So, I’ve finally been able to rewrite the first three chapters of my manuscript.  I’m sure I’ll never be 100% happy with it but I find it greatly improved.  But the thing is, who am I?  I’m not my reader am I?
I was told a while ago that I needed to add a little Honorcpt (my fanfic writing persona) to my work.  I thought I understood, but I didn’t.  Somehow though, since last Sunday I’ve figured it out.  Anyway, I sent it to one of my betas for their opinion.  I asked them to be brutally honest and the response was that it was like a fire was lit under Honorcpt’s ass.  I have to say that’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said about my writing. What got me was that they felt what my character felt and that’s what was missing.
Emotion.  A reader needs to be vested in the character and the story.  As a reader, I want to care about what happens next.  As I writer it’s my job to make you care.  I think…no dammit I know that I’ve figured it out.   
I am adding descriptors, expanding on dialogue and just generally trying to make it a more enjoyable read.  It’s flowing…Knowing that I’m participating in ROW80, helps…a lot…so thank you for the opportunity to participate.  And now…back to work!