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Michael R. Chandler's avatar

This is a really interesting idea. I also wonder what gets cut from published stories, and love the idea of using this space to share and discuss writing we may feel is not right for our story.

I think the idea to bring in your own discussion started about your likes and dislikes is key as well. From my standpoint, your analysis of what works and what doesn’t work is pretty much spot on, and I would say that the things you like are worth keeping in some form. As an example I do think it adds something to have the protagonist getting angry, though perhaps it doesn’t have to happen here.

I wonder if simply moving away from the Gypsy and the tarot cards might be the right energy for the story. It just may be that we’ve lingered in that scene for too long, and perhaps the positives you’ve identified might impact the story more if they’re moved into a new scene.

Of course, ultimately I think you’ll feel for yourself what is right, and readers can only offer up their limited insights--we don’t know what character building might already be planned for coming out later, for example--but I think what you’re doing here is super interesting.

I also realize I’m getting to this a bit late, so this might not be a timely comment, but...I hope it still has some value!

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Olivia St. Lewis's avatar

Thanks, Michael! I know it may not be as fun as an actual finished story, but I love the idea of showing how things work behind the scenes. When I first started learning how to write, I found a lot of information on what TO do, but no examples of what NOT to do. Maybe this way, my error can help somebody else develop in their own craft, too.

I think you're right about the Gypsy. I want the real Part 7 to be a transition away from her. There are some things she needs to mysteriously allude to first, so there's a bit more tweaking that needs work, but hopefully it'll be sorted out soon.

I'm glad you're enjoying it so far! Thank you for your time spent reading it. I know there's literally millions of other things to do, and I'm honored my little story made the cut.

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