like you have no idea what you’re doing.😂 ME. Editing the first time is hard, but I swear it gets easier the more comfortable you get with your work!
Cait, i’m literally so excited for your book. I’m getting a teeny tiny bit emotional here which is weird because we don’t actually *know* each other but I followed you online for a LONG time and I AM JUST SO HAPPY YOUR BOOK IS GETTING PUBLISHED AND YOUR DREAMS ARE COMING THROUGH.
YOU ROCK.
So many caps, but the FEELS NEED TO BE EXPRESSED.
Aww this makes ME EMOTIONAL, THANK YOU!!!💖💖 I can’t even flail enough over how supportive everyone is here. Like how did I meet the purely NICEST people online?! I’m so grateful for you all!! AHHHH!!!
You inspire me so much, Cait! And I’m so happy for you because ALL OF THIS IS SO COOL. And it’s really great that you’re answering questions and giving back to your readers. I find it incredibly helpful, especially to remind myself that yes it’s hard and dear lord it takes time but at the end it will be so worth it. <3
I am mildly upset that my genius plan for world domination started by working at a bookstore so I get advanced copies of books and stuff but I'm in the US so this plan epically fails in terms of reading your book…
I’m so glad you enjoyed this!! And YES that’s exactly why I want to talk about it, because before I was published I always had a ton of questions too.😂
But daaarn, your domination plan there has holes. Obviously you need to teleport so you can also work in UK bookstores and snabble all their books too, yes???
Obviously that’s the best idea, but MACUSA’s really been cracking down on inter-continental Floo transportation–I mean, uh, airline tickets are too expensive?
Okay Cait thanks for the reminder to preorder my copy of your book. I loved this q&a so much, it really gave me a lot of insight into publishing and writing. Especially since the question about hating everytime you write is so me.
N’aww JEANN.😍💖💖 I’m so excited/nervous for my friends to read, I swear haha.
I’m so excited for you! Following your writing/publishing journey is honestly so inspiring–you make me want to write more and inspire me to work harder and stay motivated. Congrats on everything you’ve accomplished <3 <3
Aww thank you so so much!! And I SO hope I’m cheering on your book coming out someday soon!! It’s the best feeling ever.😂🎉🎉
So exciting! Two months will go by so fast!
They definitely feel like they’re going so fast ahh!!
Are you aware that Alexandra Christo marked your book at to-read on Goodreads because that’s crazy! Congratulations, I can’t wait to read it!!
Aww I didn’t see but that makes me very happy.😂 Actually fuuuuun story…I used to be a critique partner with Alexandra back in the day! 😉 So I have read glorious books still unknown to the world of hers and SHE’S SUCH A GOOD WRITER.
It was so fun reading this post, and getting a little more insight into you as an author! I always like author interviews because of that aspect. Every one of us goes about it so differently, and I like to see these differences, haha.
I HAVE NOT TOLD YOU YET BUT I PRE-ORDERED YOUR BOOK LAST WEEK! It was so cool to add it to my cart, and be all: I know this person! I am so excited to see your book in person and read the words inside.
Also, your cover is gorgeous and I want to see how the butterfly relates to the story! I mean, I hope it relates to the story. Even if not, it’s still a super pretty cover 😀
Not long to go now *cheering*
Yes yes exactly! There’s SO many ways to achieve this dream, so like seeing the different ways authors go about it is always interesting.😂 I’m really glad you liked this post, Chiara!! You’re always so lovely and say the niiiicest things. 💕💕 ALSO SO HAPPY AND MY HEART IS SO FULL THAT YOU’RE GOING TO READ IT.😍😍
(And the butterfly is actually a full line out of the book!! It was so awesome to see that come to life ahhhh.)
Hey Cait! Long time no comment! I don’t know if you remember me / my blog, I used to be around here all the time but then I started uni and the world was like “lol, remember when u had time 2 blog? NOT ANY MORE, CHUM” so I haven’t blogged since October. Sadness. I still check in here occasionally though and I was AMAZED AND THRILLED a couple of months ago to discover ATPN was being published! (Or Tremolo, as I still call it in my head. I remember when you were asking for betas for it on here, man. #truefan) Anyway I’m just super super excited for you because like?? this is the dream??? You used to be a teen writer-blogger who was like “lol hope 2 be published one day #girlcandream” and now I will be able to LITERALLY STROKE YOUR BOOK IN WATERSTONES and what the heck is this??? This is a writer GETTING PUBLISHED but I also feel like I know you as a real person and so?? Real people get published too???? WHOA. I think it’s really exciting how you’re breaking down the barriers between the writer’s public and private personas, between being a reader and being a writer, between blogging for fun and blogging for work. I also really hope to see fantasy novels from you (you have promised!) because my perception, at least, is that it’s REALLY HARD for writers to break out of a genre once they start in it. Like, JK Rowling, aka one of the most successful authors EVER, had to write under a MAN’S PSEUDONYM before she could publish adult crime fiction that didn’t involve any wizards. So it’ll be fab to see you throwing confetti around and PUBLISHING IN ALL THE GENRES because that sets a great precedent for the rest of us. Anyway, this comment has got long enough already, BUT I’M VERY EXCITED FOR YOU, PAL! CAKE CAKE CAKE!
EMILY OF COURSE I REMEMBER YOU. 💕💕You must be one of my oldest blogger friends right?!
And omg you remember when it was a baby called Tremolo! I’M SO HONOURED. haha And seriously it’s like the best thing to have had it grow up on the blog and then finally get the deal and just?!? I’m so lucky to have so many amazing bloggers cheering me on. It’s made the WORLD of difference. And ajfsdkald it is wild and crazy that it’s actually getting published right?! There were so many times I thought I’d never get here. 😂😂
I would super like to publish in multiple genres, but we’ll definitely see! I think it’s different for YA and these days though? Like with the gender biases? I know I’m going by initials but that’s because I hate my name instead of wanting people not to assume I’m a girl.😂 But I haaave heard it’s harder to get YA fantasy published over YA contemporary, so keep fingers crossed.😂
ANYWAY THIS WAS THE LOVELIEST COMMENT AND IT’S SO NICE TO CHAT WITH YOU AGAIN!
I’m so excited for your book Cait! Can’t wait for your words to destroy all my feels. Also, obviously, you should dedicate all your books to me. I mean… duh.
Well DUH TO ME. Why didn’t I think of dedicating it to you.😂😂
This was interesting to read, I haven’t done much research on publishing yet but this helped me get a sense of what the publishing process is like, which was cool 🙂 So excited for your book btw XD
Ahh I’m so glad you enjoyed reading it!! And the process is so widely different for so many people right?! But I always like reading author origin stories too for sure. 😂
I’M SO EXCITED AND HAPPY FOR YOU, CAIT!!! I cannot wait to read your book and yell at everyone else to read it too. I feel like I’ve been following your writing journey for a long time, and so it’s like super cool to see this dream coming true for you! I wish you all the best. <3
HOLLLLLY THANK YOU THAT MEANS SO MUCH TO ME I CAN’T EVEN SAY.💕💕It’s so encouraging just having so many friends cheer me on?! I’m ridiculously lucky. 😍😍
Hallo hallo I feel like its been a long time since I commented on here but I occasionally retweet your tweets so I think you know that I AM still alive? I just don’t do much commenting now that my blog has fizzled away. Anyway hi I do still live and am going to preorder your book as a present for myself when i graduate next month cuz what better thing to do?
Because YES I AM SO EXCITED TO READ THIS. I remember when you were still looking for beta readers and said “no pianists please” and I was so disappointed but HEY look now I will get to read it anyway!
Awkward gangly romance that starts off as friendship – YES PLEASE THESE ARE THE BEST KIND <3 <3 <3
ARGH I AM SO EXCITED CAIT YOU ABSOLUTE QUEEN <3
AWW SOPHIA!! HELLO FROM THE GRAVE! 😂 Just kidding! I also favourite your tweets a lot so I’m glad we are both still alive and kicking (screaming?) companionably! I am saaaad you don’t blog anymore, but I can imagine life is super busy and sometimes interests change, I guess? Will forever missss you though. And OMG. I approve of this present idea. I wildly approve. 😉 And aww I forgot about that!😂 Haha…reading your comment I’m like “why the heck did I not want pianists?!” but I must’ve been doing that to see if it’d still be interesting to non-musical people.😂 (I’m kind of honoured you remembered back when it was such a wee little thing. LOOK IT ALL GROW’ED UP.)
Also I am the QUEEN of writing the most awkward romances ever.😂
How did I miss this epic post!? OMG I am so, so, so excited, Cait!!! Also…I tried paleo for awhile and HA HA HA no. I think I’m lucky enough not to HAVE to be on a paleo diet, but I did try it…and no thank you. I hated 90% of the things I made, LOL. I love that your character’s names have special meanings! Some of mine do…but usually I just go with whatever ‘feels’ right and like enough to be working with through a gazillion edits & revisions. And yes, you’re SO spot on with the practice. It can be hard — but also very rewarding to see yourself grow and mature as a writer. 🙂
Aww, Kara THANK YOU!! You’re always so encouraging (and inspiring!!)😍😍 And omg haha yes big nope to the paleo diet. 😂Ours was an even stricter version and it did nOT help with the health problems so like. So much cakeless life wasted.😂
And yes I’m usually the same with names ahah. I usually just pick my favourites, but I was kind of proud that ATPN had meaningful names for once. It’s very unusual. GO ME.😂
How crazy that you got an agent at 19. Go you! I really want to get an agent at some point – traditional publishing is definitely my goal. I just really need to find some sort of writing schedule that works. That’s awesome you can just write write write. lol I envy that! 🙂 Ooh August came from August Rush? I like that! Good movie.
-Lauren
Eeep I’m really hoping you get there too, Lauren! I AM ROOTING FOR YOU. (Also August Rush is so good and underrated right?!)
AHHHHHHHHHHH I AM SERIOUSLY SO EXCITED TO HAVE MY HEART RIPPED APART FROM YOU.
Also super thrilled and excited that YOU ARE A PUBLISHED AUTHOR. WOWOWOWOW. I think I’m going to cry for you. I am so proud.<333 I think (when my time finally comes) I want to do a similar route you went becAUSE I WANT MY BOOK TO BE ON A BOOKSHELF. I WANT TO WALK INTO THE BOOKSTORE AND BE LIKE LOL OH LOOK, THERE'S MY CHILD. So thank you for this. It has inspired me greatly. <3
xx Kenzie
P.S. I’ve been trying something new and contacting publishing companies to send me ARCs to review on le blog. I am still trying to figure out the whole thing or if I’m doing it properly… But it would awesome if I could submit a request for your book! I’m assuming I need to contact the publishing company, correct? Or is it too late for me to do that? o.O
I’M SO GLAD YOU’RE EXCITED AND I PROMISE TO DO SO MUCH GREAT HEART-RIPPING. #amNice (And omg you’re so lovely though. 😍😍Half the time I still can’t even believe it!! I did it!! Ahhhh!!!) And I’m so hoping I get to see your book on a shelf again soon.😍
And yes, for ARCs, contact Hachette Children’s UK!
Gosh, I love this post! I am basically tearing up while watching you achieve your dreams. AND you already have an amendment to one of the questions because POLAND. I mean, you could end up with worldwide unfortunate covers if this ever gets to Russia 😂 And goodness, more novels on the horizon, and it just…. no one deserves it more, you know? Like- I think the most incredible part of your journey is that you have worked so damn hard for this, and you earned it because of your talent and your dedication and such, and hell, that is just inspiring for every single one of us.
I am giddy excited for that Book Depository email telling me that my shiny copy of your book is sailing across the Atlantic. It is SO. SOON. I am just so, so happy for you ♥♥♥
I’M TEARING UP TOO LET’S BE REAL HERE. And yesss omg my first translation deal. Is this real life Shannon.😭❤️❤️Let’s hope I get the full range of world wide unfortunate covers and then you get to do a feature post and we can cringe together. 😂😂 But seriously your support makes me all flaily and emotional, THANK YOU, MY KIND FRIEND. 😍
I’m so beyond excited for ATPN!!! (And everything else that comes after) This is a really interesting & insightful post <3
I’M SO HAPPY YOU’RE EXCITED, LISSA THANK YOU!!
Always 😀 💕💕💕💕
I’m so happy for you! This is what I want someday!
I’m currently on my (hopefully) final draft and then I need to query but I’m so scared! Especially because as you said, Australia sucks for options.
Any advice for the querying stage? Do’s and don’ts?
Well it sucked in 2013. 😂 I’m honestly not sure what’s out there now??? Google and research is your friend! And my biggest advice for querying is follow the agent’s guidelines (they’re usually different) VERY closely, and write your query with your character’s voice!
I’ve actually read somewhere not to write in your character’s voice haha. I guess it really just depends on the place
THIS!
I needed to read THIS today. Yes! Yes! Hahaha
“Actually I’ve had very bad writers’ block this year…more like an epic slump. (I blame it on reading negative reviews oops + the general nervousness of my book coming out + general panicking about the future etc. etc.) I work through it with devouring as much art as I can, so music, TV shows, reading and reading and reading. Refill the creative take! PS. I also force myself to work anyway.”
Thanks for reading my post, Steve!
This Q&A was so much fun, ACK! I loved it. And I am SO BEYOND EXCITED AND HAPPY FOR YOU, CAIT!!!! It must feel so incredibly amazing to have your book published… And you are yet another step closer to world domination!! MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! I love the advice to just keep writing, even when the self-doubt creeps in. I’ve been going through a LOT of self-doubt lately, and I honestly think that this is going to help me push through it… Thank you so much, Cait!
Ahhh I’m glad you liked it!! 💖✨ It’s really fun getting to talk about publishing things now. 😂 (SO CLOSE TO WORLD DOMINATION. I’VE WARNED YOU ALL FOR YEARS IT WAS HAPPENING.) And *sends you cake to battle the self-doubt* It’s REALLY not fun being stuck in self-doubt spirals, but you got this! I believe in you!
Amazing! I’m so happy for you! Thank you for the answers we writers so badly need to hear! You write with such enthusiasm that even the most anxious part of me somehow felt reassured (even though I’m pretty sure my heart is going to be shattered as soon as I’ll read your book, mh?).