I Finished! The End!

/ C A M

I finished the novel re-write on Friday. Actually, it was such a re-write as to be a completely new book after consulting with an editor. Was it two years ago? More?

Whoo-hoo! Like the turtle who finally gets across the road without being flattened, what a relief, and a joy, and a sense of gratitude, and pride, and back to relief. I have no idea of why I needed to finish. I only know that it was important to me.

Needing to finish could be something as simple as the fact that I have finished every novel that I have started. This novel is much like the first novel I ever wrote. It took me years, as did the first novel, and I wrote the whole thing before seeking publication and because I wanted to write a novel. That’s probably the most delightful thing, that I wanted to write this novel, and to please myself, and I’ve done both.

No novel has ever come out the wonderful way I envision when I first start. This one is the same–in so many ways I wish it could be better, different. And it does need editing, of course, especially the final chapter. Ever since I wrote ‘the end’, I’ve thought of things I need to go back and put in. But mostly I am quite satisfied. I have this sense of completion and that I have done well the task set before me.

I now turn to deciding the book’s future. There are so many avenues open to writers today, and I’m getting about deciding on a path for publication.

First I do need to title the book. Yes, I write a book without knowing the title, counting on the book to reveal the title. Hey, Steinbeck did that, too, so I’m in good company. My husband was one of the main people to help me title a book, and now I no longer have his help. Here is the growing list of titles.

  • The Journal of Carley Love
  • Forever and Ever, Amen
  • The Last Love Woman
  • According to Carley Love

Reader friends, I invite (implore) your feedback on these titles. Even if you hate some, or all, please leave your comments below. There’s no need to know what the book is about, other than my heroine is named Carley Love, obviously, Love being the middle name. Those of you who have read my books know this one is a relationship book, women’s fiction, family, quite a bit of humor, a lot like a country music song– Oh, maybe I could at that to the title list–A Lot Like a Country Song.

24 thoughts on “I Finished! The End!”

  1. According to Carley Love, is my pick, because my little dog who crossed the Rainbow Bridge was named Carlee. Not the same spelling but I like the name. So I will wait to see the final title. Whatever the name it will be a Best seller. ❤❤❤

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    • Linda, I had difficulty choosing the spelling for Carley. After I wrote much of the book, I said, well, I guess I’m used to that, so kept the spelling. Thank you for taking the time to weigh in with your opinion.

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  2. I’m with the “like a country song” group! Congratulations on finishing! Sometimes I go back and work on a painting after I sign it, but since I am convinced I’m finished whatever I add is just for fun and for free. Hugs

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  6. Originally, I liked The Last Love Woman out of the four you listed. But I like Last Love Woman better. And Like a County Song, better than that. I think A Love Like a Country Song is a bit wordy. I’m so happy you completed this one. I remember reading a small section a couple of years ago and falling in love with the writing. Always happy to beta read. Congratulations! (Maybe Love Like a Country Song?)

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    • Yes, Love Like a Country Song, would be better without the A. I have such lovely friends to give me a help with this. And next I’m seeking beta readers, thank you, dear Barbara.

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  7. Glad you finished. Along time in the making. All the titles are wonderful..For Ever and Ever Amen..looking forward to another amazing read.

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    • Forever and Ever, Amen is a hit song by Randy Travis and has a bit in the story. I tend to like it for how it rolls off the tongue. Thank you for weighing in, Julie!

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  11. I was not thrilled with any of the titles you listed, although Forever and Ever, Amen sounds nice. BUT, then you said A Lot Like a Country Song, and i went YES!! I also lke Trish’s sugestion of A Love Like A Country Song!! Whatever you choose to call it, I’m sure it will be wonderful.

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  12. How about A Love Like A Country Song? With out knowing at this point I would wonder if The Journal Of Carley Love would mean the story is written in a journal form. Just my two cents worth. Thank you for writing us another story.

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    • Oh, I think I am sparked by your suggestion– A Love Like a Country Song! That moves up to the first choice on the list. Thank you! Yes, a large part of the novel is in journal form, while the majority is omniscient action and dialogue only through Carley Love’s eyes.

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Thoughts? Don't keep them to yourself. Love to hear!

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