This is the time of year when, inevitably, I start thinking of all that I accomplished (or more apropo, what I didn’t accomplish). I didn’t land a mega agent. I didn’t sell. I didn’t even get all the projects completed that I had hoped when I started 2006 with a bright eyed, bushy tailed optimism.

It’s been a tough year. Life got in the way of many of my writing goals….and procrastination got in the way of the rest. But, you know what? I can’t look at this past year and think of it as anything other than a resounding success. I think I will always think of 2006 as “The Year of the Great Learning”.

Yes, I’ve learned so much while writing Her Own Best Enemy. It’s my first romantic suspense project and the most challenging thing I’ve ever written — but it’s also, hands down, the best.

And it’s because I learned some essential fundamentals about putting together a kick butt story along the way.

I’ve started. I’ve stopped. I changed direction. But, for once, I have a clear vision. A vision that, perhaps, was missing from my previous stories.

I’ve learned how to put together a hero’s journey that rocks. I’ve learned how to plot — imagine that! Plotting has always been the thorn in my side, but this year I took a couple of fantastic online workshops that helped me get to the heart of a character’s motivation and plot from the inside (internal GMC) out (external GMC). I’m amazed at the difference it truly does make in a story.

And, maybe the most valuable lesson of all….I’ve learned to be patient. Well, at least, somewhat. I admit, I’m not the most patient person in the world when it comes to something I want, but I’ve learned to step back this year. I’ll achieve my publishing dream when I’m ready. Whether that’s with Her Own Best Enemy or something else down the line.

In January, I embark on a renewed quest. I’ll start sending Her Own Best Enemy out into the agent abyss and hope that I’ll find one out there that loves it and believes they can sell it. I’m already bracing myself for the pile of rejections I’m sure to rack up.

But, win or lose — Her Own Best Enemy will hold a special place in my heart for all it’s taught me along the way.