The Doppelgänger Diaries: The Third Re-write

So, I’m on the last step- finally! As you all know, I’ve been waiting to write this post. I sent my book to a professional editor, and I was waiting for his comments. I used BubbleCow, an editing service to get my book edited. The editing package comprised of both developmental and line editing. 
They sent me two documents- a copy of the edited manuscript and an editor’s report which was around three pages long. They advised me to start with the editor’s report before going on to the details. They also advised I take some time off to digest the advice before I begin the re-write. I got these documents on February 17th, 2016, which was the estimated day of delivery. 
I’ve read horror stories about editing from authors. Many writers have spoken about how terrifying an experience it was to have their ‘baby’ ripped into pieces (writers do exaggerate!). I’m on a very tight deadline for this one (less than a month to go!), and I didn’t know if I’d have the time to work through everything if there were a lot of comments. 
However, my fears were unfounded. I wouldn’t say I found the edit encouraging (nobody ever does), but I found it helpful and more importantly, actionable. The editor pointed out macro plot issues that needed work and advised that I work on them first. That included the chronology, setting, and characterization. He also suggested how these problems could be remedied which helped me cut down the time I spent on the re-write.
I took two days to follow his advice. I made a list of events like he suggested. I also decided to change the setting (you’ll know that when you read the book). I spent two days researching the new setting. I also did some research during the re-write.
I then began editing the manuscript using the comments he made on track changes. I made a lot of amendments- cut down scenes, chapters and tightened the plot and dialogue. I can’t tell you how easy the edit made my life. If I had to spot all those issues by myself and think about how to improve them, I’d be a very stressed person. 
The amount of time I spent on the re-write per day varied depending on the workload. Some chapters didn’t need as much editing as others did. The second half of the book, in general, needed more work. A load of music R&B music played in rapid succession got me through the experience. And let’s not forget chocolate (and cakes and cookies and tarts and candy bars)- nothing motivates like sugar. 
Compared to the first two edits, this one was more relaxed. I just had to follow instructions and switch my brain off. I also fixed a time slot for editing which took the guesswork and anxiety out of the picture. I find that the further I move in my writing journey, the easier it gets. 
That’s it for today. I will be sending the manuscript to the proofreader this weekend. If you missed my previous post (The Doppelgänger Cover Reveal), you could find it here. I hope you all have a good weekend. I’m going to visit the bakery and treat myself to some sugary goodies this weekend. I’ve been eyeing that Japanese cotton cheesecake for way too long (TMI). 
The official teaser for The Doppelgänger is up on my youtube channel. You can find it here if you missed it. I will be sending the first three chapters of the book to all my newsletter subscribers so if you haven’t subscribed, enter your e-mail address below and join the party.
I will be back with another post next week about marketing, updates, cover designing and all that good stuff. 
Until then, have a great week. Click here to learn more about this bookSubscribe to my newsletter to get the first three chapters of The Doppelgänger #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; } /* Add your own MailChimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */Subscribe to our mailing list