Last week, I wrote about my frustration in finding the right editor for my project. Well, I'm thrilled to report that I believe the Lord led me to the perfect person. The new editor working on my project is familiar with the area of the country where my story takes place. For seven years, she even lived in the town that I used to map out the downtown area in my novel. Definitely, not a coincidence. She is a Christian, which is important, because although my book is not specifically for a Christian audience, I want to make certain my Biblical values are reflected and presented in a non-preachy way.
I finalized my decision with her this past Saturday, October 23rd. When we spoke through a Zoom call, she was encouraging and said that I have the "thing" that successful writers need. She mentioned that my character development was strong and that she identified with my protagonist within the first few pages. This was the boost I have desperately needed to lift my spirit, and serve as a confirmation that I'm not simply indulging in folly, but rather a project that will be fruitful (I am determined and so is she)! In our conversation, I was thrilled that she even picked up on an obscure reference made on the second page of my manuscript.
Now, that I have signed a contract with her and paid half of the money, I finally feel like this project is moving ahead. My husband has encouraged me to begin writing the second book in my series, and I'll begin fleshing that out this week. I'll start with the folder full of ideas that I began compiling while writing book one. Overall, the edits on the first manuscript should take around four weeks. However, I know that once I receive them, I need to make corrections and possibly rewrite portions before querying agents. But for now, I am thrilled because I'm one step closer to fulfilling a lifetime dream of becoming a published author!
To anyone reading this who may feel stuck in the writing and editing process, I want to encourage you to keep moving forward. Keep pressing on. Follow the dreams God has placed in your heart. The journey won't be easy, but it will be good. And most importantly, the Lord will be your guide.
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