The End--Okay, For Now

I began Diary of a Novel to record the journey of my first manuscript. Since then, I've completed five novels. Two are in their raw, first draft form, one has been polished but most likely needs to be revised again to tighten the writing, and two are undergoing revisions. Two novels are the queue.

I've learned about characterization, self-editing, showing and telling, and learned to deal with those sagging middle. I've attended workshops and a writers' conference, and pitched my work to an agent and a publisher. And like so many authors, I've received rejections. I've done much, and I'm proud of myself for those accomplishments. My first novel has been laid to rest, and since it has reached its natural conclusion, it's time for the record of its journey to end as well. Why? I simply need more time to focus on my other blog, Carolina Towns and Trails.

I'll miss this, for sure. It's been a part of my life for years, but it's time to move on, to learn more and to grow. I couldn't have done that without this journey.

So here they are, the words every novelist longs to write, words that mark long hours of hard work and sweat as thoughts and feelings are poured onto paper. Two tiny words that represent thousands, and that bring characters we've grown to love to their final destiny. Words that make us grieve and even cry, and words that are difficult to write. They are, in all their simplicity,



The End

But don't be surprised if you see a sequel in the near future ;o)