In 2022, I had big hopes of finishing off at least one of my manuscripts. In a perfect world, I would have liked to finish the three drafts that are waiting for some editing love. In reality, I was barely able to finish one. In fact, as I’m writing this, I’m taking a break from editing the last chapter of my rom com novel.
2022 has presented a lot of challenges for me, with time being the biggest. You think you have no time when you have one child and then two more come along and you really have to make an effort to find the time.
Fortunately – and a little surprisingly – I did make the time and I’m so excited that I made it through the first pass of editing my rom com. I must admit, I’m a little disappointed that I still need to make so many changes and the story has changed a little from when I first started it – but that’s the reality of writing.
I’m already planning to finish the second editing pass through December and January – even though it has taken me most of the year to get through the first. I’m optimistic and even more driven now. My work is slowly down during the Christmas period and the weather has me in the mood to write something funny and swoony.
Next year, I’ll be looking for beta readers to start the next step of the process – the horrifying part of actually sending my story to other people to read! Take a read below, and if it sounds like something you’d be interested in, shoot me a message.
Here’s a little sneak peak of the story through its tropes.
It’s an Enemies to Friends to Lovers
It started out as enemies to lovers, but as I explored the relationship between the two main characters a little more, I felt that they needed to become friends first before moving to something more.
Workplace Romance
I’m a sucker for a workplace romance. In fact, most of the drafts I have for other novels take place at work. The kind of work may always vary, but it’s still falling in love on the job. In saying that, the main characters enjoy lots of things outside the office too. Light up golf, anyone?
Fake Dating
Fake dating is the superior trope in rom coms. There’s something swoony about the fake-to-real transition of feelings and affection. She helps him out by pretending to be his girlfriend – ahem, fiancé – but it doesn’t exactly go to plan.
Only One Bed
I can’t go past this one. As much as my characters try to ensure that there are two beds on their work conference, fate has other ideas. Two nights away from the city in the cold mountain air means there’s a high chance of snuggling.
I’m still working on a proper blurb for the book, and though I have a name in mind, I’d like to run it past some beta readers before I commit to it.
I’d also like to note that this rom com is closed door/sweet and may have some cheating triggers.
ANNE NOVEK 
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