Monthly Archives: January 2014

No, that’s not cliche.

file52cd712f163eeLately, I’ve seen an annoying trend, namely people using the word cliche that don’t seem to understand the nuance of the word. I think it’s unfair to call something cliche if it was a new idea when it was created.

I was telling someone about watching the original Dark Shadows. I was telling someone the storyline, and they told me Barnabas Collins was a cliche because  the tortured vampire was so overdone.

No, I say. You are incorrect, sir. If Barnabas Collins were created today, you might have a point, but in 1966, he was unique. Many people believe he was the trend setter of the genre.

On a side note, I’ve now watched over 100 DVDs and seen over 1000 episodes of Dark Shadows. I’m still not done.

This is not a year in review.

file52c701b409737Last year I published two books. This year, I came out with nothing. There are many reasons for this, but it really comes down to: writing is hard work and takes a long time.

I am currently in the final stages of finishing two manuscripts. I even know where I want to sell one of them–if they’ll have it. One is ready to go about 2/3 of the way through, but needs a better ending. The other is looking very good, but needs a final polish.

I’m actually looking forward to 2014. I have a new editor interested in my work–I hate to leave the old one, but I think it’s the best decision for both of us. I like him, and I’m happy he gave me a shot, but I really don’t think we were all that good a fit. I’d rather have him spending his time working on the books he knows how to sell.

I have to admit, I’m actually a little nervous about submitting again. It’s still nerve racking.

On the other hand, I have to admit, I’m getting impatient. It will probably be the end of February before I’m ready to officially send anything out.

So it might be slow to start, but I’m hoping you’ll see some good stuff in 2014.