Hey Alexa. I know things have been rough lately, so if you need an ego boost, I preordered my copy of The Ivies at my local brick and mortar bookstore last week. Local chain too! Note even a Barnes & Noble...
I was published in nonfiction 20 years ago. I remember being excited when the published bought it, but my the time it came out, I was like, "Eh. Whatever. Cool, I guess." I genuinely didn't care at that point, though I appreciated the nice things people said. Awards felt good. Having my book used as a textbook in a couple of important places was really exciting. Overall, the release was almost a non-issue in my life.
I haven't published yet, but this speaks to my soul. There are SO many ups and downs to writing. I wasn't expecting that when I first started. Thanks for the great video, as always!
We missed you! You look amazing, as always! Thank you for being transparent and vulnerable. It is always so comforting to know that you aren’t alone. I hope the clouds are parting for you, as I know you’ve had a hard time lately.
I got really depressed after sending out blurb requests to other authors. I ended up getting a great response, but before I heard back from anyone I just got this overwhelming sense of embarrassment and sadness about the whole thing. It really surprised me.
I was actually surprised that my book WAS in Barnes & Noble. I was 100% ready to walk in and find out that I was only on the website but not on the shelf. So that was a pleasant surprise. But yes, there's no question that it's hard to see book roundups and Bookstagramers talk about your category (sometimes really specifically--"10 must-read sci-fi YA books that deal with grief coming out this March that you CAN'T miss!") and, yeah, you're not on it. (This even happened with a website that I did an interview with. Jeez.) I know these are "champagne problems," like you said, but I think it's healthy for us to admit that some days the fears get the best of us. Thanks again for this great vlog, Alexa! I really love it.
not an author, but still very much so in the creative artistic space (animation student making her graduation film hahaha) and your videos are still very relatable to me. there's this thing after you've finally done a short film where you experience something similar to the post debut sadness that you talk about, especially as a student if you're not the star of the class, since you can directly compare the reaction to your film to the ones the others gathered! thank you for this video, very refreshing to hear you talk about things so openly and honestly. it's very validating.
I get the blues when I finish a book. Which is silly, but it happens. I'm used to it now and I prepare myself for the melancholy, but it's still super draining...
Awesome to have you back, Alexa! There’s also that weird sadness that can come with extreme success...the “now what?” feeling. I’m still very much an unpublished imposter for now, but even so, I try to take my joy from the writing process itself. Those moments when it’s just you and the page and infinity. Thank you for all of your awesome content!
Hello! It's lovely to see a new video pop up overnight, (Australian here, so a lot of interesting things happen while I'm sleeping!) - I appreciate this content, but also just wanted to say that I appreciate you continuing to make content, even when it is hard. I like that you were able to record this at a time that felt right for you, and while I have missed your videos, I'm glad you have been able to take the time to feel the feelings. Parasocial relations means I feel very attached to the TH-cam version of you, but it is good to realise how much of your life is your own, and I hope you can continue to have a really positive relationship with your online world/fans. All the best, and looking forward to whatever you post next!
Yes, yes, and yes. Definitely been there for a lot of these. I actually got to work with someone I looked up to before publishing, and he was a very good example of "don't meet your heroes." Total jerk. :/ Definitely been shafted at book events, often because I'm an APub author and book stores just don't like Amazon. 🤷🏻 And I also do the guilt cycle. Something that surprised me was the bias in bestseller lists. They're definitely not for overall bestsellers. Thanks for the video. Your eyeshadow is on point 👌🏻
I’m so sorry you’re struggling. You’re not alone. I hope you can rest. 💕Show yourself some kindness and fill up your cup however you need to right now. We’ll all be here when you get back. ❤️
Love this, you’re always so honest and open! I cry so much already and I’m not even published yet (or agented😥) can imagine I’ll be a blubbering mess when I am! Btw I missed your videos, I feel like you’re a staple in my writing journey and I get sad when you don’t post. Sending hugs!
Hi:) don't know if I've commented on your videos before? But just wanted to say I find them very helpful and entertaining, and in this case, supporting🙌 My debut is coming out this week, and it was very reassuring to hear that it can be a sad thing haha! I haven't been sad about it yet, but I guess I will be if I don't find it in a bookstore. Or if it's not on one of the tables🙃 So it's good to know I'm not alone! It's easy to feel "ungrateful" if you've "made it" in terms of getting a book deal and finishing a book, and still feel let down about things.. One surprisingly sad thing for me so far was seeing the list of nominees for an award I know I was considered for. One of the big bookstores in Norway has a children's book award where five titles compete, and the judges are 10000 kids in different schools, and I loved the idea of being a part of that and being read by so many kids at once! So when my publisher said that they had asked for a pdf of my book to consider, before it was out, I was thrilled. And then they announced the nominees in the end of summer, and I wasn't on the list ofc. It was this sinking feeling of "oh no I'm not the center of everyone's universe" haha. Very silly, but still legit sad. Anyway, thanks for making these videos, hope you're doing well
I love and appreciate your honesty. Imposter Syndrome sucks so hard. I want you to know that you are my superhero. I hate that you have had some tough feelings hit you. I can tell you, I've been going through some super horrible feelings. I finally started querying. Havent even heard anything from anyone yet and am triple guessing myself and my work. Emotions suck sometimes.
I'm so sorry you're feeling sad, Alexa! Just know that you're an inspiration to us and that you have inspired me to finally start writing my novel this year, after a lifetime of loving to write, wanting to write, and not knowing how to tackle this big dream. Your videos have helped me so much, I have binge-watched your videos while getting to the first 40K words, and I intend to go on! I hope to one day be a published author who will be sad when you don't want to blurb me!
I was half expecting you to include a bullet point for revisiting story elements you were working on during a heavy/sad time and having unexpected grief come back when you work on that section/story 🖤🙌🏽 comfort for all the big and small sad moments across the board
Ha! Perfect time for this video. My debut comes out tomorrow and there have definitely been some rollercoaster emotions. It is such a comfort to hear you bring all this out in the open. Thank you.
Thank you for another video discussing emotional stuff about publishing. I guess everyone has these moments in life. I think some of the topics you discuss other authors are almost 'scared' to admit. I just find you like a mother who will say it like it is and prepare people for reality as much as possible. You're amazing. You are definitely somebody to me and I look up to you.
Honestly I still view you as a big author! My hope is getting all my copies signed by you! Thank you for sharing your videos of wisdom. Wishing you all good vibes this year.
I have so much love for you ♥. You help me not feel lonely in my writing, which I know no one else who writes soo no one gets it. Your hardworking and success leaves a warm feeling in my heart. I hope your success never stops growing. When one of us wins we all win 🏆. Your sweet soul makes me feel like the things I am struggling with like depression anxiety just hardships in life isn't just me. I hope I run into you one day to give ya a big ol hug lol if your a hugger 🤣 if not I'll just give you a friendly wave🥰🌹
Thank you for sharing this. Before my debut I was convinced that your debut (especially when writing a big epic fantasy series) was the most important book you'd release. My reviews were really good, I got to do a few events before Covid happened, all super exciting. I already had the second book in a near-final phase, but as I was going through editing etc. it occurred to me that, probably because the first book was as well received as it was, there was suddenly a LOT more pressure on the sequel to not only equal my debut, but hopefully better. And that led me down this rabbit hole of trying to make a book perfect, despite that being impossible. I've received great feedback from beta readers, but there's still this anxiety/depression surrounding finishing the last tiny bits of editing and putting it out in a few weeks. Almost like, as you said, I'm mourning the possibility of failure before it's even happened. Your whole bit on second book depression really rang true for me, so thank you :) Seeing authors I really respect going through the same thing definitely makes me feel less alone and more equipped to do just get this novel out in it's best-as-possible state without constantly rehashing all the things that could go wrong, but haven't yet.
So one day, as you are walking to the podium to accept your award, wear an amazing gown in the deep sapphire blue with the eyeshadow and lipstick you are wearing in this video. I know I’m paying attention to the wrong thing and you spent a lot of time filming and editing but the perfection of the look was just too much not to mention. Also, our fur family is true family. The bunnies and I send our condolences. May the Great Bunny of us all bring you comfort.
Loved the video. Here is what made me sad. About a month after I published my technical programming book, some of the software I wrote about was already out of date, and one of programs just died.
I really missed your videos and I'm glad your back! Even though I haven't finished a single book, I'm already scared of all of those disappointments. ;D
Just finished brightly burning yesterday! Can't wait for the Ivies :) Also, can you make a video about the editing process? Like an in depth look at how to do line edits and stuff like that.
You are an amazing person, and an amazing teacher, I have learned so much from you just from a few videos, I am taking notes and editing a very old draft I have and taking into account everything you have said, and I have a great idea to start a whole new book on! You have inspired so many people to write, and it feels like you are the go-to teacher here on TH-cam!
Hi, I self-published a book of poetry and I definitely understand the after publishing depression... Though I did want to tell you, I live in Rockford IL and I went to our local Barnes and Noble and saw your books in the YA section, so you are in this bookstore.
Okay, completely off topic. You look fantastic in that color blue. Fantastic. And your eye makeup ties it all together so beautifully. You mentioned in the livestream with Lainey that you have a new eye shadow palette. Share the link?
Alexa, I realized something last week. The more drama in my life, the more material I have to work with when I write... Actually, I'm at work taking notes because I'm afraid to forget something. I guess it's all the mixed emotions . Also, the more stuff we go through, the wiser we become. It doesn't make our lives better but it's good for writing 😁 I guess what I am saying is use it to your advantage. Welcome back 👍 we need you here. Even if only to vent about our dramas. Signed - the garlic 🧄 pill lady
oh, I so relate to all those feelings of frustration, and I'm self-publishing literary fiction! I know I have a great book, due to random Beta readers I found online, yet not one of the ordinary book bloggers was interested in reading my novel and now I'm stressing out about getting enough reviews:-((
Aw, Alexa! You're not alone 😚it's a tricky time, no matter how, no matter whom. Thanks for making the quality content! You're an AuthorTube hero to me!
Hi Alexa! I listened to a video of yours on first page critiques while I was out on a run this week (it's from a few months back). I thought it was great, and very insightful. Are you planning on making more of those videos?
Even though I self-published, I can relate to what you’re saying about that second book depression. It might even be worse now that I’m finishing up my third 😩
Keep up the great work!! On to book three is such a WILDLY awesome achievement! Even though negative feelings are completely valid, I do hope that you are also proud of yourself for all that you’ve accomplished so far. And know that there are many strangers on the internet who are proud of you and your hard work as well 🤗🤗
Im finishing up my first novel (thank you for all the help!) but I quickly wrote and illustrated a kids book and released that during my editing process of the novel. I'm a little more prepared now for the emotions of putting a book out there and no body knowing. That and 3 months later im still dealing with publishing issues; the whole thing has been kinda a disappointment but it would have been more painful with my owip.
I think 2nd book ennui could be related to the kind of sophomore depression that college students get too? The first book (or 1st year in college) is really built up, we work to get there (college applications/queries etc), and then there's this big debut/freshman year. You're special and you meet people, things are new and exciting. And then when you're a sophomore/second book, its not just that things might be disappointing, (people pay less attention to you/it's harder to make friends or a splash) but you also see other people having their debut/freshman year, and you know you'll never get to do that again. SO sadness/disappointment about the second book, but also maybe more so nostalgia or feeling like chances have been missed? Just a parallel I saw. Thanks for the honest video! Do you think being prepared about/aware of these things will make them less gut punch-y?
Glad to see you back Alexa! I was hoping you could answer a quick question! Do you recommend that, as an Aspiring Author, I have a personal website where I post maybe short stories, excerpts, or maybe just samples of our work?
I’ve written 4 novels now. What makes me sad is when someone I know seems excited about my books, buys them, then months later when I ask them what they thought they tell me they haven’t actually read it yet. 🥲 Makes me feel like they bought it but didn’t really want to. LOL. Sigh.
Re: number six - I'm always a bit disappointed when I don't see my book in a store I visit, but I usually just tell myself it means they had it and sold out to make myself feel better 😅 Overall, I'm really not sure how much of my debut experience last fall felt sad because of the things you mentioned many authors experience when debuting or if it was just straight-up COVID. My launch party got canceled (which would've been at an ice rink since my book featured a figure skater) and shifted to a virtual event which was completely wonderful. And yet I still feel sad that I wasn't able to celebrate at the rink like I'd planned (though it probably saved me a substantial amount of money, lol). I'm grateful for the events I've had a chance to do and the readers I've been able to connect with via virtual events but I've literally never been to a writing conference or a book event. Not as a reader and not as an author. And I suppose in some ways I feel sad that I've missed out. But then I just remind myself I have books coming out in 2022 and in 2023 so far. Maybe those launches will look different. And that gives me some hope again :)
Blue is a complementary color for you :) I wonder if this compares to being a Real Estate agent and being sad right after the closing papers are signed?
@@ancient_bam aw thank you! Not sad at all, but I understood what Alexa was saying about that post-party slump. It’s been an amazing couple weeks though!
This video made me SAD, LOL.. But, I completely understand. I've just come to expect nothing from anyone. I try to work hard and create art I'm proud of and that I love. But, marketing is tough. Engagement is tough. I push forward for the love of the craft- despite feeling invisible and unpopular.
You're getting really good at this. Question--if an agent dfoes not have Crime posted on their website but they do have mystery, is it alright to query them for crime/police, since there is mystery in most every crime novel?
Alexa I have learned so much knowledge from your videos. You showed me my biggest mistakes and you helped me address my under writing. My manuscript should be done by July. Was wondering what it would take to get you to review it? Would happily wine and dine with you too. Lol
I was considering if you would ever be willing to do a video about those who are doing Web Serials. Any advice for those of us doing a Web Serial? I don't comment much on your videos, generally because I think you make solid points that I have nothing to add. It's why I am asking what your advice is, on people trying to follow in Worm's footsteps.
I’m so sorry that you’re going through a hard time! It makes me so sad to hear that you’re sad! ❤️ I don’t know if it helps, but I love you and your videos! It’s nice to have someone talk about the real side of writing! Thank you for not sugarcoating things, cause you’re helping us newbies understand that it’s okay to have doubts and feel sad!
Hi Alexa! Long time fan. I found _The Stars We Steal_ in B&N today and picked it up...so excited to read it, and so happy for all of your continued success! It was such a cool feeling to see your work on the shelf! A personal dream of mine for my own novel someday. Great work and take care!
If something does affect me I get angry rather than sad, then I get angry at myself for being angry because as a writer I need to handle rejection. It's a vicious circle.
As an indie and self-pubbed author, the snub/lack of recognition didn’t really bother me. I knew from the start I was going to have to be my primary promoter. I take the responsibility for making event organizers aware of my books and existence. SHAMELESS ATTENTION HOG!
I see that the Big 4 is going to be big 3 soon with Harpercollin's merger place. Lack of place, smaller deals, lack of editors, more coorprate control, will certainly leave the competition wide open. I wonder what will happen with the smaller publishing places. If you see this Alexa...keep an eye on this, this is red hot.
Harper Collins isn't merging? They bought HMH, which was not a Big 5 publisher, but a major. It's still Big 4. (Hachette or Macmillan would have to go under/be sold for it to be Big 3)
@@AlexaDonne Aha, a mis;eading video from Alyssa Matesic then..thanks. Yeah, rumours were flying around and Harpercollins are looking into it...anyway, thanks for saying so...big hugs to you
enduring 30 years of supposed publishing ambition but yet to accomplish, especially writing something morally ethical and needed within human race. google' matthew martin mckissick"
And for us, knowing that we can never compare to you on eyeshadow skills.
No, but really, she's a goddess at doing eyeshadow.
Right? I know. Always so well put together. I love it.
Girlllll listennnn 😭😭😭
Hey Alexa. I know things have been rough lately, so if you need an ego boost, I preordered my copy of The Ivies at my local brick and mortar bookstore last week. Local chain too! Note even a Barnes & Noble...
I was published in nonfiction 20 years ago. I remember being excited when the published bought it, but my the time it came out, I was like, "Eh. Whatever. Cool, I guess." I genuinely didn't care at that point, though I appreciated the nice things people said. Awards felt good. Having my book used as a textbook in a couple of important places was really exciting. Overall, the release was almost a non-issue in my life.
I always love it when your makeup matches your outfit. Sparks joy.
I haven't published yet, but this speaks to my soul. There are SO many ups and downs to writing. I wasn't expecting that when I first started. Thanks for the great video, as always!
I'm with you!
"it's almost like you're pre-dreading things not going the way you want them to" WHERE IS THE LIE
love your videos as well!!
We missed you! You look amazing, as always! Thank you for being transparent and vulnerable. It is always so comforting to know that you aren’t alone. I hope the clouds are parting for you, as I know you’ve had a hard time lately.
I got really depressed after sending out blurb requests to other authors. I ended up getting a great response, but before I heard back from anyone I just got this overwhelming sense of embarrassment and sadness about the whole thing. It really surprised me.
I was actually surprised that my book WAS in Barnes & Noble. I was 100% ready to walk in and find out that I was only on the website but not on the shelf. So that was a pleasant surprise. But yes, there's no question that it's hard to see book roundups and Bookstagramers talk about your category (sometimes really specifically--"10 must-read sci-fi YA books that deal with grief coming out this March that you CAN'T miss!") and, yeah, you're not on it. (This even happened with a website that I did an interview with. Jeez.) I know these are "champagne problems," like you said, but I think it's healthy for us to admit that some days the fears get the best of us. Thanks again for this great vlog, Alexa! I really love it.
not an author, but still very much so in the creative artistic space (animation student making her graduation film hahaha) and your videos are still very relatable to me. there's this thing after you've finally done a short film where you experience something similar to the post debut sadness that you talk about, especially as a student if you're not the star of the class, since you can directly compare the reaction to your film to the ones the others gathered!
thank you for this video, very refreshing to hear you talk about things so openly and honestly. it's very validating.
I get the blues when I finish a book. Which is silly, but it happens. I'm used to it now and I prepare myself for the melancholy, but it's still super draining...
Awesome to have you back, Alexa! There’s also that weird sadness that can come with extreme success...the “now what?” feeling. I’m still very much an unpublished imposter for now, but even so, I try to take my joy from the writing process itself. Those moments when it’s just you and the page and infinity.
Thank you for all of your awesome content!
I've missed you! But I totally get why you took the time off - not that you need our approval.
Please be kind to yourself!
Hello! It's lovely to see a new video pop up overnight, (Australian here, so a lot of interesting things happen while I'm sleeping!) - I appreciate this content, but also just wanted to say that I appreciate you continuing to make content, even when it is hard. I like that you were able to record this at a time that felt right for you, and while I have missed your videos, I'm glad you have been able to take the time to feel the feelings. Parasocial relations means I feel very attached to the TH-cam version of you, but it is good to realise how much of your life is your own, and I hope you can continue to have a really positive relationship with your online world/fans. All the best, and looking forward to whatever you post next!
Yes, yes, and yes. Definitely been there for a lot of these. I actually got to work with someone I looked up to before publishing, and he was a very good example of "don't meet your heroes." Total jerk. :/ Definitely been shafted at book events, often because I'm an APub author and book stores just don't like Amazon. 🤷🏻 And I also do the guilt cycle.
Something that surprised me was the bias in bestseller lists. They're definitely not for overall bestsellers.
Thanks for the video. Your eyeshadow is on point 👌🏻
I’m so sorry you’re struggling. You’re not alone. I hope you can rest. 💕Show yourself some kindness and fill up your cup however you need to right now. We’ll all be here when you get back. ❤️
Love this, you’re always so honest and open!
I cry so much already and I’m not even published yet (or agented😥) can imagine I’ll be a blubbering mess when I am!
Btw I missed your videos, I feel like you’re a staple in my writing journey and I get sad when you don’t post.
Sending hugs!
Hey Alexa. I love how honest you are. That combined with your jokes thumbnails is super refreshing.
Sending hugs! Thanks for sharing this today!
Hi:) don't know if I've commented on your videos before? But just wanted to say I find them very helpful and entertaining, and in this case, supporting🙌 My debut is coming out this week, and it was very reassuring to hear that it can be a sad thing haha! I haven't been sad about it yet, but I guess I will be if I don't find it in a bookstore. Or if it's not on one of the tables🙃 So it's good to know I'm not alone! It's easy to feel "ungrateful" if you've "made it" in terms of getting a book deal and finishing a book, and still feel let down about things.. One surprisingly sad thing for me so far was seeing the list of nominees for an award I know I was considered for. One of the big bookstores in Norway has a children's book award where five titles compete, and the judges are 10000 kids in different schools, and I loved the idea of being a part of that and being read by so many kids at once! So when my publisher said that they had asked for a pdf of my book to consider, before it was out, I was thrilled. And then they announced the nominees in the end of summer, and I wasn't on the list ofc. It was this sinking feeling of "oh no I'm not the center of everyone's universe" haha. Very silly, but still legit sad. Anyway, thanks for making these videos, hope you're doing well
I love and appreciate your honesty. Imposter Syndrome sucks so hard. I want you to know that you are my superhero. I hate that you have had some tough feelings hit you. I can tell you, I've been going through some super horrible feelings. I finally started querying. Havent even heard anything from anyone yet and am triple guessing myself and my work. Emotions suck sometimes.
I'm so sorry you're feeling sad, Alexa! Just know that you're an inspiration to us and that you have inspired me to finally start writing my novel this year, after a lifetime of loving to write, wanting to write, and not knowing how to tackle this big dream. Your videos have helped me so much, I have binge-watched your videos while getting to the first 40K words, and I intend to go on! I hope to one day be a published author who will be sad when you don't want to blurb me!
I was half expecting you to include a bullet point for revisiting story elements you were working on during a heavy/sad time and having unexpected grief come back when you work on that section/story 🖤🙌🏽 comfort for all the big and small sad moments across the board
Ha! Perfect time for this video. My debut comes out tomorrow and there have definitely been some rollercoaster emotions. It is such a comfort to hear you bring all this out in the open. Thank you.
Thank you for another video discussing emotional stuff about publishing. I guess everyone has these moments in life.
I think some of the topics you discuss other authors are almost 'scared' to admit. I just find you like a mother who will say it like it is and prepare people for reality as much as possible. You're amazing.
You are definitely somebody to me and I look up to you.
Honestly I still view you as a big author! My hope is getting all my copies signed by you! Thank you for sharing your videos of wisdom. Wishing you all good vibes this year.
Wow, I didn't know about the post debut sadness. Not looking forward to that. I was already dreading the empty bookstore shelves.
I have so much love for you ♥. You help me not feel lonely in my writing, which I know no one else who writes soo no one gets it. Your hardworking and success leaves a warm feeling in my heart. I hope your success never stops growing. When one of us wins we all win 🏆. Your sweet soul makes me feel like the things I am struggling with like depression anxiety just hardships in life isn't just me.
I hope I run into you one day to give ya a big ol hug lol if your a hugger 🤣 if not I'll just give you a friendly wave🥰🌹
Thank you for sharing this. Before my debut I was convinced that your debut (especially when writing a big epic fantasy series) was the most important book you'd release. My reviews were really good, I got to do a few events before Covid happened, all super exciting. I already had the second book in a near-final phase, but as I was going through editing etc. it occurred to me that, probably because the first book was as well received as it was, there was suddenly a LOT more pressure on the sequel to not only equal my debut, but hopefully better. And that led me down this rabbit hole of trying to make a book perfect, despite that being impossible. I've received great feedback from beta readers, but there's still this anxiety/depression surrounding finishing the last tiny bits of editing and putting it out in a few weeks. Almost like, as you said, I'm mourning the possibility of failure before it's even happened. Your whole bit on second book depression really rang true for me, so thank you :) Seeing authors I really respect going through the same thing definitely makes me feel less alone and more equipped to do just get this novel out in it's best-as-possible state without constantly rehashing all the things that could go wrong, but haven't yet.
I'm so happy your back!! ❤
Good to see you, Alexa!
Thanks for all the warnings, Alexa. Very honest. Sorry you lost your mum. Hugs.
So one day, as you are walking to the podium to accept your award, wear an amazing gown in the deep sapphire blue with the eyeshadow and lipstick you are wearing in this video. I know I’m paying attention to the wrong thing and you spent a lot of time filming and editing but the perfection of the look was just too much not to mention.
Also, our fur family is true family. The bunnies and I send our condolences. May the Great Bunny of us all bring you comfort.
Good to see you again! I hope things get better for you soon ❤
Good to hear from you and good to have a heads up on hard author things. Hope spring brings good things.
Glad to see you're back. So sorry for your loss. I hope you're doing okay and thanks for being so honest with the community. Take care.
Glad you’re back and hope you are feeling better ❤️❤️❤️
Loved the video. Here is what made me sad. About a month after I published my technical programming book, some of the software I wrote about was already out of date, and one of programs just died.
I really missed your videos and I'm glad your back! Even though I haven't finished a single book, I'm already scared of all of those disappointments. ;D
I can't wait to get The Ivies! I'll get it from my local bookstore when it comes out :)
Just finished brightly burning yesterday! Can't wait for the Ivies :)
Also, can you make a video about the editing process? Like an in depth look at how to do line edits and stuff like that.
I was realizing you were taking a break. I love your videos. Thanks for talking the hard stuff.
You are an amazing person, and an amazing teacher, I have learned so much from you just from a few videos, I am taking notes and editing a very old draft I have and taking into account everything you have said, and I have a great idea to start a whole new book on! You have inspired so many people to write, and it feels like you are the go-to teacher here on TH-cam!
Hi, I self-published a book of poetry and I definitely understand the after publishing depression...
Though I did want to tell you, I live in Rockford IL and I went to our local Barnes and Noble and saw your books in the YA section, so you are in this bookstore.
Okay, completely off topic. You look fantastic in that color blue. Fantastic. And your eye makeup ties it all together so beautifully. You mentioned in the livestream with Lainey that you have a new eye shadow palette. Share the link?
It's Pat McGrath Mothership I palette :)
Alexa, I realized something last week. The more drama in my life, the more material I have to work with when I write... Actually, I'm at work taking notes because I'm afraid to forget something. I guess it's all the mixed emotions . Also, the more stuff we go through, the wiser we become. It doesn't make our lives better but it's good for writing 😁
I guess what I am saying is use it to your advantage. Welcome back 👍 we need you here. Even if only to vent about our dramas.
Signed - the garlic 🧄 pill lady
yay youre back! love your videos & hope youre doing well 😊
Thanks Alexa, always so helpful and honest. Really appreciate you!!
oh, I so relate to all those feelings of frustration, and I'm self-publishing literary fiction! I know I have a great book, due to random Beta readers I found online, yet not one of the ordinary book bloggers was interested in reading my novel and now I'm stressing out about getting enough reviews:-((
Aw, Alexa! You're not alone 😚it's a tricky time, no matter how, no matter whom. Thanks for making the quality content! You're an AuthorTube hero to me!
Glad to see new content. I hope I get to have some of these problems. Great video
Hi Alexa! I listened to a video of yours on first page critiques while I was out on a run this week (it's from a few months back). I thought it was great, and very insightful. Are you planning on making more of those videos?
Glad you're back.
💛 i hope you feel better
Even though I self-published, I can relate to what you’re saying about that second book depression. It might even be worse now that I’m finishing up my third 😩
Keep up the great work!! On to book three is such a WILDLY awesome achievement! Even though negative feelings are completely valid, I do hope that you are also proud of yourself for all that you’ve accomplished so far. And know that there are many strangers on the internet who are proud of you and your hard work as well 🤗🤗
I like seeing this side of you. Don't get me wrong, I like when you yell at me too , but this is nice.
Im finishing up my first novel (thank you for all the help!) but I quickly wrote and illustrated a kids book and released that during my editing process of the novel. I'm a little more prepared now for the emotions of putting a book out there and no body knowing. That and 3 months later im still dealing with publishing issues; the whole thing has been kinda a disappointment but it would have been more painful with my owip.
I think 2nd book ennui could be related to the kind of sophomore depression that college students get too? The first book (or 1st year in college) is really built up, we work to get there (college applications/queries etc), and then there's this big debut/freshman year. You're special and you meet people, things are new and exciting.
And then when you're a sophomore/second book, its not just that things might be disappointing, (people pay less attention to you/it's harder to make friends or a splash) but you also see other people having their debut/freshman year, and you know you'll never get to do that again. SO sadness/disappointment about the second book, but also maybe more so nostalgia or feeling like chances have been missed?
Just a parallel I saw.
Thanks for the honest video! Do you think being prepared about/aware of these things will make them less gut punch-y?
Sorry about your Kitty, Alexa. Keep up the good work on here and with your writing.
Glad to see you back Alexa! I was hoping you could answer a quick question! Do you recommend that, as an Aspiring Author, I have a personal website where I post maybe short stories, excerpts, or maybe just samples of our work?
I’ve written 4 novels now. What makes me sad is when someone I know seems excited about my books, buys them, then months later when I ask them what they thought they tell me they haven’t actually read it yet. 🥲 Makes me feel like they bought it but didn’t really want to. LOL. Sigh.
What novels? I am so sorry for you, I believe that is the worst part of publishing.
Re: number six - I'm always a bit disappointed when I don't see my book in a store I visit, but I usually just tell myself it means they had it and sold out to make myself feel better 😅
Overall, I'm really not sure how much of my debut experience last fall felt sad because of the things you mentioned many authors experience when debuting or if it was just straight-up COVID. My launch party got canceled (which would've been at an ice rink since my book featured a figure skater) and shifted to a virtual event which was completely wonderful. And yet I still feel sad that I wasn't able to celebrate at the rink like I'd planned (though it probably saved me a substantial amount of money, lol). I'm grateful for the events I've had a chance to do and the readers I've been able to connect with via virtual events but I've literally never been to a writing conference or a book event. Not as a reader and not as an author. And I suppose in some ways I feel sad that I've missed out.
But then I just remind myself I have books coming out in 2022 and in 2023 so far. Maybe those launches will look different. And that gives me some hope again :)
You are a gift to the writing world.
you totally nailed it all. All. Of. It.
Blue is a complementary color for you :) I wonder if this compares to being a Real Estate agent and being sad right after the closing papers are signed?
Numero 888 of thumbs up... very nice. Sorry to hear about your mother.
I'm so glad to see you back, Alexa! I'm ready to grab my tissues and cry alongside you!
My book doesn't even come out on summer, 2022 and I've already worried about all of these snubs in advance!
So funny that this video dropped today, 13 days after my debut release. Yeah.
Congratulations! I hope you're not too sad
Congrats!! - I'm echoing the prior comment; hope there's not too much sadness. ♥
AYE I'm proud of u, congrats! You doing alright??
@@ancient_bam aw thank you! Not sad at all, but I understood what Alexa was saying about that post-party slump. It’s been an amazing couple weeks though!
This is a strong video to make. I hope the blues go away for you soon.
Post release..scary times especially for a debut author!!!! Let down.....reality.....scared.....invisible....u make me feel better!!
i've seen your books at my nearest B&N in the ya section!
This video made me SAD, LOL.. But, I completely understand. I've just come to expect nothing from anyone. I try to work hard and create art I'm proud of and that I love. But, marketing is tough. Engagement is tough. I push forward for the love of the craft- despite feeling invisible and unpopular.
#5 happens in the writing process too! Things you didn't know your book was about come out at night...🌙🎃
So funny to see this now when I'm exactly going through the sadness of my favorite author who ignores me all of a sudden 😅
3 weeks after my debut novel came out, and I'm feeling the number 1 right now
You're getting really good at this. Question--if an agent dfoes not have Crime posted on their website but they do have mystery, is it alright to query them for crime/police, since there is mystery in most every crime novel?
The "drink" really hit me hahaha
Alexa I have learned so much knowledge from your videos. You showed me my biggest mistakes and you helped me address my under writing. My manuscript should be done by July. Was wondering what it would take to get you to review it? Would happily wine and dine with you too. Lol
Damn... half-way through and I’ve felt all the things on the list already :(
I was considering if you would ever be willing to do a video about those who are doing Web Serials. Any advice for those of us doing a Web Serial? I don't comment much on your videos, generally because I think you make solid points that I have nothing to add. It's why I am asking what your advice is, on people trying to follow in Worm's footsteps.
Wondering if it would kill me or not to take a shot every time Alexa says sad....
Geez I wish I could do eyeshadow
Glad to have you back 😁
I’m so sorry that you’re going through a hard time! It makes me so sad to hear that you’re sad! ❤️ I don’t know if it helps, but I love you and your videos! It’s nice to have someone talk about the real side of writing! Thank you for not sugarcoating things, cause you’re helping us newbies understand that it’s okay to have doubts and feel sad!
Yeah I cried today because I was frustrated with publishing
I was really sad learning my book would only be pubbed in soft cover not hard cover. I’m still not over it😂
I'm a self published author and I like to say "it doesn't get better. It just gets different"
I'm super sad after watching this video and I'm not even published lol
I cannot wait to have these problems.
Hi Alexa! Long time fan. I found _The Stars We Steal_ in B&N today and picked it up...so excited to read it, and so happy for all of your continued success! It was such a cool feeling to see your work on the shelf! A personal dream of mine for my own novel someday. Great work and take care!
Thank you for all the amazing content and for normalizing being sad. *Knuckles*
I'm going indie or self publishing, I don't expect anything but crickets tbh. I have a pretty thick skin.
If something does affect me I get angry rather than sad, then I get angry at myself for being angry because as a writer I need to handle rejection. It's a vicious circle.
As an indie and self-pubbed author, the snub/lack of recognition didn’t really bother me. I knew from the start I was going to have to be my primary promoter. I take the responsibility for making event organizers aware of my books and existence. SHAMELESS ATTENTION HOG!
I see that the Big 4 is going to be big 3 soon with Harpercollin's merger place. Lack of place, smaller deals, lack of editors, more coorprate control, will certainly leave the competition wide open. I wonder what will happen with the smaller publishing places. If you see this Alexa...keep an eye on this, this is red hot.
Harper Collins isn't merging? They bought HMH, which was not a Big 5 publisher, but a major. It's still Big 4. (Hachette or Macmillan would have to go under/be sold for it to be Big 3)
@@AlexaDonne Aha, a mis;eading video from Alyssa Matesic then..thanks. Yeah, rumours were flying around and Harpercollins are looking into it...anyway, thanks for saying so...big hugs to you
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I’ll let you know if this train wreck of a first book I’m writing ever gets published.
If not at least the family will enjoy it 😕
Oh to be a blurber
I’ll pass on the drinking game, I’d rather not get alcohol poisoning today, thank you!
enduring 30 years of supposed publishing ambition but yet to accomplish, especially writing something morally ethical and needed within human race. google' matthew martin mckissick"
No one wanting to review you when you write reviewers and send ebooks to them