I have the final read-through of Wicked 3 (Christian’s story) to do, and then it’s off to the publisher to wait its release date (June 28th!). I always get a little down after I finish a story. I’m not really sure why. Probably because I spent months ‘inside their head and world’ and when they’re not there anymore, its like I lost a friend. I don’t have them there with me daily and the loss is kind of personal. Sounds crazy, right? Lol I’m sure it’s the same for readers though. It is for me, especially when I find that ONE book that wraps me up inside a world I don’t want to let go of. When you get to the last page and get that sense of loss because there’s no more. Those characters you came to care for are no longer there and no matter how much you think about them, you know that what you have is all you’re going to get. It’s the same with writing. Once the story is told, you have no choice but to put them out of your mind and move one. Easier for some, not so much for me. That’s why it takes me so long to get another story started. I have a grieving process. When a book is done, I immerse myself in other worlds to try and let go of my characters. I’m almost there. Good thing too. I have a lot on my plate yet for the rest of the year. Wicked 4 (Mick’s story) has to be finished and this years Christmas story, both of which have been started. There are less than 15 pages of both but it’s a start. Better than nothing, I always say.
So, for the remainder of the year? Wicked 4, due for release in September. The Christmas story (for December) and I think I’ll finish that 60-page ‘paranormal/shifter’ story I’ve been playing with forever. Of course, I have a fairy/fantasy story, a dragon that has begged to tell his story, my fierce Warlord and a couple of vampires. My plate is full. Now, if I’d just get out of my funk and start writing! Wish me luck.