I do things a bit different. I like to type out a manuscript and get the plot figured out on MS Word. It’s not the best platform, but it gets the job done. Then I will read the manuscript on the computer, fix glaring typos or grammatical mistakes. Sounds standard right? Sure.
I then rigorously search for plot holes. I literally question every decision characters make and if there is a lack of motivation, that’s a problem. Yes, Marathon Torres is a badass, or at least so I have been told, but what makes her character a badass? She’s tough, she’s a fighter, and she can handle dangerous situations. But what makes her a badass?
Don’t get me wrong, I wrote the character that way because I want her to be a badass, but you’re not going to see that explicitly stated (unless it’s in dialogue, that’s my disclaimer). Marathon’s words, thoughts and actions make her a badass. So as I read this ARC or advanced reader copy, if her character deviates, there has to be motivation or a certain set of circumstances for that to happen.
Developing this character took years of work. Writing, rewriting, again and again. Even the name fits the character. Marathon. Did I name her that? If you know the character, you know why that’s her name.
So again, what makes this process different? Well… I use the ARC to edit the final draft. This is a mistake I made the first go around. I tried to edit it on the computer and neglected to take advantage of the advanced printing capabilities of Amazon and Ingramspark (my two printers and distributers). I corrected that this time around. The ARC is now going to be used as a way to edit to final draft.
I would like to now personally thank those select few that will read the ARC to provide feedback, editing tips, and discovery of any plot holes. Thank you!!!!!
Keith E. Burns 