The Space Between Draft and Done

What’s Next?

Recently, my Sweetheart asked, “What are you going to do next while Dangerous Desires is being reviewed?”

I smiled because… it’s happening. The rough draft of Dangerous Desires is finally finished, and it will be sent to Beta Readers later today.

It’s hard to believe my first novel is only a few steps away from being published. I was thrilled when I released my children’s books, but this is a different kind of excitement—a different feeling altogether. This is a novel, and I plan for it to be the first of many.

Since this is my first, I have many fingers and toes crossed that it will be well received once it’s out in the world.

Shoot, I hope the Beta Readers LOVE it! They’re a mix of ages and backgrounds, which I hope brings some valuable diversity to their feedback.

But back to the original question: What am I going to do while Dangerous Desires is with the Beta Readers?

Honestly, I have a list…

• Art projects I want to complete—or at least make a good start on
• Organize my office, art supplies (again), and my side of the bedroom
• Refresh and begin writing Dating Die-Sasters
• Get a few other stories that are living in my head out and onto paper

I’ve given the Beta Readers a timeline, so once their responses start coming in, I’ll need to shift gears and begin implementing their suggestions. That gives me about a week to make progress on my list.

I’m hoping that now I have a better idea of how I work and what I need to stay focused, I’ll be able to create a more realistic schedule. Plus, I now have an agent/handler of sorts—and she’s been amazing. Kayla, you rock! You keep me motivated and on track without ever making me feel pressured.

And then, of course, there’s my Sweetheart and my friends—my support system. They listen to me whine when I need to vent, and when I have moments of doubt or inadequacy, they remind me of my whys… and how far I’ve come.

So with that, I want to thank you—yes, you reading this—and my whole support network for being part of this writing journey I’ve chosen to walk (and sometimes crawl!) down. Frustrations and all, I have to admit: I love it.

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A quick update before I get back to the finishing touches (hello, final chapter!) of Dangerous Desires…

Our Harpeth View Toastmasters 3-in-1 Contest is happening next weekend!

• Date: Saturday, the 26th
• Time: Meet & Greet at 7:30 a.m. | Contest begins promptly at 7:45 a.m.
• In-person: Blakemore Methodist Church, 3601 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37205
• Zoom: https://hvtm.toastmastersclubs.org

We have six contestants, all speaking on the same topic. I went a little easy this time since it’s our first go at this contest format—but next time? Oh, there will be a next time—and it will be more challenging.

I’d love to see some of your faces—my readers—whether in person or virtually. Feel free to stop by!

Until then, I wish you a beautiful Sunday and an even better week ahead—full of hugs, love, laughter, and blessings. 🌻