Taking yourself too seriously is a surefire way to lose sight of what’s really important. I make time to enjoy life, find something fun to do, or simply hang out with people who inspire me to laugh and be part of something bigger than my everyday life.
Fun with dogs!
If you’ve met me, you know I’m an easy-going guy. I love meeting new people and learning new things. Being a novelist is rewarding in many ways. Talking in person with readers who’ve enjoyed my series is humbling, especially when they encourage me to: “Hurry up and release the next book!” I wish I could write faster.
Self promotion is something I find awkward and difficult. I’ve been taught humility is a good trait, so I’m uncomfortable talking about myself or my books. If you’ve ever seen me at a writers conference, I’m terrible at doing my own introduction or endorsing my latest novel. I’d rather talk about the craft of writing, editing, and polishing a manuscript. I enjoy giving back what others have given to me. I wouldn’t be published without the help of Ridley Pearson. He offered encouragement early in my career, something I’ll always cherish.
Ridley Pearson
I love supporting other authors, but I also support my family, my church, my community, and especially my wife Carla. My passions outside of my writing career center around helping organizations that help animals, our veterans, law enforcement officers, and first responders. Doing so brings balance to my life.
It’s a highly competitive industry, but I believe you can be successful if you’re willing to work hard and never give up. I’ve wanted to be a traditionally published for many years and indeed it took many years for that to happen. I attended dozens of conferences where I sought the guidance and advice from editors, agents, and other authors. Being a novelist isn’t a glamorous life, but it’s fulfilling. My writing is my career and I hold myself to high, professional standards.
To those of you who are aspiring authors I say, “never give up.” If you’re passionate about your writing, keep at it! Always look for ways to improve your craft. Don’t work in isolation – go to conferences to hone your prose. Yes, this might mean ten more re-writes. Take this to heart: Writing is the art of rewriting. On average, I do 15-20 editorial passes through every book.
If you enjoy sharing your stories and want to earn a living doing it, there’s no magic pill, shortcut, or back door. Join a writer’s group, attend conferences, and ask lots of questions. Put yourself into the professional mindset of a novelist and write!. That’s how you get your book published. I’m living proof it can happen!
I love to be reminded to keep at the craft, to keep writing. I have had some frustrating days with my writing, but then I read a blog post like yours, and I keep going, so thank you. You inspire me.
Thanks for the post Paula, I’m thrilled you feel some encouragement! It’s a tough industry with many hurdles to overcome. Hang in there!
Thank you so much, Andrew! Your success and your sharing how you achieved it are inspiring/encouraging. If/when time permits, would you blog where we can watch/read interviews of you?
Hi Vance, you’re too kind! There are videos on YouTube. Follow this link or type “andrew peterson nathan mcbride” without the quote marks into the Youtube search box and you’ll see some choices. videos of andrew on Youtube
Thanks you for the nice post, it means a lot to me!
Fabulous! ! Don’t miss this story!
When I got the email saying Andrews new book five Right to Kill was now released and with Dick Hill once again as narrator, I rushed over to my Audible account to purchase it!
I knew it was coming up soon but did not know when exactly. I have a word of warning on getting this book, if you have a lot of jobs to do around the office or home do not start this book! As once you start it , that’s it your done working , you will not be able to put it down, it grabs you right in chapter one! I found myself making excuses to my wife and phoning into the office from my den!
Well this morning I have now finished it and I will start to get back to my normal life ! No spoilers here but this is the best book of the series, riviting, and really an amazing inside look at just how brave our real Marines have to be to protect us! As well as the decisions they have to make to stay alive and emotionally deal with their jobs! Nathen, Harvey and LG really sink all of this home!
Keep up the great work Andrew, let me know when 6 is ready, don’t forget to Ask Dick to do his part! Speaking of Dick Hill,, I have to say one of your best jobs as well, Dick ads more stars to this book, give Dick material like this and his skills also shine, a truly Five Star production in every area!
Reg Riemer
Calgary Alberta, Canada &
Bullhead City, Arizona!
Hi Reg, thank you for the post! I agree, Dick Hill dickhill.com has an amazing talent. He’s got such a rich voice. I truly believe Dick can make someone’s grocery list sound good! He’s a friend and valuable colleague. His wife Susie is internally involved in the productions. I’m thrilled you enjoy his acting – and it IS acting, in every sense of the word. Isn’t it amazing how a great narrator can make you “see” what you’re hearing!
Thank you for appreciating what our military forces do to keep us all safe, I fear too many people take them for granted – but not this author! Cheers!!
“Hurry up and release the next book!” Yep.. And I wish you could write faster as well. But, maybe the books wouldn’t be so great if you had to rush them??? Thank you for putting the joy back in reading again Andrew. 🙂
Anne, I admire authors who can write quickly. Honestly, I don’t know how they do it. 5,000 words in a single day – or sooner? I can’t wrap my mind around it. I have to wonder how much they keep? Thank you for the post and for the encouraging words!
My friends and family have encouraged me to work on my writing, their support is important to me. Heroes are, also, important and one of my biggest heroes was my mother. She raised my brother and me alone after my father was killed in a car accident a few months before I was born. I plan to have at least one strong female character in whatever I write. Holly Simpson, Mary Grangeland, and Rebecca Cantrell are all strong women that each add a different element and strength to your books. Thank you for these characters.
Denise, that’s so incredible – your mother’s dedication, courage, and strength after such a horrible tragedy. It sounds like your mom is at her best when things are at their worst. It’s heartwarming to read. Thank you for sharing! I’m pleased you like the female characters in the series. They all seem quite real to me! Keep writing!!
Denise, you are the winner of the blog post contest. Congratulations! Please send me your mailing address for shipping. My email address is info@andrewpeterson.com Again, congratulations and thanks for posting!
Thank you for sharing. I’d rather read a great book that takes longer to write than a mediocre book written quickly.
Thank, Mary, you’re my kind of reader who appreciates how long it takes. I wish I could write faster but I’m afraid my writing would be compromised. Happy Thanksgiving!