Editing Advice Part 3: Rewriting

Part 1: Continuity

Part 2: Plot
Part 4: Copyediting

Last time, we discussed how to address plot holes and keep world building internally consistent. Today, I will share my thoughts on rewriting, specifically on when you should rewrite, and when you should stop. I should mention, though, that parts 1, 2, and 3 of this series can and should be done simultaneously. That is, while you're rewriting, you can fix plot holes and issues with timing, and when you're looking at some inconsistencies in world building, you might find a section you need to rewrite. So the first answer to "when should I rewrite" is "when you have to fix the problems with continuity, world building, and plot".

But what about in general? First of all, what do I mean by rewriting? I'm not talking about tweaking a sentence here or there, or find/replacing a character's name, nor am I talking about changing the details of how a certain magical creature looks or wether the moon should be waxing or waning in one scene. I'm talking about full on changes to scenes, chapters, or entire books. This is hardcore stuff. Fun, but hardcore. First, let's talk about dealing with different drafts.

Editing Advice Part 2: Plot

Part 1: Continuity
Part 3: Rewriting
Part 4: Copyediting

Last time, I discussed the importance of editing for continuity in the categories of time, place, and people. This week, we're going to focus on the plot-centered issues of internal consistency and plot holes. The line between these two categories is vague at best, but I'm still going to discuss them separately. For our purposes, let's say an internal inconsistency is a problem with the world building and a plot hole is a problem with the plot (as the name implies).

Fan Art Round-Up!

I've received some fan art recently, and not so recently, so I thought I'd make a little round-up post about it.

The Tumblr user a-whole-lotta-heck drew an adorable Roly PoliceChief for Goblin Week (Did you know there is a goblin week? There is!), and the-greedy-king drew the lovely Delilah wearing her favorite dress.

I also received several character sketches (I especially like Delilah, who does do whatever she wants!) from Adreon Williams, as well as a heartfelt letter illustrated with the whole cast: