Another Book at Edit Stage

The manuscript for my 12th novel, a mystery, "Death on the Quay", has gone to my line editor for his very talented input.

The earlier manuscript assessment I had done by an equally talented editor gave me a good idea of the strengths and weaknesses of my first effort. She gave me great advice that I appreciated more and more as I carried out the revision necessary to bring it to its present stage.

She said nice things like:
- an interesting crime set up
- fairly original and good plot idea
- good relationship threads
- excellent depictions of locations (NZ settings)
- ordinary recognisable Kiwi characters
- good back stories.

Working on average 4-5 hours a day, seven days a week, I've put about 160 hours (20xeight-hour working days) into the revision. I could have kept going but I had a deadline dictated by the second editor's availability.

I'm very pleased with the improvements I've made made in the current manuscript. Doubtless the second editor will recommend more.

Anyhow, I hope you'll enjoy the book when it comes out before Xmas.

thomaswdevine.com