Finding the Fun in Writing
Thursday I received my revisions on Her Warrior King from my editor. 
She said she absolutely loved the book, which made me do the happy dance. 
I’m not sure how much you guys know the stress this book put me through. I’d never written a book on a deadline before, and it was the scariest thing. I felt like my brain was cracking a whip, yelling, “Be creative now, or your career is over!” 
I think a pound of flesh and a pint of blood went into that book.
But now is the fun part. While I find my self-imposed revisions rather like a root canal, I really like editorial revisions. It’s like having a guidebook to follow, and while I might not know exactly HOW I’m going to accomplish what she wants, it’s fun for me.
For instance, there was one chapter opening where I had the hero spending the night with the heroine. Apparently, I had somehow forgotten to justify WHY he was doing this, when he was still in the wow-she’s-hot-but-I-can’t-have-her stage. I let the idea percolate, and wham! Out of the blue I got a brand new idea for a scene, which was so much fun. I had them make a wager, and the hero lost. His penalty was having to spend the night with the heroine (just keeping her company, get your mind out of the gutter). 
Problem solved, and I love this new scene.
I’m down to three revisions left, and then I can e-mail the book back, after I’ve done one more read-through to catch any repetitions I’ve done. I like to start with all the little tweaks and fixes and save the big changes for last. That way I have enough time to let my subconscious work on the issues. It seems to work for me.
Tomorrow marks the last week of school. :scream::streamer: To celebrate, the teachers in sixth grade are going out for breakfast at IHOP. We look forward to this every time there’s a 7th period exam for a 2-hour block. (We have planning 7th period.) I’m a complete sucker for Belgian waffles with strawberries and whipped cream. Mmmm….can’t wait.
Last, I just finished reading my friend Anna Campbell’s Claiming the Courtesan. Anna is the sweetest person, and an absolute delight. I think some of the reviewers have put her through the wringer since this book is very controversial. Ever heard the 80’s song “Obsession?” I think that sums up the plot very nicely, and it was a fascinating read. To write about a hero like Justin took a great deal of guts, and I applaud her for it. I did enjoy the book, and to carry off the plot she did was pretty amazing. 
Right now I’m reading Stephanie Tyler’s Risking it All. Love those Navy SEAL heroes! Have you read Anna or Stephanie’s books? If so, what did you think?
Michelle posted in Writing @ 8:35 pm | Viewed 2394 times
Suzanne Says:
Congrats for getting through your first deadline book! It’ll be easier from here on out. Oops, sorry, not really, LOL.
mary beth Says:
It’s so exciting to read about your writing journey, Michelle. Somehow I’m not surprised at all that the editor loved the book. I can’t wait to read it when it hits the shelves!
Gina Black Says:
It’s so fun to read about your journey! I’m so glad your editor loved it, and it’s great that you’re enjoying your revisions.
I think Claiming is Anna’s debut novel? My CP got put through the wringer on her first book, too. It can be very disconcerting to have such controversy surrounding a first publication. Give her a hug from me.
Lis Says:
Just finished RISKING IT ALL. Loved it.
One of my fave blazes of the year
Holly Says:
It’s so thrilling to follow you’re journey through this writing world…
I haven’t read either of the books you’ve mentioned, but will look for them now.
Have a great day!
Kelly Says:
“Be creative now, or your career is over!”
That’s my fear! That when I get published and they want the second book (like my positive thinking?!) I’ll freeze up and not be able to do it. Maybe if I’m lucky I’ll have the series mostly written before I sell!
Good luck with the editorial revisions - nice to know those aren’t as painful!
Bonnie Ferguson Says:
I read Stephanie Tyler’s first Blaze, Coming Undone, and it was fantastic!
MaryF Says:
LOL - the last week of school WE went to IHOP, too! Met at 6:30, didn’t get served till 7:15, had to be at school at 7:40!!
I just got Stephanie’s book today - looking forward to reading it!
Melissa Says:
I am so glad you’re having fun! That is the most important thing about writing - loving what you do!
Melissa Mc Says:
Enjoy the last of school, Michelle! I haven’t read any of those books or the authors. Good luck with the final revisions!