Soooo I’ve been working on revisions from my first round of beta reader feedback, and my 26-chapter book is now 28 chapters <laughs> It just… I mean, everything worked, but the ending came on too fast, you know? So I got a BRILLIANT idea (she said, modestly) of bringing Cat’s older brother in from California, NOT pleased that his sisters were in danger and didn’t tell him. And this TOTALLY  works because he’s the hero of the next book, Shadow Cat (just a working title for now til I come up with something better). So this gives me a chance to introduce his character into the series, although he’s been referenced before but we haven’t actually *seen* him.

I am actively seeking beta readers for another round of Cat before I send it off to an editor for a final read-through and corrections. I have a webpage that explains what beta readers do, and my own process for handing beta reading, and some links to youtube videos for those new to the process. If you’re reading this and you’re interested, please go to my Beta Readers webpage, then give me a shout!

In Other, Non-Writing-Related News……

• Moving. I’m pretty much settled in. I’m still arranging my pantry and kind of organizing things, but most of the crucial stuff is unpacked and in place. Two nights ago I found the cats’ kick sticks, and that was a tremendous success, with the baby too, LOL!
• Coronavirus, of course. I’ve been in self-imposed #stayhome since March 15th, when I read this article by a journalist in Italy. I’m staying home and safe, and hope you are, too!

 

The Books

1. Truck Stop
2. Wishes in a Bottle (Wishes & Dreams #1)
3. A Gift of Jacinth (Wishes & Dreams #2)
4. SwanSong (Sons of the Desert #1)
5. Castles in the Sand (Sons of the Desert #2)

 

The Manuscripts

1. Finished Manuscripts, major revisions in progress prior to 2nd wave of beta reading:
   1. WHEN DARKNESS FALLS (201,775 words, as follows:)
      1. Book 1: The Palace (61,150)
      2. Book 2: The Dark Lord (90,500)
      3. Book 3: The Prophecy (39,400)
   2. A CAT FOR TROY, Wishes & Dreams #3
2. In-Progress Manuscripts:
   1. MICHAEL’S QUEST, Sons of the Desert #3
   2. SHADOW CAT, Wishes & Dreams #4
3. To Be Written Partial Manuscripts:
   1. BEHIND THE CLOUDS, spin-off of Sons of the Desert
   2. INTO THE STORM, spin-off of Sons of the Desert
   3. Short Story: Amanda & Julian, spin-off of Wishes in a Bottle
4. Planned Manuscripts:
   1. HATED MATE, Wishes & Dreams #5
   2. UNNAMED, Wishes & Dreams #6

 

THIS WEEK’S WRITING PLAN

(Not in any particular order except as indicated)

1. Keep revising A Cat for Troy!
2. Begin advertising for beta readers for A Cat for Troy.
3. Keep staying home and safe.