Carrying On

I had thought writing a second novel would be easier. With one crime novel accepted for publication, it seemed reasonable to assume that drafting a sequel would be a cinch. I already had a setting, a protagonist, and several other major characters. But it’s taking at least as long to craft this novel as it did my first. And for that, I “blame” my substantive editor.

When I wrote Grounds for Murder, I started with a detailed outline.  I wrote the first draft over the course of six or seven months. And then I revised it. And revised it. And revised it again. The draft I sent to ECW Press was my fourth or fifth attempt to “get it right.”

Then the substantive editor required another draft. And another. Some of these drafts required considerable changes.  Others needed only minor tinkering. Regardless, it’s taken me well over two years to write a 73,000-word novel.

I’d hoped the second novel would take shape more quickly. The reason it hasn’t might have something to do with higher expectations. My editor pointed out problems in my first novel that I’m trying to correct in my second. So, I’m bolstering up weak characters or replacing them with stronger ones. Raising the stakes for the protagonist. Picking up the pace in some of the scenes. Adding unexpected plot twists.  And bringing all three plot strands together at the end.

My writing (I hope) is improving. But I write slowly, rarely exceeding a daily count of six hundred words. Maybe my speed will increase. Or maybe I’ll have to accept that limitation. Either way, I enjoy my work. And while I wish I could compose faster, I will continue at my plodding pace as long as writing brings me satisfaction.