Love. Hate. Pain. Otherwise Known as the Editing Process

Book two of The Devil series is deep in editing mode. Writing the story seems easy compared to analyzing everything about it. This is the first series I have written; the challenge is keeping consistency from the previous book(s). The three books I have planned will introduce the leading players and reveal all the details of the main character’s mysterious background by the end of book three. I want to think I will do more in the series after that, but dropping down to one or two a year at the most. I have other ideas I want to play with. 

I’m sure all writers are different in how they edit. I work on it nonstop, then take days off, return, and do it over. This is a time of emotions as I jump from thinking my writing is awful to laughing out loud at how funny it can be to a proud grin splitting my face as I read a fantastic scene. Writers can be a bit crazy, which I believe comes to the forefront in the editing process.

Professional editors are not affordable at this time, so I have a friend look it over for me before I give it a final glance. They have perfectionist qualities and are not afraid to tell me when a line or scene doesn’t fit, call me out for inconsistencies, or when a line or scene sounds stupid. When I get over the red pen shock and take a calming breath, telling myself I don’t really hate them, I read and learn. The majority of the time, I agree with their assessments.

One of the biggest things I have learned as an author is there is no way in this vast universe that you can please everyone. It’s hard to swallow someone’s dislike of a piece you poured yourself into over hundreds of hours. I imagine this is true with every form of art. The biggest acceptance you need is yourself. If you love what you have produced, you conquered a huge step. Everyone else is secondary. 

We all know June is Pride Month. I love seeing all the rainbows as they bring color to our lives and remind us to get along and be happy. Pride in yourself and your accomplishments can be for everyone. Find what makes you smile, your own sun and rainbow. Life is not forever. Thankfully, neither is the book editing process.

The following is the last paragraph from my book Alice’s Ashes, and it was some of the best advice I ever gave:

“Life isn’t perfect. Life isn’t easy. But once you figure that out and not attach yourself to specific outcomes, opening yourself up to dreams and surprises along the way, life becomes an adventure. Alice had the best advice: Be free. Be brave. Be bold. Be proud. Dream big and believe in yourself. Imperfections are the seasonings of life. And most of all, share your fabulous self with the world.”