Six o’ clock on a Friday morning and I am wide awake. And yes, I am on holiday. So why have I been awake since four, you might ask. Let’s call it anticipation. Perhaps ‘excitement’ sounds a bit more appropriate.

After writing fifty seven short stories, of which thirty five have been published and eighteen are still taking space on the desks of editors from all over the world, I’ve finally decided to write my first novel. I’ve tested the novel-writing waters for the last few months, writing about twenty thousand words here and there, and finally I have found my voice, so to say.

Seeing as this will be my first novel, which I have to add is a lot scarier than writing a short story, I’ve decided to keep it as simple as possible – one point of view character in first person. I think sixty thousand words should do.

Let me just add that there is no way I’m going to stop writing short stories. I’d be a happy person if I could only focus on short stories for the rest of my life. Perhaps it’s a fear of failure or the fear of wasting a lot of time that keeps most short story writers from taking that big step to novel writing.  

Since I am on holiday, I’ll be aiming at two thousand words a day (minimum), which means the first draft should be done by the end of January.

I will blog about the book every now and then, sharing my thoughts about the story itself and the writing process. Perhaps I’ll even share a chapter or two.

The working title of the book is ‘They Came From The Shadows’. And, as advised by countless authors, here is my single sentence focus statement: A thirty year old Germanic warrior takes part in a physical and mental battle against demonic powers that are methodically gaining control of both his village and his life.

If there are any horror fans who would like to like to read a few sample chapters, you can email me at Joemynhardt@yahoo.com(or find me on Facebook). I’m always open to reader feedback.

Well then. I think it’s time I get started. Wish me luck.

All the best.