Fractal Legacy: First Draft Complete!

It's done! The first draft of Fractal Legacy, the final volume in the Fractal Space trilogy, is complete. Phew. The final stretch flew past.

This feels like it's shaping up to be my magnum opus, although I probably always think that. The finale was definitely my favourite ending for any of my novels, where all the disparate parts I'd set up in this book, and even the previous two novels, came together perfectly. There were even lines that I'd thrown in the second novel – when I had no idea I'd be writing this sequel – that were crucial in the denouement. It was almost like I knew what I was doing.

My prediction that I'd planned one too many chapters in part three, Execution, was way off the mark. I ended up with one more, although they were more focused and shorter than expected. This is the chapter list:

Part three came in at 32,200 words, giving a grand total of 116,600 words overall. That's my longest single novel so far. I think the complexity of this story needed it.

It's interesting how each book in this trilogy is longer than the previous, all building up to this final confrontation between ancient foes. Quite a difference from the small murder mystery at the start.

After a short break, I'll embark on the second draft next week. On the whole, my daily edits have kept it tight and coherent, but there's always work to do. The main focus will be to flesh out a few setting descriptions and tweak some minor character arcs. I'll also be looking for places where I can remove unnecessary details that ultimately didn't lead anywhere. It's long enough as it is!

Right. Onwards. I'll be back once the second draft is complete, and I've sent it out for feedback.