I opened up the email, with the subject matter, your cover art and held my breath.
First, for a split second, I couldn’t believe it. I must’ve jumped into an alternate universe, where I was a published writer. I closed my eyes and waited to be zapped back into my humdrum life as a software developer.
When it didn’t happen, I squealed like a little piggy. Weeeee! Squeeeee! Weeeee! Yup, I did, like a little kid jumping up and down on Easter morn with a basketful of jelly beans and chocolate.
Oh my God. What if no one likes it? Shivering, I bit my lower lip. What if I can’t really write and this is a horrible, horrible mistake. Take it back. I change my mind. Let me rewrite it just one more time. I’m sure I can do better.
What? Of course not. I’m so, so, sorry, you two. You’ve been through so much to arrive here; a forced marriage, the inquisition, and King Edward’s ever-watchful eye. You deserve this kiss in front of your keep. I wouldn’t take that away. Forgive me?
Maybe, eventually I will get some good reviews and you can make a guest appearance in book two. Then, perhaps, I could dare believe I am really a writer.
Congrats on the cover! One of my favorite artists/musicians Amanda Palmer coined the phrase THE FRAUD POLICE for this exact artistic feeling you’re having. Everyone who’s made anything has that feeling – the feeling it’s not good enough and can or should be taken away at any moment. It’s normal to feel that way, but don’t let it get the best of you. Surely you haven’t because you’re on the road to publication 🙂 🙂 🙂
Thanks for advice.