As a writer, I’m caught in a whirlwind of indecision about my next steps with two novels that have been consuming my creative energy. The struggle is real, and I’m wrestling with how to move forward while life throws its curveballs. Here’s a glimpse into my process, my projects, and my determination to push through the fog.
The Thriller: A Secret Shame
First, there’s my thriller—a project that’s been lingering in my life for far too long. It’s become something of a secret shame, not because I don’t believe in it, but because it’s taken so much time and emotional investment. About a year ago, I actually completed a draft of this novel. I poured my heart into it, but when I stepped back, I knew it wasn’t ready to query. The story didn’t hit the mark I’d set for myself—it lacked the polish and punch needed to stand out. Since then, it’s been sitting on the back burner, a constant reminder of unfinished business. I’m not giving up on it, but I know it needs a serious overhaul before it’s ready to face the world.
Two Novels, Two Worlds
Now, I find myself juggling two distinct projects, each pulling me in a different direction. The first is a mystery novel that’s evolved into a classic “murder in a small town” story. Think cozy yet gripping, with a tight-knit community unraveling as secrets come to light. I’ve been chipping away at this one for a while, and it’s starting to take shape, but it’s still a work in progress. The challenge lies in crafting a puzzle that’s both intricate and satisfying, all while capturing the charm and tension of a small-town setting.
The second novel is a sci-fi adventure that’s got me genuinely excited. It centers on an artificial intelligence striving to become “a real boy,” grappling with what it means to be human. The tone I’m aiming for is reminiscent of Andy Weir’s The Martian—witty, grounded, and brimming with heart, even as it explores big ideas. The premise feels fresh and full of potential, but it’s still in its early stages, demanding a lot of creative heavy lifting to bring it to life.
Life’s Turbulence and Creative Blocks
To be honest, my life is a bit of a mess right now. Personal challenges have made it hard to sink into the creative headspace I need to write. Every time I sit down to work, my mind feels like it’s wading through molasses—slow, heavy, and distracted. It’s frustrating to have these stories burning inside me but struggle to get them onto the page. The sci-fi novel, in particular, feels like it could be something special, but I need to carve out the mental clarity to do it justice.
Despite the chaos, I’m determined to push forward. Writing has always been my refuge, and I know I can’t let life’s turbulence derail me completely. I’m setting my sights on small, manageable goals—writing a scene, fleshing out a character, or even just brainstorming ideas—to rebuild my momentum.
The Path Ahead
I can’t keep staring into the void, hoping inspiration will strike like a lightning bolt. It’s time to roll up my sleeves and get back to work. My plan is to focus on the sci-fi novel for now, given how much its premise excites me. I want to capture that Martian-esque blend of humor and humanity while exploring the AI’s journey. Meanwhile, I’ll keep the mystery simmering, letting ideas percolate until I’m ready to dive back in. The thriller? It’s not forgotten, but it might need to wait until I’ve got more bandwidth to tackle its revisions.
Writing two novels at once is daunting, especially with life’s storms swirling around me. But I’m committed to moving forward, one word at a time. The stories deserve to be told, and I owe it to myself to see them through. Here’s to finding focus, harnessing creativity, and turning these rough drafts into something I can be proud of.
