Writing Update:

A Lesson in Patience

When I first started working on Desire Withheld at the end of May, I had a very specific goal in mind: finish the book and release it by the end of July.

Looking back, I realize I was a little naïve.

As a brand-new author, I underestimated just how much there was to learn—not only about writing a novel, but about plotting, pacing, character development, revisions, and the countless other pieces that go into creating a story readers will love.

While that original deadline isn't going to happen, I don't see it as a failure. I see it as part of the learning process.

The good news? I'm still showing up every day and putting words on the page. As of today, I'm 68% finished with my first draft, which feels absolutely amazing.

What's even more rewarding is knowing everything that's happened alongside this journey. I've been recovering from trigger finger surgery on June 1st, studying for my MBA, and managing all the responsibilities of everyday life. Through it all, I've continued to make progress on this story.

Some days the words come easily. Other days they don't. But every chapter completed and every scene written brings me one step closer to the finish line.

Writing this book has taught me that success isn't always about hitting the deadline you originally set. Sometimes it's about adapting, learning, and continuing to move forward even when the timeline changes.

Thank you to everyone who has followed along on this journey so far. Desire Withheld is still very much on its way, and I can't wait to share it with you when it's ready.

Until then, I'll be right here—plucking away at the keyboard, one word at a time.