As the title of this blog suggests, I’m firmly in proof-reading mode at the moment. I’m looking for typos everywhere: in the newspaper while on the tram, on menus in restaurants, and of course in my novel. Although I’ve read, re-read and read the novel again since it’s been edited, there are still some cheeky typos hidden right in front of my nose (a very unfortunate one where “six months” appeared as “sex months”)! Luckily I’ve enlisted the editing help of some esteemed colleagues who have been tremendous in helping me spot the last remnants. It’s amazing what a fresh pair of eyes can offer.
As the weather turns cold here in Melbourne, I reflected on the day that I “finished” writing The Devil’s in the Detail. It was the day after New Year’s Day and it was a sweltering 40 degrees Celcius. After typing the last line, I didn’t quite know what to do or who to tell. I decided to celebrate with a dinner and a solitary drink at the local pub and eventually slid into bed exhausted. Exhausted, but finished!
Or so I thought.
How wrong I was to think I’d really finished. After multiple rounds of editing, searching for an agent, trying to get a publisher and eventually confronting the world of self-publishing, the “post-production” of the novel has been every part as difficult as actually writing it. In many ways, the last six months have been the steepest part of the journey, but I’m pleased to report that I can finally see the summit!
So with the final proof-read almost done, and a printing company secured, I’m excited to announce that in coming weeks I’ll be able to announce details on the release of The Devil’s in the Detail in paperback and eBook. So stay tuned to my Facebook page or at Twitter (is there any truth to the rumour that they are merging into one site called TwitFace?) for details.
Matthew S. Wilson 