The first draft of Torrent is now complete. Coming in at just over 101,000 words, it’s very close to my estimate of 100,000. I’ve also worked out a three-act structure for the last book in the series, Cataclysm, but even as I write this, I’m thinking of things I want to add. The final book in the series will resolve Athgar and Natalia’s story, but there are others I’m just itching to write about. Next up is Enemy of the Crown, which will detail the inner workings of the Halvarian Empire. This one will require much more planning, so it will be a week or two of extensive outlining before I begin the writing process. Until next time, Happy reading!
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I’ve been busy creating a map for Carlingen, the city where the lion’s share of Torrent unfolds. In between that, I’ve been working on the outline for the final book in the series, Cataclysm. I mentioned that in last week’s newsletter, but I thought it only right I update you on my progress.
The map is about half done, mainly because filling in those buildings is time-consuming. As for Cataclysm, there’s still a lot of work to yet. The overall storyline is in place, but many details have yet to be worked out. Inevitably, there will be minor changes once I start writing it, but that happens with all my stories. Now, I must get back to finishing Torrent! Torrent is in the final stages, with only six more chapters to write. Everything is set in motion, including an important reveal I can’t share (spoilers). These characters have taken on a life of their own, with many of the scenes almost writing themselves.
I'd hoped to have it completed this Friday, but I'm taking some time to work on the maps, so I've put it off until early next week. I’ll also spend a little bit of time on the outline for Cataclysm, the final book in the series. Why would that delay my completion of Torrent? I like to add clues as to where the story goes next, so with a complete outline, I’m better able to decide what hints to include. My latest WIP, Torrent, just passed the three-quarter point this week. At my current rate, I’ll be done with the first draft by the end of next week. Then, I’ll need to put some time into the outline for the last book in the series, Cataclysm.
That story will complete Athgar and Natalia’s journey, and though I have a summary of what’s involved, there is a myriad of details yet to be addressed. Just to be clear, I won’t start writing it until later in the year, but I like to have everything outlined in point form long before I start on the manuscript. Wow, I can hardly believe I'll have a complete series under my belt by this time next year! Of course, Heir to the Crown has more books, but it's also going to be a 15-book series by the time it's done in a couple of years. |
AuthorPaul Bennett, Writer of Epic Fantasy Adventures. Archives
May 2024
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