Lest I sound like I'm bragging, I wrote 21 chapters instead of the usual 23 or 24. This book didn't need that many chapters and I realized it when I got to about chapter 15. (Is it obvious I don't plot my books in advance?)
I always feel a mix of emotions when I finish a manuscript:
- relief: Yay! those characters are finally quiet. Except they aren't. This is a 9-book series and I will hear these characters in my head until I finish the series, with Book 9, next year. Even then, I wonder if I will ever lose them? I've had them with me so long.
- tiredness: the last few chapters are always a marathon for me. I tend to write, write, write until it's done.
- boredom: now what do I do? Writing occupies a big chunk of my free time. What's the next project going to be?
- dread: I need to review and edit. Not immediately. I'll wait a week or so, then I'll dig in on that. I will also go back, read the first 7 books in the series, and make sure this book is cohesive.
- anticipation: related to "boredom": what book will I write next?
I probably won't be leaping into a new manuscript right away. I need to do some web site work, some promo, look at a few issues that came up (some kind of privacy thing with newsletters: GDPR: cue head explosion), get caught up on #cockygate, and you know, get caught up on life.
So there you have it: the on/off button for a writer. #amwriting and #aminbetweenwriting. I'll give myself a month or so then I'll be #amwriting again.
You're a writing machine, JL! Congrats on finishing your book. I'm in that finishing stage right now. Have written over 70K and am counting down. It's always a good feeling.
ReplyDeleteI envy your discipline as a writer. Kudos to you for being able to set the finished WIP aside for a while. I get too antsy to go back over it and fiddle with everything. Because of Calvin being in the hospital for so long and then bringing him home for his passing, I haven't written since Easter. My mind and heart just aren't ready.
ReplyDeleteThe E-Bunny keeps on going! I know all the feelings you're describing, since I just shipped my recent book to my editor. Only difference is, I have no clue what my next project is (no voices in the head). I've already gotten a stern lecture from someone about GDPR and I don't even send out a newsletter unless I have a release. Tell us what you learn about that. As for #cockygate and trademarks, what a cluster#%$*! Congrats on your productivity...and well-deserved rest.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations, JL! I also admire your drive and discipline. Enjoy your mini break while you catch up!
ReplyDeleteAlways good to bring another one to the finish line. Congrats on that. Ah #cockygate. Will wonders never cease? I’m a novice compared to you. Only working on book number three of four. Can only imagine nine Best of luck.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on hitting the finish line, JL. Always a great feeling--mixed in with all the others you mentioned. Good luck on the revisions/edits, and all the other stuff you need to do.
ReplyDeletePlease add an overwhelming sense of pride at your accomplishment. You go girl.
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