We just crossed a line in the writing of The Echo and the Voice—not a dramatic, plot-twisting turn, but one of those subtle thresholds that changes everything after it.
In Chapter 8, Jonas finds himself facing an ultimatum. His school is closing. His father gives him sixty seconds to choose between a military academy and a Christian Bible school. He chooses the lesser threat, with just enough time to spare.
That’s the plot. But beneath it lies something far more important: Jonas, after years of being shaped by invisible pressures and quiet awakenings, is now formed enough to move forward.
He’s no longer searching for the beginning of his voice. He’s stepping into it.
For me as the writer, this chapter was a signal. We’ve spent deliberate time laying down the groundwork—family dynamics, creative sparks, painful realizations, small rebellions. We took our time, because that’s what formation demands.
But now, something has shifted.
From here on out, Jonas’s story can—and should—move faster. Not because the story is rushing, but because the story has earned the right to move.
When we know who we are, we don’t have to explain ourselves with every step. And when a character’s inner world is clear, the outer world starts to unfold in momentum. That’s where Jonas is now. And honestly? That’s where I am too.
I call it the moment of momentum.
The years that shaped you aren’t behind you—but they’ve done enough for you to walk forward differently. With a clearer voice. A stronger spine. A willingness to move.
It’s exciting. A little wild. And utterly necessary.
If you’re following along as The Echo and the Voice takes shape, this is a turning point. The slow burn is giving way to lift-off. If you’re a subscriber, you’ll see it in real time. If not, now’s a great time to join the journey.
Because the door has closed.
And the window?
The window has flung wide open.
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