The map of Andorah (an-door-ah) is finally finished, and I’m absolutely thrilled with the results. The artist did a fantastic job! If you look back to my previous posts, you’ll see the evolution – from my sketched version, to a digital rendition, to this final artists drawing. Take a look below (click to enlarge) and post a comment to let me know what you think.
Final Map
Beta Readers
Wanted to take a moment to recognize and thank my many beta readers, who’ve provided terrific suggestions, thoughts and encouragement. I’ve posted some of their comments on my site so you can see what they’ve said. Hopefully the rest of my readers will find the story equally as enjoyable. For those who read my book in the future, or read the opening chapter I’ll post in the coming months, feel free to provide some comments below. Good or bad, I’d like your feedback.
Line Editing
I received my manuscript back from the line editor and have been working through the suggested changes. Unfortunately, it took longer than I expected and due to some structural problems with the line edit itself, I had to restart my editing a couple of times. But things are going better now and I hope to have it completed within the next month or so. Once done, we’ll move on to proofing, then layout and finally printing. One step at a time, but at least we’re making progress.
Happy New Year!!
Just a quick note to wish everyone a joyful 2017. I hope it’s a happy and positive year for all. It’s a particular exciting new beginning for me, as this is the year in which my book will publish. So I begin with optimism, excitement and genuine interest to see the outcome. Thanks very much to those who’ve helped me get this far. It’s been a fun journey and, while definitely not over, whatever happens I’m grateful to those who’ve provided suggestions, edits and encouragement along the way. I hope it’s an equally thrilling beginning of something new for you as well. Post a comment on what you hope the year will bring.
Map Question
I showed the work-in-progress version of my map to several beta readers. Everyone really liked it and provided some great feedback. However, I was quite surprised to discover the range of interest readers have on maps in general. This varied from poring over in detail prior to starting a new book, to one reader who pretty much ignores maps entirely, preferring to visualize the world himself as he reads. What do you do? Which of the following best represents your view on maps while reading a new fantasy book (you can pick more than one)?
- I review the novel’s map in detail before starting, often looking for symbols or hints about the story
- I glance briefly at the map before reading
- I frequently refer to the map as I go
- I only occasionally refer to the map when needed
- I pretty much ignore the map entirely
Let me know by replying below. Thanks!
Map Progress
Received the first digital version of my map today and I’m thrilled with the results. The artist really did a terrific job converting my hand-drawn sketch into something amazing. I need to make some minor modifications, and add in a few extra features, but am looking forward to seeing the final result. I’ll post it once done, and you can take a look and let me know what you think.
Update: Here’s the work-in-progress version of the digital map (click to enlarge). Hope you like it!
Cover Finished
I finally completed my cover! And I must say I absolutely love the result. I really think it represents the story well. I hope you enjoy it. Keep watching my site for an early reveal.
Story Editing Completed
I’m thrilled to have just completed the final round of comprehensive story editing. I continue to be impressed by how the novel improves with each new round. But I think I’m finally done, and I love the results. I hope you do too. Next up is line editing to help ferret out those pesky little redundant words and unnecessary phrases. Looking forward to getting the results back in November. Once done, we’ll do some final proofreading before going to press. Stay tuned for future updates, which should become more frequent as I approach production. It’s getting closer!
Second Story Edit
I just received the second comprehensive story edit from my professional editor. She unfortunately started late, so it took longer than I was expecting. However, I’m looking forward to reading through and seeing what she has to say. It’s always a challenge deciding what to keep and what to cut. As mentioned before, she’s inclined to want to focus exclusively on the main story, and cut most everything else. As my novel doesn’t have only one plot line, it’s often difficult to remove sections that I feel are important to the overall experience, especially scenes that set the stage for future books. Regardless though, it’s a good exercise for me to go through, as it really forces me to decide what’s critical to keep, and what can go. So, onward with the editing. I’m sure the story will be better for it.
Cover Update
Continuing to work on the book cover. I’ve narrowed it down to three layouts with some minor variations (primarily text placement). Major differences revolve around the main “focus” graphic as well as the fonts for title, series, author, etc. I was very fortunate to have worked with a fantastic graphic artist last year, who created some stunning artwork. I also have an excellent layout artist, who is adding in the text and positioning to really make the cover come alive. It’s been an extremely rewarding experience, and I continue to be excited to see it evolve. I hope to narrow down to two finalists (from the current dozen or so), and may reveal the runner-up (to be used in a future printing) in another post. So keep watching for the design.
