Editing, and Editing, and Once Again Editing

 Good News Everyone! I finished the biggest edits of Code Red this week, I didn't intend to focus on it during NanoWrimo, but it all lined up that way. I've talked a lot about the process I've had writing and editing this book, maybe along the way someone has learned something, but I mostly do it for myself. Tracking how my process has changed and evolved over the years is certainly useful to me,  so let's chat about where I'm at now. 

I had no idea when I finished the original big edits last year how much work was truly left to polish the story for consumption. I can't say a part of me wasn't disappointed in myself, but in reality, I wrote this book originally at 18/19, 25 year old me has learned a lot about writing and developing my own style. I started that work as quickly as I could, and while it still took me a year I've finally made the final huge changes, book one tells the story I want it to tell. So does that mean I'm done? In short, no. 

I sent the big edits to two people who read the original, wanting to ensure that the improvements read better and to get any final notes on things I may have missed when everyone read it last year. I also began a reread, I had no doubt there was a little more work to do. The changes I make during my reread and what I take away from those final notes from trusted people will be the end of my editing process. I know it won't be perfect without a paid editor, but I will put out the highest quality book I possibly can in the amateur self-publishing world. I also have plans to have a friend who can have fresh eyes on it read through it with me and see what they think. 

I have to admit I am so tired of the editing process. I desperately want to release this book and focus on book two (or any of my other projects). However, I know one more go is the right choice, I believe I can get this done in a month or so, which gives me lots of time to commission some cover art and do my final research on self-publishing. Slowly but surely the dream is unfolding, I'm keeping myself from being delusional. I know I'm probably not going to be a best-selling author with my first book (if ever), but if I can begin publishing and dedicating more to my writing I can at least have my little corner of the world. 

And so, I will go back to working on my edits... again, but hopefully for the final time. Wish me luck. 

I guess this is just another meaningless update, but lord knows no one wants to listen to me ramble endlessly about my book, so here I am. 

Taila Out.