Someone asked me once how I decided on my next project. Back when I had contracts to fulfill, it was pretty simple. I went to work on the book with the next closest deadline. Now, it’s a different story. Oh, I make plans. I have several series and in an ideal world, I’d put out at least one book a year in each series. That hasn’t been the case lately (last year or so) due to a variety of reasons. But let’s say that is the plan I’m working under. Which book is next? Here’s the Universe’s thoughts on the subject:

First, choose from the options that thrill you.

Then, choose the ones that will also teach you.

And from these, Silver, choose the scariest.

Butterflies in your tummy are good,
The Universe
©www.tut.com 

P.S. That’s how I got Earth rolling, Silver.

Yup. That pretty much sums it up. I’m thrilled to tell stories and some are more thrilling than others. I also learn something with each book I write so I hope that means I’m actually getting better with age, as it were. And last, it’s the scary books that seem to ignite the fires of inspiration–if they don’t freeze you in your tracks first. Sometimes, ya gotta just throw caution to the wind, step out of your comfort zone and tackle the scary stuff. I would also add, I work on the one with the noisiest characters. Writers live with voices in our heads. We can ignore the quiet ones but the ones who shout and jump up and down? They’re just irritating and the only way to get them to calm down is to give them coffee and a chance to tell their story. At least in my world. Writers, how to you pick? Readers, would you consider this advice when picking your next read?