I did it! With a couple of days left before vacation, I finished the rough draft of the work in progress.
It’s book one in a six book series. The working title is Among Us and the series WT is Aliens Among Us. Each of the subsequent books will probably have a title that ends with the word “Us.” e.g. Within Us, Beyond Us, Above Us, Against Us, Between Us, etc.
Back from the beach now, I had intended to start the second book in the series, but I’ve decided to focus on some writing housekeeping instead. Adhering to Heinlein’s rules for writing, I’m committed to finishing what I’ve started before beginning anything new.
It’s not that I have rewrites to do; I just need to make all the editorial changes and formatting crap that’s essential to having a book ready to be read. It’s far more exciting to start the next story, but I’m tired of putting these away for another day.
The WIP that I just finished the first draft of is the sixth novel I’ve written, and none are currently up for sale. I’ve made endless rationales for my hiding.
Yes, money is a hurdle. I don’t have the cash to spend on more edits or covers, but I do have the first book in a trilogy entitled Anti-Life that’s ready for prime time. It’s got a cool cover and I’m currently addressing the editorial suggestions from two English teachers. I know, I know; perfect grammar doesn’t equal great story telling, but it’s the best I can afford.
It’s time to kick this little birdie out of the nest. I hope it doesn’t go splat!