the end

On May 24th I typed ‘THE END’ on the last page of the rough draft manuscript of my fourth novel.  I began writing last December and originally planned on completing the rough draft by November 1 – so I am 4 months ahead of schedule.  My goal was to write a draft of 70,000 words but the final product is 77,254 words. Staying safer at home has translated into being more creative at home.  I have written this work of fiction much faster than my three previous novels.  I don’t think that means I’m a better writer.  I think it’s because I had more time available for writing.

To be honest, I feel odd about reaching ‘the end’.  I felt sad about finishing the draft.  I plan on spending at least two months in self-editing before I turn it in to my editor Christine Keleny.

I’ve decided to not change my goal of publishing in April 2021.  The book is the life story of a pack horse librarian in Kentucky and I want the release to coincide with national library week 2021.
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For now, I’m going to take a week off from writing and editing.  I need to let this project ‘get cold’ so I can have a fresh look at it.  I don’t expect to change the story or the plot, I need to work on craft and weed out all of my little problems like to many “that’s”.
 
What has been your writing experience while being ‘safe at home?’