Got the client’s novel done and the editorial comments sent; did a chapter on a co-authored book (the one on courage) and started edits for a new client.

Fantasy 5-/5

Kvothe is separated from his family as a child by the feared, mythical Chandrian, and must make his way through a harsh world, seeking revenge. This is a book you read for style—every sentence is beautifully written and compelling, and each drew me deeper into the story. Ultimately, though, it was unsatisfying: it is a Book 1 (and I hate books that draw you in for no payoff at the end), and on reflection, it is a long, wandering plot that ultimately gains no sense of momentum. Highly recommended, but don’t expect much at the end.

Spent the week editing a novel for a client–close to finishing (should be done in the next couple of days). Also, my correspondence with the  Centre D’histoire De La Résistance Et De La Deportation, resulted in an invitation to speak to the chief historian there as part of researching my next book. And, she recommended another historian in Grenoble, which my husband and I also plan to visit during our trip. Finally, I’d exchanged contact info with a woman I met in November–who’s from Lyon–and she may be able to get me a translator. Let’s hope it all works out!

Fantasy 3/5

Gray Graham, operative for MI6 in 1940 Britain, must access the power of his past lives to halt the Reich’s occult magical attack. Lots of interesting politics, but slow-paced.

I’m trying to arrange a meeting with a historian in Lyon (because I plan to go there this spring to research my next novel and I’m applying for a grant) so sending emails back and forth–in French. Interesting. I DO speak a little French, but still, I worry.

Other than that, I’m editing again. Yes, I know, I do a lot of editing compared to how much writing I’m getting done, but…hey, I’m going to France to do some research, and so far, I don’t have a grant to cover costs. And, in fact, the book I’m editing is very good, so the work isn’t hard and I’m enjoying it!