Behind “The Process”: What 1,000 Hours of Work Looks Like

It’s been a minute since I did a BTP. The focus of these is to reveal what the writing process looks like for writers at all stages. Obviously I focused more on specific little things here while I was working on specific things for my book. But now that I’m in promotion phase…here’s me promoting (I admit), but also showing anyone who cares what it looks like when you follow through on, not only writing, but also promoting your writing. So here goes!

It Started with a Chance Encounter…

I talked to a novelist–whose work has sold millions of copies–a few years ago when I had just started what would become my first published novel, Switchers.

The meeting was totally random. It started with bumping into a family friend at the grocery store.

They asked, “What’re you up to these days?”

“I’m actually writing a novel.”

“Really? I didn’t know you were a writer. I’m hosting a writing conference. ___________ is the main speaker, have you ever heard of him?”

“I’m just finishing one of his series right now!”

“That’s great. I have to pick him up from the airport and take him to lunch before the conference. I’ve never read his stuff. Would you like to have lunch with us?”

And I did. And, for the cost of a meal, I got one-on-one novel crafting advice from a man who sells at least a million copies of every title he releases. He told me everything I was doing wrong. Gave me advice on how stories work, how to create tension, and how to write without thinking too hard.

I ditched my outline. Stopped doing character charts. Stopped all the crap that wasn’t actual writing. Just wrote. And he showed me the benefit of writing yourself into a corner.

Brilliant stuff.

I left with a ton of confidence and the knowledge, according to a multi-million copy bestseller, that writing a great novel takes around 1,000 hours of total time spent actively working on the WIP (work in progress).

When I hit that mark, I published.

Since then I’ve sold in 6 countries, have a nice little book tour going, got a chance to talk about my book on TV, and have managed to reach the likes of good people like you. Some how, some way.

And I’m glad I did.

If You’ve Made It This Far, Two Things:

1. Thank you for your time and consideration, as far as buying the book goes. It’s my baby and I really appreciate you buying it, or even simply spreading the word about a cool new book you heard about. You’re helping me live the dream and I love you for it!
2. Please look at all the info for my book. You don’t have to buy. There aren’t a ton of pop-ups. (In fact, I don’t think there are any. (Let me know if I’m wrong…)) If you like it, there are links for the paperback and e-book. There’s also a link to get a signed copy sent to you, if you’re into that kinda thing.

A Few Switchers Reviews to Peruse…

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Dreamers gotta dream, right?

Thanks so much for checking it out. Follow me via any of the links below that beautiful, bearded face down yonder. And/or sign up for emails!

You rock!

-CT

Christopher Tallon is the author of the dark, adventurous, time-travel novel Switchers.

Herb’s the word / Spin’s the verb / Lovers, it curves / So freak what you heard

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