That’s a wrap! February 2019
February has been one of those months for me. In addition to juggling work, uni preparation, and my reading and writing goals, I had to say goodbye to a beloved friend. Read on for all the details…and some pictures of the most beautiful dog in the world. →
This February, I said goodbye to my best friend. Leo was my first dog, who became a part of my family when I was only ten years old. I will be forever grateful for the 14.5 years we had together, and all the good times that we shared. Life is not going to be the same without him. Leo was the best dog a girl could ask for, and I know he will rest peacefully up at my aunt’s place in the country with all his doggie cousins. 💔
“Once you’ve had a wonderful dog, a life without one is a life diminished.”
—Dean Koontz
I published 2 blog posts this month, which you can check out below!
As you may be aware, I currently have 2 key writing projects: one a contemporary YA novel, and the other an epic fantasy series. My progress on these is revealed below…and you can click on each heading for more information!
Holding Up the Sky
“The weight of the sky—of the whole world—was pushing down, and it was crushing me.”
Status: Beta reading
Word count: 84,200
What’s new: The beta reading phase has officially begun! I am sending Holding Up the Sky out into the world to get some feedback that doesn’t come from family or friends. It’s the very first time I’ve done so—and it’s both thrilling and terrifying! If you’re interested in taking part, all the details are available in this post here.
Blood of Old (Graceborn #1)
“The Old has returned…and what once was, will be again.”
Status: Writing 2nd draft
Word count: 1,500
What’s new: I have FINALLY started on the 2nd draft of Blood of Old, the first book in my fantasy series Graceborn. It was a slow start, writing only 1,500 words so far, but better than nothing, right? I’ve made a few changes, so it really feels like writing a first draft all over again. Wish me luck!! 😂
This February, I read a total of 8 books…only one of which was on my original TBR for this month! After my beloved dog died, I had a real craving for ghost stories, so I just went with it and devoured some really awesome stories that have been on the list for years. These are the books I finished:
“You don’t have a middle name.”
No, I did not. Rainstorm only went with so much, thank God. My parents had offered to amend the oversight, but I declined. Mostly because my mother was overly fond of the name Moonbeam, and two wrongs do not make a right. They just make one very irritated Dr Rainstorm Moonbeam Christiansen marching to the courthouse with name-change forms.
— from P.S. I Spook You by S.E. Harmon
A silly quote this month, but one that brought a much-needed smile to my face. Yes, the name of the MC in P.S. I Spook You is Rainstorm. No jokes there. Once you meet his mother it will all make sense!! 😄
What did you get up to this February? How are your writing projects coming along? Did your reading list feature a specific genre?
Rebecca Alasdair
I'm an Australian indie author who hoards books, loves dogs and coffee, and has a tendency of staying up all night!
No Comments
Andrew McDowell
I’m so sorry for your loss, Rebecca. I know what it’s like to lose a dog.
Best of luck with your writing goals. This month marked the 1 year anniversary since Mystical Greenwood came out in paperback. But sales sadly weren’t doing too well, so I’m trying to figure out some better marketing ways. The sequel is coming along, but still has a long way to go.
Rebecca Alasdair
Thanks Andrew. Best of luck with the sequel and sales! It’s always good to try and change things up when you identify areas that need improving. 😊
Andrew McDowell
You’re welcome, and thank you.
Lorraine Ambers
I’m sorry for your loss, I know how hard loosing a pet is. They are the heart of a family and a loyal reading companion.
Lots of love and hugs. 🤗
P.S 📚 I’m loving Holding up the Sky!!
Rebecca Alasdair
Thanks, Lorraine. I spent so many hours reading on the couch with my dog either on my lap or pressed right up against the side. I’m going to miss that a lot :'(
(P.S. So glad you’re enjoying it!!)
D. Allyson Howlett
You are a powerhouse reader! I barely read anything last month and I’m trying for 1 book a month. I did get my draft back from my editor though so I am ready to dive in and fix things up to make it the best it can be! Love your recaps!
Rebecca Alasdair
Thank you!! My reading habits for the last few months are the direct result of being a uni student on break, who can afford to read until 5am and then sleep until midday! 😂 That’s so exciting getting your draft back from your editor – I hope you have good feedback. Best of luck with the edits 😊