October 16, 2009:

In slightly panic mode, I spent all day working on the galleys of EXCEPT THE QUEEN since they want everything back by October 21. I got all the way to page 256 out of 370, so still–as you can see–I have a ways to go. Am being Senorita Crankypants with friends and family because of it.

Why, you ask? Isn't it fun re-reading your book in its printed form? Admiring the work that went into it.

Well, yes and no. I am sometimes amazed, gobsmacked at phrases I like and had forgotten writing. Of...