Thoughts on Draft 5

1. The read through took longer than anticipated. Too many people have designs on my time.

2. The pacing seems faster. Probably an improvement.

3. Removing Ryan was a good thing.

Since my last retreat, I have indulged in a long harangue about removing a character named Ryan. He unconsciously provided conflict between my protagonist, Lia, and her romantic interest, Tom. In the absence of Ryan, I needed to find a different source of tension because everyone knows “The course of true love ne'er did run smooth.” I believe the new sources of conflict are more integrated to the main plot. In addition, I can include Lia’s social insecurity and exploit the teenage maleness of Tom.

These vague posts about my WIP always seem awkward to me. On the other hand, I don't know of any other kid lit bloggers who say what is happening in their works in progress.