I’m getting ready to write my next book. I’m going to do that soon. Before diving into it, I wanted to give you an idea of how the process works. After that, you will be able to support me, buy the book, and stay informed. So let me tell you about it.

I always start by outlining the story’s overall plot. It usually takes me about an hour if I don’t include the time I spend talking to my soundboards (friends and other authors) about my next story. Then, I speak and type to get things like the significant events of each act (I may have 3-4 acts in a story) out of my head. For me, it is essential to hammer out a story’s central themes and what will happen from beginning to end. Next, I ask myself how I will introduce readers to the story and characters and what is its final resolutions. Finally, I try to think about ways to give readers a plot that will is thought-provoking, with realistic conflicts and triumphs to which they can relate.

Once I’m satisfied with the plot, I move on to the characters. I outline each of their arcs and how I will introduce and develop them. Just as important as the plot, an author must crystalize the strengths, weaknesses, wants, and needs of a story’s primary characters and how those things will impact the plot. For example, the main characters are vampires in the novel I’m about to start. That’s right; I’m delving into a supernatural romance! Anyway, I had to concentrate some time on determining the role their vampirism would play in each character and how those things will move the plot forward so readers can enjoy an engaging tale with supernatural characters told my way.

I researched the various types of vampires, their powers, and their vulnerabilities to give every bloodsucking character their personality. As the story progresses, there will probably be a need to tweak characters, but I am still ready to get them into the mix of drama and love.

Once I get that done, I begin writing the first draft of my story. If it’s a shorter novel, I may start with outlines for the first three to five chapters and then write. The chapters are not always in sequential order. I may start with the first chapter but jump to one in the middle of the story or near the end.

After I write all the chapters, it’s time to read them and make revisions. This stage allows a writer to make large-scale revisions, checking for a story’s cohesiveness and clarity. I make sure the story’s main subplots tie together and look for holes and loose ends.

When the large-scale revision is done, I dive deeper into the story to refine individual paragraphs and tighten their sentence structure. Then I edit and proofread, searching for minor errors.

There’s a lot to do. I’m intimidated by writing a paranormal. I’ve only written one short story. I’m shaking my author, but I plan to forge ahead with my novel of supernatural characters.

Taking the first step is always the most challenging. In the same way as starting to write, moving into a new genre can be frightening and requires confidence and dedication.

Franklin said, “energy and perseverance conquer all things.” We can use our enthusiasm and determination to achieve our goals. I’m ready to click away. I hope I get it right!

Let’s keep those keyboards clicking!