I'm overjoyed that Laila's story is no longer in my head. The story came to a satisifying end today and now all that’s needed is some very careful polishing so readers will enjoy Book Two in the Sheridan series.
I’m tremendously touched by the family and friends that supported me as I worked to bring this novel to fruition. Now, I know many fans are watching my South Beach progress meter, so let me explain why it still shows a small percentage of the novel listed as not done. That’s because the revision process puts more depth in the story. More depth usually equals increased word count.
Very few people jump for joy at the thought of revising. But it doesn’t have to be a grueling, gut-wrenching process, either. It is said that Michelangelo, when asked how he had sculpted his masterpiece, David, replied, “I looked at the stone and removed all that was not David.”
Not a bad description of the novel revision process. From the mass of words you have created, you’ll take away all that is not your novel. You’ll chisel and add, touch up, and cut, but in the end what you want is your story in its purest form.
And only an author can decide what form that will be. (Okay, the editor helps a lot too.)
I learned some valuable lessons about love and friendship from Laila and her best friends in South Beach and I’m looking forward to sharing it with you soon.
On a personal note: Today was also Whitney Houston’s funeral service here in New Jersey. It touched me in a way I never imagined. She left us too soon and my prayers are with Whitney’s daughter Bobbi Kristina, her mother Cissy, and all of her family and friends.
I’m tremendously touched by the family and friends that supported me as I worked to bring this novel to fruition. Now, I know many fans are watching my South Beach progress meter, so let me explain why it still shows a small percentage of the novel listed as not done. That’s because the revision process puts more depth in the story. More depth usually equals increased word count.
Very few people jump for joy at the thought of revising. But it doesn’t have to be a grueling, gut-wrenching process, either. It is said that Michelangelo, when asked how he had sculpted his masterpiece, David, replied, “I looked at the stone and removed all that was not David.”
Not a bad description of the novel revision process. From the mass of words you have created, you’ll take away all that is not your novel. You’ll chisel and add, touch up, and cut, but in the end what you want is your story in its purest form.
And only an author can decide what form that will be. (Okay, the editor helps a lot too.)
I learned some valuable lessons about love and friendship from Laila and her best friends in South Beach and I’m looking forward to sharing it with you soon.
On a personal note: Today was also Whitney Houston’s funeral service here in New Jersey. It touched me in a way I never imagined. She left us too soon and my prayers are with Whitney’s daughter Bobbi Kristina, her mother Cissy, and all of her family and friends.
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