Anyone that reads this blog is probably aware that I’m a first time author. This platform has been a diary of sorts of my journey into the world of writing and getting my first book published. Not only has it been an exciting adventure, it has also been educational and eye opening.
I’m in the home stretch now. This past week, I have been going through the final edits. My publisher preceded the edits with a letter. I read that letter three times before I even glanced at the waiting manuscript. I respect her in so many ways, her advice is not to be ignored if I want to become the best that I possibly can.
I flipped through the manuscript with the edits. My emotional roller coaster began. At first, it wasn’t that bad. Every suggestion she made was a call that made my story stronger, better. I had gone through this with one of my beta readers who is also a decent editor in her own right. I was prepared for this and had no problems.
Then I came across one page that was totally crossed out. Delete. What?? I was confused. I didn’t understand. I was hurt, I pouted. I vented. I left it in. I slept on it. Next day, I deleted it. Why? Because I’m taking the advice of a person that has way more experience than me. She’s got my back and she wants me to succeed. When you have someone like that in your corner, you listen. You heed their advice. Two days later, I understood her call and realized her wisdom. I learned.
I made suggested changes. I’m not going to lie, there are a couple of things I left. It’s my book. I wanted it in there. Besides, it will come up again in the next book. No one knows that but me, however.
I am learning as much as I possibly can, as fast as I can. Phoenix Rising is going to be a book that I will be proud to put my name to, even if it is my pen name. And even though I have the bulk of Book 2 done, I have a hell of a LOT of revising to do. I knew this going in, but in this last week, I have a new way of looking at things … and there is more work to be done before I let anyone see it. Book 3 will just have to simmer.
The last 6 months or so have been the most gratifying time I’ve spent in ages. I have a keen appreciation for authors and the heart and soul they pour onto the page. As a reader, I always enjoyed the story, never seeing the angst that is part of the writing/publishing process. I now straddle the fence and see both sides. And I can honestly say I’m proud to be a part of this world.
Till next week,
~ Madison
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