There's a rhythm to this whole writing thing; at least for me, there is.

First few weeks on a new book, I'm finding my way along, moving at half speed, building up steam. Getting the intro right, working on the outline as I go, and tasting it.

Then I get great guns into it, and the weeks roll by, until I get to the end. Then it's the last ten percent or so all at one go, and boom. Manuscript's done. Out to the betas, then a quiet celebration and editing as soon as it comes back.

Then comes release day, once everything's in order and the editing's done. But for a week or three afterward, I'm dazed. Can't stand to write until I get my head on straight.

The time comes when my fingers start itching, and that's when it's time to get going again. Start on the next big project, or work small filler projects until I'm clear for the big one.

Figure I've got another week. Then it's time to get back in the saddle again. Maybe less, if things go well.

Every writer has a different rhythm to them, this I know. The trick is to learn your own. Once you do, everything gets a heck of a lot easier.