Welp, there were high hopes and big predictions. When the edits were delayed on my latest novel draft one of the editors kept assuring me that at least this pass would be the final pass—line edits and such. Small tweaks that could be easily addressed. Well, friends, I am here to tell you that did not come to pass!

In the previous draft, one of the two editors on this project noted that the novel was too long. As I was addressing plot arc and character development, I decided I wouldn’t focus on that comment. Well, the comment is back in full force. We’re cutting chapters and stitching timelines and tightening everything. I don’t find anything wrong with this path of action, however, it means one very important thing: This is not the last draft of this novel.

Whenever there are big chapter changes, recasting of scenes, and plot adaptations, the line edit phase has to start from scratch. There were rumors, hopes, and dreams of this novel hitting the streets in Summer 2024. When the edits were pushed back from February to now, I pretty much threw in the towel on the idea that the novel would be published next summer. Now, I see no way imaginable for us to complete the novel on that timeline.

I’m going to stay focused and continue with the editing—tightening the narrative is always a good thing, and the opportunity to bring more depth and realism to the characters is always welcome. When and where the finish line is, I couldn’t tell you. The journey continues.

Onward,

—K.

IN THE MIX

This fall finds me nurturing the flow. Here’s what’s in the mix:

• YA NOVEL: Per the above, I’ve had to accept the fact that this is not the final draft of this novel. I have to keep my mind open to big shifts and to the mind-bending work of adapting the plot while keeping the narrative on track. I didn’t finish my second set of edits, but that’s okay because one of my editors has COVID and the third set of edits are delayed. Imagine, if we weren’t doing piecemeal edits, I’d still be waiting to get going again on the novel. Wow.

• PICTURE BOOK: How dare I think I was done with this manuscript? Lol. My agent liked my addition, but found it too wordy and has requested some tweaks. I’m waiting to get done with this second set of novel edits, before turning back to this picture book. The next picture book manuscript will just have to wait.

• CHAPTER BOOK: I’m dreaming up a potential chapter book series and look forward to pulling something together to share with my agent.

• MIDDLE GRADE: I’m planning to follow-through on my agent’s idea to adapt a new YA outline to middle grade. I just need time and space to sit with the outline and adapt it. It’s on the back burner for now, but I have it in the queue.

• CREATIVE COLLABORATIONS: The first of my two creative collaborations is underway. The second remains under consideration.

• MICROFICTION: The paperwork continues for this tiny bit of fiction. Next up, a phone call with the operations person. Apparently I didn’t do something right on the paperwork. Looking forward to straightening it all out.