Book Projects
Currently Underway
New writing projects are in the works.
This is where to stay up-to-date on progress with Richelle's new manuscripts, cover designs, audiobooks, etc. There is always something more to do in a writer's busy life! Presently, Richelle is editing and revamping a new paranormal adventure story—with a touch of romance. The title for this book is Phantom's Veil: A Search for Spells. The cover art is complete for paperback, hardcover, and e-book versions. All of the work needed to create a finished book takes time, so progress is charted here on line graphs for you to see. Feel free to stop by periodically for updates.
New Stories | NEW projects | NEW cover designS | New Releases
Phantom's Veil: A Search for Spells - A paranormal adventure with a touch of romance starring Gwen De Troyes and Daniel Benwick. Together, this gifted pair confronts the challenge of deciphering ancient Mayan heiroglyphs in hopes of fulfilling a mission dire enough to threaten humanity.
22%
Grin and Bear It - Another 365 days of original adages, poems, and short stories to motivate, uplift, and inspire.
27%
Aquarius - A fantasy romance that takes place in the ocean's depths. Safire Morgan is terrified of water. For Aquarius, the sea is his life.
14%
"A book is a portal into a new world, a different life, a fresh purpose, an altered way of thinking."
My steps for writing a book:
Step One
Dream Up the Story
Imagine the complete story and take detailed notes. Before I begin writing, I want to understand my characters, their motivations, the challenges they will face, and how the story will ultimately end.
Step Two
Write the First Draft
Write the story from beginning to end. I often begin by writing the final chapter because I want to love the ending. Then I return to chapter one and write toward that already-determined conclusion.
Step Three
Review and Revise
Read through the entire manuscript and identify areas that need improvement. I revise the story based on these observations, creating my second draft.
Step Four
Review and Revise Again
Read through the manuscript a second time, looking for additional ways to strengthen the story. These revisions become my third draft.
Step Five
Consult Beta Readers
Send the third draft to trusted beta readers for feedback. While they read the manuscript and make notes, I conduct another review of my own and create a fourth draft.
Step Six
Develop Cover Ideas
Brainstorm possible designs for the book cover. I narrow my ideas down to a few promising concepts and ask others for their opinions.
Step Seven
Apply Reader Feedback
Carefully examine the beta readers’ comments and suggestions. I make the changes that will improve the manuscript while remaining true to my vision for the story. These revisions create my fifth draft.
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Step Eight
Complete the Final Edit
Perform a thorough edit using spelling and grammar software. I also carefully check the manuscript for errors, awkward wording, and inconsistencies. This polished version becomes my sixth draft.
Step Nine
Create the Book Cover
Turn the chosen cover concept into a finished design. Using Photoshop, I modify my original artwork and combine it with AI-generated elements. I work with layers, shadows, highlights, colors, and fonts to create the final cover.
Step Ten
Format Final Cover
Resize and format the final design for each edition of the book. I create separate covers that meet the specifications for the Kindle, paperback, and hardcover versions.
Step Eleven
Upload and Approve Book
Upload the finished manuscript and cover files to the appropriate online publishing platforms. I carefully review the digital proofs and approve the final version for publication.
Step Twelve
Produce an Audiobook
Create an audiobook edition and make it available for purchase. Once every version of the book has been published, the promotional work begins!
"Reading the books I write is my reward for all the character development, world-making, and plotting required to create those stories."
