Overcoming Grief and Writer’s Block: Mary Cope on Success as an Author
Today our featured author is Mary Cope. A fellow Rose she writes young adult romance. Today she shares her struggles and challenges, and gives some great advice for those intent on becoming an author.
Welcome Mary Cope,
Is there an event in your life that affected you as a writer?
After ‘Beautiful One’ was published, one of my closest friends, my beta reader, passed away. Continuing to write felt almost impossible. The grief was overwhelming, and every attempt to put words on paper felt empty and meaningless. I struggled to find the motivation to write, feeling as though a part of me was missing without my dear friend. Despite this, I knew that writing had always been a source of comfort and joy for me, so I tried to persevere. I allowed myself to grieve, to feel the pain and sadness, and sought solace in memories of our friendship and the laughter we shared.
There were days when I couldn’t write at all, when the grief was too raw and overwhelming. But there were also moments of clarity, when the words flowed freely and I felt connected to my friend, knowing he would have wanted me to continue writing. Writing became a form of therapy for me, a way to process my emotions. In the end, writing helped me to remember and celebrate my friend’s life. I know that’s what he would’ve wanted.
Do you ever experience writer’s block?
Absolutely! I believe every writer faces the dreaded “Writer’s block.” When writer’s block strikes, I’ve learned that taking a break and stepping away from my work can be incredibly helpful. A change of scenery, like going for a walk, often clears my mind and allows me to overcome the block. Discussing my ideas with others can provide fresh perspectives and help me break through mental barriers. I’ve found that combining these strategies can effectively help me overcome writer’s block and return to my writing with renewed inspiration.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
- Firstly, embrace who you are as a writer. Your voice, perspective, and experiences are unlike anyone else’s, and that’s your greatest asset. Don’t try to imitate others or fit into a mold. Your authenticity is what will captivate your readers and make your work stand out.
- Secondly, read as much as you can. Reading not only brings joy but also benefits you as a writer. It exposes you to different styles, genres, and techniques, sparking your imagination and enriching your writing. Pay attention to how authors structure their stories, develop their characters, and evoke emotions.
- Like any skill, writing improves with practice. Set aside time each day to write, even if it’s just a few minutes. The more you write, the more you’ll learn about your strengths and weaknesses, and the better your writing will become.
- Don’t be afraid to revise and edit your work. Your first draft is just a draft. Be open to feedback from others but also trust your instincts. You know your story better than anyone else.
- Connect with other writers. Writing can be solitary, but having a support system can make a big difference. Join writing groups, attend workshops, or participate in online forums. Surrounding yourself with other writers can be motivating and inspiring.
- Rejection is part of the process. Every writer faces rejection. Instead of letting it discourage you, use it as motivation to improve. Even successful writers faced rejection early in their careers.
- Believe in yourself and your work. Self-doubt is common, but you have a unique voice and a story that only you can tell. Trust in your ability to bring that story to life.
- Writing is a process with ups and downs, challenges, and triumphs. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep believing in yourself. You have a story to tell, so, tell it!
Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?
When Beautiful One was finished, I was filled with such doubt, I shelved my story for five months because I didn’t think it was good enough. But then I decided, “What the heck? I’ve got nothing to lose.” So, I enlisted the help of a great friend of mine, and we tackled the dreaded “query letter.”
“The query letter has to be perfect!” That’s all I heard from everyone, so writing the query letter freaked me out. And, if you’re in the midst of writing one, you know exactly what I’m talking about. After my query letter was finished, I emailed it to every publisher I thought would be a good fit for my story.
Beautiful One was rejected three times before it was signed with a publisher. Those first rejection letters felt like a personal blow. My feelings were triggered with self-doubt and disappointment. I started to question my abilities as a writer wondering if my work was good enough. Rejection is hard, especially with something so personal. The rational part of me knew that rejection was a natural part of the writing process, but the emotional part of me struggled. I had to remind myself that rejection didn’t define me as a writer. It’s just part of the process.
After those first three rejections, I received four positive responses expressing interest in publishing my manuscript. Each acceptance letter brought me such joy and validation, dispelling the doubt. And now, as I hold the published copy of ‘Beautiful One’ in my hands, I am filled not only with pride but also with gratitude for the journey that led me here.
Why did you choose the genre you write in?
I chose young adult romance for several reasons. I enjoy thinking back at that time in my own life, exploring themes of young love, self-discovery, and personal growth that are prominent in YA romance. The dynamics of teenage relationships and the challenges they face intrigue me. Creating characters and navigating the complexities of their emotions allows for creativity and can be both rewarding and engaging for me as a writer.
Can you tell us about any other upcoming books, series, or writing plans?
I’m currently working on the sequel, “Beautiful Mess,” which delves into the aftermath of the love triangle from “Beautiful One,” centering on the character Elizabeth didn’t choose. This character sets out on a journey of self-discovery, redemption, and rediscovering love. While I don’t want to give away too much, readers can anticipate a heartfelt narrative that explores the complexities of relationships, healing, and the search for inner peace.
Beautiful One
by Mary Cope
Transformation, empowerment, love and music come together in the book, Beautiful One.
Elizabeth Ryan is a beautiful, shy, naïve high school senior. Having never dated, she meets the boy of her dreams, Aidan Mitchell. Despite his history of womanizing, Liz is drawn to him. Soon Liz becomes the envy of all the girls on campus, when they become a couple and her dream boyfriend sweeps her off her feet and into the dating world that is all too new and strange for her. When other guys start to take notice of Liz, Aidan is troubled with fits of jealousy.
Elizabeth then meets the ruggedly handsome, Spencer Hayes, and they quickly bond over their passion for music. Liz begins to struggle with the feelings that spark between them.
In the end Elizabeth finds herself torn between helping Aidan overcome his jealousy and anger and giving into what her heart truly wants.
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Learn more about Mary Cope
Mary Cope is a freelance writer of romance. Her book, Beautiful One, is the first in a planned trilogy. She enjoys spending time with her family, baking gourmet cookies, listening to music and taking long walks with her yellow Labrador, Maggie.
Congrats on the publication of your first novel and for pushing through the tough time of losing a dear friend. I ‘ve often found writing to be a form of therapy for me and even a source of solace. Wishing you must success.