Updates

So, this week I worked on revising a short story for submission, and  finished and submitted my novel outline to my critique group.

So, a client’s book is done and sent to layout, so this week was proofing for errors. Not that many, but enough to make the time spent worthwhile. They say there is no such thing as a book published with no errors, but this one has been checked over and over, by 5 people. I hope it’s correct! Amazing, though, what errors made it through this far in the process.

The virtual writing retreat was successful for all. We checked in on Zoom at 9:15 the night before the retreat began, to set goals for the four days, then checked in nightly to report on what we’d accomplished and our next day’s goals. The last night we read aloud a bit from something we’d written over the weekend. Everyone reported reaching goals, exceeding goals, and/or getting their motors going after a stall.

For myself, I wanted to plot an entire novel, and I did, as well as write a draft back cover blurb. Next up: write out the “becauses” or “why now” for each event in the book to be sure I don’t have any logic chain issues, and be sure I am maintaining thematic threads throughout the novel, such as the development of the addictions theme, romance, the central character’s pregnancy, and so forth. Then I write!

Although I took a break after the launch and awards program, I’m already onto the next novel. I’ve arranged a virtual writers’ retreat for next weekend, and while sitting on the back of my husband’s motorcycle I’m generating plot points so I’m ready to go!

So, Flights of Marigold is out, and I was able to do a virtual launch at When Words Collide. I did a reading, showed my new video, “Taste of Images: Rebel Camp” and had Q&A. Thirty-four people came! Including a cousin from Ireland and a friend/writer from Washington DC. I think Flights got off to a wonderful start!