We’ve finished writing the first draft of the 3rd novel of The Lazuli Portals Trilogy!
(Yes, finally! Hooooraaaaay!)
As far as I can tell, I started this one in January 2016 – although I’d written the occasional scene before then, not really knowing if/how they’d fit in, or even what the book would be about!
I remember doing a lot of research before starting to write chapter one, because it’s the finale of the trilogy – this was my last chance to neatly tie up any loose ends from The Cordello Quest and Mosaic of Light.
Then, as this 3rd novel evolved, a huge number of questions arose, most of which I had no clue how to answer … until later chapters revealed the reason or the resolution. So there’s been a great deal to keep track of (lists, spreadsheets and diagrams all over the place!) I’m not usually a ‘planner’ – the story reveals itself to me as I write the scenes – but to write this book without a lot of notes (many ending in question marks!) would have been impossible. It’s definitely been the hardest to write – but perhaps also the most rewarding. 🙂
It’s been quite a journey, through brain fog, massive fatigue, and full-on relapses; and on the more positive side, fitting in stalls at fairs, stories for Writers’ Circle, other business tasks, and daily life too!
So this feels quite an achievement! It doesn’t seem so long ago that I was about halfway through, no clear idea where I was heading with it, and just having to trust my ‘inspiration/spiritual instincts’ and keep going!
Then I wrote another ‘standalone’ scene at the Crocadon MBS fair in June – that, combined with finishing another review of what I’d written so far (and still needed sorting), aligned with a few months of improved health, guided and propelled me on. Enthusiasm from past customers visiting our stall didn’t do any harm, either, as it helped me to trust in what I was doing! My new shattuckite crystal (the blue-black stone in the image below) was called on, too, and I do think that helped with the ‘channelling’ aspect.
Sincere thanks must also go to Ron, for never, ever doubting my vision (such as I could ‘see’ it), my approach to writing, or the story as it evolved! Ron, your encouragement, insight, suggestions, corrections, and pedantry have been invaluable, as always! Thanks, pardner. X
And now it’s done – the characters have told their story (it still blows us away), and I just have to ensure it reaches you, the reader, in as good a state as it possibly can. My various lists can attest to the fact there’s still loads to do before then – I certainly have enough to keep me busy before I can think beyond this series!
So, we’ll leave you with this parting teaser: anyone want to know the title? 😉
With lovelight blessings,
Joanna and Ron | The Lazuli Portals
fiction for the awakening
