Dear Reader,
As much as I hate the concept of New Year’s resolutions I still feel the need to make some plans for the future. But first, let’s take stock. I just reread my post to kick off 2018 – https://audacitybooks.com/be-it-resolved/. So how did I do? There’s nothing like accountability to keep things honest.
Last year I resolved to be a productive writer, to schedule generous writing sessions, and to finish Volume II in the spring and Volume III by October 1. Well, I exceeded those goals. So this year I’ll set the bar a bit higher. I’ve already finished—mostly, I hope—the writing for Volume I of my new Tolerance Trilogy. The manuscript is off to editing, and there’s cover design to follow, of course. And formatting. But the most fundamental creative work is done. And that’s a great feeling.
I promised to reveal the title of Volume I when it is finalized, and—Ta-Da!—here it is: The first book in the new trilogy is called THIS IS GOD’S COUNTRY. That title is all tied up with the South in the second half of the Twentieth Century. And I hope it will be meaningful to readers as I explore discrimination—both racial and sexual-identity based. The writing was exceptionally joyous, and I hope readers will share that joy.
But back to scheduling: Volume II (title to be revealed) is in the works. It’s partially plotted and even a few chapters are written—more or less. As always, I’ve fallen madly in love with my characters. So its always a treat to get to the computer to work with them. Let’s say April 1 for a completed draft. And then August 1 for a draft of Volume III—whatever it turns out to be. At the moment I haven’t a clue, but the Universe will fill me in at the appropriate time.
So, three new books in 2019! Entirely doable. I can’t imagine the novel-a-month mentality, but three a year? Absolutely. So what about the rest of my 2018 promises? All about business. I promised to open my mind and my heart to the possibility of learning about marketing and sales for my publishing business. And how did I do? Mixed, I’m afraid. I gave it a shot, the trying to learn new skills part. But the actual implementation of them? Not so much.
Be it resolved that in 2019 I will become comfortable—and knowledgeable—around marketing. The first step is improved visibility, and for that I’ve recently decided on a new YouTube channel. The one I created for brucebeckinthekitchen.com earned me more eyeballs than any other tactic. Its at YouTube.com/brucebeckinthekitchen. This time I’ll be reading from my books, a chapter a week, starting with the Prologue to Volume I. I’ll keep you posted as it comes together.
I’d love to hear your thoughts about the new channel. Here’s how I described the project to an animator who may create an intro for the episodes: “I see it as Uncle Bruce telling stories that are funny and sexy and serious in equal measure. He’s sometimes outrageous, and sometimes heart-gripping. But always entertaining.” Do you like the sound of that?
There’s a lot to think about for 2019. Do let me know about your plans. It’s good to have friends to help us keep it honest. And, as always, it’s an honor to have you along on my journey.
Bruce
PS: Watch for a boxset of the Love Trilogy coming soon, with a new version of the cover for Volume I!
0 Comments