If you've read my 'About Me' page then you know that I'm an aspiring writer. No, wait, scratch that. I am a writer. I spend a substantial part of my free time either writing or thinking about writing. I aspire to get paid for what I'm going to do anyway. You may also know that one piece of advice given to all new writers is to start a blog. Build a platform Create an internet presence.
Well, that's something that I struggle with. Like many writers, I'm a bit of an introvert. So I tend not to say much unless I have something useful to contribute. That makes it hard to start a conversation with strangers on the internet.
So, I spent some time trying to think of something to blog about. There are many, many sites and blogs giving writing tips and advice. At this point, I don't have anything to add to that. I mean, I'm still learning as I go. I thought about reviewing books - I am an avid reader. The problem is that the more time I spend writing, the less time I have to read. So still nothing to blog about.
Then I came across a couple of brave posts on Twitter, within a few days of each other.
There was this beautiful and brave post by Jessie Burton detailing her experiences after her novel The Miniaturist became an international success. There was also this tweet from Abi Elphinstone talking about her struggle to become a professional author.
And so it hit me. There are lots of blogs talking about how to become an author but there are very few people who talk openly about the realities of the journey. About the toil and rejections and fear that come before (and sometimes in between) the successes.
So that is my goal with this blog. To share my journey. To talk honestly about my experiences. And let's be honest - detailing all the rejections will inevitably be emabarassing but I sincerely hope that some day I'll be able to share my successes with you too.
All that's left for me to say is 'Welcome. I'm glad to have you along for the ride.'