Helen Lacey on Revisions and Giveaways!

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I love revisions. There, I said it. And I love edits. What I love though, is seeing the finished product, watching the manuscript polish into something that will be turned into a book. When I start a new story I open a fresh folder in my word program, and by the time that book is finished and published I could have twenty separate files in the folder all pertaining to that book. The first version of my current release from Harlequin Special Edition, Date With Destiny, read very differently to the finished product that just hit the shelves. 

When I send a proposal/book to my agent it then goes to my editor and once it’s away I usually start the next project while I wait for the edits to come back. I know some authors who go into a kind of ‘panic’ mode when the edits arrive, but for me it’s a signal that it’s one more step in the process to getting the book in print and into the hands of readers.

The first thing I do is read through the notes and then transfer any major plot /character changes to a spreadsheet  which I pin up near my computer so I can keep checking and ensure I stay on the right track. I should say that I’m not a plotter’s bootlace and tend to just start with the characters and an idea of the story and start writing, so the editing process is often a challenge for my right brainthinking. I’d also like to say that I take it slow and steady…but the truth is, edits are usually partnered with a deadline and often the luxury of time isn’t an option. What I do ensure I do is cross off on my spreadsheet each time I’ve worked through the suggestions – there’s satisfaction in striking things off a ‘to do’ list.

The thing to remember is that edits are there to improve the story, not sabotage it and I made the decision from the time of my first published book to not getprecious about changes that needed to be made. I trust my editor completely and if she suggests that a character’s name needs to be changed, or a plot device isn’t working, I’ll adjust it accordingly.

So, embrace edits….and know that they are going to make your great story even better.

Once Upon a Bride

Helen Lacey

Happily ever after…?

When Gabe Vitali escapes to a fresh start in Crystal Point, Australia, the former physician isn’t looking for a storybook ending. For the first time he’s living in the moment. His new five-year plan does not include serious relationships. But he doesn’t anticipate his unavoidable next-door neighbor…and an undeniable attraction.

Bridal consultant Lauren Jakowski wants marriage. She’s just sworn off love and sex! To avoid getting burned again, she’s looking for safe and forever-after. But they’re not Gabe’s to give–for reasons he can’t share with anyone, least of all this pretty complication.
Gabe and Lauren don’t figure on a fairy tale. But fate has other plans….

Reviewed by RT Book Reviews  |  Read Reader Reviews

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