It
has been almost ten years since I had the dream that formed the beginnings of
my novel. I wrote the first page when I was in college, saving it in a folder
titled, “here is a book idea to get you started.” In June of last year, I
decided to pick it back up when I was dusting off all my old writings.
I
finished my initial draft several months back, and after several setbacks that
left me behind my intended schedule, I finally got around to the dreaded
editing process. I attacked this with gusto for the last few months, and then
set back to writing a new character that I felt the story needed.
Edits,
late nights, and borderline insanity came and went. I’m happy to say that the
printer is chugging, and my first “official” draft is complete. Tomorrow, I
will hand my book to my first test reader!
I
have so many people to thank for listening to me along the way. My wife,
Brittany, has been absolutely instrumental in keeping me motivated to this
point. She was always happy to listen to parts of the story along the way, and
I have spoiled almost every plot twist for her from start to finish. Josh
Griffin and Elisabeth Perkins also get a big hand, for they listened when I
really felt like I needed someone’s advice on the book.
I
also owe it to the teachers along the way that helped me come to this completed
manuscript. Mrs. Ford, my Kindergarten teacher, instilled a love for writing
and reading in me that has carried through to this day. I also owe thanks to
mom, for encouraging me to keep writing over the years when I was ready to just
give up on my dream.
So
look out initial readers, I’m coming for you starting tomorrow! Barring any
major rewrites, I plan to start 2015 by looking for an agent to help sell my
book.
All
done, and just in time for NaNoWriMo!
