Things I have learned while writing my first novel

I would like to start off with two quotes here first that explains so much of what I have dealt with.

“It is perfectly okay to write garbage—as long as you edit brilliantly.”
― C.J. Cherryh

“If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”
― Stephen King

I have learned so much while writing my first novel and am still learning everyday as I continue writing. After writing my first draft of Echoes from a Hollow Soul, I thought it was great and complete all on its own. When I put it away for a little while, thoughts about the second book were coming to me. I thought about the first book some more and knew I needed to add more to it. There needed to be more. I wanted it scarier, with more emotion, just more! I don't know when this editing process will be done with this first book, but I can honestly say when it is done it will be exceptional. I've noticed many writers with there first novels take years to get it to publishing standards. So another thing I am learning is to be patient, and not to hurry this, or else I might publish something that isn't quite right.

I honestly believe reading is ones main tool for writing. Stephen King sure got that right. During NaNoWriMo I pushed reading to a back burner. I now know that should not be done. Yes I need lots of time to write during that month to get 50,000 words in but I still need to make time for a little bit of reading as well.

I have also made some great friends with authors, to be authors, and just writers in general through this whole experience. I hope to meet many more and continue down this road, because even if my stories go no where they are a part of me and I love them.
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In other news I have started reading The Copper Witch by Jessica Dall. This is book one of the Broken Line Series, which is a historical romance. It will be available March 13th, 2014 from 5 Prince Publishing  Here is a little blurb about the book:

Adela Tilden has always been more ambitious than her station in life might allow. A minor nobleman’s daughter on a failing barony, Adela’s prospects seem dire outside of marrying well-off. When Adela catches the eye of the crown prince, Edward, however, well-off doesn’t seem to be a problem. Thrown into a world of politics and intrigue, Adela might have found all the excitement she ever wanted—if she can manage to leave her past behind.

I haven't read a historical romance in quite a while. I am excited to compare it to other ones I have read. So far I am 40 pages into it and so far it is very good, keeping me intrigued. Adela is a real chatter box but that can be expected when you live in a town of mostly sheep. I cant wait to delve more into this book. I have a feeling I won't be able to put the book down.