It’s been a rich week! All about the deadline. I made it! I sent a complete new draft to my editor. Squeee!! Thank you for being in on this with me. Knowing you are there helps make it more fun.
How did I meet this deadline that sometimes seemed impossible? Mostly because I have been enjoying the process. I like how this latest draft evolved.
Most mornings, I’ve rolled my journaling ritual into work on the novel. Last week I did a quick read through on screen. I made lots of nips and tucks but no major changes. I was delighted that at the ending, I was moved the way I hope readers will be.
I was able to meet the deadline because I was motivated to have time away from the book. I also lowered the quality bar. I know there is more to do, and I probably could spend another month pecking away at things. I am also comfortable letting something go even if it’s not perfect.
A tiny celebratory bouquet from my garden.
I will be away from the novel for three weeks. Sometime next month I’ll get feedback from Kristen, and then I’ll have that to work on in the final quarter.
Next…Publishing
I’ve got my mind on the next phase after this next and hopefully final edit. Publishing! I’m excited about the possibilities and can’t wait to fill you in. Right now I am focused on making this the best book it can be, so the thing I’ll be selling is something worth buying. It’s good to take a break from the novel to enjoy my current adventures.
I fed the first 3,000 words into Chat GPT, asking for the perspective of a literary agent. Is this marketable? What would make it better?
I also updated my synopsis and fed it into Chat GPT. I asked for the marketing department of a publishing house to come up with a marketing plan that included sidelines made by the author such as cards and other illustrated items. The ideas that came back were astonishing, fun, and overwhelming.
I’m away on vacation, then to lead Meet Your Writer in Paris. I will celebrate all these months of focus with exploration, connection, curiosity and play.
Next week: something fun for you!
Congratulations ❤️ I'm excited for you 🤩