Wednesday 5 October 2022

IWSG October 2022

Time for another posting of the Insecure Writer's Support Group! Hosted as ever by Alex J. Cavanaugh, the aim of the group is to offer a safe space where writers can share doubts and insecurities without fear of being judged. Today's co-hosts are Tonja DreckerVictoria Marie LeesMary Aalgaard, and Sandra Cox


The question for the October post is: What do you consider the best characteristics of your favorite genre?

This is a great question! If by "favourite genre", the question means my preferred genre to write, every writer should have an excellent answer because there will be certain elements that draw them to that genre and keep them coming back for more. In my case, I'm attracted to speculative fiction because it gives me the scope to think about things that are unseen and give full rein to my imagination. In my case I like to think about what may be ahead of us so there's a strong sci-fi element. Sometimes these concepts can be alarming but it's all viewed through the eyes of sympathetic, relatable characters. So, perhaps it's a warning, but it's a friendly one. And the good thing about spec fic is you can take a big, bold concept and really get your teeth into it.

Can't wait to read others' answers to this question. To find them, head here!

In other news, I recently wrapped up a first draft of my next book, which I'm excited about. This deals with another big concept as mentioned above. I'm really looking forward to sharing more details about this one.

Thanks to all those who participated in the blog tour for Reckoning and commented on and shared the posts. I had a lot of fun!

Finally, as things continue to ramp up for the release of my trad pub debut, The Becalmer, in August of next year, I'm still looking for three or four people to make up a street team. All you have to do is be willing to receive a few emails from my publisher and to help spread the word about my book in various channels. It'll be a great time! Team members also have access to exclusive treats and goodies. Here's a working blurb:

Gifted with the ability to defuse conflicts with her mind, Harica is headhunted to resolve a war via an arranged marriage, unaware that the reluctant would-be bride—the entitled Princess Jasmila—has similar powers. But the princess doesn't use them for good, and she fights back, sending Harica into a coma through which she finds a mysterious liminal space populated by others who share her gift, both living and dead. She learns to do things she never thought possible, but when things get out of control, she almost swears off her gift forever—until events dictate that she must come to terms with the dark side of her gift and take ownership of it.

If you're interested, comment below or shoot me an email at mcwilfo (at) gmail (dot) com. Thanks much!

22 comments:

Liza said...

So happy to hear of your writing successes. Clearly, you know what you like!

T. Powell Coltrin said...

Speculative is a a great genre to write AND read!

Teresa

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Speculative is the best!
Cool you have a traditionally published book coming out. How does one join the street team?

Natalie Aguirre said...

That's so awesome that you have another draft done. You are really moving forward in your writing.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

All the best Nick ... and keeping on writing is so important for an author. I love crime thrillers on varying themes - but usually read non-fiction - cheers Hilary

Mary Aalgaard said...

Great genre. Filled with creativity and imagination. Fits you well! Good luck with all the book promotions!!

Rachna Chhabria said...

Congratulations on completing the first draft of your next novel.

H. R. Sinclair said...

Spec fic is the best! :) Congrats on finishing the next new draft! Awesome!

Liz A. said...

That's the great thing about spec fic, you can go just about anywhere.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Another release coming and another manuscript - wonderful!

Victoria Marie Lees said...

Bravo, Nick, on yet another forthcoming publication date. Way to go! All the luck with both of your releases. Speculative fiction is very popular. Usually, I have trouble understanding the genre. My kids hate watching a paranormal world movie with me. I interrupt their enjoyment by asking too many questions.

Seriously, Nick, I am so proud of all you have accomplished. More power to you!

Loni Townsend said...

Grats on your recent release and for wrapping up your recent WIP. That's awesome!

Miffie Seideman said...

It's great to get that first draft done, isn't it? I'm looking forward to hearing more about this project! Good luck editing!

Debbie Johansson said...

Congratulations on finishing the draft of your next book, as well as your latest release. Best of luck with it all!

Elizabeth Mueller said...

Woohoo! Congratulations! Now for the fun part--editing! ;D

Damyanti Biswas said...

Speculative Fiction is easily my top 3 favorite genres.

Karen Baldwin said...

Finishing a first draft is exciting. Have fun editing and best of luck on your road to publication

Allie Bock said...

Congrats on your coming soon new release and on finishing your first draft!

Tyrean Martinson said...

Congratulations on your upcoming release!
Like you, I love that scifi gives us ways to grapple with big concepts.

Melissa said...

I'm excited for you. Best of luck with your books!

Donna K. Weaver said...

I love spec fiction! The blurb for your new book in intriguing!

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

As you know, I too love speculative fiction too.
Congrats on finishing that first draft! And best wishes for your new release!! Love the premise.