Last week I talked about how writers struggle with writing that very first line. Today, I’m sharing how I continue on with my story and write the ending. No matter what genre we write, authors work hard at that explosive ending. Again, we write it over and over to get it just right.
Let me back up a bit to take you through the rest of my writing process. I’ve been asked where I get my ideas. Most of the time it’s a tidbit from television, news, or even a dream that sparks ideas for me. It’s fun to ask the “what if” question to each morsel of an idea. I’m also able to brainstorm with some amazing author friends who are always ready and willing to help grow a story.
The faith element of my books is very important to me. I always try to incorporate everyday struggles (including some of my own) and have my characters go through these because it’s reality, right? There are times we need to forgive and move forward, so we don’t become bitter. It makes us stronger.
My characters will doubt, get angry, and even throw their fist in the air at God, but in the end they will realize that He’s been with them through every step of their journey. In Lethal Cover-Up, Madison struggles with the loss of her sister only after just finding out about the sister she never knew she had. Tucker also has to deal with the possibility of having a genetic disease. They both go through a roller coaster of emotions and fears of the unknown.
As I work through the middle and end of my story, I keep my characters in constant conflict and tension. I throw them into treacherous situations and see how they deal with them. Then in the final chapter, everything comes to a head for that explosive ending! This is edited over and over again. After incorporating these aspects, I type “the end” and begin the fun editing process (I’m using “fun” loosely here!) before sending it to my beta readers. After I make my final edits, I send the manuscript to my editor and start working on the next book.
What’s next?
Safe House Exposed will release 02.22.22 (has such a great ring to it!) and it’s the final book in the border patrol series. I’m currently working on book 5 for Love Inspired Suspense and it’s the first in a new series. Can’t wait to tell you more as it unfolds.
I still pinch myself when I think of it. My dream that had sparked from the first time I picked up a Nancy Drew book as a young girl was finally coming true. Border Breach launched in April of 2020, Abducted in Alaska in March of 2021, and now Lethal Cover-Up. I’m feeling blessed. I’m a published author and get to do what I love.
God is good…all the time.
TWEETABLE
Explosive Endings…A Sneak Peek at Lethal Cover-Up (Click to Tweet)
Tomorrow is release day and I’m going on a road trip with Lethal Cover-Up (and my hubby)! Watch my Facebook personal profile for a series of videos I’m calling “Where in the World is Darlene?” where you could win a prize!
Have you pre-ordered your copy? Here is a little about the book and the order links. Please spread the word. Thank you!
Lethal Cover-Up
Some secrets are dangerous…
But uncovering the truth could be deadly.
Border patrol officer Madison Steele knows her sister Leah’s fatal car crash was no accident. Someone’s willing to kill to cover up a pharmaceutical company’s deadly crime of distributing tainted drugs. Now they are after Madison to tie off loose ends. But with her high school sweetheart, Canadian police constable Tucker Reed, at her side, can Madison expose the company’s deadly plan before she becomes the next victim?
Pre-order links:
Wow ! I can’t wait to receive my copy of Lethal Cover-up. You have such a talent. You make the characters feel real as we read.The previous two books were read in a very short time. I just wasn’t able to put them down. Very good Dar. Keep writing so we can enjoy your books.
Uncle Bud and I are very proud of you and I can bet that Jeff has his chest puffed up. We love you too Jeff. I still take your CD out and listen to you and your friends singing. I don’t sing much anymore but I enjoy listening ! Stay safe. Hugs to both of you.