Synopses

I hate writing out synopses for future works. They always seem flat and lifeless, never quite fully doing justice to the story in my head. Yet when you have a multi-book contract and are planning on writing the next book, you have to share that story idea with the publisher.

I did this recently for my publisher, FaithWords. I’ve had an idea for some time now, and know it’s time for me to start to write it. This will be the fourth book I do with FaithWords, one that is scheduled to come out spring, 2011.
I recently wrote out the synopsis for this book. Last time I pitched them story ideas, I sent multiple stories and even started work on one before abandoning it and starting work on another. But this time, the process was different. I knew the exact story I wanted to write. I was hoping they would be as enthusiastic about it as I am.
The good news is not only that they’re excited about the potential of this story, but that I received valuable insight into the project. Today I received a thousand-word email from my editor along with notes attached to my synopsis. Even before the writing for this novel has started, I’m being edited. In a way. My editor asked questions and brought up valid points that I’m having to think through.
I’ve told people over and over that my favorite book to date is Sky Blue. Still is. It might not be the best I’ve written–that’s up to readers to decide. But it’s my most meaningful. But this story idea will top that book, I feel. It’s ambitious and fits in with everything I’ve done so far.
I’m fortunate to be given such valuable input on the story before starting to work on it. I’m scheduled to hand that story in next May. Should be a fun journey to go through.

2 Comments

Comments are closed.