If you are a regular reader of this blog, you'll know that since the end of January, Kirsten has been writing a regular post at the end of each month, giving us a sneaky look at her writer's life. Here is her final post, with a look back, not just at June, but at the whole six months. * * * * And suddenly June is over and here is my last guest slot on this wonderful blog. It’s been an unsettling few months hasn’t it? And I hate good byes. Really hate them. So, instead, here is a round-up of all the really wonderful writing-related things that have happened to me over the past six months. Firstly, I’m really honoured to have shared this space with Susanna during the launch of her debut novel. I’ve spent the last couple of evenings curled up with The Deserter’s Daughter and am LOVING it. Well done Sue, you clever old thing. A huge achievement. A huge success.
Not strictly writing-related, but you may remember that, in February, my WIP ground to a halt because my lovely son was having some issues. Lots of you have been kind enough to ask after him and I’m really delighted to report that he’s much, much better. He’s just finished his A levels, is currently working at the Henley Regatta and is about to go to China for a few weeks! What a difference a few months can make. One happy mum!
…Which leads me on to my WIP! Edits finished, I have duly sent The Space Between The Words off to the RNS NWS for a critique. I’ve also sent the full to two of the agents who requested it several months ago. Yes, I know, I know – I should wait for the critique to come back. I guess curbing my impulsive edge is something I still I need to work on ….
Writing this blog has confirmed that I need to change my name to protect the innocent! I want to keep the Kirsten because that’s me, but I need a new surname. So far the contenders are Dougal (part of my maiden name), Jones and Peters. Thoughts?
Writers really are the most lovely, generous and supportive bunch around. I knew that anyway, but the #authorsforgrenfell initiative really has been extraordinary. I’m sure you’ve all read about the joint bid of over £20K to name a character in the next Philip Pullman novel after a young girl who tragically lost her life in the fire. How heart-warming was that? I’ve been wanting to make a donation for a while so I bid for a novel critique by Alison May. I was pipped to the post at the last minute, but Alison has very kindly offered to critique my novel too. And how lovely is that?
So loads and loads of positives. Thank you for following my ramblings over the past six months and particularly to those who have taken the trouble to leave kind, thoughtful or downright hilarious responses on the blog. And thank you, again, Sue. It’s been a blast. Onwards and upwards. Over and out. X |
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Comments (24)
Another thing to consider when choosing a pen name: where will you be on the shelf of the library / bookshop? Is it better to have a surname near the start of the alphabet, in case readers browse alphabetically from 'A'? Are there similar authors that you would like to be close to, so their readers might also pick up your book?
Good luck choosing! x
I'm so pleased you are enjoying The Deserter's Daughter, Jen.
As for a pen name, one thing to consider is to make sure the website domain is available in your chosen name, as well as social media profiles. Once you've chosen your name, make sure to buy the domain asap so you have it when you need it.
Although I like 'Dougal,' I always want to add another 'l' on the end of it! You need a name that everybody can spell correctly straight away!
A note for Susanna too...I'm loving 'The Deserter's Daughter.' If my family cooperates (i.e. they don't interrupt me!) I hope to finish it tonight. xx
To the matter of Pen Names ... ahha! Yes protecting the innocent and all that - I quite agree. Thornton is my middle name. :D
Personally Dougal sounds a little too Scottish and possibly a little too Magic Roundabout for me - but that's probably MY AGE.
As Kirsten is a beautiful and quite unusual name, I would go for a plainer surname to make the whole thing easy to remember. My vote would be for Kirsten Jones.