First there was the book proposal (exhausting to write!). Then the agent. And edits from there. And more edits. Then the amazing news that the manuscript had sold to Kregel Publication! O, Happy Day!
This wonderful, euphoric moment was followed by even more edits. Revisions. Edits. Revisions. Edits. Revisions. Edits. You get the picture.
I'm sure many readers have heard before how writers can grow to loathe the very project they first adored and protected. Oh, yes. I reached that point a long time ago. Thank goodness I have a few writing pals who let me vent the frustration and pain through email. And my friends saved the epic rant to prove it. I think they even hope it will be included in the acknowledgments section of the book when it's finally ready for print. It's THAT funny and THAT embarrassingly filled with angst.
Ahem.
But as the days progress toward publication, I'm finding a new love for my characters. A new protectiveness. And a whole lot of prayers that the book will touch hearts.
I have also seen the future book cover. I will someday share that, but it hasn't yet received the "official" stamp of approval, or else I would show it to you, reader, I really would. Right here. Right now. Again, I have to rein in my impatient enthusiasm and save that for a future post.
But here is a sneak peak. A tiny one:
So...the big question: When will the book be released? I still don't know. I'm hoping it is soon. 2013 would be nice. We shall see and I will be sure to get that news to you as soon as I know. Believe me. I will.
For today I have to be content to relate that things ARE moving forward. The reality is just around the bend. And God is still taking me on a wonderful, beautiful ride.
