Embracing Endings: The Journey of a Writer

The Transition of Life Changes

“Endings” – both planned and unexpected, are a theme in my life at the moment. The end of my ‘real-life’ job, and given that I’m 57 years old, the high probability that the prospect of any kind of salaried employment has also ended. After 15 years of living on Vancouver Island, we are planning to move. This decision marks the end of an era – more for my husband than for myself.

Last week, I typed “The End” on my first completed novel of 2025. This moment signifies more than just a concluding sentence; it represents a transition in my writing journey.

Celebrating Manuscript Completion

The thing is, “endings” usually come right before a beginning. The start of something new can be exhilarating. In this case, it's the beginning of my new life as a full-time writer. It's also the adventure of settling into a brand-new community. And, in the case of my novel, it's the commencement of a lot of work before readers can finally engage with my story.

For any writer, the end of a first draft is a cause for celebration. You've finally done it! After countless late nights, endless revisions, and gallons of coffee, you've typed those two magical words: "The End." Congratulations! You've completed your manuscript, but remember, this is just the beginning of the real work.

The Importance of Taking a Step Back

Once you've finished your manuscript, the first step is to take a deep breath and step away from your work for a bit. You've been living and breathing your story for months or even years. Giving yourself some distance is crucial before diving into the editing process.

If possible, take a day or so away from the story and your characters. This break can help gain perspective and offer much-needed rest. However, some writers choose to keep in "the zone" of their story, while I personally fight to balance this energy with the need for a break.

Stepping Back from Your Work

During this step back, consider how you feel about the story as a whole. Ask yourself: Are the characters as developed as they could be? Does the plot flow logically? It's essential to approach these questions with honesty, which becomes easier with a fresh mindset.

When you're ready to dive back in, it’s time to start the revision process. This phase requires you to take a critical look at your work and identify areas for improvement. You'll likely need to cut scenes that don't advance the plot or flesh out characters that feel one-dimensional.

Solving the Mysteries in Your Story

At this stage, I like to ‘solve the mystery’. By this, I mean: do the red herrings effectively mislead the reader? Are the clues credible? Can the sleuth logically solve the mystery? Plus, is the motivation behind both the sleuth and the killer believable?

Furthermore, pacing in crime novels is vital. Will your reader feel compelled to turn the pages? Introducing sufficient suspense is key to keeping their attention glued to the story.

This gratifying editing process can be time-consuming. Don't rush it. Your story deserves the care and attention necessary to shine.

Entering the World of Editing

After revisions, it’s time for rounds of editing and proofreading. Choosing an editor who resonates with your style and tone is crucial. Look for an editor who is honest and isn't afraid of providing constructive criticism. This person will likely be the first other than yourself to have read your book. You need to trust that their insights will enhance your manuscript.

Self-Publishing Considerations

If you're planning to self-publish, it's essential to begin thinking about cover design, formatting, and distribution. Many tools and services are available to assist with these tasks. However, do your research to ensure you're making the best choices for your book.

Additionally, you'll need to consider marketing and promotion. How will you get the word out about your book and connect with potential readers? An effective marketing strategy is vital for getting your work into the hands of your audience.

Celebrating Your Accomplishments

Regardless of which publishing path you choose, one of the most important things you can do after typing "The End" is to celebrate your accomplishment. Writing a book is a significant undertaking, and you should take pride in yourself for seeing it through to the end.

Reflect on how far you’ve come and all the hard work you’ve put in.

A New Beginning Awaits

As you move forward with your writing and publishing journey, remember that "The End" is truly just the beginning. Life is full of transitions and adventures. Embrace any new projects or stories that come your way. With every ending, a fresh beginning awaits.

So, whether you are wrapping up a job, moving to a new location, or finishing that manuscript, know that you're on the threshold of something exciting. Embrace it all.