I’ve tried to formulate in my head the words I want to use to describe what I’m feeling right now but I found myself overwhelmed. There are so many emotions swirling through me. When I set out to write a trilogy I never really thought about the end. I knew that this story deserved to be put into three books. I understood the commitment that I would need to perform this task but what I didn’t take into account was the ending.

I was nervous and crazed when I was writing the first book, Isle of Skye.  I had finally put my thoughts and words onto paper. There is nothing that quite compares to finishing your first book. It’s your baby in every way, shape, and form. You created it from nothing and gave it love and nourishment. There were many sleepless nights but there were also days that took you from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows. In the end  it was worth every minute.

My second book, Isle of Night, was an absolute joy for me from start to finish. I loved every second of writing that book. I was more confident and excited. I felt like I had jumped the biggest hurdle of the race so the rest was going to be easy. I had a few ups and downs but honestly I had never felt as creative and relaxed than when I wrote my second book. I felt like I poured every ounce of my soul into writing this part of the story and when I was done, I was euphoric.

I dived right back in to book three, Isle of Dawn, with enthusiasm. I was still on my high from book two so I was pumped at the beginning but then something happened along the way. I realized that everything had been leading up to this book and I had to make it epic. I always knew what was going to happen in book three but I did not take into account the darkness that I had swim into while writing certain chapters.

I’m not going to lie, it was rough emotionally on me. I didn’t just cut a vein and bleed, I sliced open parts of myself that I never wanted to admit was there inside of me. I also had a stunning realization. The story was coming to an end and I had to say goodbye. I don’t think that anyone but another writer can truly appreciate the anguish and sadness you go through as you when you come to the end of your book.

It’s odd really, on one hand your happy and feeling like you survived the climb to the top of Mt. Everest, but on the other hand you’re saying goodbye to people that you have this profound connection with. It’s a connection that’s difficult to explain. The characters that you created are like your children and there comes a moment in every parents’ life when you have to let your child spread his wings and leave the nest.

I’m now at the cusp of writing the last few chapters of my trilogy and sometimes I wished I dragged it out longer but I know it’s time to say goodbye. I already have my next series outlined and I’m just starting to create the cover for book one. I’m trying to drum up excitement for the start of a new series and exploring new characters but I know I have to finish this last book first.

I’m sure writing out the words ‘The End’ will be difficult but I suppose in a way cathartic. This may be the end of the Isle of Skye but truly it is just the beginning for me.