My latest book started out very differently from how it ended up. I began with one idea in mind, and by the time I finished writing, the story had grown into something I did not fully expect when I sat down for that first draft.
There were parts of this book that came easily, entire chapters that seemed to write themselves. And then there were other parts that took much longer than I planned, where I had to step away, think things through, and come back with fresh eyes before it felt right.
What I loved most about writing this book was watching the characters become more real to me as I went along. By the end, they felt less like something I created and more like people I had gotten to know along the way.
I put a lot of myself into this story, more than I initially planned to. I think that is part of why it means so much to me now that it is finished and out in the world for readers to enjoy.
If you have read it already, I would love to hear what stood out to you. And if you have not yet, I hope it finds its way to you soon.