A few weeks ago I announced on Facebook that my novel Primeval was finally finished (at least the first draft)—but then, when I was reviewing it while compiling the proof/ARCs to send to pre-readers for critique/feedback prior to publication (for which, BTW, I could use a few more volunteers), I decided that Part III was a little weak, especially when compared to Parts I & II.
So after a few days contemplating where I could enhance/improve it and coming up blank, I shelved the project and let my subconscious work on it for a while…and eventually, the solution was revealed…
So this week I’m beginning what I call “immersion research” to add the missing historical element to Part III, and I’m really looking forward to it, I think the end result will rival that of my novella Forever Anna Day, which I consider to be my best piece to date (as well as the most challenging to write).
(NOTE: Forever Anna Day is also included in my collection Rolling The Bones, available in both trade paperback and hardcover).
And coincidentally, I’ve begun the retiring process from my job, and go down to 1/2-time starting next week, moving toward probable full retirement as of June 1—so as of this weekend/next week I’ll have much more time/energy/opportunity to delve in and get this final component researched and woven into the Primeval narrative…and THEN it’ll be done! (I hope, anyway…)
I still fully anticipate releasing the book this summer, which is looking to weigh in at around 700 – 750 pages…
Update 6/7/25:
Retirement: Turns out I did retire completely from the job this month, now being on what my former partner and I are calling “2-way on call”, meaning I can work if either of us wants or needs me to. So that has opened up ample time/energy for me to work on my “life work” projects at home…
Novel: After a few weeks of intense research, I began constructing the additional scene in Part III, and so far it’s going well, and I believe the added element/complexity will bring Part III up to the level of Parts I & II. I have the entire scene laid out in my mind, just need to get it all down paper. Once it’s finished—which, barring unforeseen issues, should be within the next week, maybe two—then I just have a couple of short segue pieces to develop, then do a full cover-to-cover review…and the ARC manuscript will be done! And yes, it looks like it’ll be weighing in at around 750 pages! (for reference, Rolling The Bones is just over 600 pgs…)
And BTW: The other day I went to Amazon KDP to update the cover art for Rolling The Bones, and happened to see this (below Bones):
I’d started developing the Primeval novel print book, but then decided to expand Part III a bit first, so the project’s just been sitting there waiting for me to continue…I’d almost forgotten about it! And unexpectedly seeing it, suddenly it’s becoming real! 🙂
Upon manuscript completion, first reader review, then ARC reviews/critiques, updates/revisions, and development of the final print book, I fully expect the trade paperback to be available on Amazon sometime in late 2025! Finally!
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