Update on Call of the Empire.

UPDATE: My first editor for book two is giving me some positive feedback. That doesn't mean the draft is quite up to snuff. I didn't expect it to be. Nevertheless I am feeling better about it. So, the book is more-or-less back on track. I intend on getting three more editors to go over it when the second draft is completed, which will mean four drafts in all.

When will it be published? With luck and persistence it should be early next year. I can't hurry the editors, so it will largely depend on them. Here's to a quick turn around.

Meanwhile, book 3, The Anvil of Rendor, is underway.

Book 2 update.

Well, I thought I was done. It turns out not to be the case. My muse, editor and beta readers are not happy--or, not happy enough for my tastes. So, back to the keyboard for some heavy revisions. Just what those entail I haven't decided as yet. Publication date of book 2 is now indeterminate. (Author weeps).

Update, Working Title and Coming Event

Just wanted to drop a line to let you know the work on the second book in the Eidolon Trilogy is moving ahead at a steady pace now. Currently the raw numbers for the first draft stands at a little over 80,000 words. I expect to take this draft to about 120,000 so my editors will feel good about cutting around 20,000 words of fat. I like to make folks feel good. That's just the kind of guy I am.

I've come up with a working title for book two, "The Call of the Realm." It's a phrase used in book one and carries over into the next. What do you think? Does it sound interesting?

The annual "Spring into Books" event is coming up in May. This was a big success last year and I have every expectation it will be again this year. There is a carnival atmosphere to it with games and outdoor activities for the kids with lots of room to run.

Adults will enjoy it, too. Come one, come all. It's at the Viridian Center, 8030 South 1825 West, West Jordan, Utah 84088

Book Review: “The Gemstone Chronicles:, Book 1: The Carnelian” By William L. Stuart

“The Gemstone Chronicles:, Book 1: The Carnelian” By William L. Stuart

A charming tale suitable for all ages who enjoy a simple writing style commonly found in Midgrade to Young Adult. There is a good deal of head-hopping as the author jumps from one character to another to provide reactions to situations. It isn’t so serious that one can’t enjoy the read, but I found it enough to keep me from identifying with any one character.

There is quite a bit of expository writing to provide background which, in my mind, slows the story. This is often disguised as dialogue.

The fight scenes are good, but tend to lack intensity or any threat of impending loss or serious injury. The magic system is fairly coherent and based on the authors background in gems and rock hunting, which helps make it believable.

If you’re looking for high intensity, intrigue and treachery you may want to look elsewhere. If you want a cozy fantasy this will do the trick.

Online Book Club on Super Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Tonight I just spent a fun hour and a half chatting with members of an online book club. Konstanz Silverbow invited me a couple of months ago and, for some reason, I was in the mood to get out of my comfort zone.

The event started off rather slow and I was afraid no one would show up. My fears were allayed after the Konstanz got through the early business of the book club and pulled me into the conversation. From there it took off and my fingers were flying in an effort to respond to questions and comments. Everyone was very kind and interested in "The Singing Stones of Rendor."

Some of my acquaintances who took part in the development of the book showed up and gave me a lift. Many thanks to Ernie Lawrence and Jeremy Beard who taught me a lot about the art and still follow my progress. One of my editors, Tristi Pinkston, showed up too. She said it was for the cheesecake, which was a prize to a local eatery. She is a woman of taste.

All-in-all it was a great time and I saw a nice jump in the number of downloads for the book. I'm hoping the reviews generated from this event will be favorable and get it to that magic 50+ ratings/reviews on Amazon.

Thanks everyone, I appreciated your interest.

Book Signing in Phoenix Arizona.

We spent a very enjoyable Saturday afternoon at the Dog Eared Pages Bookstore this past weekend. Melanie Tighe and Thom Butcher, co-owners of the store, were not only gracious and generous enough to help promote the event they provided the space for free.

A small, but enthusiastic, crowd filtered through the store and bought books from each of us. Alan Black provided chocolate and white cakes decorated with a tasty image of his newly released book, "The King's Rock." He is a high energy guy willing to swap stories on most any subject. His list of books are evidence of that fact.

Other authors at the event were J. D. Scott who writes SciFi/Fantasy and Steve Price who writes about mediation. All the other authors had at least 3 books written and available for sale compared to my humble singleton. Nevertheless, sales went well and "The Singing Stones of Rendor" benefited from a Fantasy friendly attendance.

A visitor of note who I acknowledge in my book was Jeremy Beard. He stopped by and we chatted for quite a while. He even wanted a signed copy of my book. This was the first time I had a chance to meet him in person. I have to thank him once again for his honest and very informative critiques of my first drafts. Also, for taking the time out of his Saturday to drop in.