How Do You Keep from Feeling Overwhelmed by Revisions?
I have no idea. I'll let you know when I figure it out.
Earlier this week I found an image that completely expresses my feelings about my revision process at this point. Yes, it’s from the same game I wrote about a few issues ago, but it’s much more complex.
Then yesterday, when talking with someone, I likened my state of mind to taking five 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles and just throwing the pieces into the air simultaneously and then trying to sort them out.
I’m told by more experienced writers of fiction (which is almost everyone!) that feeling like this is normal, but it’s my first time and it feels messy and stressful. I know I’ll get through it, but for now, color me overwhelmed.
What I’m Reading
Kitty Underhay Series by Helena Dixon
I’ve finished a couple more books in Helena Dixon’s Kitty Underhay series, specifically Murder at the Beauty Pageant and Murder at the Village Fair.
The series has become pretty predictable. Kitty, and her new husband Matt, are likable characters, and we can rely on a solid supporting cast — her friend Alice, Kitty’s grandmother, and Chief Inspector Greville, for example. Kitty’s nemesis, her grandmother’s friend Mrs. Craven, plays a prominent role in Murder at the Beauty Pageant, and Detective Inspector Lewis, who disliked Kitty and her interference intensely in a previous book, is now in charge, which makes things a bit more complicated for the newly married private investigators.
Domestic Diva Series by Krista Davis
I’m also re-reading the Domestic Diva series by Krista Davis, and I’d honestly forgotten how much I enjoy them. First in the series is The Diva Runs Out of Thyme.
Sophie Winston is an event planner living in Old Town Alexandria, VA. She’s participating in a Thanksgiving cooking contest, the Stupendous Stuffing Shakedown, when some strange things start happening.
First, a man who approached her in the grocery store parking lot to try to sell her an expensive ocicat is found dead in the dumpster — by Sophie, of course. She becomes the prime suspect when her photo and address are found in the victim’s car.
Lots of interesting characters, including her ex-husband Mars who’s currently dating Natasha, her rival since they were in school together. Natasha has the endearing qualities of always being right, and always knowing what’s best. Then there’s Mars’ mother and the ghost of his Aunt Fay who hangs out in Sophie’s kitchen. Add a handful of wacky neighbors, a mortician who’s had a crush on her since high school, and the mystery stewpot is thoroughly stirred.
Bon appetit!
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