I’ve had my head down for the last week or so, hyper-focused on catching any last errors and any final improvements to Tangled Roots. Just this morning, while in the bathroom, I thought of one last change. It was literally a five-word pivot that was, well, pivotal! Something I missed when a reveal shifted to later in the book. Those five words would have given it away much earlier.

I think the hardest thing about writing a mystery is catching things that need to change when edits start happening. The story shifts and little reveals have to shift with the changes. Tangled Roots has shifted a lot. I *think* I’ve got it now, but I’ll give it one more read as will two other people.

However, this book is essentially done! The release date will be September 1. In August, once the ebook is up for pre-order, I’ll get the print book sorted, order a physical proof to check it, and then work on promoting Driftless Spirits a bit ahead of the Tangled Roots release. (I’ll also set up some promos for Tangled Roots once I have links to share.)

My brain is swimming with ideas for the next books in the series and I need to get organized. I need a list of “absolutely must address this in Book 3” and a list of “stories that must be revealed before the final book.” I risk missing something if I don’t start making lists.

I also need to update my website to reflect the progression of the series. Tangled Roots needs a landing page. I need to think about the homepage as well.

Good thing I’m retired and like to stay busy.