© 2024 Arquie. All rights Reserved.

I think I’m going to share something a little different today. 

I’m currently working on my debut novel, Unchanged. An editor has offered to look at the manuscript in exchange for a review. This has put immense pressure on me to fix a bunch of little issues I still have with the story.

That being said, I’ve had a lot of big feelings this go around. My mind likes to wander to the ending and all the good parts.

However, those pieces fall flat without the hardships and it’s been really heavy editing the dark times. I remember when I first wrote this specific battle at about the 40% mark. I was in a depressive mood for weeks.

I had to put myself in my character’s place and write how awful it was to make her arc that much stronger. I don’t see many authors talk about that. Sure, you’ve got the ones marketing their books with found family and the parts where characters finally get a sliver a happiness.

To me, though, the journey always matters more. I remember how stories make me feel. I refuse to accept the ending of Divergent. I still think about the Battle of Hogwarts. Death is so impactful if written correctly. If not, feels like a checkbox.

I love that no matter what aspect of literature I’m diving into (reading, writing, editing, researching) I’m always learning. I’m always striving to expand my knowledge and skills.

I encourage you to take a deeper look at the media you consume. Why do you like it? What pattern of behavior drew you in? How did you predict a twist? Why didn’t you?

Also, I thought I’d give a little writing update. 🙂

• Unchanged | Developmental Edit, No Current Release Plan
• Of Becoming | Needs Another Round of Beta Readers and Editing, Potentially Releasing 2024
• Drizzle | Out on Submission
• DewDrop | Out on Submission
• Unfated | Drafting, No Current Release Plan
• Taking the Tower | Drafting, No Current Release Plan

Chat soon, 

Arquie