NaNo Update And Book Cover

We are now officially beyond the halfway point of National Novel Writing Month, and I have to confess that a little bit of panic has crept in. I have just crossed the halfway point - 25,000 words - of the expected total word count, but it came 4 days after it should have.

I always knew that not being able to get done on time, especially given my daily writing workload, but I was determined not to fail at the first time of asking. This made me assess what failure would actually mean in this specific scenario. Assuming I don't hit the magical 50,000 mark by the time the clock strikes Midnight on the last day of the month, will it means that the story will stop and be cast aside? No, it does not.

I have had this little tale bouncing around in my head for about 3 years, and can now see the light at the end of the tunnel. If it means that I come out of that tunnel a few days behind schedule, then so be it. THIS THING IS GETTING FINISHED!!

I have even taken the step of having the cover designed, which was actually a very painless process, as well as being one that fit into my non-existent budget. The finished result is proudly displayed up top, and it has actually contributed to my excitement level.

I want to take this time to thank everyone who has offered words of encouragement and support, especially my incredible wife who has had to sit and listen to me ramble about tiny plot details while she is just trying to relax and have a little quiet time.

I may only be halfway home, but the boys will be here soon....oh, and the inimitable Miss Raven Loonie, too.

NaNoWriMo: 10 days In

As mentioned in a previous post, my month of November was going to be dedicated to finally taking part in National Novel Writing Month. The story I chose to write was one that has been stewing in my head for years.

The story involves a pair of detective names Bangers and Mash who are charged with investigating mysterious events in the English countryside: Think Emmerdale Farm meets the X-Files.

I have now officially passed the 10 day mark and am pleased to report that I am almost 14,000 words in. As pleasing as that number is, as it represents the longest thing I have ever written, it's also a little disconcerting. I am officially off the pace to "win" my NaNoWriMo challenge, which is not something I want to do at the first time of asking.

I am fortunate enough to write for a living, but am in the position of going through a rather purple patch at the moment in terms of orders. Trying to create a balance is tough, but I am still up for the challenge. I know exactly where my story is going, as well as having a clear understanding of how to get there through the plot. When I do get the chance to work on Bangers and Mash, the words come thick and fast. I'm not horribly off the pace right now, and may actually be able to make up a big chunk today. I just churned out 600 words in about 20 minutes and am itching to get back there now.

I always knew that failure was an option going into this, but I see it becoming less so the more involved I get and the deeper into the story I dive. is this the best thing that I have ever written? NO!! Is it the most fun I have ever had in front of a laptop? YES!! And that is why it will get done. I'll keep the updates coming as best I can.