How Deep Is That Edit?
As I sit here typing away at my laptop, I'm surrounded by the pages of my work-in-progress, the first full-length novel in the Thunder Falls series. (Title and cover to come!) I can honestly say that this is the most fun I've had working on a novel in years. Sometimes I read back what I've written and think, "Did I actually write that?" Then there are the other times where things need to be reworked and all that excitement turns into determination to get it just right. These boys deserve the best, and I'm going to give it to them!
If you've read Getting Off Easy, you've already met one of the leads. Memphis is one half of Book One's romantic couple, and I cannot wait for you to meet him. I've coupled him with Coleman, and if my editor's reaction to their romance is anything to go by, you are going to love the sparks between them. This book has a few tropes in it, but the main one is Friends to Lovers. All that awkwardness blooming into full passion - I’m such a sucker for it!
A little backstory about my writing process:
I used to dread editing. I know, shocker, right? The mere thought of it made me want to run away from my laptop and hide under the oversized knitted blanket on my bed! But, with this first book (and even Getting Off Easy) I have found a real kindred spirit in my editor, and with their help, I have made my writing stronger and the story more fleshed out than it was before. The process isn't quick! That's alright, though, because I am loving how it's all turning out. Sometimes you need that second set of eyes to point out something that's been staring you in the face from the start.
One thing that we have been focusing on is getting that authentic Maine flavor. As a lifelong Mainer myself, there's a flow to life that you only know if you've spent time here. People talk a certain way. If you've ever had a hometown man chat you up, you know what I mean! I hope some of that flavor comes through when the book is polished.
There is still a lot of work to be done before I can truly say that my novel is ready for publication. (I'm intentionally avoiding a release date in my head because it paralyzes me.) There are many side characters being built out and tiny details being developed so that they flow through future books. But I'm confident that the end result will be worth the wait.
I think that's enough teasing for now! Thank-you so much for all the kind words and encouragement. They truly mean the world. I'll be back with more updates on this book (as well as a few other surprises) as I get closer to finishing the edit!
