MIGHTY PEN: Zahra Linsky

Our NaNoWriMo+Mighty Pen winners are still coming in! Our next round of congratulations goes to Zahra Linksy, who did the thing with the stuff and won NaNo! HUZZAH FOR THE WINNER. Her interview is below, and you can also check out a bit of Bone Maiden, her NaNo project, if you missed it when she hit 15k words!

Interview with a Mighty Pen: Zahra Linsky

What’s one thing that changed in your expectations for your project from November 1 to now?

My project was a partial rewrite (first draft was 76K, cut it down to 36K, second draft completed at 90K), so it was interesting to see where the story would go. I thought that my project would only make it to 80K—90K was a pleasant surprise.

What moment in NaNoWriMo18 stands out the most to you?

I’m most proud of the last few days. For me, these were days 24 and 25. I wrote 3.3K both days—my highest word counts yet. With these two days, I finished the second draft of my novel BONE MAIDEN. It felt good to get that out of the way.

What’s something you’ve learned, or that you’re proud of, from this year’s NaNo?

I’ve learned that I can write more than I thought. I’m an underwriter, so hitting 90K on BONE MAIDEN was a big deal to me. I’m also proud that I finished the second draft. I’m passionate about this project and I can’t wait to let my critique partner read it.

Any advice for yourself or others for next year’s NaNo, if you’re able to participate again?

I would say to not let the pressure get to you. Sometimes, relaxing and giving yourself a low word count goal will double the 1667 word goal. Also, fall in love with your project. Loving the characters and their dynamics were the only way I could get through the month.