On Entering December
My Living Room This Winter Morning
One of the fringe benefits of getting a novel published is the opportunity for reading aloud in public. As a younger woman, I enjoyed acting and directing. Now I do neither. But reading to an audience is the next best thing.
My first book launch—in my home community— was unusual in that I wasn’t the only reader. I’d modified the first two chapters so they read like a radio drama. Six fine actors from Cochin Community Players took on the roles of various characters, while I played the role of narrator. Despite my initial nervousness, the performance was a success. It felt wonderful to be back on stage.
Two more public events followed. I had a Saskatoon launch at the McNally Robinson bookstore, aided by the wonderful Shawn Sanford Beck. And then a solo reading at the North Battleford Public Library. Each time, my performance anxiety decreased. And I had fun. Now I’m missing the adrenaline rush.
If I wasn’t already strongly motivated to complete my second novel, the promise of giving more readings would be a great incentive!
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I’m 54,000 words into A Clear-Cut Case, with a goal of 65,000 words for a first draft. This draft is the most difficult and takes the most time to write. I had intended to finish it before starting on revisions, but plot challenges forced me to stop and revise partway through. So, what I have now is an incomplete second draft!
Unlike many writers, who make major cuts, I add words as I revise. I’m aiming for a finished novel of 75,000 words, which is only slightly longer than Grounds for Murder. Over the course of six or seven drafts, I will add more description, more character development, and more plot. But before then, I will send the manuscript to beta readers. Their feedback will help direct the changes I subsequently make.
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Last year I spent most of December revising Grounds for Murder to meet my editor’s deadline. This year I hope to be more leisurely in my Christmas preparations. My family does not exchange gifts (thank goodness). But I make perogies and tourtiere, cookies and samosas. Today I baked fruitcake. Sunday my husband I will set up our winter village. I remind myself that there is more to life than writing novels.
