silentalbino,
Don't think I ever answered the question posed by your thread. Too busy being flip, I guess.
Here are the steps in writing a DL:
1) Come up with a story idea. This takes the least amount of time and is by far the easiest part. It can even be stated in a single sentence (For example, Mildred eats oozie-infected brains, twice). That's why you hear so many people say "I've got a great idea for a DL (or vampire novel, or zombie novel)." I liken this step to breaking wind in a crowded elevator.
2) Develop the story idea into a plot. This is a bit more difficult, and is rarely attempted by people who "have a great idea." A plot has to have a beginning, middle, and end. As it progresses, tension and pace should steadily build, and events should challenge the mettle of the main characters. Creating a series of interconnected, interesting and exciting events that lead somewhere is key. If where they lead is unexpected, so much the better. The truly anal author (such as myself) will briefly block out the book chapter by chapter, scene by scene.
3) Write the effing thing. This is of course the hardest part. I won't explain my personal technique here. It is belabored at length in my website newsletters (see the Alan Philipson link on the ja.com homepage)—which I haven't added to for a long time because I've been busy with other projects.
4) Forgetaboutit. A DL novel is the opposite of deathless prose. Even if it is published it passes from the collective human consciousness three weeks after release. Again, the wind analogy comes to mind.
Also, no reason for you to ever call me "sir." The only person who is actually required to do that is Chuck.