Hello, all ye faithful readers and fellow horror fans. It’s been a while since I’ve written one of these posts and you’re probably wondering what I’ve been up to. Well, not a lot has changed. I’m still working on the draft2 of my novel (codename ‘Project Green’), while turning out short stories now and then. I promise I’m making progress! Although, I admit this time last year I did grossly underestimate the scope of work still left to do. I’ve been reassessing the overall plot and direction of my burgeoning story, while adding additional chapters, sub plots, characters. My once trim novel is shaping up to be a hefty tome. Yikes! Nothing wrong with that More story and world to get lost in. I like a book that can double as a doorstop. It mightn’t stay in its current extended form. Could be I’ll cut all the extended parts and repetition, cut 20-30%, then add 10%. We’ll see. It’s a process. I’m having fun, though. My characters seem to have taken on a life of their own. Like little wind up dolls I turn the key and they end up tramping and chattering all over the place; surprising me in unexpected ways with their choices, taking things in new directions, and presenting story opportunities not previously considered. Amidst intermittent bouts of imposter syndrome I experience moments of clarity, I have glimpses of the final form the book will take, and that’s what drives me on towards the finish line, keeping me motivated. I’ve redoubled my efforts. I’m wearing my war paint. At the present rate I hope to publish by the end of this year, 2024.
