Ashley Dotson
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The Last Chapter

7/20/2015

1 Comment

 
I laid awake in bed last night with way too much on my mind. And like many writers do, I got up knowing how to exorcise the thoughts running wild in my head. I had to finish The Lariat. I know I have previously said it was finished, but I should have qualified that statement. I should have actually said the first draft was finished- which is huge!  I have recently finished (as of last night) all the revisions to the storyline, and now must enter the third and final stage of editing. 


I am still planning on releasing this book this summer. I want it done as much as you want to read it. But I'm finding myself a little sad as it comes to a close. Layla Justus was not the first character I ever created, but she is special to me. The Beacon was the first book I ever shared with anyone and the first book I ever published. I knew it was going to be THE ONE when I just couldn't leave it alone all those years ago. I was elated when it was finished, but I wasn't so excited while writing The Porter. I had so much physical and emotional pain happening in my life that I felt the overall tone of the book is very bittersweet. Layla rises above her situation, but at a great cost to herself and her loved ones. While writing The Lariat, I have been seeking redemption with myself and with my characters. Like everyone else, there are transition periods within their lives and I have felt this book bring this transition period to a close.  I won't go into weepy details, I was just surprise while looking back how much the overall feel of each book reflects my life, even though I have said numerous times that these books are not about me at all.

As much as I'm ready to write something (anything!!!) different, I guess I'm not just as ready as I though for this ride to be over. I hope you'll pardon my drippy nostalgia. I'll try to get over it quickly.

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I saw this image on Pinterest and it instantly took me to the last chapter. I wanted this image to be the catalyst for Layla, leading her where she needed to go and bring the Finding Justus Series to a close.
1 Comment
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1/1/2019 06:06:34 pm

If you are still planning to release a book this year, you have my support. I've read some of your works and I am quite impressed with your style. But what makes me impressed even more is the fact that you are handling motherhood and professional life the right way. Balancing things out will never be easy as it takes a lot of talent to do it. But it was seamless when it comes to you. I couldn't be happier that you can do it by yourself.

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    2020  Writing Goals: 

    Practice writing sprints.

    Finish "How to Write Dazzling Dialogue"




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   It doesn't get any more real than this! Like all my social media indicates I am an English teacher at Reagan High School.  I love my students as much as I do my own four children.  I enjoy YA Lit and Cadbury eggs.  I spend most of my daylight hours in overdrive, like most mothers.  Many ask me how I manage to accomplish so much, and although I have answered in various ways, the one solid truth in my life is Jesus Christ who makes all things possible. 
   Borrego ​is the name of my current project. Check out this novel and more on my website or on Amazon.com.