Devil in the Details of Editing
Novel writing to me is just like sitting down to tell a story—only on paper. I actually wrote Keeping Faith long hand, and it took just a little over a month, but editing took a year. The plot, settings, and the characters came to me as easy as grilling and then savoring a good steak, but oh, how I hate the details of editing, especially since I am a terrible speller. (I know I have spell check, but you have to get close enough so that the little guy in the computer knows what word it is!)
I wasn’t happy with the sequencing of the book, so I moved chapters around three or four times and took out one whole chapter. Honestly, I still don’t like the beginning, but I had to show Patrick as a kid, and that was the best way I knew how.
Promises Kept took about three months to write, but it flowed and gelled for me right from the beginning. I never changed any chapters, just added some here and there in the final edit. It too was written in long hand. Now, I am much more comfortable using the computer, but it makes me nervous that I might lose something so I save continuously and back up at the end of each day. Again, I hate all that part. If I could just write and not worry about technology or details, I would be a much happier writer, but as they say, ‘the devil is in the details.” I believe it!
Paragraphs on Padre 
So, when can I order Promises Kept? You have been teasing us too long! I am ready.
You think you are!!! I thought I might have the proof book to hold in my hands today, but NOT!! Maybe later in the week. Then it will still be a couple more weeks until Amazon has it.
I sometimes miss writing things longhand. There’s a certain connection of paper to pen that is unique and absent with the computer. But I do love the computer for speed and efficiency but like you I too am terrified of losing things (and do occasionally). What drives me crazy is I’ve never come up with a good way to save things because I’m always keeping the “old” in case I like it better…how silly is that? but I end up with so many versions I don’t know what is what! I keep thinking there must be some type of software program that would help me get organized. Looking forward to reading your book.
Hi Dorothy, So glad to have another writer reading my blogs. I am enjoying yours as well. I know exactly what you mean by saving versions. I have to number mine and my desktop is full. I am soooooooo glad to know I am not the only one who does that. See, that’s why it is important for writers to communicate–misery does love company!!!ha.
So, when can I order Promises Kept? You have been teasing us too long! I am ready.
Hi Amy, Thanks for your interest. I really appreciate that you are anxious. I have the first book in my hands. Should be able to order on Amazon before the end of the month!!!! yippeeee