So I have less than 8 weeks and 2 days till my due date.
I’m in the process of editing big time. I have the first of my new series that’s almost completed the editing process. I have the second of the new series that’s in the pipeline and waiting on copyedits. Plus I’m editing the third book in the unnamed series so I can have books ready to go. Plus I have to write the last chapter of a novella that goes with this series so that can get in editing line.
Then I have my edits for Electing Love that I can now start working on once I finish book three.
And I have 8 weeks or less.
The cover reveal date for Electing Love is set for July 20th. Serious editing for that book begins as soon as I get the conceptual edits back next week, so this means I have to complete book three of secret series soon. It has to get in the pipeline.
I don’t know how other writers can edit as they go. I love my manuscript the second I hit finish. Then a month or more later, I can go back in with new eyes and say ‘what was I smoking?’ (I don’t actually smoke.) The red pen can come out easier then and I can strip and add to the manuscript to give it filling and depth.
Also I learned about editing from the small presses I was with before and honestly I know I need people to help make me better and stronger as a writer. I found some excellent people along the way.
Writing the first draft might seem onerous to one whose never done it before, but the real work of an author is in the rewrite to the rewrite to the rewrite. Then it’s edit to the edit to the edit. Once the process is complete of pulling my hair out and finding that I still like the story… now it’s time to share it with the world.
So this is an insight into my writing style.
Now it’s back to work. I have deadlines. The baby is coming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do authors manage editing multiple books at the same time?
Authors managing multiple books simultaneously often work them through a pipeline at different stages. For example, one book may be nearly finished with edits, another awaiting copyedits, and a third just entering the editing queue. Setting firm cover reveal and deadline dates helps prioritize which manuscript needs attention first, keeping the workflow structured even under tight time pressure.
What is the hardest part of writing a book for most authors?
For many authors, the hardest part is not writing the first draft but the rewriting and editing process that follows. As one author describes it, the real work is ‘the rewrite to the rewrite to the rewrite, then edit to the edit to the edit.’ The first draft is just the beginning; multiple revision passes are where the real depth and quality of a manuscript are built.
Is it better to edit a manuscript as you write or wait until the first draft is finished?
Waiting until the full first draft is complete before editing is often more effective. Returning to a manuscript a month or more later allows an author to read it with fresh eyes, making it easier to identify weaknesses and add depth. Editing as you go can make it harder to see the big picture, whereas distance from the draft sharpens critical judgment.
