I have had such a ride this year in publishing The Goddess Twins! There’s no way I will ever forget this journey of launching my debut novel – it has stretched me more than I ever thought possible in a multitude of directions. Out of all the highs and lows, I feel most grateful for the reader feedback. After years of work and insecurity and secret hopes about what this story could do, it has been so enthusiastic to hear the excitement and continued curiosity for the world and characters I was able to craft.
I can’t describe the emotion that runs through me when a reader asks when and where is the sequel, because they need it! It’s like when you cook a meal and your friends/family ask for seconds…the bursting pride and gratitude that they really like it and want more! And I do forsee more! I can definitely see myself writing the sequel to this novel one day. But I probably will not jump into my next novel just yet.
So if the sequel is not next, what projects are on the board? Well, in the immediate, I am continuing to market and push the novel the best I can. I’ve been doing author readings and zooming with book groups. I am also developing merchandise that features quotes and the gorgeous cover art (follow my Patreon for merch updates). I am hopeful about getting some currently-in-progress essays placed in publications for further support to the novel.
And then what’s next? Once I get some creative space to dive into a big new thing, I think it’s going to be the challenge of adapting The Goddess Twins, the novel, into a screenplay! Yes! I’ve slowly been entering a self-guided introduction into screenwriting while I quarantine from the virus. I have been watching YouTube analysis videos of book to film adaptations and advanced unpacking of the craft of screenwriting. One of my favorite channels is ‘Lessons from the Screenplay’ and I highly recommend their video essays as quality content.
I am starting gently because I am a total novice at this form of writing! Not only is the script writing style a challenge, but the concept of what to cut from the novel, or how to make scenes that revolve around internal dialogue into something visual and compelling. But with having a novel under my belt, I have the confidence that I can complete this project in time. I’m excited to see what the future holds. I feel so blessed to have finally found my path and career as a writer. There is so much that is uncertain these days, but I know my storytelling passion will continue to be the way I serve the universe. Ashe!
Much love to you all!
Yodassa Williams
