And the cogs keep turning…

It’s been far too long since I’ve updated my progress on Renegade Skyfarer! Humblest apologies. **bows low**

This may or may not have been my actual expression when I checked my email. Thankfully, no cameras were present to document my actual reaction.

Yesterday evening started up the creative machine again.

I got my manuscript back from my editor.

And let me tell you, I have come to the conclusion that there are few things in life right now that will get such a mixed reaction out of me. Hands shaking in excitement, heart clenched in fear, breath trembling in the lungs… But, to my deep relief and great joy, all the edits suggested were things that I could jump behind and say, “Yes! Let’s do it!” Nothing had to be chopped or drastically changed. (which is pretty amazing, let me tell you!)

I was so excited last night after reading the letter from my editor that sleep evaded me for quite awhile. I kept thinking of my characters and mining their depths, studying them and what their reactions would be if I did this to them, or that, or what would be the best method to draw this out of them? Few things are more enjoyable than thinking of ways to torment one’s own characters in the name of good storytelling.

Now that I have quite a few solid ideas that I’ve hashed out with Mike, I’m on the next step: editing round four. And, for once in my life, I’m not dreading it! My editor is amazing, and she did a fantastic job of showing me what areas were weak, and what I could consider to strengthen them–while still be positive and encouraging.

To use a sewing analogy, I’m going to pull a few threads out, embroider some vivid colors in, and tie up a loose end here and there. This tapestry of words will (Lord willing) be fantastic in the end.

And if it means I can make my MC, Ben, shine all the more? Sure. I’d love to melt more fangirl hearts. ^_^

Dmitri, of Nuclear Snail Studios.
Used with permission

Which reminds me. Did I ever share my muse picture of Ben? Mike and I found this picture online several years ago, and we immediately agreed that he was Ben. I’m really hoping to actually hire Dmitri to be Ben for our cover of Renegade Skyfarer, if I can.

But before I can dream too far ahead in regards of utterly amazing book covers, I need to finish editing the book. And consider if I want to pitch it to a few publishers, or if I want to go straight into self-publishing. I confess I’m rather smitten with the idea of self-publishing if it means I get to choose my own covers and who’s on them. I mean, if I happen to find *the* perfect model, I should go with him, right?…

My goal is to complete editing Renegade before the end of November. Which will be a tad bit challenging, as I’ll be out of town for World Fantasy Convention, and then there’s Thanksgiving and a mini family vacation at the end of the month.

I gotta get it done by then. Because I want to get this novel in your hands, ASAP! So, with that thought in mind, I’m diving back into editing for the night. No rest for the author!