Friday, April 3, 2020

First Edit, Second Book

The first edit of the second book in the Wil Clarey series begins!

A couple weeks ago, I finally picked up Wil Clarey: School of Hard Knocks and started editing. I knew from reading it that I needed a strong first chapter. How could I make this book grab the reader and still introduce Wil? I want the book to be able to stand on its own, impact lives and be a page turner.

In my frustration I stepped away from my writing corner and started walking on my treadmill a couple feet away. I found myself pushing myself faster than normal, praying, almost in anger, for inspiration. In my speed, it came:


Faster. I need to go faster. I hit the speed bump and caught air.
Oh man, don’t hit it. My wheels just barely scuffed the edge of the curb as I doubled my efforts, pumping my legs for all I was worth.  
Last straightaway! I can do this! I hit the button on my watch just as I passed the sidewalk to our apartment.
Skidding to a halt inches from a truck trailer, I looked at my watch. So close. I gotta try again.
“Don’t even think about it, Wil.” How did mom always read my mind? “We should have hit the road a half hour ago. Put the bike in the trailer and let’s go.”
I started to feel that little warning tug. After an awesome summer with no major “incidents” from my autism, I thought I’d better do what Mom said. This time.
“Let the new adventure begin.” Mom proclaimed as we pulled away from the trailer that held my bike, and all our belongings.
(excerpt copyright 2020, Richard D Solano)

I went on to begin Wil's journey in a fresh way that I hope will grab the reader into his world. Let me know what you think. I will keep you updated as the story reforms itself.