First 5k Pass
In my last update, I mentioned that in February I would be working with a developmental editor to refine the first 5k words of Echoes.
Well, the results are in, and I thought I’d share some of them with you.
The Process
The process was simple: I send the editor a document formatted to her standards that contains the first 5,000 words, and two weeks later, she provides an editorial letter (which tends to focus on big-picture feedback) and a markup of the excerpt with marginal comments (to point out smaller issues and provide examples for items discussed in the editorial letter).
The Feedback
The feedback I received was overwhelmingly positive, but she didn’t let me off the hook that easily (and I’m glad she didn’t). I devoured every critique as hungrily as the compliments.
Critical
The big-picture thing I need to address is finding a balance between internal and external.
I lean toward the interior (character thoughts and description) instead of exterior (action and dialogue). I sort of knew this on an instinctive level, so this was more a confirmation than a surprise. But just having someone to tell me definitively which way I lean means I will know where to direct my efforts/what to look out for in the future.
She also provided detailed suggestions about how to rearrange what’s already on page and insert some action in between the main character’s internal thoughts. I can’t wait to try them out.
Positive
Here are some of the good things!
“You did an excellent job incorporating enough worldbuilding to pique my interest and give texture to the opening chapters without leaving me floundering with a vertical learning curve.”
“From a character perspective, I liked Endryn immediately. You did a fantastic job of making me sympathetic towards her even though she spent most of the opener alone, which is no mean feat.”
“Your prose is extremely strong. You have a descriptive and flowy writing style that calls back to the literal fluid environment of the story.”
“Your prose is lyrical, and you ‘break’ grammar rules in a way that serves the story rather than detracts from it.”
But this one takes the cake:
“You know what you’re doing, and it shows.”
(I didn’t tell her that I am actually making it up as I go. That I reserve for you all.)
Final Thoughts
This was my first experience with an industry professional, and also the first time someone who is not a friend or family member has read my work. It was nerve-wracking, but reading that letter was one of the highlights of my author journey so far (lots of tears and nervous laughs and deep breaths).
Having someone who knows what they are doing critique this brainchild of mine was exhilarating. I feel validated by her feedback—the good and the critical—and motivated to keep moving.
There is still so much to be done, but today when I sit down to write, it will be with a topped-up fuel tank, the knowledge that I am on the right track, and a little more confidence that this investment I am making—each moment of my time, each sliver of my heart—will someday result in something I’ll truly love.
And that others might love, too.