Happy IWSG day! And hey look. I remembered!
I’ve still been plugging away at my edits, and I’m currently on chapter 46 of 51. One would think I’d be moving faster, but some chapters have me going over them multiple times. I’ve cut about 2K from the book so far, which isn’t significant for a 170K epic, but I have no plans to pursue traditional publishing so I will make this book as long as it needs to be.
I’ve also decided to rename book 1! It’s not a huge rename. I’m just dropping “War” from the title, so it’ll just be Thanmir. All the other books in the series are single, made-up words, and book 1 was the only odd one out. After consideration, I decided that having “war” in the title gave the impression of a more serious book than it actually is. I plan to redo the cover to also aim for a less serious slant, while keeping the previous tree image as maybe inserts or bonus content. When I go to make my custom hardbacks (yes, I plan to DIY it–I have a Cricut and everything!), I’ll still use the tree symbol, with green fabric and gold vinyl. But I’m going to try for an illustrated multi-character cover for the regular release (assuming I don’t hate my own art once I get there).
The current Post-It Note concept sketch:
IWSG Question of the Month – Many people are calling for writers who use AI to disclose it. Most who employ ghostwriters do not admit it – do you think authors who use ghostwriters should have to disclose that, too? (Thanks Melissa Maygrove for the question!)
I think it’s a reasonable request, especially when the world is suspicious of the source for any and all art.
Have you ever changed the title of one of your stories? Do you like characters on your covers? Have you ever made a custom hardback?
About Insecure Writer’s Support Group
You can find the sign up for the IWSG here. We owe Alex J Cavanaugh a huge thank you for thinking this blog hop up.
I’ve never changed the title of a book after publication. I think the change you’re planning makes sense. I hope you’ll blog about your art process and your custom hardback covers. That sounds really neat!
I’ve been through at least three different titles on my current book, coming out next year. I think I finally decided on a final title last week, and I hope to announce it next month. Just like with characters, sometimes I go through several names till I find the one that fits them best. I love your concept art!
I’ve changed one title so many times I’ve lost count. And that’s unusual for me. Every other time I’ve come up with a title, it has been right. This one…obviously not so much.
That was smart to drop a word. All of my series books are one word.
Yes, you remembered! Good for the squirrel.
Wow! That is an epic novel! Good for you. I admire people who can create such masterworks! I like your new title.
Changing the cover alone will make a big difference!
The cover is going to be EPIC! I like the idea of making the title consistent. And yes, I did change a title after publication, and I’m glad I did. The Writer’s Guide to Color was originally ‘The Life and Times of Color.’ I was trying to be too clever and that was a fail. The new title is so much more clear!
Characters on covers are fine with me. Whatever catches my eye, captivates me, and draws me in to read the thing. Stay productive!
Lee
I think it’s smart that you dropped the word from the title. It makes sense to match the format to your other titles. And it’s more intriguing, making me want to know what the story’s about. Good luck with your editing and plans to publish your books.