Book Friends!

Let me tell you that while doing this third rewrite, I have the melody of Aaliyah’s “Back, Back, Forward” on repeat in my head. Because the way I tackle these rewrites is like a dance that goes back before going forward.

Rewriting: A Dance of Drafts

Rewriting is not just about refining words; it’s about reshaping the story’s soul. I always start with the second act – the backbone of the narrative. It’s the most demanding and longest part, requiring the most attention. By focusing here first, I set the stage for brilliant foreshadowing in the first act and a climax that will leave you gasping in the third act.

Chapter Four: A Milestone Achieved

Exciting news – I’ve just finished rewriting chapter four of the first act! This is where the magic happens, where I breathe new life into the pages. The main character, Isabella, much like my other protagonists, clings to the familiarity of her world. But, oh, how the unknown beckons! And in “The Devil That Haunts Me,” that unknown is not just unknown; it’s downright terrifying.

The Thrilling Journey Ahead

I’m almost at the edge of pushing Isabella into the horrors of the second act. After nailing down the third rewrite there, I’ll be moving on to the final act. This will be followed by a thorough proofreading session. But the journey doesn’t end there. I plan to print out the manuscript for one final critical examination to ensure the story flows seamlessly from start to finish.

Join the Adventure: Be a Beta Reader!

Once I’m confident the story stands firm, it’s off to my beta readers. This is where the real fun begins! I’m super excited for you to dive into this world drenched in Dominican lore and paranormal frights. If you’re a fan of heart-pounding horror and rich cultural tales, I invite you to join my beta team. It’s an opportunity to be among the first to experience “The Devil That Haunts Me.”

Stay Connected

Don’t miss out on any updates! Subscribe to my newsletter or shoot me an email if you’re ready to embrace the chills of paranormal horror. Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to me, and I can’t wait to share this journey with you.

If you are unsure but want to ‘try on’ my writing to see if it fits, you can go to Bookfunnel and read the first chapter here.

Keep reading, keep dreaming, and remember – the best horrors are those that lurk within the pages of a good book!

Love,

Joa (Johanny Ortega, a.k.a. J.E. Ortega)