What's it like to almost be finished writing the sequel to a first novel? Well.... I'm four chapters away from completing my second novel, which is the continuation of my science fiction story titled... 'The Dark Particle'. This one is titled, 'The Sentient'. Then, I will be in my third draft. The 'Third Draft' is all about grammar, punctuation... smoothing the storyline and very minor changes. It's about making sure the story line makes sense and the continuity is good. Once I have the story completed... a third draft is my ticket to preparing it for publication.

I know a few people who can't wait to sink their teeth into this one. It takes the first part of the story and brings you forward. It also opens a few cans of worms. I do this to propel the story line into a 'next book', which in this case will be the third book in the series...

"I've been savoring the ending... Just like I want you to savor it when you read it..."

Four chapters.... How do I know this? Well.. I have every detail of the plot planned. So... It's kind of already figured out, especially at this point in the game where I'm simply letting my imagination run amuck. This is the fun part... I've been savoring the ending... Just like I want you to savor it when you read it. It forces me to create my best work. It pushes me as an artist to earn your appreciation. I'm not limiting myself to four chapters to finish... I have already written and finished the last two chapters of the book. Four chapters is no more and no less than what I need to connect the dots and get the reader thinking about the next book.

I really want people to 'want' a third book, just as I 'want' a third book in the 'The Dark Particle' series. I want it because the story isn't finished, but most importantly, I need to know what happens... Stories do this to us as artists... People who ignore their artist side... need to listen to this... Listen to the story inside of you. This is who we are as human beings. This is our soul talking to our mind, pushing us to grow and share our hearts with anyone who will listen. Yes... Listening to (and reading) the story is equally as important as telling the story because it shares who we are now and who we are becoming as a person. I don't just view my art as an artifact of who I am as I grow and develop...

"I write to entertain the reader, because I read to be entertained."

I like to push myself, challenge what I know and drive a story into uncharted territories. I'm adventuresome about my writing and my story telling. My goal is to engage the reader, not bore them... I write to entertain the reader, because I read to be entertained.

Just know... I love being a creative person... It is who I want to be, everyday. Creativity is a choice... and a skill...just like math or chemistry... The arts is a skill we practice everyday. Being a 'talented' artist is merely an opinion people have when they find something they connect with in your work as an artist and ultimately appreciate your artistry and what you've shared with them. This is the primary goal of an artist... The opportunity to build connections with people who see and feel what you see and feel through your work.

Build connections with your readers, listen to what the story is telling you.

Enjoy... and keep Living a Creative Life!