"You're not at school now, you don't get points for trying".
Although, writing isn't work, not in the strictest sense. It's a compulsion, a wanting. The need to explore other lives and different worlds, to know what happens next. Everyone has this need to tell a story, to find ears willing to listen. Fortunately, in this internet age, everyone can tell their stories to a wider audience, including me!
Naturally, I want others to share in these fictional adventures. In particular, to experience the magic of flying and the mystic of this other Britain. For the first time in his life, the griffin's boy disobeys orders; makes his own decisions, and so carves out his own fate. I want readers to relive the stomach churning realisation that choosing to follow your own dreams sometimes means going without a safety net; being dependent upon your own strength of character, and of course, the friends you've chosen to be by your side.
Points for trying don't count in the real world, but these stories want to be told, and I can only ever be the best I can be. It helps knowing that some fantastic alpha and beta readers have added their polishing finesse to "The Griffin's Boy". Even with only ten days to go, beta readers are still advising, and I'm especially grateful for their suggestions and even more grateful for their encouraging comments. Another boost arrives from previously unknown fellow adventurers dropping by and saying 'Hi there, enjoyed your story – thanks for the advance read.'
Thank you guys – it helps calm the butterflies a little!