Story Craft #2:
Editing is where it all comes together.
Try as I might, there are always elements that slip past me, no matter how many times I go over the manuscript. Be it technical aspects like grammar, syntax, or punctuation or story elements such as inconsistencies, plot holes, and tonal shifts, there's always something to fix.
Correcting the technical elements is important. But it's the story elements that editing illuminates that I find more important.
My characters are everything to me, and having them come across to the reader how I want them to is key. Editing can ensure consistent character voice and personality, and it can reveal unintentional character breaking moments.
Having an outside view goes a long way. Having an editor that fits you and is able to point out your strengths and weaknesses, has been invaluable to me. Ideally, they won't change your story, but instead help you realize your vision.
Consider editing sanding off rough edges, the final polish, and that last coat of paint.
When the editing feels like it's taking forever, I keep this mindset: I'm making my story better. Everything you do during the editing process is helping your story be exactly what you want it to be.
I'm by no means an expert, but editing, while tedious at times, has helped shape both Defacer books into what I want and something I feel proud of.
Defacer and Defacer II: Bloodlust are available for purchase right now!
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Thank you all for your support. You all mean so much!
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