August 1, 2020 - Update

Hi Everyone!

Can you believe we are starting book four? A year ago today Shade's First Rule was published. I didn't know what to expect, or if anyone else would enjoy the story. Thankfully it resonated with others which has fueled our journey to this one year anniversary.

The third book is doing well, and I think it is the favorite of many. It has some of my favorite scenes. I'm excited about the audiobook which will start production in September. Travis Baldree is a Magician and I'm so thankful he is performing it.

These initial chapters might change or get moved. I always worry about pacing, and while I know these chapters have to happen, I'm not sure if this is where we should begin. That will become more clear as we move forward. On the other hand, I've learned to trust myself with this series, and this feels right to me. As always, I welcome your feedback. If you're not comfortable posting your opinion in the comments, message me or email me. I won't be upset.

There are hundreds of little changes from the Patreon draft pages to the finished book, but the extended scenes as Ruwen practices with Rami, and the aftermath of the Stone Harbor encounter were direct results of feedback from many of you. As was the scene where the Champions talk about builds. I know you all love the series, and anything you tell me comes from a good place. Thank you for that.

Anniversaries are a good time to reflect on what went right and wrong. The best thing that happened was the creation of this community. A year ago, I started alone, but that is no longer the case.

I opened up the Prologue to Root.

I opened up the Prologue and Chapter 1 to Harvester.

I opened up the Prologue and Chapters 1 and 2 to Step Master, Blapy's Favorite, and Divine.

My plans are to release two chapters a week going forward for a bit. Just like before, if I get too far ahead, I'll start releasing more chapters each week.

Also, after a lot of thought, I plan on revising an early book I wrote. It is straight Fantasy so I'm not sure how interested many of you will be. I may release that here as well since feedback is always welcome. It will come out at a much faster pace since I'm revising. For sure, I won't let it interfere with the two weekly chapters of book four.

Okay, I was worried I wouldn't have much to say, and now I have half a novel.

I say thank you every week, but I mean it every time. This last year would not have happened without all of you. That is a fact. So, once again, thank you.

Take care,

AFK