12/31/19 20:55 CST my mother passed. She had stroke-induced dementia among other health issues and finally forgot how to stay alive. It's been very rough for the past two years. The new year will begin, without her in it. I am not one for prayers, neither believe nor worship any god, but if you do then go ahead. I do not know what this new year will bring, I can only hope for less heartache. No calls, this is all I wish to share on the matter
Alecia J. Snowfall.

It took 6 months but I finally finished chapter 7 of The Puppeteer. First time that's ever happened. Why; you ask. Ok. picture this. You're painting a whole room and stop when you realize you've literally painted yourself into the opposite corner. Unfortunately you just HAPPEN to be wearing your precious iced pink satin Valentino ballgown and 1100 dollar(made to fit only you) Dalco pumps. Ok, just have to wait for the paint to dry, finish up and walk out, right? Wrong. the paint dries to the wrong shade and the floor turns out to be warped enough to show with that hideous color!

To me, there are three critical parts to a book. The first half of the first chapter; major characters are introduced, tone and theme are set. If you don't have them hooked halfway through chapter 1, you're screwed and they may not continue. The final chapter, all questions should be answered and give closure unless continuation via sequels. Third; the backstory. No matter where you put it in the book, you eventually should explain why things are the way they are. If it's a series, you can stretch that, just as long as you don't contradict previous information.