This is the fun part. My first novel in three years is set to release in October. I’ve settled in to my final read-through. Here’s how things usually work. After the draft has been redrafted several times and beta readers have given feedback and I’ve rewritten parts based on that … then, after my editor does a thorough edit and I make changes … I order a proof of the final draft. This is the copy I make available as an ARC for those who want to read and review before release.

But for me, the fun part comes when I can sit down with the proof, pencil in hand, and start reading it for the last time. I read it outloud as much as my circumstances will allow. If there are things I want to change – typically minor at this point – I will note the page number with my pencil and continue reading. I always enjoy getting back into the story once more. The last time I read it was months ago, so there are things I’ve forgotten. I might even discover a hidden chuckle to be found which I had forgotten about. The great bonus of doing it this week is that I don’t have work and the weather is glorious!

It will be a slow, plodding, purposeful, enjoyable read. I’m into chapter three and there hasn’t really been anything to change. I’m very happy with the edit and readability of the prose. This is quite a story – my longest ever. It’s told in three parts over an 8-year span, and part 3 may not be at all what the reader will be expecting.

Releasing October 2026.

If you review books and might be interested in reviewing the book’s ARC, please reach out to me.

As always, thanks for reading.