Nearly Complete

The writing block decided to finally desist, and so I'm back on tracking, typing away the last few chapters of PARADISE? With so little left to write, I find it challenging to tie in all the plot elements I've laid out. I keep going back to certain parts, making certain I haven't contradicted myself, and also to make sure I've answered all the questions. This is the hardest part; I can't drag the book out too long or make it end to abruptly. Finding the balance while making certain every issue is addressed and dealt with is very difficult.

Still, I'm very excited. With its conclusion begins the daunting, yet satisfying task of editing and polishing the book. It isn't a long book; only 300 pages at the most. But it's the best 300 pages I've ever written, of that I'm certain. While I know future novels that I write will be better than this, it is only because of this, and so I am happy.

As I reveal the final secrets in the close of this fantasy novel, I laugh at how complex it has become. At first this was only a side project; one that aided me when writers' block reared its ugly head. I had no real direction, no definite plot. Now, one year and 300 pages later, I wonder how it grew so much. There is much left to be done; the next draft will be a brutal one. Every unnecessary element will be eliminated mercilessly, and parts that should have been, but weren't, will take the place of those unimportant moments. Whether the book's length will shrink or increase, it will be for the best.

I never thought I was writing a Young Adult book, but apparently I have been without realizing it. I just wrote, letting the characters lead me along on a journey of discovery; both for me and for them. What an adventure it has been! And, with its ever-nearing end, I cry fond tears. How fun it has been, and will be. When all is said and done, I will bid these new friends farewell, but each time I want to see them again, all I have to do is pick up the book and begin the journey anew.