What I’m Working on Now
I follow the same process with my independent books that I followed with my traditionally-published books. So far, for my upcoming release . . . .
I wrote the first draft
I printed the whole thing out and read it in less than a week
Printing it out helps me view the story in a fresh way because, up until this stage, I’ve only seen the book on a computer screen. Reading it in less than a week enables me to experience a story that’s taken me months to write the way a reader will experience the story (at a quick pace). This read-through gives me an overview of the book as a whole plus insight into individual scenes. I take dozens of pages of notes regarding everything I want to fix. But I don’t make a single mark on the pages of the manuscript because that would be like putting lipstick on a pig at this point. Ha!
I rewrote the book
I sent it to my editor, Charlene Patterson, who read it and provided “macro revision” suggestions
I first met Charlene because she was one of my editors at Bethany House. She’s FANTASTIC. She has the ability to read a novel and identify all the things that aren’t working. But not only that! She also provides multiple potential ways to address the issues. Over the years, I’ve built up a great deal of trust in her and am thankful for the opportunity to continue partnering with her on my books.
I rewrote the book again
I hired a cover designer
I sent the manuscript to my friend Shelli Littleton for a line edit/copy edit
Shelli works as a proofreader for Baker Publishing Group and also works as a freelance editor. She went through the book, looking for continuity and clarity problems as well as typos and grammatical mistakes. She sent it back to me a week ago.
I’m currently reading through the book one last time
Next, it will go out to “beta readers” who will hunt for any remaining mistakes
After that, I’ll send it to my male and female narrators so that they can begin bringing the audiobook to life
I’m planning to release this novel in early 2027 and will explain why I chose that date in one of my next posts. 🙂 I’m also looking forward to revealing the cover, title, and back cover blurb soon!
Does anything about my process surprise you? Questions welcome!
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It took you a week to read it? I read your books in one day! But, I get that you aren’t reading for enjoyment. You’re looking for plot fixes, etc.
I’m one of those odd readers…once I start a book I don’t want to put it down until it’s finished. And I also love to re-read books multiple times. I have some books that I’ve read 20 or 30 times, and I find things that I missed the first time through. Plus, I just really enjoy a good story.
I love that, once you start a book, you don’t want to put it down until it’s done! That allows you to immerse yourself in the story to the maximum extent.
It definitely takes me a at least a week to read my own manuscripts. As you mentioned, I’m not reading for enjoyment. I’m reading while wearing my “editor hat” and that requires lots of slow, intense thinking. 🙂
Great post, Becky! Even though only one name graces the cover of our books, so many other names could be included, too. I loved hearing about your wonderful “team.” Blessings on your new release.
I’m so thankful for my team!!
Thank you. This was so interesting. I can’t imagine what you go through in creating a book. This piece helped getting a feeling.
You’re welcome, Judie!
Can I be a beta reader, PLEASE!!
Aww, you’re the best. Thanks for making me smile!
This is so great to let your readers in on this long and involved process! The outcome….your wonderful (as your Mom I’m not biased at all!)novels!!!!! So proud of you!!!!
Thanks, Mom! 🙂
I enjoyed learning about your process, Becky. You are amazing!
And I love Charlene Patterson, and was SO happy to see her name and picture pop up – – not long ago I was thinking about her and wondering what she’s doing now! 🙂
I met her at my very first ACFW conference, when I knew basically nothing, lol, and she was so very kind and helpful to me – – plus she’s a CAT-person! 😉
Thank you for sharing this post today, and for this look into your process.
Hugs, Patti Jo 🙂
I love hearing about your interaction with Charlene!! She’s doing really well. She lives in her hometown in Iowa, near family. And she works on editing projects from there.
Thank you for an excellent description of your writing process. I could never write a book, so I appreciate all authors so much! I’m looking forward to your next posts about this book.
We appreciate our readers so much!
There’s a lot of work and team that goes into a book! I never realized how much time and effort there is to this creative process. With your novels though that shines through! A rich story and characters. I’m excited for 2027 and to know more about the book.
Thank you for reading my books and for this encouragement, Desiree!