I’m a little late in getting the word out, but I have some great news for those of you who don’t like how long George R.R. Martin is taking to write his next book: I’m faster. As of this month, I have finished the first draft of Awaken the Three, Book Two of the Highglade series!

What else does this mean? Well, I’ll tell you.

Beta readers wanted

Any good book is one that’s been extensively ripped apart and then put back together again by not just one pair of eyes, but many. Beta readers do exactly that, and if you’re unfamiliar with their exact role, check out the short piece I wrote here. If you’re interested and think you have what it takes, let me know by sending me an email!

writing is re-writing

You’ve heard it before, and that’s because it’s true: no one writes the perfect book on their first try. Ask any creative person in any industry (film, music, writing, etc) and they’ll tell you that 99% of everything out there was not the first draft. (Israel Kamakawiwo’ole is a notable exception, having recorded “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in just one take).

That’s not to say that first drafts are worthless. On the contrary — they are the most important step. When the first draft for Gift of the Shaper was done, it was published a little more than a year later. So this is good news for those of you who like sequels. It’s coming! And if you haven’t already, sign up for my newsletter to keep up to date on when the new book comes out.

And, speaking of which…

Audiobook remains in post-production

I’m still waiting on the final product for the audiobook but unfortunately it’s out of my hands at this point. I’m entirely at the mercy of my audio guy, John. He does what he can, but it’s more of a side job for him. If I were a more prominent author, I’m sure this wouldn’t be the case, but we all have to start somewhere. Hopefully soon I’ll be able to give you some better news on this front.

Regardless, thanks for stopping by! Big things are in store for the world of Highglade.

-D.L.