The monthly email update, a week later. Better late than never!

How’s the book going?

I’m 60k words into an 80k fiction novel, so about 75% done with the first draft. I’m excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to share more details later. Once the first draft is complete, the real writing begins. I’ll solicit feedback from generous friends and family and rewrite the whole thing at least once over before sending it out to an editor.

The Quest for a Good Editor

I want to find a new editor this time around. Editors can be pricey, so it’s worth getting a good one. My last editor for True Nature did a fine job, but I want to try someone different.

Finding an editor who’s a good fit can be a long process, but it must be done. Especially for indie authors, this is usually where the book falls flat. Without professional editing, it’s likely the product isn’t going to stick around in the long run. Indie books must be readable, flow well, and mostly free from mistakes to compete with traditionally published books. You can invest a ton of money into wrapping garbage in a nice-looking cover, but when readers open up the book, they will discover it is still garbage. Word of mouth is the key to a book’s success… professional editing makes all the difference.

How’s movement going?

Apart from writing, movement practice is my main focus. I’ve been training many different containers lately including straight arm strength (with an emphasis on the handstand press skill), spinal terminology, movement quality, tactical work, dynamic work, object work (stick balancing), and somatic practice (seated/meditation). With all the years of practicing movement beginning to add up, I’ve never felt more free, pain-free, and confident in my body’s abilities. For those willing to practice, this possibility exists for all of us.

New Offerings

On that note, I’d like to offer my services in these departments: writing books and movement. I’m looking to work 1:1 with someone in each of these paths. After 9 years of writing and nearly 5 years of movement, I’d like to take what I’ve learned and help you reach your goals. I can help online or locally, in person. So, if you want to write a novel/memoir or expand your physical abilities, I’d love to hear from you.

A Small Reminder

Taken from my Instagram, @stay.in.alive.

Thank you, and wishing you the best.

Best,
David

PS – As I write more books, I find it harder to speak to each of them and market them properly. I imagine it’s similar having multiple kids. As the new ones get born, the first ones go on the backburner, and receive less attention over time. Hence the importance of putting in sufficient effort and attention early on to give them a good push into this world before letting them live on their own. Like pushing a boulder up a hill before letting it roll down again. I’ll keep pushing occasionally to give them love and attention, and since I continue to hear from readers whose lives they’ve benefitted. I have signed copies available for both The Trail Provides and True Nature in paperback and hardcover, let me know if you’d like one.